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Mogan (third left) and others giving their thumbs as the workers unloaded the new arrival of chicken eggs supply from the lorry at a supermarket.
BINTULU (Feb 1): The supply of chicken eggs for local consumption in the market here is adequate, assured Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Sarawak enforcement chief Mogan Arumugam.
“A total of 450,000 chicken eggs are supplied to the people in Bintulu for a period of one week.
“Hopefully the people will not engage in panic-buying activities because the shortage of supply is just temporary and KPDNHEP will do its best to overcome any issue that may arise,” he said in a statement today.
Earlier, Mogan joined the KPDNHEP Bintulu enforcement team to monitor the implementation of Festive Season Maximum Price Control Scheme for the Chinese New Year (CNY) at one of the supermarkets here.
He said the majority consumers when met supported the implementation of the scheme as an effective way to control the supply and price of essential goods and prevent price hike.
“KPDNHEP enforcement personnel will always be at the locations that attract big crowds for shopping,” said Mogan.
He thus reminded the traders to continue to adhere to the rules and regulations stipulated under the scheme and failure to comply, stern action will be taken under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.
He pointed out that the ministry remains committed to ensure the ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ are protected and not burdened with the increase of living costs.
Under the Skim Harga Maksimum Keluarga Malaysia (SHMKM) from Jan 1 to Feb 4, a total of 12 items have been listed such as chicken, chicken eggs and vegetables.
He said the demand for certain goods were expected to increase during the CNY on Feb 1.
“As a measure to stabilise the price of goods and to ensure enough supplies in the market during the Chinese New Year festive season, the Festive Season Maximum Price Control Scheme is being implemented starting Jan 29 until Feb 4,” he said.
He said the scheme involved six types of foodstuff from seafood, dried food and pork categories.
“KPDNHEP will collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry to ensure the availability of supply in the market and enable easy access to get basic necessities during the festive season,” said Mogan.
Traders and the public can check the price of goods that were listed under the scheme at www.kpdnhep.gov.my.
Complaints or inquiries can be channelled to the ministry via WhatsApp on 019-2794317, e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my, or by calling 1-800-886-800.
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A view of Johor Baru’s skyline on a moderately hazy afternoon. Picture taken September 16, 2019. – Bernama photo
JOHOR BAHRU (Feb 1): The Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) has allowed the use of its halls, premises, or any of its facilities for campaigns, meetings, and other politically-related activities for the upcoming Johor state election.
Its mayor, Datuk Mohd Noorazam Osman, said the use of facilities for political purposes in conjunction with the state polls will be allowed, but with strict conditions and regulations that have to be complied with.
Among the conditions set is that all activities to be carried out in the hall, premises, or any facility owned by MBJB are allowed provided there is no logo, coat of arms, or any form of political party symbolism displayed during the programme.
“It includes the use of political party logos or symbols as the backdrop, as well as banners, flags or other forms of decoration in or around the hall or premises.
“Another condition is that full payment of the hall rental rate must be made to MBJB in advance, because MBJB’s halls and facilities are public property, so their use must be in the interest and good of the local community,” he said here today.
Mohd Noorazam also reminded all parties to always abide by the rules related to the installation of flags, banners, posters, advertisements, or any campaign-related materials.
“Political parties, in their excitement to conduct campaigns in the near future, must comply with all regulations set to ensure that they do not cause a disturbance, risk of accidents or pollution in the urban area.
“If these political parties wish to put up flags or advertisements then they must obtain MBJB’s approval first and ensure that the installation is only in areas allowed by the Election Commission (EC),” he said. – Bernama
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PTPTN chairman Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan regarded it as an encouraging achievement as it was the highest collection since three years ago, with RM1.14 billion recorded in 2018 and RM1.37 billion in 2019. – Bernama Photo
KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 1): The National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) recorded a total of RM3.01 billion in in deposit collection for the National Education Savings Scheme (SSPN) account for 2021, an increase of RM1.02 billion or 50.95 per cent compared to RM1.99 billion in 2020.
PTPTN chairman Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan, in a statement yesterday, regarded it as an encouraging achievement as it was the highest collection since three years ago, with RM1.14 billion recorded in 2018 and RM1.37 billion in 2019.
“The total amount of SSPN deposits accumulated until Dec 31, 2021 was RM10.88 billion, while the deposit receipt for 2021 was RM3.01 billion, which is 167.08 per cent of the year’s target of RM1.8 billion.
“This receipt is also 27.63 percent of the total deposits received since SSPN was introduced in 2004,” he said.
He said a total of 421,281 new SSPN accounts were opened last year, surpassing the annual target of 400,000 accounts and as of last Dec 31, a total of 5.24 million accounts had been opened.
Wan Saiful said in an effort to improve its service delivery to customers, PTPTN had introduced new channels for loan repayment and savings through strategic partnerships with other parties such as ShopeePay, BESTPay, KiplePay, KelantanPay, PayHalal, AnsaraPay and SpayGlobal.
Apart from that, payment channels through internet banking such as JomPay and selected banks as well as e-Pay services are also available.
This is in line with the PTPTN Strategic Plan 2021-2025 which is focused on PTPTN’s digitalisation efforts, he said, adding that PTPTN would continue to provide the best service to customers in line with the new norms and developments in the digital world.
Wan Saiful said PTPTN assisted 140,977 students to further their studies at institutions of higher learning last year through approved education loans amounting to RM3.51 billion.
