KOTA KINABALU: If everything goes as planned, youths will have an alternative to turn to for help when they are in trouble.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Liew Yun Fah said they are currently preparing a working paper on the setting up of Youth Complaints Bureau to provide certified counselors to listen to problems faced by the younger generation.
“There are times when youths choose to talk to someone else rather than confiding in their parents, siblings or friends. By having the Bureau, youths may have someone else to talk to and share their problems,” said Liew during a courtesy call by delegates from Sabah Journalists Association at his office here, yesterday. The visitors were led by SJA president Datuk Jonistan. Bangkuai. Also present was the Ministry’s permanent secretary, Suzanna Liaw.
Liew explained that the Bureau would work like the Rakan Cop programme of the police in that besides providing an avenue for youths to share their problems, it would also serve as a monitoring group.
“The Bureau will provide counseling over the phone and it will be handled by professionals,” he said.
He said that about half of Sabah’s population of some 1.3 million people are below 40 years old.
“It will be a waste if these people are not given proper guidance; we need to prepare the young for future challenges and to be future leaders,” he said.
“I believe we will be able to help many young people through the Bureau and hopefully they would make full use of it,” he said.
Liew also stressed that the media should play its role in shaping the youths, helping them to be better persons and creating awareness on the importance of staying out of trouble.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Thursday 15th Nov 2007 - RM 5 bln investment
Boost for East Coast as POIC in Lahad Datu set to attract 80 new investors
KOTA KINABALU: The Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC) in Lahad Datu is expected to pull in some 80 new investors with investment potential of up to RM5 billion, said POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd Chief Executive Officer Dr Pang Teck Wai.
He said the new investors are very “keen” on participating in the POIC, especially a Korean company which is planning to set up a central steam power plant to supply power to the entire POIC area.
“The central steam plant will greatly reduce the cost of production at the POIC. Large (processing) plants normally have to build their own steam plants and that would be more expensive than purchasing the power supply,” he said.
Pang was speaking at a press conference after inking a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd and Union Harvest (East Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, which was represented by Union Harvest Group (UH) Managing Director Wong Yu.
He said the other investors will participate in various sectors in the POIC, such as production of oleo-chemical and food-based products, refineries, biodiesel, fertilisers and a pulp and paper mill.
“Currently 250 acres out of the 800 acres at the POIC have already been bought. Among others there are already two biodiesel plants up and we expect more to be set up soon,” he said.
Infrastructure Development Minister Datuk Dr Ewon Ebin meanwhile said he expects progress at the POIC to pick up, especially after the launch of the Sabah Development Corridor next month.
“Progress has been a bit slow due to the current CPO (crude palm oil) prices, but things will be coming up. Hopefully when the Sabah Development Corridor is launched, the POIC will become an anchor for the East Coast,” he said.
On the entry of Union Harvest Group, Ewon said they will be setting up a plant valued at between RM5O- RM6O million to manufacture fertiliser.
“We wanted it in Lahad Datu because it is a natural port that has great potential and can provide the facilities to do business. It would be more cost effective to build a plant here rather than ship (products) from West Malaysia to East Malaysia,” he said.
The Union Harvest Group is the 15th company to confirm purchase of land at POIC Lahad Datu, where it will set up its fifth fertilizer manufacturing and storage facility in Malaysia on a 23.24-acre plot.
Its Lahad Datu facility, scheduled to begin operations at the end of 2009, is also expected to produce industrial chemicals.
The group is partly-owned by Sumifert Sdn Bhd, which is linked to Japanese multi-national Sumitomo Corporation, and has a global network of suppliers and customers spanning Jordan, Japan, Singapore, Germany and China.
KOTA KINABALU: The Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC) in Lahad Datu is expected to pull in some 80 new investors with investment potential of up to RM5 billion, said POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd Chief Executive Officer Dr Pang Teck Wai.
He said the new investors are very “keen” on participating in the POIC, especially a Korean company which is planning to set up a central steam power plant to supply power to the entire POIC area.
“The central steam plant will greatly reduce the cost of production at the POIC. Large (processing) plants normally have to build their own steam plants and that would be more expensive than purchasing the power supply,” he said.
Pang was speaking at a press conference after inking a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd and Union Harvest (East Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, which was represented by Union Harvest Group (UH) Managing Director Wong Yu.
He said the other investors will participate in various sectors in the POIC, such as production of oleo-chemical and food-based products, refineries, biodiesel, fertilisers and a pulp and paper mill.
“Currently 250 acres out of the 800 acres at the POIC have already been bought. Among others there are already two biodiesel plants up and we expect more to be set up soon,” he said.
Infrastructure Development Minister Datuk Dr Ewon Ebin meanwhile said he expects progress at the POIC to pick up, especially after the launch of the Sabah Development Corridor next month.
“Progress has been a bit slow due to the current CPO (crude palm oil) prices, but things will be coming up. Hopefully when the Sabah Development Corridor is launched, the POIC will become an anchor for the East Coast,” he said.
On the entry of Union Harvest Group, Ewon said they will be setting up a plant valued at between RM5O- RM6O million to manufacture fertiliser.
“We wanted it in Lahad Datu because it is a natural port that has great potential and can provide the facilities to do business. It would be more cost effective to build a plant here rather than ship (products) from West Malaysia to East Malaysia,” he said.
The Union Harvest Group is the 15th company to confirm purchase of land at POIC Lahad Datu, where it will set up its fifth fertilizer manufacturing and storage facility in Malaysia on a 23.24-acre plot.
Its Lahad Datu facility, scheduled to begin operations at the end of 2009, is also expected to produce industrial chemicals.
The group is partly-owned by Sumifert Sdn Bhd, which is linked to Japanese multi-national Sumitomo Corporation, and has a global network of suppliers and customers spanning Jordan, Japan, Singapore, Germany and China.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Youths achieve success in livestock breeding
20 earn about RM30,000 a month after venturing into industry
KOTA KINABALU: About 20 livestock breeders from the State have been raking in a monthly earning of about RM30,000 in a few years after venturing into the industry.
Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail said they were among the few local youths who heeded the government’s advice and took up the challenge by starting their own livestock breeding activities commercially.
He said many of these young entrepreneurs come from the rural areas such as Keningau an Lahad Datu.
“Actually, some of these breeders have exceeded the RM30,000 mark in their monthly income,” said Abdul Rahim yesterday.
He said one of the 20 successful breeders is a 29-year-old youth from Lahad Datu who took out a RM800,000 bank loan to commence his operation a few years ago.
“He is now drawing a monthly income of about RM28,000 and faces no problem in repaying the loan at RM6,000 per month. Recently, he approached the bank for a further loan to expand his operation,” Abdul Rahim said at the presentation of certificates to 220 breeders who received a total of 4,748 head of ruminant liverstocks under the ministry’s 100 Breeders Scheme to start their operations.
He said many Sabahan youths have been shunning job and business opportunities in the agriculture sector saying that “it is dirty and has no standard.”
Abdul Rahim said the time has come for the people to change their mindset and perception and regard the agriculture sector s a lucrative business if it is carried out commercially.
From next year onwards, he said his ministry is focusing on achieving the goal set in the 100 Breeders Scheme by increasing Sabah’s self-sufficiency in beef production from 26 per cent presently to 35 per cent by 2010.
He said about 40,000 of the 100,000 hectares of reserved grazing land in Sabah have been earmarked for development through the Department of Veterinary and Animal Industry (DOVSAI).
Efforts are also being made to increase fresh milk production from seven million liters per year now to eight million litres by 2010, said Abdul Rahim, adding that Sabah has achieved self-sufficiency in the production of chicken and chicken eggs.
“Sabah is currently producing 500 million eggs and 50 million chickens annually.”
Abdul Rahim added the agriculture sector, one of Sabah’s three main engines of economic growth along with tourism and the processing sectors, contributed RM532 million to the State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2004.
Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail said they were among the few local youths who heeded the government’s advice and took up the challenge by starting their own livestock breeding activities commercially.
He said many of these young entrepreneurs come from the rural areas such as Keningau an Lahad Datu.
“Actually, some of these breeders have exceeded the RM30,000 mark in their monthly income,” said Abdul Rahim yesterday.
He said one of the 20 successful breeders is a 29-year-old youth from Lahad Datu who took out a RM800,000 bank loan to commence his operation a few years ago.
“He is now drawing a monthly income of about RM28,000 and faces no problem in repaying the loan at RM6,000 per month. Recently, he approached the bank for a further loan to expand his operation,” Abdul Rahim said at the presentation of certificates to 220 breeders who received a total of 4,748 head of ruminant liverstocks under the ministry’s 100 Breeders Scheme to start their operations.
He said many Sabahan youths have been shunning job and business opportunities in the agriculture sector saying that “it is dirty and has no standard.”
Abdul Rahim said the time has come for the people to change their mindset and perception and regard the agriculture sector s a lucrative business if it is carried out commercially.
From next year onwards, he said his ministry is focusing on achieving the goal set in the 100 Breeders Scheme by increasing Sabah’s self-sufficiency in beef production from 26 per cent presently to 35 per cent by 2010.
He said about 40,000 of the 100,000 hectares of reserved grazing land in Sabah have been earmarked for development through the Department of Veterinary and Animal Industry (DOVSAI).
Efforts are also being made to increase fresh milk production from seven million liters per year now to eight million litres by 2010, said Abdul Rahim, adding that Sabah has achieved self-sufficiency in the production of chicken and chicken eggs.
“Sabah is currently producing 500 million eggs and 50 million chickens annually.”
Abdul Rahim added the agriculture sector, one of Sabah’s three main engines of economic growth along with tourism and the processing sectors, contributed RM532 million to the State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2004.
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Special body to monitor NS training programs
KOTA KINABALU: A special body has been set up by the Government to monitor the National Service (NS) training programmes in all the camps throughout the country.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Liew Yun Fah, when disclosing this, said the monitoring body or ‘Naziran’, chaired by Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, would conduct spot checks at all camps to ensure smooth implementation of all programmes.
“In Sabah, the monitoring body will be conducting weekly or monthly checks to look into the training development, including the trainees’ health status or the food quality in all camps,” he explained.
Apart from this, the body will also be checking on the job performance of the camps’ commandants and a report on those who failed to carry out their duties would be submitted to the State NS before the case is referred to the central committee.
Liew also assured parents that they need not worry about their children who were called up for the NS training programme because to date, no reports on any camp commandants who failed in their duties have been received.
Speaking to reporters after officiating the Sabah National Service Special Community Services Module workshop here, he said the NS programme is an avenue to train youths to be independent as well as boosting their self-confidence.
He therefore urged parents to be proud when their children are selected to undergo the training programme and added, “The Government has spent millions of ringgit to implement the NS, and apart from gaining a lot of the experiences, the trainees are also being paid an allowance of RM300 each.” Liew also urged the media not to highlight any incident happening at NS camps, adding that the commandants are taking every possible step to ensure that the trainees’ safety and security are well taken care of.
“There are times when a trainee falls sick, he or she would not inform their respective commandant until matters become worse,” he said.
Touching on the workshop, Liew said the event was held to find way to further improve the implementation of the NS programme, besides ensuring that it meets the objectives.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Liew Yun Fah, when disclosing this, said the monitoring body or ‘Naziran’, chaired by Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, would conduct spot checks at all camps to ensure smooth implementation of all programmes.
“In Sabah, the monitoring body will be conducting weekly or monthly checks to look into the training development, including the trainees’ health status or the food quality in all camps,” he explained.
Apart from this, the body will also be checking on the job performance of the camps’ commandants and a report on those who failed to carry out their duties would be submitted to the State NS before the case is referred to the central committee.
Liew also assured parents that they need not worry about their children who were called up for the NS training programme because to date, no reports on any camp commandants who failed in their duties have been received.
Speaking to reporters after officiating the Sabah National Service Special Community Services Module workshop here, he said the NS programme is an avenue to train youths to be independent as well as boosting their self-confidence.
He therefore urged parents to be proud when their children are selected to undergo the training programme and added, “The Government has spent millions of ringgit to implement the NS, and apart from gaining a lot of the experiences, the trainees are also being paid an allowance of RM300 each.” Liew also urged the media not to highlight any incident happening at NS camps, adding that the commandants are taking every possible step to ensure that the trainees’ safety and security are well taken care of.
“There are times when a trainee falls sick, he or she would not inform their respective commandant until matters become worse,” he said.
Touching on the workshop, Liew said the event was held to find way to further improve the implementation of the NS programme, besides ensuring that it meets the objectives.
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Sabahans to benefit if Mt Kinabalu joins network
LANGKAWI: Communities living in the vicinity of Mount Kinabalu are likely to enjoy socio-economic benefits if the mountain, Malaysia’s tallest, joins the Global Geopark Network.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah School of Science and Technology’s Associate Prof Dr Felix Tongkul said with the Geopark concept, the surrounding communities could enjoy the benefits of tourism by participating in related economic activities such as opening stalls or curio shops.
“Currently, they are mere spectators observing the comings and goings of tourists and, except for providing manpower, they contribute nothing as the tourist agencies bringing in visitors to Mount Kinabalu Park are based in Kota Kinabalu,” he said.
He said geoparks should belong to the people, with the government assisting them to reap the benefits from the implementation of the concept.
Among the unique aspects of Mount Kinabalu in terms of geoscience is that it is one of the youngest intrusive igneous rock in the region with many glacial features and older oceanic rocks which can be found on the mountain itself.
Geopark Network (GGN) Bureau committee member Datuk Dr Ibrahim Komoo said Malaysia is a hot favourite to lead the Asia-Pacific geoparks network that will be set up during the inaugural Regional Conference on Asia-Pacific Geoparks and Business Dialogue 2007.
He said that although Malaysia has only one geopark, it had a strong base in geology with the support of a solid group of researchers and experts.
“In terms of knowledge, we are actually more advanced compared to China which has 18 geoparks.
“This is also among the reasons why Unesco wanted the inaugural conference to be held here,” he said after delivering a keynote address at the conference held at the Mahsuri International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIEC) yesterday.
Dr Ibrahim said that a step further would be to set up an Asia-Pacific Geoheritage and Geoparks Network as the Asia-Pacific Geopark Network only has a membership of three countries.
