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KUCHING (May 1): It is not the right time to raise minimum wages as productivity is still in the stage of getting back to pre-Covid-19 level, said SUPP Stakan chairman Dato Sim Kiang Chiok.
He pointed out that the increase in minimum wages must match increased productivity.
“It is much better that the government help in the cost of living through the present social assistance such as Bantuan Sara Hidup, price subsidy on our petrol, cooking oil and price control on essential items. Cost of living is much better managed with inflation under control with our present method.
“We have not caught up with pre-Covid productivity and we are still in the recovery stage. Our productivity must be given the time for it to catch up to the level before the first Covid-19 lockdown,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Sim opined that increasing minimum wages at this recovery stage might negatively affect productivity rates, with increase in cost of doing business and in cost of living.
“Malaysia faces other challenges with the Ukraine-Russia war that is disrupting world trade equilibrium, weak Malaysian Ringgit that will increase cost of import, and cost of living is rising due to more expensive imports,” he added.
The minimum wage will be implemented from May 1 for companies that employ five or more workers and from January 1, 2023 for other companies.
Sim said raising the minimum wage will have implications on the economy.
“For the employees they would be happy that they will be receiving a pay rise of RM300 from RM1,200. This pay rise is irrespective of their productivity and will affect the cost of doing business in Malaysia.
“For those companies that are doing well, this increase can be absorbed but for those who are still struggling to recover from the pandemic disruption they will have one more challenge to overcome,” he explained.
Bigger companies would have to start planning manpower requirements carefully, and may reduce or redeploy their human resources so that cost of doing business can be controlled, he added.
“All these additional costs by increase in salary will be passed onto the selling price that will eventually affect the employee’s cost of living.
“The increase in minimum wage will also have a knock-on effect on the other employees on the different salary scales who will also seek similar revision in their salary, which will put pressure on employers to increase their salary,” Sim added.
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Travellers are seen at Kuching International Airport. — Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (May 1): In the management of travellers from abroad as stipulated under National Security Council’s (MKN) latest #ReopeningSafely Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) dated May 1, the party responsible for the premises must ensure that travellers entering Malaysia have completed the pre-departure form on the MySejahtera app, uploaded their RT-PCR test results and have obtained their ‘Travellers Card’.
This is in addition to the enforced condition of ‘informing requirements for travellers through appropriate communication channels’, as was previously stated in the April 1 version of the SOP.
For individuals travelling from abroad, the updated SOP also states that they must complete a few requirements upon arrival in Malaysia.
First, they must bring along the required information as evidence, or upload on MySejahtera for review. Then they must present the Travellers Card displayed on the MySejahtera application upon arrival at the International Gateway, and they must go through fever-screening with a thermal scanner.
If they are symptomatic, they must refer themselves to a health worker for further examination at the health counter at the International Gateway.
For travellers who have not been fully vaccinated or have not received any Covid-19 vaccine, they must ensure that a few things are being done in compliance with the relevant procedures.
They must undergo a professional RTK-Ag test at a private health facility, or undergo a monitored RTK-Ag test within 24 hours upon arrival.
They must undergo mandatory quarantine (Supervision and Observation Order under Travellers Act 342) at home/hotel/lodging for five days; fill in the health status self-assessment form via MySejahtera every day; and undergo RT-PCR test (on Day 4) or professional RTK-Ag test/self RTK-Ag test under supervision by a private medical practitioner (on Day 5).
A handout image shows the First Enrollment Service in 1967 with Ruth Duncombe.
KUCHING (May 1): Girls’ Brigade Sarawak is celebrating its 55th anniversary today (May 1) with the theme ‘United in Christ, One in GB’.
Registered guests and members are gathering for in-person celebration service 4pm at Trinity Methodist Church, Ellis Road here today.
According to a statement, all members and the public are invited to attend live YouTube streaming via https://youtu.be/9vKmXJXkrsg.
All past and present Girls’ Brigade members, families, friends and associates are invited to join the 90-minute celebration at the church together with officers from the early days.