Of the total, 70,412 students or 49.95 per cent were from the B40 group and involved a total loan of RM1.95 billion, while the total loan repayment received last year was RM2.36 billion, an increase of RM1.01. billion or 74.53 per cent compared to RM1.35 billion in 2020. – Bernama
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Several houses were damaged due to strong winds and storms in several areas including around Kampung Tawas, Taman Tasek Damai and Kelebang Selatan on Sunday. – Bernama photo
KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 1): Several states on the west coast of the Peninsula as well Sabah and Sarawak could possibly experience landspouts (mini tornados) similar to the one that struck Ipoh Sunday.
Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Centre for Meteorological Instrumentation and Atmospheric Science senior director Ambun Dindang said Kedah, Penang, Perak, Selangor, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan were among them.
He said they also tend to strike coastal areas such as in Bintulu, Miri in Sarawak, Labuan and Western Sabah.
“These are areas where such incidences have occurred before and could experience again, that is with the right weather conditions (the presence of cumulonimbus clouds),” he said when contacted by Bernama.
Yesterday, landspouts wreaked havoc in Ipoh, resulting in hundreds of homes suffering extensive property damage.
He said large-sized cumulonimbus clouds lead to strong convection that forms funnel clouds at the cumulonimbus cloud base, which in turn causes a strong wind shear to form a landspout.
“This is what happened in Perak yesterday, we detected large cumulonimbus clouds in the Kinta area that caused landspouts to hit.
“The tornados that occur in Malaysia are usually clouds that protrude from the base of the cumulonimbus cloud, it is like a cloud funnel, (and) that is what causes damage as winds that protrude downwards twist and turn,” he said.
Ambun said it was rather challenging for MetMalaysia to forecast landspouts as they tend to occur on a smaller scale and have short lifespans.
“A tornado as small as this has short lifespans, an hour at the most. Such a short time for observation makes it difficult to forecast, but we can monitor cumulonimbus clouds through radar images that are available throughout Malaysia,” he said.
He said among the early signs that a tornado might strike is the formation of large clouds and dark base clouds as well as cloud funnels protruding downwards, and advised the public to seek refuge in safer areas if their locations are hit. – Bernama
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The motorcycle belonging to a rider who has been brought to Miri Traffic Police Station for further action following the snap check on Sunday.
MIRI (Feb 31): The Miri police have issued eight summonses for various traffic offences during a snap check on Sunday.
Its Crime Prevention and Community Safety Division (JPJKK) in a statement said the snap check was carried out to curb criminal activities in the district here.
“As a result of the snap checks conducted, eight summonses of various traffic offences have been issued.
“A rider was also detained on suspicion of riding a motorcycle using a fake registration number and brought to Miri Traffic Police station for further action,” read the statement.
The public are encouraged to channel information regarding any related offence to the police by contacting 085-433400.
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KUCHING (Jan 31): Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah does not think the proposed ‘Borneo Front’ pact would make any impact in the coming 15th General Election (GE15).
He said the proposed pact, initiated by Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) president Voon Lee Shan, will not be able to win any seats and its candidates could even lose election deposits.
“In the last state election we saw almost all of PBK candidates lost their deposits.
“This will likely happen again (in GE15). I am not being arrogant but then I believe the voters are more matured and know who they are,” said Abdul Karim, who is vice president of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) which is the biggest component in Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
Voon at a press conference on Wednesday said his party would seek to establish a ‘Borneo Front’ by combining forces with local parties in Sabah to face the election, but did not provide further details.
Voon pointed out there are 31 and 25 parliamentary constituencies in Sarawak and Sabah respectively and he hoped to secure the strength in numbers in Parliament to voice out the independence cause for the Borneo states.
According to Abdul Karim, PBK also declared previously that it could win some seats in the 12th State Election on Dec 18 but the otherwise had happened.
“The general election is coming, and PBK has come out again that they will contest going alone or in a pact with parties from Sabah and Sarawak.
“Well, this is democracy. But Sarawakians are already matured politically (to know what to do),” he added.
Describing Voon as his friend, Abdul Karim said it is hard for PBK and Voon to gain support in order to get anywhere.
He nonetheless believes the participation of more parties in GE15 will make it more colourful.
“Well, the more the merrier. For the voters, this presents chance to make some extra income by installing party banners and billboards and flags.
“But come election, they know better whom and which party to vote,” he said.
In the 12th State Election, PBK had the second highest number of candidates by contesting in 73 out of the 82 seats.
Only six of the candidates including Voon managed to secure the threshold percentage of votes to retain their election deposits.
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(From sixth left) Tiang, Ting, Hii (fourth right) and others gesture when closing the 2022 Sibu Gateway Chinese New Year Market here tonight. – Photo by Peter Boon
SIBU (Jan 30): An event promoting Sibu as a riverine town by the mighty Rajang River looks set to replace the popular Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), hinted Pelawan assemblyman Michael Tiang.
He said the event is likely to be held later this year in October.
“Very likely BCF will be replaced this year by another similar, but more unique, kind of festival.
“We have something in mind already, which is very unique for Sibu. You can’t find it elsewhere — only in Sibu — something to replace BCF,” he said, adding that they were looking forward for that special event.
The Assistant Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government told reporters this after closing the 2022 Sibu Gateway Chinese New Year Market here last night.
When pressed further for reasons why the event would replace BCF, Tiang said they wanted to have something different for Sibu.
“(We want) Something that is very unique to Sibu which you can’t find anywhere else.