“We have to remember that currently in the Asia-Pacific region, there are only three countries - China, Iran and Malaysia - which have areas accorded geopark status by Unesco.”
Universiti Malaysia Sabah School of Science and Technology’s Associate Prof Dr Felix Tongkul said with the Geopark concept, the surrounding communities could enjoy the benefits of tourism by participating in related economic activities such as opening stalls or curio shops.
“Currently, they are mere spectators observing the comings and goings of tourists and, except for providing manpower, they contribute nothing as the tourist agencies bringing in visitors to Mount Kinabalu Park are based in Kota Kinabalu,” he said.
He said geoparks should belong to the people, with the government assisting them to reap the benefits from the implementation of the concept.
Among the unique aspects of Mount Kinabalu in terms of geoscience is that it is one of the youngest intrusive igneous rock in the region with many glacial features and older oceanic rocks which can be found on the mountain itself.
Geopark Network (GGN) Bureau committee member Datuk Dr Ibrahim Komoo said Malaysia is a hot favourite to lead the Asia-Pacific geoparks network that will be set up during the inaugural Regional Conference on Asia-Pacific Geoparks and Business Dialogue 2007.
He said that although Malaysia has only one geopark, it had a strong base in geology with the support of a solid group of researchers and experts.
“In terms of knowledge, we are actually more advanced compared to China which has 18 geoparks.
“This is also among the reasons why Unesco wanted the inaugural conference to be held here,” he said after delivering a keynote address at the conference held at the Mahsuri International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIEC) yesterday.
Dr Ibrahim said that a step further would be to set up an Asia-Pacific Geoheritage and Geoparks Network as the Asia-Pacific Geopark Network only has a membership of three countries.
“We have to remember that currently in the Asia-Pacific region, there are only three countries - China, Iran and Malaysia - which have areas accorded geopark status by Unesco.”
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Senior citizens competing for honours in sports carnival
KOTA KINABALU: A sports carnival has brought together champions among senior citizens representing their respective teams under the Council of Sabah Senior Citizens Association (COSCA).
The carnival which started yesterday featured table-tennis, Chinese chess and snooker competitions.
“It will be the ninth time that we are holding the carnival and we are proud that the event received support from the Youth and Sports Minister,” said COSCA president Robert Foo when met at the carnival opening officiated by Youth and Sports Ministry Political Secretary Chin Yun Seng who represented Minister Datuk Liew Yun Fah at the Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex in Likas.
Also present were officials from the Sabah Sports Board (SSB) Jerry Joachim and Living Masini, representing SSB General Manager Mahmood Kalong.
The table tennis and Chinese chess competitions were held at the Sports Complex while snooker will take place at the King’s Snooker & Billiard Centre at Alamesra, Jalan Sulaman.
COSCA comprise 10 affiliates, namely two in Kota Kinabalu and the rest in Tawau, Semporna, Lahad Datu, Sandakan, Beaufort, Keningau, Tenom and Kudat.
“Every affiliate are represented by winners selected after holding their own tournament at affiliate-level.
“Apart from the tournaments, we have also lined up several programmes such as singing contest and tour... we will be going to the Zoo in Lok Kawi tomorrow (today),” Foo added.
Meanwhile, organising chairperson for the women’s category Jenny Wong was given the honour to declare open the snooker event.
The carnival which started yesterday featured table-tennis, Chinese chess and snooker competitions.
“It will be the ninth time that we are holding the carnival and we are proud that the event received support from the Youth and Sports Minister,” said COSCA president Robert Foo when met at the carnival opening officiated by Youth and Sports Ministry Political Secretary Chin Yun Seng who represented Minister Datuk Liew Yun Fah at the Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex in Likas.
Also present were officials from the Sabah Sports Board (SSB) Jerry Joachim and Living Masini, representing SSB General Manager Mahmood Kalong.
The table tennis and Chinese chess competitions were held at the Sports Complex while snooker will take place at the King’s Snooker & Billiard Centre at Alamesra, Jalan Sulaman.
COSCA comprise 10 affiliates, namely two in Kota Kinabalu and the rest in Tawau, Semporna, Lahad Datu, Sandakan, Beaufort, Keningau, Tenom and Kudat.
“Every affiliate are represented by winners selected after holding their own tournament at affiliate-level.
“Apart from the tournaments, we have also lined up several programmes such as singing contest and tour... we will be going to the Zoo in Lok Kawi tomorrow (today),” Foo added.
Meanwhile, organising chairperson for the women’s category Jenny Wong was given the honour to declare open the snooker event.
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Tough challenges for women if economic growth becomes vital focus: Shahrizat
KOTA KINABALU: Women will be facing tough challenges both as individuals and as members of a productive society if economic growth becomes a vital focus today, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jail.
“However, it is also vital to find a balance of life between preserving our sense of identity, culture and community while venturing into the global economy,” she stressed when closing the International Women Executive Congress here yesterday.
Shahrizat, while assuring that a woman through her natural talent of inner strength and efficient negotiator has the ability to venture into the global economy, said challenges must be shared equally both by the Government and the people, because achieving a global economy must go together with a social responsibility.
Speaking to over 1,000 participants from Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia, Australia, Egypt, China, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, US, Singapore, Thailand and other countries, Shahrizat urged the women to speak up on any issues, especially those relating to the fairer sex, that they feel concerned about and need the assistance of the relevant authorities to overcome.
Sharing her personal experiences on how she faced the ups and downs of her life to become who she is now, Shahrizat firmly believes that individuals, especially women, should not give up on what they desired in achieving a balance of life both financially and personally (preserving their family and the community value.)
“I refused to give up building my career and I worked hard to overcome any challenges that came my way,” said Shahrizat.
“I may have weaknesses and made mistakes but I learnt from them. Remember, we do not have to sacrifice our values and our beliefs to fight our way,” she pointed out.
According to her, most workplaces that hire more women are more productive, especially in businesses and in environments where men value and support the success of smart women.
Shahrizat added, “Smart men always support smart women, this is the reality happening in more advanced countries where men and women work hand in hand to build up various successful public and private sectors.”
She also said that the responsibility of bringing up a family has to be shared by both men and women.
Shahrizat also mentioned that she felt dissatisfied with certain laws, especially with regard to maternity leave for both mothers and fathers and added that she will propose better ways to cope with the allowances, maternity leaves or paid leaves regardless of gender and income.
“However, it is also vital to find a balance of life between preserving our sense of identity, culture and community while venturing into the global economy,” she stressed when closing the International Women Executive Congress here yesterday.
Shahrizat, while assuring that a woman through her natural talent of inner strength and efficient negotiator has the ability to venture into the global economy, said challenges must be shared equally both by the Government and the people, because achieving a global economy must go together with a social responsibility.
Speaking to over 1,000 participants from Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia, Australia, Egypt, China, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, US, Singapore, Thailand and other countries, Shahrizat urged the women to speak up on any issues, especially those relating to the fairer sex, that they feel concerned about and need the assistance of the relevant authorities to overcome.
Sharing her personal experiences on how she faced the ups and downs of her life to become who she is now, Shahrizat firmly believes that individuals, especially women, should not give up on what they desired in achieving a balance of life both financially and personally (preserving their family and the community value.)
“I refused to give up building my career and I worked hard to overcome any challenges that came my way,” said Shahrizat.
“I may have weaknesses and made mistakes but I learnt from them. Remember, we do not have to sacrifice our values and our beliefs to fight our way,” she pointed out.
According to her, most workplaces that hire more women are more productive, especially in businesses and in environments where men value and support the success of smart women.
Shahrizat added, “Smart men always support smart women, this is the reality happening in more advanced countries where men and women work hand in hand to build up various successful public and private sectors.”
She also said that the responsibility of bringing up a family has to be shared by both men and women.
Shahrizat also mentioned that she felt dissatisfied with certain laws, especially with regard to maternity leave for both mothers and fathers and added that she will propose better ways to cope with the allowances, maternity leaves or paid leaves regardless of gender and income.
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Govt to ask for higher pay for private sector staff: CM
KOTA KINABALU: The State Government will urge employers in the private sector to increase the salary of their workers to the same level as in Peninsular Malaysia.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman acknowledged that the salary rate being offered by the private sector in Sabah is lower compared to other states in the country.
“A higher pay will encourage our youths to return and provide their services in Sabah. I have asked the employers, especially the hoteliers, to offer appropriate wages,” he said after launching the Sabah Job Centre and Career Expo 2007 at Wisma Bandaraya here yesterday.
Commenting on the newly launched Sabah Job Centre, the Chief Minister said it is poised to assist in reducing unemployment rate and help job seekers in the State find their dream job.
According to him, the unemployment rate in Sabah is currently at 5.7 percent, a figure which the Government wants to reduce to four percent by 2010.
The Government’s determination to achieve this target can be seen as the Sabah Job Centre under the Resource Development and Information Technology Ministry has the main objective of assisting job seekers get employment and is also an avenue for employers to seek out potential employees.
Its minister, Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai, said 787 people have registered with the Sabah Job Centre and 506 of them are women seeking help to get jobs.
Those who have signed up are from all over the State, including from the State Capital, Keningau, Kudat, Papar, Penampang, Ranau, Sandakan, Tamparuli and Tuaran.
According to him, the Sabah Job Centre has successfully arranged 200 job interviews for those who had registered for its assistance.
He added 67 companies were registered with the Sabah Job Centre and were offering 71 vacancies.
Those interested to register with the Sabah Job Centre can do so online at www.joblink.sabah.gov.my or contact 088-270451.
They can also write directly to its premises at Tingkat Bawah, Bangunan Wisma Bandaraya, Jalan Masjid Lami, 88000 Kota Kinabalu.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman acknowledged that the salary rate being offered by the private sector in Sabah is lower compared to other states in the country.
“A higher pay will encourage our youths to return and provide their services in Sabah. I have asked the employers, especially the hoteliers, to offer appropriate wages,” he said after launching the Sabah Job Centre and Career Expo 2007 at Wisma Bandaraya here yesterday.
Commenting on the newly launched Sabah Job Centre, the Chief Minister said it is poised to assist in reducing unemployment rate and help job seekers in the State find their dream job.
According to him, the unemployment rate in Sabah is currently at 5.7 percent, a figure which the Government wants to reduce to four percent by 2010.
The Government’s determination to achieve this target can be seen as the Sabah Job Centre under the Resource Development and Information Technology Ministry has the main objective of assisting job seekers get employment and is also an avenue for employers to seek out potential employees.
Its minister, Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai, said 787 people have registered with the Sabah Job Centre and 506 of them are women seeking help to get jobs.
Those who have signed up are from all over the State, including from the State Capital, Keningau, Kudat, Papar, Penampang, Ranau, Sandakan, Tamparuli and Tuaran.
According to him, the Sabah Job Centre has successfully arranged 200 job interviews for those who had registered for its assistance.
He added 67 companies were registered with the Sabah Job Centre and were offering 71 vacancies.
Those interested to register with the Sabah Job Centre can do so online at www.joblink.sabah.gov.my or contact 088-270451.
They can also write directly to its premises at Tingkat Bawah, Bangunan Wisma Bandaraya, Jalan Masjid Lami, 88000 Kota Kinabalu.
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - 30% target for women to remain priority, says CM
KOTA KINABALU: The vision of having women representing at least 30 percent of the decision-making positions in the State will remain a priority for Sabah, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.
As the State undergoes an unprecedented pace of development which presents new areas of opportunities, he said the State Government will continue to ensure that everyone, irrespective of gender, will benefit from being in the mainstream of development.
In his welcoming remarks at the closing ceremony of the International Women Executive Congress 2007 (IWEC-2007) here yesterday, Musa stressed that mainstreaming women would call for commitment by all quarters — the Government, the private sector and more importantly, the women themselves.
In this regard, he said the Malaysian Government is considered probably one of the most women-friendly Governments in the world as manifested by various policies and programmes as well as laws that incorporate the women’s perspective.
On the part of the State Government, he said efforts to implement affirmative multi-sector programmes to further enhance gender equality will be continued.
With the people’s support and the continuing political stability in the State and the country as a whole, the effort would be possible, he said.
“With Datuk Seri Shahrizat at the helm of her ministry, I am confident that Malaysia will continue to be a role model in its gender-sensitive development programmes.
“Nevertheless, the real challenges lies in the women themselves who must possess the will to make things happen,” Musa who is also the organising chairman for IWEC-2007, stressed.
The closing ceremony of the three-day congress was officiated by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Sharizat Abdul Jalil.
Meanwhile, Musa said the State Government will continue with its various social transformation programs, particularly in the area of education.
This is in the form of study loans and scholarships for the needy in order to ensure that a wide spectrum of society has access to education, he said.
As the State undergoes an unprecedented pace of development which presents new areas of opportunities, he said the State Government will continue to ensure that everyone, irrespective of gender, will benefit from being in the mainstream of development.
In his welcoming remarks at the closing ceremony of the International Women Executive Congress 2007 (IWEC-2007) here yesterday, Musa stressed that mainstreaming women would call for commitment by all quarters — the Government, the private sector and more importantly, the women themselves.
In this regard, he said the Malaysian Government is considered probably one of the most women-friendly Governments in the world as manifested by various policies and programmes as well as laws that incorporate the women’s perspective.
On the part of the State Government, he said efforts to implement affirmative multi-sector programmes to further enhance gender equality will be continued.
With the people’s support and the continuing political stability in the State and the country as a whole, the effort would be possible, he said.
“With Datuk Seri Shahrizat at the helm of her ministry, I am confident that Malaysia will continue to be a role model in its gender-sensitive development programmes.
“Nevertheless, the real challenges lies in the women themselves who must possess the will to make things happen,” Musa who is also the organising chairman for IWEC-2007, stressed.
The closing ceremony of the three-day congress was officiated by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Sharizat Abdul Jalil.
Meanwhile, Musa said the State Government will continue with its various social transformation programs, particularly in the area of education.
This is in the form of study loans and scholarships for the needy in order to ensure that a wide spectrum of society has access to education, he said.
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Sandakan Hospital refutes negligence claim
SANDAKAN: The Duchess of Kent Hospital director has refuted a claim by a woman that a doctor’s negligence in advising the date of birth had caused the death of her twin babies.