They include Angela Tan Kok Han from 1st Sarikei Company (SGC president, 1972-1974), Tnay Yong Hua from 1st Sibu Company (SDC president, 1980-1987, 1989), Evelyn Chew from 2nd Kuching Company (SDC president, 1988; SRC president, 1994-1997), and Joyce Ong from 1st Kuching Company (SDC president, 1990-1993).
SRC chaplain, Bishop Dr Lau Hui Ming, who is also the Bishop of Sarawak Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Malaysia is presiding over the service.
QR code of the YouTube live streaming for the celebration service 4pm today.
“GB Sarawak would like to share this great joy with everyone as we are celebrating our 55th Anniversary. For those who are coming to join us on-site, we look forward to meeting you in person.
“The thanksgiving service will also be on YouTube live for those who live elsewhere. Do share the link. We would love to have our old and new members join us online,” said Captain Cindy Chow, Sarawak regional representative cum organising chairlady.
There will be a virtual band performance by Sibu companies, hand chimes performance by 3rd Kuching Company, praise and worship led by 2nd Kuching Company, and a virtual choir by members and officers from all over Sarawak.
“Coming together to celebrate our 55th anniversary showcases that we are united as one organisation, in Christ Jesus, spread all over Sarawak and have grown from one to 45 companies today,” said Lt. Wong Huong Yung, current SRC president, who is also the national vice president (East) of the Girls’ Brigade Malaysia.
Girls’ Brigade is an international girls’ organisation which started 1893 in Dublin and reached Malaysian shores in 1938.
The last in-person event in Sarawak before the pandemic struck, Fonomarae international camp in December 2019.
The first company in the state, 1st Kuching Company, was formed in 1967 at St Thomas’s Cathedral by Ruth Duncombe.
In 1972, the Sarawak Group Council (SGC) was formed. It later evolved into Sarawak District Council (SDC) in 1978 and finally, the Sarawak Regional Council (SRC) in 1994.
To date, there are 45 active companies all over Sarawak with 4,600 members from age six to 17 years.
Today, the Girls’ Brigade is recognised by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Youth and Sports as a uniformed organisation for girls.
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Seasoned players and association going all out to elevate status of armwrestling in Sarawak, bring in new blood
Two young pullers giving their all during a round of Sarawak X-Tive 2022’s armwrestling challenge in Miri.
ONCE seen as a ‘kampung’ (folks) game and a mere entertainment, armwrestling is now a fully-recognised sport with ever-increasing number of enthusiasts.
Sarawak even has its own coach for this discipline – 28-year-old Dominic Johnny.
“I have always been crazy about armwrestling, since I was 12.
“Back then, it was just a hobby and not many people, including myself, really considered it a full-fledged sport.
“Nowadays, though, it has reached a totally different level,” he told thesundaypost in Miri.
‘A unique community’
Dominic (right) presenting a memento to Minister of Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah during the ‘Armwrestling Talent Search’ at Asajaya Sports Complex on Jan 2 last year.
Dominic, a Kadazan from Putatan, made his debut in competitive armwrestling at age 16, in a tournament held at his village during the Kaamatan Festival in 2010.
In 2013, he emerged as Sabah’s 65kg champion.
“I learned a lot from that competition – my elbow was seriously injured during the final, which got so bad that I really thought I would never armwrestle again.
“But thanks to sports science, I learned a lot about rehabilitation and underwent slow recovery. It took me two years to make my return in competitive armwrestling,” said Dominic, whose wife had just given birth to a baby girl.
In 2016, he was adjudged the 75kg winner of the Premier 101 Armwrestling Championships.
“That two-day competition was the first where I competed against so many contenders,” said Dominic, who graduated from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) with a Bachelor in Sports Science (Hons) majoring in physical conditioning.
Following the 2016 feat, he went on to clinch the Men’s Senior 70kg Left-Hand Gold Award at the 2021 National Armwrestling Championships held in Selangor.
It was a very challenging preparation because his main priority was actually not himself, but his charges.
Dominic with some of the medals that he won at the National Armwrestling Championship.
“As a coach, I always take care of my athletes, so to allocate time for my own preparation and to evaluate my own training progress is very challenging. Still, the Selangor meet was a very interesting experience,” said Dominic, who is a full-time coach under Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) in Kuching.
He regarded the opportunity given by the SSC as his ‘greatest and proudest moment’ throughout his involvement in armwrestling.