“We want to promote Sibu’s unique identity as a town by the Rajang River,” he said, adding this event would have a different moniker.
Touching on the festive market, he was elated by the good response it received.
“I was told, on average, more than 10,000 visitors checked out this market nightly. I was also informed that over 110,000 people have visited this market over the last 10 days.
“It is indeed a record and it is a success, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.
When asked if events such as the Chinese New Year Market would be promoted as a calendar of events to draw crowds to Sibu, he answered affirmatively.
“In fact, we had planned this earlier but had to delay it due to Covid-19. It has received a good response, which goes to show the public in general still like these sorts of events — and yes, we will be rolling out more,” he said.
He added a similar market would be organised for the coming Ching Ming Festival to take advantage of the crowds returning to Sibu.
Tiang further hinted more interesting events would be organised this year in collaboration with the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) and non-government organisations (NGOs) such as the Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI).
On that note, he said Sibu would be promoted as an event tourism destination, given its strategic location as gateway to the central region of Sarawak.
In doing so, it would entice Sarawakians from both upstream and downstream to Sibu, Tiang pointed out.
“The main aim is to attract fellow Sarawkians in surrounding towns to Sibu.”
The closing ceremony was co-organised by SMC, SCCCI’s Young Entrepreneur Committee, Startup Entrepreneur Association Sarawak and PLUX Incubation Hub.
Among those present were SMC chairman Clarence Ting, Startup Entrepreneur Association Sarawak chairman Sean Hii, SCCCI president Datuk Lau Cheng Kiong, SCCCI Young Entrepreneur Committee president Councillor Ling Hua Wee and Sarawak Tourism Board Sibu assistant manager Siti Nabzah Zainoll Abiddin.
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KUCHING (Jan 31): Bukit Assek will be turned into a new and vibrant part of Sibu that can attract investment and uplift the economy of Sibu to the next level, said Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He revealed the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) has been entrusted to spearhead the task to revamp the 500-acre low-lying, water-logged part of Sibu into a modern cityscape.
“Needless to say, development needs proper planning, and the will to drive its implementation. The Batu Kawah area in Kuching is a case in point which has seen considerable development in the past few years because there has been a genuine desire, and the political will to turn the area into another vibrant part of Kuching City.
“In the same vein, and with the same genuine spirit towards progress, I sincerely hope that we can also turn the Bukit Assek area in Sibu into a completely new and thriving part of downtown central business district in Sibu,” he said in his Chinese New Year (CNY) 2022 message.
Abang Johari nonetheless noted it is not an easy task and will certainly take more than a decade to realise.
“But again, with a strong political will, I believe it can be done for the benefit of the people of Sibu, and Sarawak as a whole,” he said.
On another note, Abang Johari as head of GPS said he must thank the people for returning GPS with a resounding mandate as a government to administer the state for the next five years.
“I would like to particularly thank our Chinese friends who have shown tremendous confidence in the GPS administration and my promise of a more meaningful Chinese participation in the government has not been a hollow promise as proven by the appointment of a Deputy Chief Minister from the Chinese community,” he said, referring to the appointment of Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian as one of the deputy chief ministers.
He also said it was not an easy decision to hold a general election amidst the pandemic and with stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) to curb the spread of Covid-19.
“But somehow the state election must take place as it did because this is the requirement of our State Constitution. Thanks God, the state election has been smooth and there is no post-election Covid spike of late,” he said.
According to him, there is no denial that the pandemic has caused much disruption to personal lives of many and the economy.
“Only our determination against all kinds of criticism and to make changes in the interest of our people and the economy has appeared to bear fruit now that the daily infection rate has gone down to two figures or one-figure sometimes.
“We have entered Phase 4 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) but still we have to be vigilant to prevent another spike,” he said.
He said Sarawakians should acknowledge that all the hard work of Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) and the frontliners, and the well-rollout vaccination programme, are now paying off.
“I do hope that the few hundred thousands of people who have not come forward to receive their booster doses would do so as soon as possible in order to have their immunity against Covid-19 further strengthened,” he added.
Though the customary open house and house visiting is not allowed under SOP for this year’s CNY, he said this is not a barrier for Sarawakians to strengthen their bond of friendship and the spirit of mutual respect for each other.
“I sincerely hope that you (the celebrants) have a joyous occasion with immediate family members, especially those who have not returned to the family for a long time due to the movement control orders that have been imposed in the last two years.
“The tiger is a magnificent animal that is king of the beast. I was told that according to Chinese tradition, the tiger symbolises strength, braveness and a defender against evil. In the current and difficult situation that we are facing, these traits of the tiger are indeed the qualities that we all need to overcome the challenges that are coming our way and be able to stay on top of adversities.
“May the Year of the Tiger bring us prosperity, strength in unity, good health and the courage to weather any difficulties in the year ahead during this time of the pandemic,” he said.
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Harden (sixth right) and Dr Sim (sixth left) seen tossing ‘yee sang’ during the event with other guests.
SRI AMAN (Jan 31): A post mortem will be conducted to find out why support for Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) dwindled in Simanggang constituency during the 12th state election, said Assistant Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development II Datuk Francis Harden.
The Simanggang assemblyman said the purpose of the post mortem is also to find out the weakness of GPS in Simanggang and solving it too.
“We must regain the confidence of the voters in Simanggang in GPS which is why we want to conduct the post mortem,” he said in his speech at an event here on Saturday.
During the recent state election, Harden narrowly won the Simanggang seat with only 175 majority votes.