Dr Zorina Khalid explained that Alberta Sarail’s twin babies had most probably died in the uterus for more than 12 hours before she delivered them macerated stillbirth on November 4.
The babies had most probably died on November 2 when she could not feel fetal movement. Both babies were born macerated confirming this probability, she said in a statement yesterday in reply to recent news reports on the case.
“For maceration to occur, the babies must have died in the uterus for more than 12 hours. The doctor had explained this to her after the delivery,” she continued.
Dr Zorina was responding to newspaper reports dated November 10 regarding Madam Alberta Sarail whose twin pregnancy ended in death.
“She stated she had gone to see our doctor at the clinic on November 1, 2007, where she was informed by the doctor her fetuses were all right.
“When she went into labour on November 3, she claimed the twins she delivered died 24 hours later. She also stated her due date for delivery was October 30, 2007,” Dr Zorina added.
“Here, I wish to put the incident into its correct perspective. Alberta’s due date is not October 30, 20073 but November 25, 2007 as her last menstrual period was February 18, 2007,” she said.
Dr Zorina said when Alberta came to the hospital’s 0 & G Specialist Clinic on November 1, 2007, she was seen by a medical officer who also did an ultrasound on her, even showing her the ultrasound images of her fetuses. The fetuses were alive then and she was not admitted as she was only 36 weeks plus two days pregnant.
“She had labour pains on November 3, 2007 and she came for admission to our maternity
ward at 11.50pm. She was first seen by our nurse who detected that there was no fetal heart heard. The nurse immediately alerted the doctor-on-call who attended to her.
“The mother spontaneously delivered the first twin at 12. O4am and the second twin at 12.11am on November 4, 2007. Both babies were macerated stillbirth. The history obtained from the mother by our medical officer was that she had not felt any fetal movement since November 2, 2007,” explained Dr Zorina.
Dr Zorina Khalid explained that Alberta Sarail’s twin babies had most probably died in the uterus for more than 12 hours before she delivered them macerated stillbirth on November 4.
The babies had most probably died on November 2 when she could not feel fetal movement. Both babies were born macerated confirming this probability, she said in a statement yesterday in reply to recent news reports on the case.
“For maceration to occur, the babies must have died in the uterus for more than 12 hours. The doctor had explained this to her after the delivery,” she continued.
Dr Zorina was responding to newspaper reports dated November 10 regarding Madam Alberta Sarail whose twin pregnancy ended in death.
“She stated she had gone to see our doctor at the clinic on November 1, 2007, where she was informed by the doctor her fetuses were all right.
“When she went into labour on November 3, she claimed the twins she delivered died 24 hours later. She also stated her due date for delivery was October 30, 2007,” Dr Zorina added.
“Here, I wish to put the incident into its correct perspective. Alberta’s due date is not October 30, 20073 but November 25, 2007 as her last menstrual period was February 18, 2007,” she said.
Dr Zorina said when Alberta came to the hospital’s 0 & G Specialist Clinic on November 1, 2007, she was seen by a medical officer who also did an ultrasound on her, even showing her the ultrasound images of her fetuses. The fetuses were alive then and she was not admitted as she was only 36 weeks plus two days pregnant.
“She had labour pains on November 3, 2007 and she came for admission to our maternity
ward at 11.50pm. She was first seen by our nurse who detected that there was no fetal heart heard. The nurse immediately alerted the doctor-on-call who attended to her.
“The mother spontaneously delivered the first twin at 12. O4am and the second twin at 12.11am on November 4, 2007. Both babies were macerated stillbirth. The history obtained from the mother by our medical officer was that she had not felt any fetal movement since November 2, 2007,” explained Dr Zorina.
Wed 14th Nov 2007 - Budget for all: Musa
Prudent spending, fair allocation to all sectors
KOTA KTNABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said the State Budget to be announced this Friday will be a budget for all.
Met after launching the Sabah Job Centre and Career Expo 2007 at Wisma Bandaraya here yesterday, Musa declined to elaborate on the budget but assured that it is going to be a comprehensive one, characterized by prudent spending and fair allocation to all sectors.
Musa who is also the State Finance Minister, said Sabah as usual will be prepared should there be any increase in fuel prices following the Prime Minister’s proposal to shift more money from fuel subsidy to be spent on development programmes.
“We will wait and see. Whether there is going to be any increase in fuel prices or not, it is up to the Federal Government. We will see what are the ways to cope with it,” said Musa.
He assured that the Government will come up with a measure to balance the hike in fuel prices.
Musa noted that Sabah was among the first State to follow suit the Federal’s move in increasing civil servants’ salary as a way to help the people cope with the higher cost of living.
“Apart from that we will also be prudent in our spendings and remind the people not to be wasteful too,” he said.
Meanwhile, Musa said youths in Sabah are too choosy when looking for jobs and their attitude is among the contributing factors resulting in the State’s high unemployment rate.
Musa in advising school leavers and fresh graduates not to be too picky when applying for jobs, said there are a lot of job opportunities readily available in various sectors in Sabah and job seekers should not limit their options by focusing only on their dream job.
“We advise the youths not to be too choosy. If there is a job, they should take it.
“The problem is not so much on limited job opportunities, rather, we are too choosy in looking for jobs,” he said.
The one-day Sabah Job Centre and Career Expo 2007 was organized by the Resource Development and Information Technology Ministry involving 120 exhibitors comprising mostly higher learning institutes.
Also participating were several Government agencies and private companies looking for new recruits.
Musa said some employers, including those in the tourism sector, even faced difficulties in finding workers as job seekers were sometimes not interested in the positions being offered.
“The tourism sector is rapidly growing. In addition to the existing hotels, many new hotels are being built. What we need to do is to provide sufficient skilled workers to fill the jobs which will be created,” he said.
In this regard, he said the Government through the Resource Development and IT Ministry would provide more programmes to train youths in the tourism sector to cater for the increasing need for trained workers in sector in future.
“Apart from the agriculture and manufacturing sectors, we will make sure that a lot of jobs are available for our youths in the tourism sector,” he added.
He said the State Government through various human resource development programmes is aiming to reduce the current unemployment rate of 5.7 percent to four percent by the year 2010.
Therefore, he said the Resource Development and IT Ministry would ensure that necessary training is in place to polish the youths into quality and competent workers.
Meanwhile, Resource Development and IT Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai said his ministry is currently providing comprehensive training for the graduates to help them acquire the necessary and additional skills they need for the jobs they are applying for.
“There are jobs in the market but people are not trained for it. So at the moment we provide a six to 12-month training in which the graduates are also given a RM500 allowance, in addition to industry exposure,” he said.
He noted that a majority of the unemployed group in Sabah are those aged between 16 and 21.
KOTA KTNABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said the State Budget to be announced this Friday will be a budget for all.
Met after launching the Sabah Job Centre and Career Expo 2007 at Wisma Bandaraya here yesterday, Musa declined to elaborate on the budget but assured that it is going to be a comprehensive one, characterized by prudent spending and fair allocation to all sectors.
Musa who is also the State Finance Minister, said Sabah as usual will be prepared should there be any increase in fuel prices following the Prime Minister’s proposal to shift more money from fuel subsidy to be spent on development programmes.
“We will wait and see. Whether there is going to be any increase in fuel prices or not, it is up to the Federal Government. We will see what are the ways to cope with it,” said Musa.
He assured that the Government will come up with a measure to balance the hike in fuel prices.
Musa noted that Sabah was among the first State to follow suit the Federal’s move in increasing civil servants’ salary as a way to help the people cope with the higher cost of living.
“Apart from that we will also be prudent in our spendings and remind the people not to be wasteful too,” he said.
Meanwhile, Musa said youths in Sabah are too choosy when looking for jobs and their attitude is among the contributing factors resulting in the State’s high unemployment rate.
Musa in advising school leavers and fresh graduates not to be too picky when applying for jobs, said there are a lot of job opportunities readily available in various sectors in Sabah and job seekers should not limit their options by focusing only on their dream job.
“We advise the youths not to be too choosy. If there is a job, they should take it.
“The problem is not so much on limited job opportunities, rather, we are too choosy in looking for jobs,” he said.
The one-day Sabah Job Centre and Career Expo 2007 was organized by the Resource Development and Information Technology Ministry involving 120 exhibitors comprising mostly higher learning institutes.
Also participating were several Government agencies and private companies looking for new recruits.
Musa said some employers, including those in the tourism sector, even faced difficulties in finding workers as job seekers were sometimes not interested in the positions being offered.
“The tourism sector is rapidly growing. In addition to the existing hotels, many new hotels are being built. What we need to do is to provide sufficient skilled workers to fill the jobs which will be created,” he said.
In this regard, he said the Government through the Resource Development and IT Ministry would provide more programmes to train youths in the tourism sector to cater for the increasing need for trained workers in sector in future.
“Apart from the agriculture and manufacturing sectors, we will make sure that a lot of jobs are available for our youths in the tourism sector,” he added.
He said the State Government through various human resource development programmes is aiming to reduce the current unemployment rate of 5.7 percent to four percent by the year 2010.
Therefore, he said the Resource Development and IT Ministry would ensure that necessary training is in place to polish the youths into quality and competent workers.
Meanwhile, Resource Development and IT Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai said his ministry is currently providing comprehensive training for the graduates to help them acquire the necessary and additional skills they need for the jobs they are applying for.
“There are jobs in the market but people are not trained for it. So at the moment we provide a six to 12-month training in which the graduates are also given a RM500 allowance, in addition to industry exposure,” he said.
He noted that a majority of the unemployed group in Sabah are those aged between 16 and 21.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Probe on alleged poor tourist facilities in Kiulu
KOTA KINABALU: An investigation will be carried on complaints that the condition of the restroom facilities for visitors and tourists at the white water rafting point in Kiulu was pathetic and virtually unusable due to poor maintenance and disgusting state and the public toilets were filthy.
Kiulu Assemblyman Datuk Louis Rampas said he would inform the Tuaran District Council to investigate the matter.
He assured that appropriate action would be taken if the allegations were found to be true.
“The public toilets are under the jurisdiction of the Tuaran District Council and I will ask for an explanation from the council about the matter,” said Louis yesterday.
He said such cases should not happen because the white water rafting activities in Kiulu have been popular among local and foreign visitors.
“Toilets are important public amenities and we have to keep them clean at all times,” Louis added.
Kiulu Assemblyman Datuk Louis Rampas said he would inform the Tuaran District Council to investigate the matter.
He assured that appropriate action would be taken if the allegations were found to be true.
“The public toilets are under the jurisdiction of the Tuaran District Council and I will ask for an explanation from the council about the matter,” said Louis yesterday.
He said such cases should not happen because the white water rafting activities in Kiulu have been popular among local and foreign visitors.
“Toilets are important public amenities and we have to keep them clean at all times,” Louis added.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Asian Cartoon Exhibition
KOTA KINABALU: The Japan Foundation and Sabah Art Gallery will co-organize the 11th Asian Cartoon
Exhibition under the theme of “Asian Youth Culture” at the main gallery for two weeks from November 14.
This exhibition is featuring 75 pieces of artworks from 10 leading Asian cartoonists depicting the youth culture in their respective nations for our entertainment as well as for promoting awareness of Asian commonalities and diversity.
The 10 Asian countries are Malaysia, Japan, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, The Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Malaysia is represented this year by Mohd Tazidi bin Yusof, a cartoonist from Gila-Gila magazine and Berita Harian.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Haji Karim bin Haji Bujang is expected to open the exhibition at the Sabah Art Gallery at 9am tomorrow.
The exhibition will open from 9am-5pm daily.
Exhibition under the theme of “Asian Youth Culture” at the main gallery for two weeks from November 14.
This exhibition is featuring 75 pieces of artworks from 10 leading Asian cartoonists depicting the youth culture in their respective nations for our entertainment as well as for promoting awareness of Asian commonalities and diversity.
The 10 Asian countries are Malaysia, Japan, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, The Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Malaysia is represented this year by Mohd Tazidi bin Yusof, a cartoonist from Gila-Gila magazine and Berita Harian.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Haji Karim bin Haji Bujang is expected to open the exhibition at the Sabah Art Gallery at 9am tomorrow.
The exhibition will open from 9am-5pm daily.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Dinner to raise RM100,000 for blind, kids with heart disease
KOTA KINABALU: The public are invited to play a part in helping the blind and children with congenital heart disease by attending the Charity Dinner organised by the Lions Club of Kota Kinabalu at the Pacific Sutera this Nov 16.
The organizers of the dinner are hoping to raise some RM100,000 in aid of the Lions Club International Campaign SightFirst II for the Blind and also to cover the travel expenses for some 16 children who underwent corrective surgery for various heart disorders at the Bucheon Sejong Hospital in Korea.
While helping the needy, generous patrons who buy tickets for the dinner can also expect an entertaining night out with top-class performers lined up for the night’s entertainment.
Headlining the nights entertainment will be professional vocalist and guitarist Simon Sun, who will be flown in all the way from Australia by Stardust Entertainment Sdn Bhd.
Also performing are the Sabah Institute of Arts Jazz Syndicate who recently won the Jimmy Boyle Jazz Competition Sabah qualifying leg, reigning Unduk Ngadau and singer Joanna Sue Henley Rampas and Bodycare Events Workshop who will put on modern dance performances.
A fund-raising auction will also be held later in the night, with two oil paintings contributed by veteran artists Christianne Goonting and Tina Rimmer respectively going under the hammer in aid of the Lions’ causes.
So far 28 tables have been sold. Tables are still available at RM 10,000 for the first string, RM5,000 for the second string and RM2,000 for the third string.
For more information or to purchase tickets; contact Dr Lee at 013-8509816, Alice Chin (016-8302223), Margaret Lau (012-8026282), Dr Kheng (012-8282002), Simon Lee (019-5359900) or Emily Koh (016-8411499).
The organizers of the dinner are hoping to raise some RM100,000 in aid of the Lions Club International Campaign SightFirst II for the Blind and also to cover the travel expenses for some 16 children who underwent corrective surgery for various heart disorders at the Bucheon Sejong Hospital in Korea.
While helping the needy, generous patrons who buy tickets for the dinner can also expect an entertaining night out with top-class performers lined up for the night’s entertainment.
Headlining the nights entertainment will be professional vocalist and guitarist Simon Sun, who will be flown in all the way from Australia by Stardust Entertainment Sdn Bhd.