Apart from that, he also highlighted the partnership with Premier 101 Armwrestling Club in developing elite and new athletes in Kuching.
“I also help athletes from other clubs and associations in Sarawak via online coaching, where my programme covers not only training and techniques, but also the safety aspects of the sport.”
According to Dominic, armwrestling has grown more and more popular over the past six years, especially among the youths, adding that the majority of state athletes of this sport are aged between 18 and 21.
“Sarawak has ranked among the Top 3 overall in Malaysia, despite having only entered competitive armwrestling at national level in 2018.
“This is a very good development, not only in terms of competitions, but also of it promoting a healthy lifestyle among youths.”
Dominic also acknowledged the huge impact from technology, especially social media, on armwrestling.
In this respect, he believed that the armwrestling community in Sarawak could use it to their advantage, namely promoting the growth of the sport locally and expanding its presence internationally.
“The Sarawak armwrestling community is unique because of the diversity of the people, who are of different races and beliefs,” he added.
Asked about the possibility of armwrestling being listed as one of the sports in the Malaysia Games (Sukma), Dominic said: “It is a possibility, but there are still lots of things needed to be done.”
All enthusiasts, including those living outside Kuching, regardless of age, gender and other social backgrounds, are most welcome to message Dominic personally via his social media handle ‘Dominic Johnny’, on both Facebook and Instagram, to join the athletes’ weekly training for free.
“There are no gym memberships and coaching fees as far as my programme is concerned.
“Contact me, and I shall help you in joining the armwrestling clubs and associations that are near you.
“You should grab this opportunity since the Sarawak government is very supportive of armwrestling,” said Dominic.
On his advice to those interested in armwrestling, he said: “It is never too early or too late to start. Those who like to challenge themselves and love active lifestyles and strength-based sports, armwrestling is the one for you. It is a very good activity, one that can bring people together for them to learn the different cultures.
“Always seek advice from as many senior armwrestlers as you can – you will learn new things from each person whom you encounter.
“Believe in yourself and never question your capabilities; just be sure to work hard and train smart.”
‘Not without sacrifice’
Sahadan advises all aspiring pullers to reach out to the registered divisional associations closest to their respective districts.
Sahadan Mohd Rani has been following armwrestling since he was a small boy.
He remembers at that time, the competitions were small-scale, village-level events, but they really fuelled the inspiration for him to become an accomplished puller one day.
“I don’t actually remember my first competition, but the first that I won was in 2018 in a tournament hosted by the social and welfare club of Marudi Labour Office,” said the 27-year-old Mirian, who is father of three children – aged seven, three and one.
Currently based in Bintulu, this Forest Department personnel regarded his victorious feat at the 2020 Sarawak Armwrestling Championship as ‘a sweet and unforgettable experience’ throughout his involvement in the sport.
He won the Men’s Under-78kg (Right Hand) title, and placed second runner-up in the Left Hand sub-division of that category.
More recently, Sahadan was named ‘Champion of Champions’ of the Bintulu Division Armwrestling Championships held in March this year.
His impressive achievements, however, did not come without any hurdle.
(From left) Sahadan receiving his certificate of participation from Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau during Sarawak X-Tive 2022 event in Miri, witnessed by Chu.
“It’s a challenge to juggle my training time with the pullers in Bintulu and Miri as this requires me to travel back and forth between the two divisions – and then, there’s my work.
“But I love this sport. It’s a small sacrifice.”
Sahadan, also an enthusiast in traditional archery and boat-racing, advised aspiring pullers to reach out to registered divisional associations closest to their respective districts.
“These divisional associations have their respective Facebook pages, so check them out,” he added.
‘Always be mentally, physically ready’
Bryan is a relative newcomer to the sport.
Bryan Michael Harry’s vision is to bring in those who exhibit the potential to become good armwrestlers.
A relative newcomer to the sport, this 30-year-old fitness trainer from Miri took up armwrestling in September 2020.
“Armwrestling is a good game, and I receive good support not only from my family and friends, but also colleagues at my workplace,” said this father of two small children who used to be active in bodybuilding several years ago.
His advice for fellow enthusiast is one that he himself adheres to every single day – to always be mentally and physically ready.