Contesting as a GPS candidate, he polled 3,954 votes while his competitor from Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) Wilson Entabang was close behind with 3,779 votes
For the record, Harden has successfully defended the Simanggang seat for five terms since 1996 under the Barisan Nasional (BN) ticket and GPS in 2021.
Harden was attending the 12th State Election GPS Machinery Staff appreciation ceremony and the 2022 Chinese New Year Celebration at a restaurant here organised by the Sri Aman District Chinese Community Leaders Association.
Deputy Chief Minister Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian was also present during the event.
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Tang shows a gold coin, believed to be able to enhance one’s luck.
SIBU (Jan 31): The ‘Year of the Water Tiger’ is the time to achieve a breakthrough, be it in business, relationships or careers.
However, for that to happen, one must be ready to step out of the comfort zone and proceed to make a difference, said Tang Yew Kai.
“This year is the year of changes, a good year for breakthrough.
“In the past two years, many activities could not be carried out due to Covid-19; this year is a good year to change – maybe you are stuck in a bad relationship for a long time, (this) is the year for you to change.
“(It) is also a challenging year as there are big changes, some of which are rapid. So, you have to be aware,” the founder of Enhance Fengshui Astrology Academy told The Borneo Post here recently.
Elaborating on relationship aspect, Tang, who is more into corporate fengshui, said the changes could mean taking a step forward towards improving an existing relationship, or finding a new one.
“If you’re in a steady relationship that has been going on for quite some time, (it is time) to achieve a breakthrough – obviously, the next step is to tie the knot.
“This is a good year for marriage,” said Tang, who is also a former See Hua Daily News reporter.
On business, he stressed that to achieve a breakthrough, the attitude and the business model must change.
He also outlined a forecast on the economy, specifically sectors that should perform well this year.
In this respect, he predicted favourable outlook for those dealing with branded items.
“Take for example, the luxury fashion brands LV and Bonia – both their share prices, and this sector as a whole, are expected to do well this year.
“And if you are investing in a limited-edition item, say a Rolex watch, you would stand to gain from higher resale value.
“We can invest on items where the value would increase.”
Tang, who had been invited as a guest speaker in programmes run by Astro, ATV and Ai.FM, also foresaw industries related to health sciences to do well this year.
“Perhaps, more countries would recognise the Chinese medicines being used in treating Covid-19.
“Those operating nursing homes and confinement centres (for mothers) are also predicted to perform well, in addition to consultancy works,” he added.
Additionally, Tang believed that there would be a lot of business start-ups this year.
“This year, there would be many of those who want to pursue their ideas further towards carving a career for themselves as they do not want to work for other people.
“It is a good year for business start-ups, and those related to IT (information technology) including gaming, would have good prospects.
“Start-ups that are more to IT create convenience and happiness for the people, give them a sense of hope and provide solutions to their problems.
“This kind of start-up would be easily noticed by investors,” said Tang, who has been in the field of fengshui (geomancy) since 2007.
On the macro level, however, he predicted a global economic downturn this year and thus, he advised everyone to be wary of cash flow – this would include doing diligent ground-work before making any form of investment.
A close-up view of a gold dragon turtle, said to be able to generate wealth energy.
“Put a gold coin inside your wallet to improve your luck, or acquire a gold dragon turtle to enhance wealth.”
On career advancement, Tang advised those who had yet to be noticed by their employer, that ‘it would be time to move on’.
On outlook based on the Chinese horoscope, he said things might not be rosy this year for those under the five zodiac animal signs this year, namely the Tiger, the Snake, the Monkey, the Rooster and the Pig, but for those under the signs of the Rat and the Horse, they could expect to experience good luck.
“To improve your luck, those born in the years of the Tiger, the Snake, the Monkey, the Rooster and the Pig, should come and pray at the temple this March 26 to obtain mercy for any misdeed.
“From the fengshui point of view, put decorations at the northeast corner of your house to enhance your luck,” he suggested.
The Tiger is the third of the total 12 animals represented in the Chinese zodiac. The rest are the Ox, the Goat, the Rabbit, the Dog and the Dragon.
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A KPDNHEP Sibu enforcement officer checks the price of eggs at a local store. – Photo courtesy of KPDNHEP Sibu
SIBU (Jan 31): There is still sufficient supply of eggs in the market amidst its high demand in the lead up to Chinese New Year, Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Sibu branch chief Kelyn Bolhassan @ Haliward has assured.
“Our daily inspection and monitoring found that eggs are still sufficiently available in the market, but with a notably increasing demand ahead of the CNY festival,” he said when contacted by The Borneo Post yesterday.
Commenting on the current report of shortage of eggs in Miri and Limbang, Kelyn advised consumers to be prudent in their spending and avoid panic buying.
In addition, he reminded traders to abide by the Keluarga Malaysia Maximum Price Control Scheme, of which stern action would be taken against traders found to be selling sell gazetted items above the set maximum price.
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Partnership is inline with both companies’ efforts to support the digital-first lifestyle and sustainable economic growth in Malaysia
Shoppers get up to 1.8% back in savings when they earn GrabRewards for every GrabPay transaction in all AEON outlets
GrabPay users to receive additional rebate of RM8 till 28 February when they spend in participating AEON outlets
Kuala Lumpur, 20 January 2022 – AEON CO. (M) BHD. (AEON or the Company) collaborates with Grab Malaysia to enable the GrabPay e-wallet as a payment method as the Company continues to provide enhanced digital shopping experience that meets customers’ changing preferences.