Also performing are the Sabah Institute of Arts Jazz Syndicate who recently won the Jimmy Boyle Jazz Competition Sabah qualifying leg, reigning Unduk Ngadau and singer Joanna Sue Henley Rampas and Bodycare Events Workshop who will put on modern dance performances.
A fund-raising auction will also be held later in the night, with two oil paintings contributed by veteran artists Christianne Goonting and Tina Rimmer respectively going under the hammer in aid of the Lions’ causes.
So far 28 tables have been sold. Tables are still available at RM 10,000 for the first string, RM5,000 for the second string and RM2,000 for the third string.
For more information or to purchase tickets; contact Dr Lee at 013-8509816, Alice Chin (016-8302223), Margaret Lau (012-8026282), Dr Kheng (012-8282002), Simon Lee (019-5359900) or Emily Koh (016-8411499).
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - 9MP projects to give Bingkor a facelift
KENINGAU: Bingkor will get a facelift after the implementation of several development projects earmarked for the constituency under the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP), said its assemblyman, Justin Guka.
Among the projects are the ongoing shop house project in Bingkor township, implementation of water and electricity supply as well as construction of roads to several remote villages in the area, he said.
Brushing aside talks that he has not been carrying out his duties as Bingkor assemblyman, Justin said, “Maybe some people think I am not doing my job but I have done a lot in terms of development and progress for Bingkor.”
Justin is confident Bingkor will become more developed and progressive under the Barisan Nasional (BN) Government and the residents in the constituency, through the various facilities and infrastructure implemented, will enjoy an improved standard of living.
Justin also said the State BN Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman is committed to developing the rural areas in Sabah which are still lacking in infrastructure development.
“Rural areas in the interior, including Bingkor, is the focus in the 9MP and Budget 2008 and infrastructure development of basic facilities will be the priority,” he said and expressed his gratitude to the BN Government, especially Musa for approving several mega development projects for the constituency.
The approval of the RM220 million allocation to upgrade the water supply in the district announced by the Chief Minister when he visited Bingkor recently is part of the measures to resolve the water shortage in this district, including in Bingkor and Apin-Apin areas.
Justin said several villages in the area are still dependent on gravity water or rivers such as the Sungai Bayoyo or Sungai Apin-Apin for their daily supply.
He also expressed his appreciation to Keningau Umno chief Datuk Sairin Haji Karno who set up the proposed Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) campus in Apin-Apin as this is a boon for parents there who are too poor to send their children to Peninsular Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu or overseas to continue their studies.
Among the projects are the ongoing shop house project in Bingkor township, implementation of water and electricity supply as well as construction of roads to several remote villages in the area, he said.
Brushing aside talks that he has not been carrying out his duties as Bingkor assemblyman, Justin said, “Maybe some people think I am not doing my job but I have done a lot in terms of development and progress for Bingkor.”
Justin is confident Bingkor will become more developed and progressive under the Barisan Nasional (BN) Government and the residents in the constituency, through the various facilities and infrastructure implemented, will enjoy an improved standard of living.
Justin also said the State BN Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman is committed to developing the rural areas in Sabah which are still lacking in infrastructure development.
“Rural areas in the interior, including Bingkor, is the focus in the 9MP and Budget 2008 and infrastructure development of basic facilities will be the priority,” he said and expressed his gratitude to the BN Government, especially Musa for approving several mega development projects for the constituency.
The approval of the RM220 million allocation to upgrade the water supply in the district announced by the Chief Minister when he visited Bingkor recently is part of the measures to resolve the water shortage in this district, including in Bingkor and Apin-Apin areas.
Justin said several villages in the area are still dependent on gravity water or rivers such as the Sungai Bayoyo or Sungai Apin-Apin for their daily supply.
He also expressed his appreciation to Keningau Umno chief Datuk Sairin Haji Karno who set up the proposed Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) campus in Apin-Apin as this is a boon for parents there who are too poor to send their children to Peninsular Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu or overseas to continue their studies.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Sabah needs more hotels, says French ambassador
KOTA KINABALU: The French ambassador to Malaysia, Alain Du Boispean, said Sabah has the potential to attract higher-end tourists and businessmen with spending power.
“You have Mount Kinabalu, Sipadan Island and diverse wildlife. There is much to see,” Boispean said.
However, he said Sabah needed to have more four to five star hotels to attract this group of tourists.
“Sabah also needs to create greater awareness on what it has to offer as a tourism destination. When people think of Borneo, they think it is still backwards and undeveloped but this not the case when you come to Sabah ,” he added when paying a courtesy call on Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman at his office in Wisma Innoprise yesterday.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said the Government was putting in a lot of effort to develop tourism in Sabah since it was designated as one of the economic drivers for the State.
“It is also one of the sectors that we will aggressively promote under the Development Corridor.”
He also said it was important to have more hotel rooms to support flourishing tourism sector.
“In this regard, I am proud to note that more hotels are being built in the State and hope more will be built in the near future. This is where the private sector can play a role.”
“You have Mount Kinabalu, Sipadan Island and diverse wildlife. There is much to see,” Boispean said.
However, he said Sabah needed to have more four to five star hotels to attract this group of tourists.
“Sabah also needs to create greater awareness on what it has to offer as a tourism destination. When people think of Borneo, they think it is still backwards and undeveloped but this not the case when you come to Sabah ,” he added when paying a courtesy call on Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman at his office in Wisma Innoprise yesterday.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said the Government was putting in a lot of effort to develop tourism in Sabah since it was designated as one of the economic drivers for the State.
“It is also one of the sectors that we will aggressively promote under the Development Corridor.”
He also said it was important to have more hotel rooms to support flourishing tourism sector.
“In this regard, I am proud to note that more hotels are being built in the State and hope more will be built in the near future. This is where the private sector can play a role.”
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - 37,340 sitting for SPM
KOTA KINABALU: Some 37,340 students from throughout the State are sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination this year from Nov 12 to Dec 6.
State Education Director Normah Gagoh said of the total number of candidates, 30,464 are from Government schools. The others comprise 1,595 students from private schools, 189 from State Government-run schools, 143 from Mara Junior Science College and 4,949 individual candidates.
A total of 306 examination centres have been set up across the State, said Normah yesterday.
She said 65 regional supervisors have been appointed along With 2,765 inspectors.
“Candidates are advised to come early to the examination centres and bring along their identity cards and comply with the standing orders,” Normah said.
She also advised the candidates to closely follow current development that can bring any changes to examination schedule or centre due to unexpected problems such as flood.
State Education Director Normah Gagoh said of the total number of candidates, 30,464 are from Government schools. The others comprise 1,595 students from private schools, 189 from State Government-run schools, 143 from Mara Junior Science College and 4,949 individual candidates.
A total of 306 examination centres have been set up across the State, said Normah yesterday.
She said 65 regional supervisors have been appointed along With 2,765 inspectors.
“Candidates are advised to come early to the examination centres and bring along their identity cards and comply with the standing orders,” Normah said.
She also advised the candidates to closely follow current development that can bring any changes to examination schedule or centre due to unexpected problems such as flood.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Third tsunami warning buoy in Philippines waters
KOTA KINABALU: A third tsunami warning buoy is expected to be set up in the Philippines waters by the end of this year, said Malaysian Meteorological Department Deputy-Director General (Application) Alui Bahari.
He said the Malaysian Government is currently in the final stages of negotiations with its Philippines counterpart to decide among other things the exact location of the buoy, called a tidal gauge.
“We expect to install the buoy by year-end. Of course, aside from waiting for the outcome of the negotiations, we would also have to look at the weather. If the waves are high we cannot go out to install the buoy,” he said after the launch of the State-level Tsunami Warning Awareness programme at the Pacific Sutera here, yesterday.
The Government has currently set up two tsunami warning buoys, one each in Rondo in the northern region of Sumatra and another at Layang Layang Island near here. The third buoy is expected to be placed north of Sabah in the waters off Palawan island in the Philippines.
All three buoys are outfitted with technology from Norway, along with additional instruments to measure weather conditions, wind and air pressure while it serves its principal function as a tsunami warning device.
“The buoy will give us early information. When the waves reach the buoy and it is confirmed a tsunami is coming, we will have time before the waves reach the shore to give warning to the agencies related to natural disasters and the public that a tsunami will happen,” said Alui.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin, who launched the awareness programme, stressed that it is important for the public to be aware that the country has a tsunami warning system in place.
“People tend to forget... when we were hit in the past everyone was asking when will we install (a system). Now we have already taken step one which is installing an alarm. After that awareness is very important, if we have an alarm but no awareness there is no point,” he said in an interview after launching the programme.
“We can be hit anytime, we don’t know. In today’s world weather changes are not uncommon, in fact they are very uncertain.
“Out of the blue you have strong winds, or stormy weather, or it gets really hot, we get storms... we don’t know. The weather is just unpredictable nowadays,” he said.
Yahya stressed that it is important for the community leaders attending the awareness programme to spread the information in their respective areas to increase the effectiveness of the tsunami alarm system.
On a separate issue, Yahya, who is also Community Development and Consumer Affairs Minister, urged consumers to come forward and make it known to the authorities if they come across any cases of price manipulation.
“We do monitor but when we reach the traders the price is still the same so it’s okay. But we don’t know when we are not there, when there is no officer, the trader may just increase the price,” he said when asked if his Ministry is monitoring the recent surge in the price of bread in Sabah.
He said the Malaysian Government is currently in the final stages of negotiations with its Philippines counterpart to decide among other things the exact location of the buoy, called a tidal gauge.
“We expect to install the buoy by year-end. Of course, aside from waiting for the outcome of the negotiations, we would also have to look at the weather. If the waves are high we cannot go out to install the buoy,” he said after the launch of the State-level Tsunami Warning Awareness programme at the Pacific Sutera here, yesterday.
The Government has currently set up two tsunami warning buoys, one each in Rondo in the northern region of Sumatra and another at Layang Layang Island near here. The third buoy is expected to be placed north of Sabah in the waters off Palawan island in the Philippines.
All three buoys are outfitted with technology from Norway, along with additional instruments to measure weather conditions, wind and air pressure while it serves its principal function as a tsunami warning device.
“The buoy will give us early information. When the waves reach the buoy and it is confirmed a tsunami is coming, we will have time before the waves reach the shore to give warning to the agencies related to natural disasters and the public that a tsunami will happen,” said Alui.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin, who launched the awareness programme, stressed that it is important for the public to be aware that the country has a tsunami warning system in place.
“People tend to forget... when we were hit in the past everyone was asking when will we install (a system). Now we have already taken step one which is installing an alarm. After that awareness is very important, if we have an alarm but no awareness there is no point,” he said in an interview after launching the programme.
“We can be hit anytime, we don’t know. In today’s world weather changes are not uncommon, in fact they are very uncertain.
“Out of the blue you have strong winds, or stormy weather, or it gets really hot, we get storms... we don’t know. The weather is just unpredictable nowadays,” he said.
Yahya stressed that it is important for the community leaders attending the awareness programme to spread the information in their respective areas to increase the effectiveness of the tsunami alarm system.
On a separate issue, Yahya, who is also Community Development and Consumer Affairs Minister, urged consumers to come forward and make it known to the authorities if they come across any cases of price manipulation.
“We do monitor but when we reach the traders the price is still the same so it’s okay. But we don’t know when we are not there, when there is no officer, the trader may just increase the price,” he said when asked if his Ministry is monitoring the recent surge in the price of bread in Sabah.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Justin ready to face Jeffrey in polls if retained as candidate
KENINGAU: Bingkor Assemblyman Justion Guka is leaving it to UPKO President Tan Sri Bernard
Dompok to decide who will contest in the constituency in the coming election.“If the party president is of the opinion that the present wakil rakyat should be changed and replaced with a new face, then the newcomer should be given the support and opportunity to do so,” he said.
“But if I am given the opportunity to defend my seat in the constituency, I will do my best for the people and ensure a Barisan Nasional victory here,” Justin said.
According to him, lobbying for candidacy is a norm in politics and anyone including those from other BN component parties can do so.
“However, the candidate from UPKO will be decided by the party president and so far, no leader from UPKO has lobbied to become a candidate,” he said, adding that the party president will, before making a decision, evaluate the performance of the present elected representatives.
Justin said that if he is retained, he is ready to face anyone, including Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Vice President, Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
“I am ready to face any candidate from the opposition, including Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. In the last election, it was a five-cornered fight with opposition candidates and I won with a comfortable majority. I am confident, in the coming election, BN will, based on its performance in terms of development in the constituency, repeat its victory,” he said.
Justin said support for BN is strong in Bingkor which shows that the people still need the coalition and the support is proof that BN’s chances of repeating its victory in the coming election is bright.
The people, he pointed out, are now matured and they are able to evaluate who is the best leader to represent them and resolve their problems.
“When I am with them, I am a ‘rakyat biasa’ and there is no need to make any appointments to see me.. that is not the way I operate,” he said.
Commenting on the opposition’s claims that their support was getting stronger in Bingkor, Justin said the talks were just political propaganda and gimmick to influence the people to support them.
“But the rakyat know better and they are matured enough to make the right choice of government that can bring development to them,” he said, adding that cooperation between BN component parties in the constituency will ensure a resounding victory for the coalition in the coming election.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Probe on street kids
Ministry, UMS in joint study to determine exact number, nationality: Shahrizat
KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development has taken a multi pronged approach to address issues related to street children in Sabah.
The Minister, Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil yesterday said various initiatives have already been launched by the Ministry to tackle the problem, including a joint study with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) to determine the exact number of street children and their nationalities.
Shahrizat She noted that it is difficult to establish an exact figure on the number of street children in Sabah, which is why it will take time for UMS to conduct an in-depth study and investigate the matter on the ground.
“We will also launch a pilot project with the Ministry of Education to identify street children who are citizens and send them back to school. The question is why are they on the streets and not in school,” she said at a press conference when hosting an open house gathering at the Sutera Harbour Marina Club here, yesterday.
Shahrizat said that there are those among the street children who are locals, and questioned why their parents are not fulfilling their responsibilities by sending them to school.
“This is where we hope the Ministry of education can come in and find a mechanism to tell the parents that they must send their children to school. Under the Education Act, it is an offence not to send your children to acquire primary education,” she said.
Shahrizat said the process of identifying which street children are locals and which are foreigners or undocumented is done so that they can be sent accordingly to either the Rumah Perlindungan Ihsan or the Temporary Detention Centre in Menggatal.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, who attended the open house, said the assistance from Shahrizat’s ministry is most welcome, especially the RM250,000 financial assistance to upgrade the existing child shelter in Menggatal and the RM5 million budget to build a permanent shelter in Inanam.
Musa stressed that the shelter will be specifically for children identified as citizens while non-citizens will be placed in the Temporary Detention Centre in Menggatal for deportation in line with the Government’s stand to repatriate illegal immigrants when caught.
Meanwhile, during the open house Shahrizat presented contributions worth RM 100,000 each to Masyarakat Penyayang (Mayang), Nadi and the Women and Family Development Council Sabah branches.
KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development has taken a multi pronged approach to address issues related to street children in Sabah.
The Minister, Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil yesterday said various initiatives have already been launched by the Ministry to tackle the problem, including a joint study with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) to determine the exact number of street children and their nationalities.
Shahrizat She noted that it is difficult to establish an exact figure on the number of street children in Sabah, which is why it will take time for UMS to conduct an in-depth study and investigate the matter on the ground.
“We will also launch a pilot project with the Ministry of Education to identify street children who are citizens and send them back to school. The question is why are they on the streets and not in school,” she said at a press conference when hosting an open house gathering at the Sutera Harbour Marina Club here, yesterday.
Shahrizat said that there are those among the street children who are locals, and questioned why their parents are not fulfilling their responsibilities by sending them to school.
“This is where we hope the Ministry of education can come in and find a mechanism to tell the parents that they must send their children to school. Under the Education Act, it is an offence not to send your children to acquire primary education,” she said.
Shahrizat said the process of identifying which street children are locals and which are foreigners or undocumented is done so that they can be sent accordingly to either the Rumah Perlindungan Ihsan or the Temporary Detention Centre in Menggatal.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, who attended the open house, said the assistance from Shahrizat’s ministry is most welcome, especially the RM250,000 financial assistance to upgrade the existing child shelter in Menggatal and the RM5 million budget to build a permanent shelter in Inanam.
Musa stressed that the shelter will be specifically for children identified as citizens while non-citizens will be placed in the Temporary Detention Centre in Menggatal for deportation in line with the Government’s stand to repatriate illegal immigrants when caught.
Meanwhile, during the open house Shahrizat presented contributions worth RM 100,000 each to Masyarakat Penyayang (Mayang), Nadi and the Women and Family Development Council Sabah branches.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - Bungalow up for grabs at Patron’s Cup
KOTA KINABALU: A two-storey link-bungalow valued at RM675,800 located at Signal Hill, Kota Kinabalu is up for grabs at the Patron’s Cup Golf Championship 2007.
The bungalow courtesy of Gracemart Resources Sdn Bhd, a member of the SBC Corporation Berhad Group at Signal Hill Park is a luxurious landed and gated community at Signal Full, part of the new master plan community code name Signal Hill Collection consisting of The Peak Condo, The Peak Suites and other million ringgit homes.
The championship is offering more than RM1 million worth of hole-in-one prizes to the lucky golfer and SBC Corporation tops the list of he sponsors in terms of value. Golfers who are interested to take part in the championship are reminded to register early, as space is limited.
The Patronis Cup will be held on November 17.
Participations in the championship is open to all Sutera Harbour Marina, Golf & Country Club golfing members and their guests with a handicap index of 23.0 and below for men and 31.0 and below for women.
The entrance fee for the championship is RM380 nett per golfer for members and RM420 nett per golfer for guests, inclusive of tickets to the gala dinner.
The closing date was on November 10.
To commemorate this prestigious event, a grand gala dinner will be held on the evening of the same day to present the prizes to the deserving winners. The auspicious event will be at the Grand Ballroom of the Magellan Sutera, Sutera Harbour Resort at 7pm.
The grand gala dinner will feature Jaclyn Victor, winner of Malaysian Idol and Ikon Malaysia.
Tickets for gala dinner alone are available at RM200 nett per person for members and RM 220 nett per person for non-members.
The bungalow courtesy of Gracemart Resources Sdn Bhd, a member of the SBC Corporation Berhad Group at Signal Hill Park is a luxurious landed and gated community at Signal Full, part of the new master plan community code name Signal Hill Collection consisting of The Peak Condo, The Peak Suites and other million ringgit homes.
The championship is offering more than RM1 million worth of hole-in-one prizes to the lucky golfer and SBC Corporation tops the list of he sponsors in terms of value. Golfers who are interested to take part in the championship are reminded to register early, as space is limited.
The Patronis Cup will be held on November 17.
Participations in the championship is open to all Sutera Harbour Marina, Golf & Country Club golfing members and their guests with a handicap index of 23.0 and below for men and 31.0 and below for women.
The entrance fee for the championship is RM380 nett per golfer for members and RM420 nett per golfer for guests, inclusive of tickets to the gala dinner.
The closing date was on November 10.
To commemorate this prestigious event, a grand gala dinner will be held on the evening of the same day to present the prizes to the deserving winners. The auspicious event will be at the Grand Ballroom of the Magellan Sutera, Sutera Harbour Resort at 7pm.
The grand gala dinner will feature Jaclyn Victor, winner of Malaysian Idol and Ikon Malaysia.
Tickets for gala dinner alone are available at RM200 nett per person for members and RM 220 nett per person for non-members.
Tuesday 13th Nov 2007 - It’s a miracle as man emerges from lake alive after 24 hours!
PAPAR: A man who was feared drowned while collecting balls at a golf resort here on Sunday evening suddenly emerged from the 16 metres deep lake alive.
Awang Simyor Mamit, 38, from Kampung Pimping, Membakut, was reported missing for 24 hours by his friend who went to collect golf balls in a separate lake.
Head of District Traffic and Public Order, Chief Inspector Fauzi Sahat, when contacted, said that policemen and villagers who were stationed at the area were shocked to hear a voice coming from the lake after calling off their search and rescue operation.
“They went to check and was surprised to see him struggling and shouting in the water at about 7.15 pm yesterday, some 20 feet from where he was last seen. He was taken ashore and immediately rushed to the Beaufort Hospital for treatment,” Fauzi said.
“This is truly a miracle.. .everyone said so. However, we will wait for him to gain his strength before carrying out investigation,” he said.
Earlier, District Police Chief DSP Charles Labung Lawai said Simyor and his friend had trespassed onto the golf resort at around 3pm with the intention to collect golf balls for sale.
“At around 5pm, the friend went to look for Simyor but he was nowhere to be seen. His clothing, shoes and spare shirt were seen lying by the lakeside. Fearing something bad had happened, the friend immediately contacted the police for help,” said Charles.
A search and rescue operation was launched immediately by the police, Fire and Rescue Department and Civil Defence Department.
Simyor’s anxious wife and two children were at the scene the whole time waiting for his safe return.
Awang Simyor Mamit, 38, from Kampung Pimping, Membakut, was reported missing for 24 hours by his friend who went to collect golf balls in a separate lake.
Head of District Traffic and Public Order, Chief Inspector Fauzi Sahat, when contacted, said that policemen and villagers who were stationed at the area were shocked to hear a voice coming from the lake after calling off their search and rescue operation.
“They went to check and was surprised to see him struggling and shouting in the water at about 7.15 pm yesterday, some 20 feet from where he was last seen. He was taken ashore and immediately rushed to the Beaufort Hospital for treatment,” Fauzi said.
“This is truly a miracle.. .everyone said so. However, we will wait for him to gain his strength before carrying out investigation,” he said.
Earlier, District Police Chief DSP Charles Labung Lawai said Simyor and his friend had trespassed onto the golf resort at around 3pm with the intention to collect golf balls for sale.
“At around 5pm, the friend went to look for Simyor but he was nowhere to be seen. His clothing, shoes and spare shirt were seen lying by the lakeside. Fearing something bad had happened, the friend immediately contacted the police for help,” said Charles.
A search and rescue operation was launched immediately by the police, Fire and Rescue Department and Civil Defence Department.
Simyor’s anxious wife and two children were at the scene the whole time waiting for his safe return.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - Rafidah: Set up women executive caucus
KOTA KINABALU: International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Rafidah Aziz has proposed the setting up of a women executive caucus at the national and regional level to discuss strategic solutions for the benefit of women in socioeconomic development.
She said the caucus should not discuss women issues, but instead focus on identifying issues that limited women’s involvement in the country’s development.
According to Rafidah, the issues included narrowing the prevailing gender gap at executive positions, increasing the number of women executives in both the public and private sectors, formulating effective capacity building programmes, and measures to optimally utilize existing programmes provided by the government for executives and entrepreneurs.
She said the caucus should also look into organising regular brainstorming sessions to enhance awareness on opportunities and potentials, facilitating regional and global reach to other women executives, and undertaking programmes on information dissemination and information exchange.
“Certainly the list is not exhaustive, but with the right focus, the caucus can help shape the profile of women executives of the future,” she told reporters after opening the International Women Executive Congress 2007 yesterday.
Rafidah said it was vital for the caucus to become a venue for women to look for ways of achieving their targets and moving forward.
“Much has been discussed and concluded on the issues and problems of achieving the global target of at least 30per cent of decision-making positions to be allocated to women,
“Experience in the past has pointed out to a variety of reasons as to why many countries have not been able to meet this target, although governments have accepted it as a policy objective.
“There are reasons to legal and regulatory discrimination, lack of political support, the infrastructure in places inhibiting women in some countries from moving up the ladder of authority and social prejudices and cultural norms amongst some societies which do not readily accept or approve of women in positions of authority,” she said.
Rafidah said it was the duty of women in executive positions to proactively work towards changing such regulations and to identify on an on-going basis what the existing constraints were that prevented women executives from reaching their optimum potential in their respective organisations.
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - Police urged to do more to protect women, children
KOTA KINABALU: The police must do more to check the crimes against women and young children, said LDP Women chief Datin Naomi Chong Set Mui.
Naomi in making the call yesterday, noted that there have been worrying increases in the number of crimes against women and young children which lead to tragic deaths.
“LDP Wanita is aware that the police are working hard to address this problem, but the public need to be assured of their safety whenever they may be and not be vulnerable to be victims of a lack of police presence or inaction.
“Malaysia must remain a place where our people continue to live without fear of their personal safety.’ As such the police must do more and come out on top of the criminal elements at all times,” Naomi said at the opening of the LDP Youth and Wanita’s joint congress here yesterday.
Naomi stressed that public confidence in the police force as their protectors must be restored immediately at all costs.
Meanwhile, Naomi said the relevant authorities should come up with a more effective measure to effectively resolve the ever increasing illegal immigrant presence in the State.
‘The authorities should not carry out operations to catch illegal immigrants when the election is around the corner and forget about it or place less importance on it for the next four or five years.
“We must protect our national sovereignty and not to allow the illegals to one day overwhelm us with their sheer number in which case will then be too late already,” she said.
On another issue, Naomi hoped that more Wanita leaders and members will be selected as BN candidates in the coming election to reflect on the increasing important women’s role in the present context of Malaysian society.
“Women must be given more prominent roles and positions in the Government if they have proven to be capable and not just being positioned for window dressing to make up the target percentage.
“At the same time, those who have been placed in position of importance must strive to excel so that the image and respect of women can continue to enhance so that more women will be given a chance to serve,” she said.
Naomi urged all Wanita LDP members to work as a team to further strengthen the party and called on women, especially those with tertiary education, to make personal sacrifices by joining politics to serve the State and the country.
Naomi in making the call yesterday, noted that there have been worrying increases in the number of crimes against women and young children which lead to tragic deaths.
“LDP Wanita is aware that the police are working hard to address this problem, but the public need to be assured of their safety whenever they may be and not be vulnerable to be victims of a lack of police presence or inaction.
“Malaysia must remain a place where our people continue to live without fear of their personal safety.’ As such the police must do more and come out on top of the criminal elements at all times,” Naomi said at the opening of the LDP Youth and Wanita’s joint congress here yesterday.
Naomi stressed that public confidence in the police force as their protectors must be restored immediately at all costs.
Meanwhile, Naomi said the relevant authorities should come up with a more effective measure to effectively resolve the ever increasing illegal immigrant presence in the State.
‘The authorities should not carry out operations to catch illegal immigrants when the election is around the corner and forget about it or place less importance on it for the next four or five years.
“We must protect our national sovereignty and not to allow the illegals to one day overwhelm us with their sheer number in which case will then be too late already,” she said.
On another issue, Naomi hoped that more Wanita leaders and members will be selected as BN candidates in the coming election to reflect on the increasing important women’s role in the present context of Malaysian society.
“Women must be given more prominent roles and positions in the Government if they have proven to be capable and not just being positioned for window dressing to make up the target percentage.
“At the same time, those who have been placed in position of importance must strive to excel so that the image and respect of women can continue to enhance so that more women will be given a chance to serve,” she said.
Naomi urged all Wanita LDP members to work as a team to further strengthen the party and called on women, especially those with tertiary education, to make personal sacrifices by joining politics to serve the State and the country.
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - Abdullah gives top marks to Liew
PM says LDP president will be successful political leader
KOTA KINABALU: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Datuk VK Liew will be a successful political leader, said Prime Minister cum Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
“I will tell you this as a man who has been in politics for many many years, if you hold on strongly to the Rukun Negara, you will succeed well as a political leader,” Abdullah said when opening the LDP 18th congress at Menara Tun Mustapha here yesterday.
Abdullah also said when Liew said it was his maiden speech in the party’s congress since taking over as LDP president last year, he was reminded of how he felt when delivering his first speech as Umno’s president.
“I know how he feels to give his first speech as the party president. Liew ... the feeling is the same,” Abdullah said to the applause and laughter of dignitaries, invited guests and delegates.
He said Liew had through his speech which was clear, frank and delivered with full confidence, revealed his leadership qualities as the president of LDP.
“Liew received such spirited support from those here and for me this is a relief if this is the attitude of LDP,” he added.
According to Abdullah further, Liew is a God-fearing man, a characteristic he shares and both of them hold strongly to the Rukun Negara.