The GrabPay ewallet is one of Malaysia’s leading e-wallets that offers Malaysians a convenient, safe and rewarding way to pay for their everyday essentials such as groceries, petrol, bills, food and drinks, rides, online shopping, prepaid reloads and so much more.
According to Dr. Grace Lee, Chief Financial Officer of AEON, “We are grateful to collaborate with Grab Malaysia to offer GrabPay as a payment method. This will provide greater convenience to AEON’s customers and enable them to enjoy savings each time they shop. This collaboration also allows us to tap into the growing number of tech-savvy customers who prefer digital and contactless shopping.”
“We always strive to add value to our services. We have a clear direction to move forward and we will endeavour to further grow the New Retail ecosystem that is demand-based and more attuned to present market dynamics, customer consumption patterns and behaviours. Technology, digitalisation and innovation will be game changers for AEON as we propel into our digital transformation journey,” concluded Dr. Grace.
Priyanka Madan, Head of GrabPay, Grab Malaysia said, “We believe in forging synergistic partnerships to further enable Malaysians to have convenient access to their everyday needs such as groceries and household essentials.
Therefore, we are honoured to be adopted in AEON’s contactless payment ecosystem and support their digital transformation journey. This partnership also reflects our commitment to leverage our innovative and inclusive solutions to serve the digital financial needs of our consumers. With our features like GrabRewards, AEON shoppers can enjoy savings with every transaction that is protected by our multiple safety and security measures.”
In conjunction with the start of the new year and the upcoming Chinese New Year, AEON shoppers who pay via GrabPay will get to enjoy a rebate of RM8 with a minimum purchase of RM88. The campaign takes place from 15 January until 28 February 2022 at AEON Store, AEON MaxValu Prime, AEON Wellness and AEON BiG participating outlets nationwide.
This collaboration between AEON and GrabPay is inline with AEON’s effort in championing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal – Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8). It promotes continuity, inclusivity and sustainable economic growth, and provides suitable employment for all.
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KUCHING (Jan 30): The great legacy left behind by former Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Tun Pehin Sri Abang Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng represents the virtue of humility, says Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) veteran Datuk Peter Minos.
“His greatest legacy (is) humility; keeping your feet on the ground, no matter who you are, even (if you are) on a pedestal.
“That is something missing with many big men and politicians in Peninsular Malaysia.
“I really like and respect Tun (Abang Salahuddin) for who he was,” Minos told thesundaypost here.
The political veteran also shared the fond memories he had with the late Abang Salahuddin when the latter was still with Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation and served as state chairman of the Public Service Commission.
“I knew him as a very humble and pleasant person. Once we shared the same office at the old Yayasan Sarawak building opposite the old Sarawak Museum in the early 1970s.
“He used to take me along to buy vegetables and other things at the old Satok open market – very kind of him.”
Minos also remarked the leadership shown by Abang Salahuddin had been exemplary in fighting for a better future for Sarawak.
“Sarawak would be great with leaders like Tun. That’s a man that Sarawak would remember for a long, long time – that one legacy left behind that is highly respected and admired,” added Minos.
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KUCHING (Jan 30): There are no delays in the progress of the Sungai Sarawak Integrated River Basin Development Project (PLSB), which was based on former Pakatan Harapan (PH) government’s open tender process, says political secretary to the chief minister Tan Kai.
In this regard, he stressed that Bandar Kuching MP Kelvin Yii should not issue a misleading statement about the project being overlooked by the federal and state governments.
He said the information is from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID).
He was rebutting the statement made by Yii who called on the State DID together with DAP Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen and Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong recently. Yii had said the project appeared to have been overlooked by the federal and state governments, and that the open tender of these separate flood mitigation projects have been delayed time and again.
“I am disappointed with Yii’s statement in which he purposely never mentioned that such delay was due to changes in project execution method by former PH government,” Tan said.
Tan explained that the RM150 million flood mitigation project was approved by former Barisan Nasional (BN) government in 2017, and Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari had announced the project execution in April 24, 2018.
“However, after the 14th general election, PH took over Putrajaya, this project was switched from Natural Resources and Environmental Ministry to be under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Water, Land and Natural resources, of which PKR MP Dato Dr. Xavier Jayakumar was the minister.
“At that time, former Minister of Local Government and Housing Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, with assistance from former PKR assemblyman See Chee How, had met with Xavier Jayakumar and urged the the latter to give priority and speed up the process due to the project’s urgency,” he said.
Tan added, however, that the former PH government stayed firm with their stand on the project’s procurement procedure from direct dealing to open tender in project design and valuation.
“Undeniable, open tender is more transparent as compared to direct dealing process, but due to the longer and time consuming process, the expenditure such as workers’ wages, material’s price and so on, will eventually become more costly,” he said.
Tan reiterated that he supported the open tender process but added that there is a need to judge the project’s urgency as well as to prioritise the people’s benefit, to decide the method that can make its completion faster.
“Any delay in a project will lead to increase of cost, at the end, we can’t save any cost nor solving people’s issue,” he said.
PLSB project covers nine project locations including upgrading of drainage along Sarawak General Hospital (SGH), Sg Tabuan, Taman Malihah, Batu Lintang area, the government quarters at Jalan Tun Jugah, Sg Sinjan, Sg Gersik, Kuching-Samarahan Expressway and SK Muara Tuang Samarahan.