The Rukun Negara, he pointed out, has become a philosophy to strengthen unity among the various races in Malaysia.
LDP, he added, as a BN component party, is part of a bigger family which represents the various races and religions throughout the country.
“But the feeling of kinship is very obvious and those who are used to sitting in at the BN supreme council meetings and involved in the discussions there know that we all have a common commitment.
“We also have a strong commitment and a high level of cooperation as well as understanding to protect what we have because we know that the future is for all of us.
“We have a common destiny and we have a responsibility to be together because we know that we will decide …we will determine what our future is going to be,” Abdullah said.
He also assured Malaysians in East Malaysia that they will not be neglected in the country’s development programmes and added, “Malaysia has celebrated 50 years of independence and we have a right to be proud of our achievements but we also understand the plight, of those in Sabah and Sarawak.”
Abdullah agreed that there were weaknesses in terms of implementing development due to the vastness of the two East Malaysian states, both which are bigger than any states in Peninsular Malaysia.
The rural and interior areas are large and the population scattered but the BN Government, he said, will do everything to implement development in the two states, especially in areas with the potential to be turned into new growth centers that provide better quality opportunities to the people there.
“The Government will work hard to overcome any obstacles in the way of implementing development and with this in mind, the development corridors for Sabah and Sarawak will be implemented,” he said, adding this will bring the development in Sabah and Sarawak on par with the states in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Of course in some areas, it will take more time to implement what the Government has planned due to the lack of infrastructure but this does not mean that we are not giving the areas due attention or priority.
Maybe the delay was due to the lack of logistics or because of the physical location but we will do all our best. Even if it takes some time to achieve what we want but the determination to achieve results as soon as possible is what we will do,” he said.
Abdullah added the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) would hold its final meeting on the development corridors in Kuala Lumpur on November 16.
“Then after that, the corridor development will be launched in Sabah and Sarawak before the end of the year.”
According to him further, the success of the development plan will be a challenge to everyone, especially the State Governments which must have the strength and influence to mobilize the rakyat’s support to work together with the Government.
To get the people’s support is a priority, he said, adding, “I believe Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri ‘Musa Aman will be able to do this.”
Abdullah also spoke about how important it was to have understanding and cooperation between the BN component parties as there will always be problems, difficulties, challenges as well as obstacles which will appear before them.
“There is no easy way, even as the Prime Minister and this is what we will face when we choose to develop our multi-racial and multi-religious nation this way. Forceful requests might give rise to dissent but we must overcome this if we are to maintain our strength which is the result of unity and understanding between each other,” he stressed.
He also said that to attain success in the future, there is a lot more hard work to be put in by the Government, including to value add to what it has achieved so as to be better.
“If we are passionate in carrying out our mission to succeed, we can succeed,” Abdullah said
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - Nicol retains Hong Kong title
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s squash queen Nicol Ann David successfully retained the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Open Squash Championship title after thrashing arch-rival Natalie Grinham of Australia in the final at the Hollywood Plaza in Kowloon, yesterday.Nicol, currently the reigning World No.1, outclassed Natalie, the World No 2, in straight sets 9-3, 9-5 and 10-8 in 58 minutes.
In last year’s final, Nicol beat Tania Bailey of England also in straight sets of 9-2, 10-8, and 9-5.
Besides the winner’s trophy, Nicol also took home a USD$12,819 (RM42,559) paycheck for her effort.
With the latest win, she has bagged eight championship titles in this year’s World’s International Squash Players Association (WISPA) tournament calendar.
Meanwhile, in the men’s final, World No.1 and the tournament’s defending champion, Amr Shabana of Egypt emerged the victor after easily trouncing Frenchman Gregory Gautier 11-13, 11-3, 11-6 and 13-11 in 61 minutes. He took home USD$17,595 (RM58,415) as well as the winner’s trophy.
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - Junior badminton tourney clinic
KOTA KINABALU. Sabah Under-12 and Under-15 Junior Badminton Tournament and Clinic will be held at the Sabah’s Federal Youth and Sports Department(JBSS) complex in Putatan on Nov 24-25.
The programme will be organised by the Kelab Wira Tangkis Putrajaya (KWTP) in collaboration with the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Core Sports Unit and Kelab Tangkis Wira Bayu (KTWB) Sabah.
Organising chairman Sting George said participants can expect a tight schedule during the two-day programme.
“On Nov 23, an intensive training will be conducted by the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Core Sports Unit.
“The KWTP and KTWB will jointly organise the clinic on Nov24 from 8am to 5pm, and it will be followed by competitions the following day (Nov 25) from 8am to 6pm,” said Sting, who is also the chief coach for KWTP.
The competition will feature five categories, namely singles and doubles for both Under-12 and Under- 15 boys, and singles for Under-15 girls.
According to Sting, the programme is open to all shuttlers except those who have taken part in Junior Circuit, State Schools Sport Council (MSSS) and National Schools Sport Council (MSSM) competitions as well as shuttlers who made it to the finals of district level tournaments.
“To make the competition even tougher, the organisers have invited players and clubs from Brunei, Putrajaya and Sarawak in addition to participants from Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, the programme sponsor Absolute PROTECH Sdn Bhd managing director Ronnie Chong, said prizes including racquets, badminton bags, medals and certificates will be given to the top three winners.
Further information can be obtained from Sting at 016-6555646, Roland (016-8373210) and Rahman (014-3532367), while the registration forms are available at the JBSS office in Putatan. The closing date is Nov 22.
The programme will be organised by the Kelab Wira Tangkis Putrajaya (KWTP) in collaboration with the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Core Sports Unit and Kelab Tangkis Wira Bayu (KTWB) Sabah.
Organising chairman Sting George said participants can expect a tight schedule during the two-day programme.
“On Nov 23, an intensive training will be conducted by the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Core Sports Unit.
“The KWTP and KTWB will jointly organise the clinic on Nov24 from 8am to 5pm, and it will be followed by competitions the following day (Nov 25) from 8am to 6pm,” said Sting, who is also the chief coach for KWTP.
The competition will feature five categories, namely singles and doubles for both Under-12 and Under- 15 boys, and singles for Under-15 girls.
According to Sting, the programme is open to all shuttlers except those who have taken part in Junior Circuit, State Schools Sport Council (MSSS) and National Schools Sport Council (MSSM) competitions as well as shuttlers who made it to the finals of district level tournaments.
“To make the competition even tougher, the organisers have invited players and clubs from Brunei, Putrajaya and Sarawak in addition to participants from Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, the programme sponsor Absolute PROTECH Sdn Bhd managing director Ronnie Chong, said prizes including racquets, badminton bags, medals and certificates will be given to the top three winners.
Further information can be obtained from Sting at 016-6555646, Roland (016-8373210) and Rahman (014-3532367), while the registration forms are available at the JBSS office in Putatan. The closing date is Nov 22.
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - PBS president dedicates poems to thank PM
KOTA KINABALU: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) president Datuk Seri Joseph Pairin Kitingan dedicated six poems to Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in appreciation of his contributions to the party.
Pairin, who is also a deputy chief minister of Sabah, said Abdullah was instrumental for PBS’ readmission into Barisan Nasional (BN) in 2002.
“Although Datuk Seri was the deputy prime minister then, he helped us with all sincerity to bring back PBS into the Barisan fold.
“Neither are there words nor drawings that can picture our heartfelt gratitude for his kindness to us. Hence, allow me to dedicate two poems in his honour,” he said.
He recited: “Tenang-tenang air di laut, sampan koleh mudi ke tanjung. Hati terkenang mulut menyebut, budi yang baik pasti dijunjung.
“Tanam legundi tumbuh kelapa, terbit bunga berkembang pasti. Budi Pak Lah kami tak lupa, sudah terpaku di dalam hati.”
Pairin also recited two more poems thanking the prime minister for opening PBS’ General Assembly for the first time.
Another two poems urged Abdullah not to forget Sabah and invited the prime minister to come to Sabah again.
Pairin, who is also a deputy chief minister of Sabah, said Abdullah was instrumental for PBS’ readmission into Barisan Nasional (BN) in 2002.
“Although Datuk Seri was the deputy prime minister then, he helped us with all sincerity to bring back PBS into the Barisan fold.
“Neither are there words nor drawings that can picture our heartfelt gratitude for his kindness to us. Hence, allow me to dedicate two poems in his honour,” he said.
He recited: “Tenang-tenang air di laut, sampan koleh mudi ke tanjung. Hati terkenang mulut menyebut, budi yang baik pasti dijunjung.
“Tanam legundi tumbuh kelapa, terbit bunga berkembang pasti. Budi Pak Lah kami tak lupa, sudah terpaku di dalam hati.”
Pairin also recited two more poems thanking the prime minister for opening PBS’ General Assembly for the first time.
Another two poems urged Abdullah not to forget Sabah and invited the prime minister to come to Sabah again.
Monday 12th Nov 2007 -Don’t sell land, says Pairin
PENAMPANG: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) President Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan yesterday urged Native Title and Bumiputra land owners to refrain from selling their land.He said while Sabah possesses a lot of land, nearly all of them have been issued to various parties for development.
“We also realise that many applications from the rakyat, especially from rural areas for Native Titles have yet to be processed for the purpose of surveying and issuance of land titles,” he said in his policy speech at the PBS 22nd Congress at the KDCA Hall here yesterday.
“Even more disconcerting is that many of the land applications have been categorized as overlapping applications.
“PBS urges all its members and supporters and all Bumiputras in Sabah to retain ownership of your land …don’t let one or two thousand ringgit lead to you selling off your land.
“This is important so that we will always own land on which we can work on, build a home and more importantly leave as an inheritance for our children.
“If the sale of land continues, we worry that one day our children will lose land on their own land and this will bring major socio-political problems in future,” he said.
In line with holding onto their own land, Pairin also urged PBS members, supporters and the people to be hardworking and independent in seeking proactive avenues instead of waiting for Government contracts and job opportunities in improving their economic status.
‘To be more active in economic activities, we must strive to seek new skills,” he added.
Pairin meanwhile reiterated the party’s call to the Government to constantly monitor and fulfill the people’s needs, ,especially in providing basic infrastructure in rural areas.
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - Hard to solve illegals problem without people’s cooperation: PM
PENAMPANG: The people must cooperate with the Government to reduce the number of illegal immigrants entering the State, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. He assured that the Government will stick to its policy on illegal immigrants and work hard to address the problem nationwide, but stressed that without the people’s help, it would be “very difficult”.
“This has been happening for a long time already and it is not easy to stop or root out the problem. The rakyat must cooperate. If they are not cooperative it will be very difficult,” he said at a press conference after opening the Parti Bersatu Sabah’s (PBS) 22nd congress at the KDCA Hall here yesterday.
“If the people do not provide them (illegal immigrants) shelter, if they are not willing to accept them, if the rakyat are willing to make reports as soon as these people come, then we have a
chance of reducing the number.
“But if our people do not care, maybe accept them, give shelter and work, it will continue.., our people have always been very kind, very generous and if they welcome these people it becomes
a problem,” he added.
Abdullah was asked to comment on the Federal Government’s stand on illegal immigrants, particularly pertaining to the complex situation faced in Sabah.
He noted that logistics is a major hurdle in stemming the flow of illegal immigrants from neighboring countries into Sabah.
“It is not easy. Those who come illegally know very well that if their presence is known to the police they will be caught and they are very afraid of that.
“The problem is they can enter through various places. This is an island and they can come in through wherever they choose and this is a problem for us.
“Nevertheless we will stick to our policy. As I said earlier, we must find and send back those who came in illegally.
“We will work hard so there will be no more illegal immigrants, meaning those with no documents. Those who come with permission can work here, no problem,” he said.
Earlier, PBS president Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan who is Deputy Chief Minister, asked the Prime Minister and Federal Government to help the State in tackling the problem of illegal immigrants.
In Sabah,the problem had protracted with no solution in sight, he said.
Pairin also asked the Federal Government to consider giving opportunities to qualified youths in Sabah to serve in national administration.
Many Sabahans had high qualifications and were able to assist the Government in drafting policies for the people’s well-being, he said.
For Bumiputera entrepreneurs in Sabah, he said, they should be given more opportunities to show their capabilities.
“I believe, if the local entrepreneurs are given chances and encouragement, they can show what they are made of and achieve what their counterparts in the Peninsular have achieved,” he said.
“This has been happening for a long time already and it is not easy to stop or root out the problem. The rakyat must cooperate. If they are not cooperative it will be very difficult,” he said at a press conference after opening the Parti Bersatu Sabah’s (PBS) 22nd congress at the KDCA Hall here yesterday.
“If the people do not provide them (illegal immigrants) shelter, if they are not willing to accept them, if the rakyat are willing to make reports as soon as these people come, then we have a
chance of reducing the number.
“But if our people do not care, maybe accept them, give shelter and work, it will continue.., our people have always been very kind, very generous and if they welcome these people it becomes
a problem,” he added.
Abdullah was asked to comment on the Federal Government’s stand on illegal immigrants, particularly pertaining to the complex situation faced in Sabah.
He noted that logistics is a major hurdle in stemming the flow of illegal immigrants from neighboring countries into Sabah.
“It is not easy. Those who come illegally know very well that if their presence is known to the police they will be caught and they are very afraid of that.
“The problem is they can enter through various places. This is an island and they can come in through wherever they choose and this is a problem for us.
“Nevertheless we will stick to our policy. As I said earlier, we must find and send back those who came in illegally.
“We will work hard so there will be no more illegal immigrants, meaning those with no documents. Those who come with permission can work here, no problem,” he said.
Earlier, PBS president Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan who is Deputy Chief Minister, asked the Prime Minister and Federal Government to help the State in tackling the problem of illegal immigrants.
In Sabah,the problem had protracted with no solution in sight, he said.
Pairin also asked the Federal Government to consider giving opportunities to qualified youths in Sabah to serve in national administration.
Many Sabahans had high qualifications and were able to assist the Government in drafting policies for the people’s well-being, he said.
For Bumiputera entrepreneurs in Sabah, he said, they should be given more opportunities to show their capabilities.
“I believe, if the local entrepreneurs are given chances and encouragement, they can show what they are made of and achieve what their counterparts in the Peninsular have achieved,” he said.
Monday 12th Nov 2007 - Stop issuing, renewing IMM13: PBS
PENAMPANG: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) President Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan yesterday called on the Government to discontinue issuing and renewing IMM 13 documents.
He said the party feels that there must be an end to the issuance of the IMM13, which was accorded to refugees from the South Philippines fleeing civil unrest in the 1970s, and also the long-standing issue of illegal immigrants.
“In the BN (Barisan Nasional), PBS will do its best to convince the leadership and other BN component parties that the security threat from illegal immigrants is very real and if not handled effectively, it will bring a great disaster for our future generations,” he said in his policy speech at the PBS 22ND Congress at the KDCA Hall here yesterday.
Pairin, who is also Deputy Chief Minister and Rural Development Minister, said the party believes the Federal Government should take several steps to address the IMM 13 issue.
Among the steps include making an open inquiry on the true figure of the number of IMM13 holders and collecting the background and skills of the holders and their children.
Pairin also urged the Federal Government to get the true number of IMM13 holders who have been accorded Permanent Resident (PR) status and the reasons why they were given the status.
“The Federal Government also needs to give a new interpretation for 1MM13 holders because there must be a limit to their refugee status in Sabah. They should be sent back to the Philippines. If they want to come back as foreign labour, they must get the necessary documents.
“Children of IMM13 holders should also be considered as dependents of the said foreign workers and they must be required to get valid travel and work visas when they reach the age of 18,” he said.
Pairin said the illegal immigrant problem had gone on for too long and had only become more chronic and complex.
“We are saddened and disappointed and surprised as to why the relevant authorities such as the Ministry of Domestic Affairs, the Home Ministry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence and relevant agencies have yet to find an effective solution to the problem.
“The illegal immigrant issue is something that we cannot be satisfied with because it can be considered mass trespassing. We are still questioning how so many have been categorized as new residents in Sabah, and the classification in the 1980, 1991 and 2000 census has constantly changed.
“We continue to question the existence of what was once known as ‘Projek IC’ ... the people are perplexed as to how new illegal immigrants can gain ICs and dubious Bumiputra status, and even those with illegal immigrant status registered as voters in the electoral rolls endorsed by the Election Commission (EC).
“What we want is firstly, all avenues to enter Sabah are closed to foreigners who want to enter illegally; secondly, illegal immigrants in Sabah are repatriated; thirdly, those who have acquired documents have their supporting document investigated for validity and finally if they wish to enter Sabah for the purpose of work, they must get valid travel and work permits,” he said.
He said the party feels that there must be an end to the issuance of the IMM13, which was accorded to refugees from the South Philippines fleeing civil unrest in the 1970s, and also the long-standing issue of illegal immigrants.
“In the BN (Barisan Nasional), PBS will do its best to convince the leadership and other BN component parties that the security threat from illegal immigrants is very real and if not handled effectively, it will bring a great disaster for our future generations,” he said in his policy speech at the PBS 22ND Congress at the KDCA Hall here yesterday.
Pairin, who is also Deputy Chief Minister and Rural Development Minister, said the party believes the Federal Government should take several steps to address the IMM 13 issue.
Among the steps include making an open inquiry on the true figure of the number of IMM13 holders and collecting the background and skills of the holders and their children.
Pairin also urged the Federal Government to get the true number of IMM13 holders who have been accorded Permanent Resident (PR) status and the reasons why they were given the status.
“The Federal Government also needs to give a new interpretation for 1MM13 holders because there must be a limit to their refugee status in Sabah. They should be sent back to the Philippines. If they want to come back as foreign labour, they must get the necessary documents.
“Children of IMM13 holders should also be considered as dependents of the said foreign workers and they must be required to get valid travel and work visas when they reach the age of 18,” he said.
Pairin said the illegal immigrant problem had gone on for too long and had only become more chronic and complex.
“We are saddened and disappointed and surprised as to why the relevant authorities such as the Ministry of Domestic Affairs, the Home Ministry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence and relevant agencies have yet to find an effective solution to the problem.
“The illegal immigrant issue is something that we cannot be satisfied with because it can be considered mass trespassing. We are still questioning how so many have been categorized as new residents in Sabah, and the classification in the 1980, 1991 and 2000 census has constantly changed.
“We continue to question the existence of what was once known as ‘Projek IC’ ... the people are perplexed as to how new illegal immigrants can gain ICs and dubious Bumiputra status, and even those with illegal immigrant status registered as voters in the electoral rolls endorsed by the Election Commission (EC).
“What we want is firstly, all avenues to enter Sabah are closed to foreigners who want to enter illegally; secondly, illegal immigrants in Sabah are repatriated; thirdly, those who have acquired documents have their supporting document investigated for validity and finally if they wish to enter Sabah for the purpose of work, they must get valid travel and work permits,” he said.
SUNDAY 11TH NOVEMER 2007-REMOTE CONTROL CAR RACING
Remote control car racing expensive hobby
REMOTE control car racing is becoming a popular and expensive hobby among youths. Some are ready to spend thousands of ringgit just to modify their remote control cars so that they could win in games and competitions. Previously this game was only played by children during their leisure time with friends on the concrete ground of community or multi-purpose halls in their villages. Remote control car racing is now catching up on the interest of youths and adults who are using proper racing track with the Formula One concept. The game is also played at night under the floor light of the racing track. Recently, 40 enthusiasts of the game took part in the Kayu Koningau-Onsoi Festival 1 / 10 Open EP/GP Racing held at the Keningau R/C Speedway track recently. Organizing chairman Andre Norbert Lee said the race was the first held in Sabah and the response was very encouraging. The race, organised by Keningau Remote Control Hobby with cooperation of HMS Racing and General Toys City, was part of the Kayu Koningau-Onsoi Festival events which will be held for three days starting November 23. “Remote control car racing is not only popular among the children and youths but also adults. “What makes remote control car racing attractive is that its concept is similar with the Formula One racing. The only difference is that we drive the cars by using remote control. “To enhance the sound, power and speed of the cars, those who could afford it have modified them by adding a turbo engine which uses fuel. They can last longer compared to using battery,” he said. Fuel-powered cars can race for 45 minutes while battery-operated ones can only last five minutes and need a re-charge. “Some are willing to spend up to RM8,000 to modify their remote control cars,” he said.
REMOTE control car racing is becoming a popular and expensive hobby among youths. Some are ready to spend thousands of ringgit just to modify their remote control cars so that they could win in games and competitions. Previously this game was only played by children during their leisure time with friends on the concrete ground of community or multi-purpose halls in their villages. Remote control car racing is now catching up on the interest of youths and adults who are using proper racing track with the Formula One concept. The game is also played at night under the floor light of the racing track. Recently, 40 enthusiasts of the game took part in the Kayu Koningau-Onsoi Festival 1 / 10 Open EP/GP Racing held at the Keningau R/C Speedway track recently. Organizing chairman Andre Norbert Lee said the race was the first held in Sabah and the response was very encouraging. The race, organised by Keningau Remote Control Hobby with cooperation of HMS Racing and General Toys City, was part of the Kayu Koningau-Onsoi Festival events which will be held for three days starting November 23. “Remote control car racing is not only popular among the children and youths but also adults. “What makes remote control car racing attractive is that its concept is similar with the Formula One racing. The only difference is that we drive the cars by using remote control. “To enhance the sound, power and speed of the cars, those who could afford it have modified them by adding a turbo engine which uses fuel. They can last longer compared to using battery,” he said. Fuel-powered cars can race for 45 minutes while battery-operated ones can only last five minutes and need a re-charge. “Some are willing to spend up to RM8,000 to modify their remote control cars,” he said.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
SUNDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2007-STUDENT HELD, GIRL BODY AND MOTOBIKE FOUND
Student held after girl’s body, motorbike found
PAPAR:
The discovery of the body of a teenage girl in a pool of blood by the roadside in Papar-Kota Kinabalu road caused a stir among motorists here yesterday morning. Not far from the body was a motorcycle. Police were quickly notified of the incident and a team was sent to investigate, said District Police Chief DSP Charles Labung Lawai, when confirming the case. It was later established that 18-year-old victim was from Melinsung, but her name could be obtained immediately.
The body of the girl, who was believed to have died on the spot due to serious head injuries, was sent to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for a post-mortem. “After a thorough investigation, we arrested a 17- year-old Form Five student here , from Kampung Penggalat Besr. Initial investigation revealed that he was the girl’s boyfriend,” he said. Police also discovered that the two were travelling from Melinsung towards Kampung Penggalat Besar before meeting the accident at about 5.3Oam.
“It was learned that the duo had just driven out of the junction from Melinsung and about 20 metres away from there, they met a car which was using high lights. “The boy claimed that he could not see clearly and lost control of the motorcycle as it crashed into a lamppost by the roadside, killing the girl instantly. He then fled the scene,” he said. Police are investigating the case as a traffic offence and other angles as well, he said. “We are still waiting for the post-mortem report, hopefully it would shed some light.”
PAPAR:
The discovery of the body of a teenage girl in a pool of blood by the roadside in Papar-Kota Kinabalu road caused a stir among motorists here yesterday morning. Not far from the body was a motorcycle. Police were quickly notified of the incident and a team was sent to investigate, said District Police Chief DSP Charles Labung Lawai, when confirming the case. It was later established that 18-year-old victim was from Melinsung, but her name could be obtained immediately.
The body of the girl, who was believed to have died on the spot due to serious head injuries, was sent to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for a post-mortem. “After a thorough investigation, we arrested a 17- year-old Form Five student here , from Kampung Penggalat Besr. Initial investigation revealed that he was the girl’s boyfriend,” he said. Police also discovered that the two were travelling from Melinsung towards Kampung Penggalat Besar before meeting the accident at about 5.3Oam.
“It was learned that the duo had just driven out of the junction from Melinsung and about 20 metres away from there, they met a car which was using high lights. “The boy claimed that he could not see clearly and lost control of the motorcycle as it crashed into a lamppost by the roadside, killing the girl instantly. He then fled the scene,” he said. Police are investigating the case as a traffic offence and other angles as well, he said. “We are still waiting for the post-mortem report, hopefully it would shed some light.”
SUNDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2007-CUSTOMERS OF INTERNET CAFES AMONG 20 HELD
Customers of Internet cafes among 20 held
PENAMPANG: At least 20 people were rounded up when police raided two illegal Internet cafes in separate locations here on Friday evening. District Police Chief DSP Madang Usat in disclosing this yesterday said that in the first operation carried out in Taman Victory, they seized at least 35 machines, comprising computers and gift machines, and about RM500 cash. They also arrested its two caretakers, both men, and their 15 customers, he said. “In the second operation, carried out around 4pm at Taman Delima, we seized 18 machines, comprising computer sets and gift machines, and RM200 cash. Its caretaker, a woman, and two customers were picked up,” he said. Both cases will be investigated under Section 4B (a) of the Open Gaming House Act, 1953, as both outlets were operating without licence. Under the Section, the owners can be fined between RM5,000 and RM5O,000, and also liable to be imprisoned for a period not exceeding three years if found guilty, Similar operations will be carried out from to time to time. We hope that the public would continue to provide us with information if they find such illegal operation in their area,” he said.
All suspects are currently remanded for questioning.
PENAMPANG: At least 20 people were rounded up when police raided two illegal Internet cafes in separate locations here on Friday evening. District Police Chief DSP Madang Usat in disclosing this yesterday said that in the first operation carried out in Taman Victory, they seized at least 35 machines, comprising computers and gift machines, and about RM500 cash. They also arrested its two caretakers, both men, and their 15 customers, he said. “In the second operation, carried out around 4pm at Taman Delima, we seized 18 machines, comprising computer sets and gift machines, and RM200 cash. Its caretaker, a woman, and two customers were picked up,” he said. Both cases will be investigated under Section 4B (a) of the Open Gaming House Act, 1953, as both outlets were operating without licence. Under the Section, the owners can be fined between RM5,000 and RM5O,000, and also liable to be imprisoned for a period not exceeding three years if found guilty, Similar operations will be carried out from to time to time. We hope that the public would continue to provide us with information if they find such illegal operation in their area,” he said.
All suspects are currently remanded for questioning.
SUNDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2007-STRONGER GROWTH IN CONTAINER HANDLING AT LABUAN PORT
Stronger growth in container handling at Labuan Port
KOTA KINABALU:
Total monthly container throughout at the Labuan Liberty Port in the first half of this year was on the upward trend with April registering the highest figure of 2,416 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). Labuan Liberty Port Management (LLPM) Sdn Bhd’s executive chairman Yussof Mohammad said LLPM expected a stronger growth this year with the anticipation of the Malaysian economy to strengthen further with the gross domestic product (GDP) projected to grow at 6.5 to seven percent. “With the strengthening of export performance and resilient domestic demand anticipated for 2007, we are optimistic LLPM will churn in another year of favourable growth,” he said in a statement yesterday. In the first half of 2005;container handling at the port was at 306,382.97 tonnes and grew to 425,047.27 tonnes in the same period last year. Given the positive projection in global trade, Yussof said it was imperative that Labuan Liberty Port keep up with changing trading patterns and routing as well as increasing demand of the industry. “The oil and gas industry relies heavily on new liberty wharf as the entry point for the importation of parts, material and equipment,” he said. “The industry is set to be booming with the discovery of several new oilfields and along with Petronas’ second methanol mega project, the new development of this industry augurs well for the port,” he added.
KOTA KINABALU:
Total monthly container throughout at the Labuan Liberty Port in the first half of this year was on the upward trend with April registering the highest figure of 2,416 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). Labuan Liberty Port Management (LLPM) Sdn Bhd’s executive chairman Yussof Mohammad said LLPM expected a stronger growth this year with the anticipation of the Malaysian economy to strengthen further with the gross domestic product (GDP) projected to grow at 6.5 to seven percent. “With the strengthening of export performance and resilient domestic demand anticipated for 2007, we are optimistic LLPM will churn in another year of favourable growth,” he said in a statement yesterday. In the first half of 2005;container handling at the port was at 306,382.97 tonnes and grew to 425,047.27 tonnes in the same period last year. Given the positive projection in global trade, Yussof said it was imperative that Labuan Liberty Port keep up with changing trading patterns and routing as well as increasing demand of the industry. “The oil and gas industry relies heavily on new liberty wharf as the entry point for the importation of parts, material and equipment,” he said. “The industry is set to be booming with the discovery of several new oilfields and along with Petronas’ second methanol mega project, the new development of this industry augurs well for the port,” he added.