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(Front row from right) Miri deputy mayor Julaihi Mohamad, Yii and councillors in a photo call at the new Miri City Hall building.
MIRI (Jan 30): Miri City Council (MCC) has set up three operation teams for flood emergency relief during the current monsoon season.
“The Ministry of Local Government and Housing requires all councils to set-up operation teams on standby 24/7 to coordinate and carry out relief and rescue works in the event of flooding, following warning issued by Malaysia Meteorological Department of rain and thunderstorms at parts of Sarawak Jan 24 to Feb 7,” Miri mayor Adam Yii told the media after chairing a full council meeting at Miri City Hall Friday.
Yii who is Pujut Assemblyman said the teams will work hand in hand with the council’s mobile team, MCC Serve which solves ad hoc issues like fallen trees and other safety issues.
The flood teams have been given guidelines and standard operating procedures for flood emergency relief operation and MCC has a list of its officials contact numbers during emergencies, he stated, adding that the council is also addressing drainage blockage which contributes to flooding.
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Malayan tigers have been recorded with one to three cubs in a litter. – Photo from Pixabay
DID you know that we have a tiger species peculiar to Malaysia? Featuring on the Malaysian coat of arms and also that of Singapore as well as the nickname of the Malaysian football team, this Malayan tiger takes pride of place in our society. The Royal Malaysia Police and the Malaysian Football Association boldly exhibit the tiger, known for its strength and bravery, on their official badges. Welcome to the dawning of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Water Tiger!
It is said that people born in the Year of the Tiger are brave, competitive, unpredictable, and confident – all characteristic features of the animal. They can also be charming and well-admired by others but they can also be impetuous, irritable, and overindulgent! With stubborn personalities and somewhat judgemental, they are hardworking and express themselves boldly. They seldom rescind on what they say and handle unforeseen matters competently and swiftly leading from the front. The Water Tiger, in particular, possesses a strong sense of self-esteem and learning ability. What of the real tiger?
Malayan tiger
Panthera tigris malayensis or Panthera tigris jacksoni is one of six subspecies, identified four years ago by a genetic study, of the Panthera tigris tigris population. The Malayan tiger once roamed Singapore. Owing to fatal attacks on agricultural workers there, these animals were shot and cleared from the island in the 1950s.
Two decades ago they were found in agricultural areas and in palm oil plantations in Johor, Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu and in river areas in these states and Perak. In the 1950s there were over 3,000 of these animals in Malaysia, but sadly, in 2021, it was estimated that only 200 to 250 were living in the wild comprised of about 120 breeding adults.
Suffice it to say there are no known Malayan tigers in Sabah and Sarawak. That said, Robert Shelford, a former Director of Sarawak Museum, in his posthumously published book in 1916 entitled ‘A Naturalist in Borneo’, recorded that a tiger’s skull was present in the Singgi village Chief’s house and “was regarded as a potent charm”. He went on to write that, “The skull is of an unknown antiquity; there is, however, no evidence to show that it once belonged to a Tiger indigenous in Borneo.” No doubt, a century later, this skull still holds pride of place in this kampung.
Size and characteristics
As one of the smallest of tiger species, males average 2.4 metres in length from head to tail and females about 2.1 metres long. In weight terms, males weigh in from 99kg to 136kg and females from 77kg to 108kg. Mostly nocturnal animals, they rely on their superb site to locate their prey. With superb night vision, owing to a structure called the tapetum lucidum at the back of their eyes, they can see their prey, creeping up on it by stealth.
Research has found that a tiger’s vision is five times better than that of humans. Hence perhaps William Blakes unforeseen second verse of his poem, ‘The Tyger’, “In what distant deeps or skies, Burnt the fire of thine eyes.” I well remember learning this poem by heart in my primary days of schooling.
The Lunar calendar will see the dawn of the Year of the Water Tiger on Feb 1. – Photo from HippoPx
Diet
They readily prey on barking deer, sambar deer, wild boar, bearded pigs, serow, sun bears, elephant, and rhino calves as well as farmers’ livestock. Wild boar are serious pests in plantations and agricultural land and are 10 times more numerous than in areas where tigers are still present. In Taman Negara National Park, Seladong bulls have been seen to ferociously drive tigers away from their calves. Little is actually known about these tigers’ breeding habitats but images caught on night cameras have recorded one to three cubs in a litter.
Threats
Their loss of habitat has inevitably diminished both for themselves and their prey. In Peninsular Malaysia, some 13,500 square km of rainforest was lost between 1988 and 2012. Another 64,800 square km was converted to large scale industrial oil palm plantations and logging activities of which a third were prime tiger habitats.
Tiger parts, coveted in Chinese traditional medicines, have attracted poachers from as far afield as Cambodia and Vietnam as well as more locally from Thailand. Anti-poaching units, based in tiger protected areas, confiscated 1,400 cruel death steel noose snares between 2014 and 2019. Fortunately, the dedicated work of the Malaysian forest rangers in protected tiger-locations, together with law enforcement agencies, are considerably reducing malpractices against tigers and the illegal export of tiger parts. Regrettably, shooting of marauding tigers on farms and in kampungs has also led to a decline in the tiger population.
Conservation
The Malayan tiger is included in Cites Appendix 1, which bans international trade for since 2015 it has become a Critically Endangered Species. However, all is not lost, for in November 2021 the Malaysian government introduced nine conservation strategies to allow the survival of this animal species. These include the enforcement of patrols and the preservation and conservation of the tiger’s natural habitat with a National Task Force for its conservation. This has been delegated to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks’ Tiger Conservation Unit.