SUNDAY-11TH NOVEMBER 2007-DON'T POLITICIZE EDUCATION-CASH
Don’t politicize education: CASH
KOTA KINABALU:
The Consumers Association for Sahah and I.abuan CASH’ President. Datuk Patrick Sindu, has urged politicians not to politicize education.
“Education is for everybody; it is part and parcel of human rights and it is not wise for politicians to politicize it as this would bring more harm than good,” he said referring to the education-related issues raised during the Umno General Assembly, recently. Patrick believed that English should continue to be used for teaching Science and Mathematics in schools. “It is for the good of the students, especially in the effort to improve the quality of our education. If we revert - the teaching of both subjects to Bahasa Malay (BM), then it would only create confusion among the students,” he said. “It would help students improve their English. As a part-time lecturer at a local university here, I am sad to see that most of the undergraduates could not even speak proper English or even understand the language,” he lamented “How do you expect these people to move further without knowing the international language,” he asked. Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin called on the Government to revert to the use of BM in teaching the two subjects if the use of English does not meet its objectives. On another development, Sindu urged the Government to monitor the sudden increase in the prices of goods, such as flour, fuel and sundry items. “If this is not monitored, it would burden the consumers more,” he said.
SUNDAY-11TH NOVEMBER 2007-BIG MEETING OVER BOAT, FERRY SAFETY IN SABAH
Big meeting over boat, ferry safety in Sabah
KOTA KINABALU: Transport Ministry officials are to meet Sabah’s boat and ferry operators together with related departments and agencies including the Marine Department to stress the importance of safety and security in the wake of the Seagull Express II ferry tragedy which killed seven and injured many others in Johor. State Marine Department Director Benjamin Bernard Bijion said the meeting will be held after the Ministry meets with operators and relevant authorities in Sarawak soon. A similar meeting was held in the Peninsula last month. He said the meeting in Sabah is expected to be held in Kota Kinabalu, with port operators attending as well, hopefully before the end of this year to discuss ways to improve enforcement of laws and regulations on ferry and passenger boat operations. Benjamin said the coming meeting is part of the Transport Ministry’s effort to promote greater awareness and better compliance of regulations and laws among the operators. He said monitoring and enforcement of related laws in Sabah have always been above satisfactory but the Johor incident should serve as a wake up call for the Department to continuously emphasise on safety.
He said while the department carries out stringent checks on ferries and boats from time to time, it also tries to promote civic consciousness among the operators and their passengers on the aspect of safety. He said the incident in Johor was a big blow to the image of the Marine Department and had affected the public confidence in ferry and boat services. “This could have a reverse effect on the tourism industry, especially since many of our resort and holiday destinations are located on islands. So it is crucial for us to ensure such incident will not happen here, and that is what we have been doing,” he said at his office on Friday. He said a full scale operation overseen by the State Marine Deputy Director and assisted by the maritime agencies is carried out prior to every holiday season where a lot of holiday makers are traveling on ferry and boats. The operation which includes periodical and spot checks is carried out throughout the holiday season and usually continued even after the season is over to ensure that all passenger boats and ferries as well as their crew are licensed and fit for their purposes. Following the Seagull II incident, he said the Ministry of Transport had directed all Marine Department branches to impose stringent licensing laws to ensure zero incident. He said the Ministry had among others directed that effective Nov 1, all passenger boat licences will be renewed every six months as compared to every one year previously. “This is to enable inspection to be carried out more often,” he said, adding that the Department will also stop giving new passenger licence to wooden boats with a capacity of more than 12 passengers. Existing licences for wooden boats will be renewed but if the operators want to buy new boats they will have to opt for those built using stronger materials such as fiber glass. Otherwise, they will not be given a licence. Commenting on the level of compliance when it comes to safety regulations, he said most of the operators in Sabah are safety conscious and they abide by the law. However, there are still a few who take certain regulation such as the requirement for providing sufficient life jackets and fire distinguishers a little bit lightly, according to him. The most common offence detected is that the person operating a boat, and the crew are not as stated in the boat’s licence, he said. He said apart from the periodical inspection as required in licence renewal, the Department will also continue carrying out spot checks on passenger boats from time to time to ensure they are safe for passengers. According to Benjamin, the Department is still facing a shortage of officers and does not have offices in some important areas like at the Labuan Ferry Jetty in Menumbok but efforts are being taken to overcome the problem. In the incident on Oct 13, ferry Seagull Express II transporting 106 passengers from Mersing caught fire and sank near Pulau Tokong Bahara, about seven nautical miles from Pulau Tioman. The tragedy triggered criticisms and concerns and saw fingers being pointed at all directions, including of course at the Marine Department and other authorities directly or indirectly responsible for the safety of public sea transports. Ferry operator Seagull Express and Accommodation Sdn Bhd was ordered to shut down services, while two Marine Department staff, a boarding officer and an engine driver, who were on duty during the time of the incident, were suspended from duties pending investigations. Transport Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy has revealed that the Seagull II ferry’s operating licence was not renewed since its expiry on March 16 last year while the passenger certificate had expired on March 18, 2005.
KOTA KINABALU: Transport Ministry officials are to meet Sabah’s boat and ferry operators together with related departments and agencies including the Marine Department to stress the importance of safety and security in the wake of the Seagull Express II ferry tragedy which killed seven and injured many others in Johor. State Marine Department Director Benjamin Bernard Bijion said the meeting will be held after the Ministry meets with operators and relevant authorities in Sarawak soon. A similar meeting was held in the Peninsula last month. He said the meeting in Sabah is expected to be held in Kota Kinabalu, with port operators attending as well, hopefully before the end of this year to discuss ways to improve enforcement of laws and regulations on ferry and passenger boat operations. Benjamin said the coming meeting is part of the Transport Ministry’s effort to promote greater awareness and better compliance of regulations and laws among the operators. He said monitoring and enforcement of related laws in Sabah have always been above satisfactory but the Johor incident should serve as a wake up call for the Department to continuously emphasise on safety.
He said while the department carries out stringent checks on ferries and boats from time to time, it also tries to promote civic consciousness among the operators and their passengers on the aspect of safety. He said the incident in Johor was a big blow to the image of the Marine Department and had affected the public confidence in ferry and boat services. “This could have a reverse effect on the tourism industry, especially since many of our resort and holiday destinations are located on islands. So it is crucial for us to ensure such incident will not happen here, and that is what we have been doing,” he said at his office on Friday. He said a full scale operation overseen by the State Marine Deputy Director and assisted by the maritime agencies is carried out prior to every holiday season where a lot of holiday makers are traveling on ferry and boats. The operation which includes periodical and spot checks is carried out throughout the holiday season and usually continued even after the season is over to ensure that all passenger boats and ferries as well as their crew are licensed and fit for their purposes. Following the Seagull II incident, he said the Ministry of Transport had directed all Marine Department branches to impose stringent licensing laws to ensure zero incident. He said the Ministry had among others directed that effective Nov 1, all passenger boat licences will be renewed every six months as compared to every one year previously. “This is to enable inspection to be carried out more often,” he said, adding that the Department will also stop giving new passenger licence to wooden boats with a capacity of more than 12 passengers. Existing licences for wooden boats will be renewed but if the operators want to buy new boats they will have to opt for those built using stronger materials such as fiber glass. Otherwise, they will not be given a licence. Commenting on the level of compliance when it comes to safety regulations, he said most of the operators in Sabah are safety conscious and they abide by the law. However, there are still a few who take certain regulation such as the requirement for providing sufficient life jackets and fire distinguishers a little bit lightly, according to him. The most common offence detected is that the person operating a boat, and the crew are not as stated in the boat’s licence, he said. He said apart from the periodical inspection as required in licence renewal, the Department will also continue carrying out spot checks on passenger boats from time to time to ensure they are safe for passengers. According to Benjamin, the Department is still facing a shortage of officers and does not have offices in some important areas like at the Labuan Ferry Jetty in Menumbok but efforts are being taken to overcome the problem. In the incident on Oct 13, ferry Seagull Express II transporting 106 passengers from Mersing caught fire and sank near Pulau Tokong Bahara, about seven nautical miles from Pulau Tioman. The tragedy triggered criticisms and concerns and saw fingers being pointed at all directions, including of course at the Marine Department and other authorities directly or indirectly responsible for the safety of public sea transports. Ferry operator Seagull Express and Accommodation Sdn Bhd was ordered to shut down services, while two Marine Department staff, a boarding officer and an engine driver, who were on duty during the time of the incident, were suspended from duties pending investigations. Transport Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy has revealed that the Seagull II ferry’s operating licence was not renewed since its expiry on March 16 last year while the passenger certificate had expired on March 18, 2005.
SUNDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2007-MATHS & SCIENCE: Maximus says in-depth study needed first
MATHS & SCIENCE: Maximus says in-depth study needed first
KOTA KINABALU:
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili has suggested an in-depth study be carried out before any changes are made to the of English in teaching Mathematics and science in schools. He said that while the Government is ‘always open to any evaluation” on its policy decisions, it is important to first determine the impact of the policy on the overall standard of use and understanding of English in schools. “If it really shows that the results are not consistent with what is expected, the Government is always open to scrutiny and valuation,” he said at the Department of National Unity and Integation Sabah branch Hari Raya open house at Maksak Hall in Likas near here, yesterday. Maximus was asked to comment on the recent call by Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin for the teaching of Mathematic and Science to be reverted to Bahasa Malaysia to ensure students in rural areas are not left behind. Maximus, who is also Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) deputy president, agreed that using English to teach Mathematics and Science is not the only way to promote deeper understanding and use of the language, but stressed that there must first be a proper evaluation of the situation before any decision is made. “With regard to (teaching of) English, the intention has always been good in that unless we master English we cannot master the world, and neither can we participate in the global economy effectively. “But as to whether the means that we use are effective, the Government is open to proper evaluation. We (PBS) had recommended early to provide teachers Who are qualified to teach English and books and tools must be supplied because the last to benefit would be the rural people. We understood that there will always be a gap because urban schools would benefit more than rural schools, but overall even at this time rural schools have benefited.
‘Some of the teachers can now speak (English) fluently because of teaching Mathematics and Science in English and when we conduct seminars in rural areas where I speak English and crack jokes, many of our young people can grab,” he said. “This means they are learning something.. .it may not be at the pace that we wanted but that is why I said we need to study the situation. “Frequent changes may not be beneficial. We must allow for time and do a proper evaluation and if truly the goals are not achieved, then we must ask why, is it because of the means to achieve (the goals) or the policy itself,” he said.
When asked about his view on the proposed expansion of the United States Embassy’s Fulbright English Teachers Assistance Programme nationwide, Maximus said a “proper scheme” should be set up to accommodate and monitor the implementation of the plan. “Whatever assistance pertaining to the teaching of English is welcome, so long as it is conducted through the proper agencies that are responsible, which are the Ministry of Education and Education Department. “Many of us here who went to secondary school in the late 60s and early 70s benefited because we had many teachers from Canada and the Peace Corp. These are very useful avenues to use. “Even now there are a lot of Australian youths and graduates who are here working on the ground through NGO arrangements with the Education Department, but if we want to get more (assistance), then maybe a proper scheme needs to be developed,” he said. US Embassy counsellor for public affairs Phillip P Hoffman in August said they had so far brought down several groups of fresh graduates for their pilot programme, which started in Terengganu two years ago. He noted that the expansion plans were pending approval of funding, with the aim of spreading the programme to other states.
KOTA KINABALU:
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili has suggested an in-depth study be carried out before any changes are made to the of English in teaching Mathematics and science in schools. He said that while the Government is ‘always open to any evaluation” on its policy decisions, it is important to first determine the impact of the policy on the overall standard of use and understanding of English in schools. “If it really shows that the results are not consistent with what is expected, the Government is always open to scrutiny and valuation,” he said at the Department of National Unity and Integation Sabah branch Hari Raya open house at Maksak Hall in Likas near here, yesterday. Maximus was asked to comment on the recent call by Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin for the teaching of Mathematic and Science to be reverted to Bahasa Malaysia to ensure students in rural areas are not left behind. Maximus, who is also Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) deputy president, agreed that using English to teach Mathematics and Science is not the only way to promote deeper understanding and use of the language, but stressed that there must first be a proper evaluation of the situation before any decision is made. “With regard to (teaching of) English, the intention has always been good in that unless we master English we cannot master the world, and neither can we participate in the global economy effectively. “But as to whether the means that we use are effective, the Government is open to proper evaluation. We (PBS) had recommended early to provide teachers Who are qualified to teach English and books and tools must be supplied because the last to benefit would be the rural people. We understood that there will always be a gap because urban schools would benefit more than rural schools, but overall even at this time rural schools have benefited.
‘Some of the teachers can now speak (English) fluently because of teaching Mathematics and Science in English and when we conduct seminars in rural areas where I speak English and crack jokes, many of our young people can grab,” he said. “This means they are learning something.. .it may not be at the pace that we wanted but that is why I said we need to study the situation. “Frequent changes may not be beneficial. We must allow for time and do a proper evaluation and if truly the goals are not achieved, then we must ask why, is it because of the means to achieve (the goals) or the policy itself,” he said.
When asked about his view on the proposed expansion of the United States Embassy’s Fulbright English Teachers Assistance Programme nationwide, Maximus said a “proper scheme” should be set up to accommodate and monitor the implementation of the plan. “Whatever assistance pertaining to the teaching of English is welcome, so long as it is conducted through the proper agencies that are responsible, which are the Ministry of Education and Education Department. “Many of us here who went to secondary school in the late 60s and early 70s benefited because we had many teachers from Canada and the Peace Corp. These are very useful avenues to use. “Even now there are a lot of Australian youths and graduates who are here working on the ground through NGO arrangements with the Education Department, but if we want to get more (assistance), then maybe a proper scheme needs to be developed,” he said. US Embassy counsellor for public affairs Phillip P Hoffman in August said they had so far brought down several groups of fresh graduates for their pilot programme, which started in Terengganu two years ago. He noted that the expansion plans were pending approval of funding, with the aim of spreading the programme to other states.
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