Under the Royal Malaysia Police, its wildlife crime bureau is granted rights for the provision of an accreditation scheme for Malayan tiger habitats. Besides this, cooperation with zoos and university researchers in their studies of the breeding habits of these animals together with the establishment of a Malay Tiger Conservation Centre to acclimatise and accustom these animals before their release into the wild is under way. To assist the wild tiger’s feeding habits a ban on deer hunting has been reinforced.
In the light of the Malaysian government’s plans to assist the survival of Panthera tigris malayensis, I raise a glass of Tiger Beer to not only salute the government for its proactive stance but also to wish all readers ‘A Happy and Prosperous New Year’ in an age of uncertainty.
Congratulations to all families who may bring forth offspring in the Year of the Water Tiger. Fortunately, in both Sabah and Sarawak, we are not hunted or haunted by tigers!
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Ibu Anah: A legend who rose to brave the challenges of her time, steadfast in championing the well-being of women in her community
Datuk Paduka Pemanca Sharifah Rehanah Syed Razali (1910 – 2000)
DATUK Paduka Pemanca Sharifah Rehanah Syed Razali, fondly known as ‘Ibu Anah’, was one of the prominent women political pioneers in Sarawak. A founding member of the women’s wing of Sibu Barisan Rakyat Jati Sarawak (BARJASA), she together with her compatriot, Dayangku Mariam Pengiran Bungsu from Limbang, was the first woman in Sarawak to be appointed as Pemanca (community head) in 1973.
Born in Sibu in 1910, and the only child of Syed Razali Syed Zain and his wife Sharifah Hamdiah Syed Omar, Ibu Anah grew up in Kampung Datu, Sibu. Her father was an enterprising businessman who owned a rubber plantation besides being involved in the buffalo trade.
Growing up in a well-to-do family, Ibu Anah had a comfortable life until the Japanese invaded Sarawak.
Married at the age of 16 to her cousin Syed Junaidi Syed Othman, the son of a prominent religious figure in Sibu, she devoted her life to raising their children while her husband was the ‘imam’ (head of congregation) of Masjid Sibu.
Japanese Occupation
She was in her mid-30s when the Japanese occupied Sarawak. The occupation, which lasted for almost four years, had brought much suffering to the people. Not only were the administrative and economic infrastructures severely damaged, the people lived in fear under the harsh rule of the Japanese.
The lordly indifference of the Japanese soldiers to the people and the defeated Europeans spurred anti-Japanese sentiments throughout the state. The military government would use various forms of propaganda to influence the people. One way was to associate themselves with the various ethnic groups by recruiting their leaders in the administration.
As imam of the Sibu mosque and a religious teacher with a large following, Syed Junaidi was among the community leaders favoured by the Japanese. However, that did not spare the family from the hardship brought by the war.
Ibu Anah gave birth to her eighth child during the Japanese Occupation. While still in confinement, she literally saw a plane hovering over her house and the next thing she knew was the town had been bombed. The worsening situation in Sibu caused the family to move to Song, where they stayed until it was safe to return home.
When the Allied forces came to Sibu to defeat the Japanese in March 1945, they bombed various parts of the town where the Japanese were believed to be in operation.
Ibu Anah and her family had to flee to Teluk Nasang where they lived among the Ibans and worked with them in the paddy fields. They returned to Sibu in August in the same year after the Japanese had surrendered.
The war had awakened the spirit of patriotism in Ibu Anah and so was the ceding of Sarawak to the British Crown by the last White Rajah after the war. The upsurge of politics triggered by the 1946 cession had kindled the spirit of nationalism among Sarawak women – a number of women organisations were formed in Kuching, Sibu and other parts of Sarawak to protest against it.
While the anti-cession issue was a matter close to her heart, Ibu Anah was not physically involved in the anti-cession movement. She had yet to recuperate from an illness that lasted for three months after her confinement following the birth of her 10th child, Sharifah Maimunah.
Nonetheless, the cession had further roused her patriotic spirit.
A series of afflictions followed a few years later. Her husband died of an illness at the age of 45. Prior to his death, the grieving widow had already lost two young children – Sharifah Fatimah, 9, and their youngest daughter Sharifah Hamidah, 3, who passed on just 13 days before Syed Junaidi breathed his last.
Ibu Anah was still nursing the pain and grief of losing a daughter and a husband when her mother passed away, just four months after Syed Junaidi’s untimely departure.
Her father was prodded to sell his land to help provide for her family. Although advanced in age, Syed Razali was physically strong.
Not wanting to rely solely on her father, Ibu Anah reopened the small sundry shop at their house left by her late husband. She also made traditional medicine for mothers who were in confinement to earn extra income. With that and also her father’s support, she was able to raise comfortably her 10 children and give them good education.
Ibu Anah seen with Tun Suhaila Mohamed Noah (right), wife of former prime minister Tun Hussein Onn.
Foray into politics
It was only in 1961, when Ibu Anah was 51, that she entered politics. By then, she had gone through some of the worst circumstances of her life – the war, the deaths of her loved ones, the trials and struggles of being a single mother, all of which had made her strong and resilient as she prepared herself for the next phase of her life.
Most of her children were already working and had families of their own. She had served her family well and now, she felt the time was ripe for her to serve her beloved country as she had always wanted.
Ibu Anah’s late mother and her late husband were held in high esteem by the community, notably for their religious contributions. They used to hold religious and Quran-reading classes as well as religious gatherings at their home in Kampung Datu. The activities availed Ibu Anah of meeting and getting to know people from all strata of society.
It was against this backdrop that she developed her penchant for politics.
Founding member of BARJASA Women
When BARJASA was founded in 1961 and opened a branch in Sibu, Ibu Anah did not hesitate to join the party. Subsequently, she became a founding member of its women’s wing. As a founding member, she travelled from one village to another, going from door to door to campaign for the party. She encouraged the women to join BARJASA and work hand in hand with their male counterparts so that they could achieve their goals for the progress of the country.
Cutting a gentle figure, the petite and hardworking politician was well received by the people as she manifested her love for her religion, country and people, gaining such high respect and good support from them.
When the announcement on the formation of Malaysia was made on the eve of Sept 16 1963, Ibu Anah was moved to tears with a deep sense of patriotism. She gathered the girls in her village at her house compound where they sang the victory song, ‘Berjaya’, to welcome the birth of Malaysia. Sarawak had achieved its independence from Great Britain and now a partner with the Malayan Peninsula and Sabah as one nation.
Photo shows Ibu Anah being flanked by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud and his wife Datuk Patinggi Laila Taib during a Hari Raya visit years ago, back when Taib was still the chief minister. Also seen is the former assistant minister of welfare and women affairs Datuk Sharifah Mordiah Tuanku Fauzi (standing, second left), Ibu Anah’s daughter-in-law.
Voluntary work throughout the years
The years that followed saw Ibu Anah travelling to the rural areas in the third and sixth divisions meeting village folks, explaining to them her party’s manifesto as part of her effort to recruit members and set up new branches. A woman in her mid-50s, she endured rough physical journeys and spent weeks away from home to accomplish her mission.
The task was purely voluntary. She sold the land that her father, who passed away in 1968, had passed on to her in small parcels to support her cause. Her residence at Kampung Datu resembled a party headquarters as she opened it for her party’s activities. During election time, it became an administration centre for BARJASA.
Her house was also a ‘mini school’ where literacy classes for adults were conducted. Ibu Anah initiated the classes, while she herself could not read the Romanised Malay as she only knew Jawi (system of writing based on Arabic alphabets and numbers). She also enrolled herself as a student for the new classes where her daughter Sharifah Aminah volunteered as a teacher.
Within a period of three years, she and the rest of the students were able to read and write in Romanised Malay.
Her indomitable spirit, reflected in her steadfastness of purpose, benevolence and her love for her country, religion and people, made her an extraordinary woman of her time. She played an important role in bringing together BARJASA and Parti Negara Sarawak (PANAS) to form Parti Bumiputera in 1966. The merger between the two rival parties was a historic milestone in Sarawak politics.
Following the merger, Ibu Anah was elected as chairman of the Sibu branch women’s section.
Her determination in bringing about reforms in society also led to the founding of Sibu’s first women cooperative in 1971 where she became the manager and Sharifah Aminah, its treasurer. The cooperative was a success story as it progressed rapidly over the next few years.
Photo shows founding member and chairman of Sibu BARJASA Women, Ibu Anah, delivering her speech during its annual general meeting in 1969.
Appointment as community leader
Two years later, Ibu Anah was appointed as Pemanca. With the new appointment, she stepped down as chairman of Sibu Parti Bumiputera Women, but she would remain loyal to the party. She wanted to focus on her new job and serve the community better. She also believed that by vacating her chair, another woman leader would be in the making for the progress of the party, and the country at large.
Following her retirement as Pemanca in 1984, Ibu Anah continued to open her house to religious activities such as ‘zikir’ (Islamic songs of praise) sessions and Quran-reading classes, religious talks and communal prayers – there was no stopping her.
Held in high esteem for her vast contributions to the society and state, Ibu Anah had received visits at her home from many prominent politicians, ministers, as well as past and present governors during her time.
A rose among the thorns – Ibu Anah chairing a meeting.
In recognition of her contributions, she had been awarded the Sijil Kehormatan Negara (SKN), Pingat Peringatan Malaysia (PPM), Pingat Peringatan Terpuji (Silver), Ahli Bintang Sarawak (ABS) and Darjah Panglima Gemilang Bintang Kenyalang (PGBK) by the Sarawak government.
Ibu Anah devoted her remaining years to religious activities that she had started and spending time with her close-knit family. It was in the midst of one of the religious activities that she breathed her last, at the age of 90.
Ibu Anah was a legend – a hero who rose to brave the challenges of the time and was unwavering in her commitment to championing the well-being of women in her community.
Hers was a story of dedication to a social crusade and of an unrelenting pursuit that dared to break new frontiers and reach out to uncharted territories, all for the love of Sarawak and her people.
Ibu Anah with former international trade and industry minister Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz.
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Kuala Lumpur, 20 January 2022 – AEON CO. (M) BHD. (AEON or the Company) collaborates with Grab Malaysia to enable the GrabPay e-wallet as a payment method as the Company continues to provide enhanced digital shopping experience that meets customers’ changing preferences.
“We always strive to add value to our services. We have a clear direction to move forward and we will endeavour to further grow the New Retail ecosystem that is demand-based and more attuned to present market dynamics, customer consumption patterns and behaviours. Technology, digitalisation and innovation will be game changers for AEON as we propel into our digital transformation journey,” concluded Dr. Grace.