“I always strive to be a better fitness practitioner so that I can guide others to become better as well,” added Bryan.
Sarawak X-Tive platform
The committee members of Miri Armwrestling Association in a group photo with the athletes participating in Sarawak X-Tive 2022 in Miri.
According to Miri Armwrestling Association president Alex Chu, this sport is considered quite new in the division.
“Many still see it as a ‘kampung’ game and there are not many non-Bumiputera participants.
“Now, we are doing all we can to promote it through gyms and sports centres,” he said.
The association also capitalised on Sarawak X-Tive 2022 to promote armwrestling further.
The state government’s programme highlighting the need for people to spend some time playing sports and recreational activities, was launched statewide on March 5, with Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officiating at the grand state-level ceremony in Gedong, Simunjan.
In Miri, the division-level launch took place at the Indoor Stadium.
Chu said he did not expect to receive such an encouraging response for the armwrestling challenge during Sarawak X-Tive 2022.
“The participants included the regulars and the newbies – it was so encouraging.”
Asked about the possibility of armwrestling being included in Sukma, Chu remarked: “Judging from past meetings with the Sports Commission, I think this game would go into Sukma – only thing is for us to focus on athletes aged under 21; that, and we need to train more coaches and place them in schools.”
Chu said the association was planning to organise an open tournament, which he considered to be ‘our biggest tournament in Miri’.
“The proposed event date is in May this year. We’re out to seek new blood, especially youngsters.
“So, after getting the players from Miri Division ready, we would request the MSNS (Sarawak State Sports Council) and the SSC coaches to come to Miri and guide the players.
“After that, we should be able to choose best pullers for all categories to represent Miri in the annual state-level open championship, and further, to represent Sarawak in the Malaysian Open.
“My vision for Sarawak is to have more young referees and coaches so that they would be able to share their knowledge with their friends and the people in their hometowns – this is what I hope to achieve this year.”
(From left) Chu presenting a memento to Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin at the opening ceremony for the division-level Sarawak X-Tive 2022 in Miri. Looking on is Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau.
Chu said with Sarawak being ranked among the Top 3 in last year’s National Armwrestling Championship, the state team would work harder ‘to do even better’.
For Miri Armwrestling Association, however, Chu expressed hope that the government, through MSNS, would provide a place for them to carry out their activities, as well as assistance in terms of coaching and refereeing.
Established in August last year, the association does not have its own premises for training and because of that, its athletes and trainees have been training on their own without the help and guidance of any certified coach.
In this regard, Chu said: “Our association also plans to organise clinics for coaches and referees in Miri. With guidance from the coaches, aspiring pullers should be able to learn the right skills and techniques in armwrestling, which are important in avoiding injuries.
“We also welcome cooperation from other more experienced clubs and associations in our activities, such as the clinics meant to raise our athletes’ understanding about the rules of this sport.”
Miri Armwrestling Association is among 10 recognised armwrestling associations in Sarawak – the others are in Kuching, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong, Sibu, Mukah, Sarikei, Kapit and Limbang.
There four recognised armwrestling clubs in the state are Premier 101 Armwrestling Club (Kuching), Kelab Gusti Lengan Julau, Kelab Gusti Lengan Bintangor, and Kelab Gusti Lengan Bintulu.
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A handout image shows the First Enrollment Service in 1967 with Ruth Duncombe.
KUCHING (May 1): Girls’ Brigade Sarawak is celebrating its 55th anniversary today (May 1) with the theme ‘United in Christ, One in GB’.
Registered guests and members are gathering for in-person celebration service 4pm at Trinity Methodist Church, Ellis Road here today.
QR code of the YouTube live streaming for the celebration service 4pm today.
According to a statement, all members and the public are invited to attend live YouTube streaming via https://youtu.be/9vKmXJXkrsg.
All past and present Girls’ Brigade members, families, friends and associates are invited to join the 90-minute celebration at the church together with officers from the early days.
They include Angela Tan Kok Han from 1st Sarikei Company (SGC president, 1972-1974), Tnay Yong Hua from 1st Sibu Company (SDC president, 1980-1987, 1989), Evelyn Chew from 2nd Kuching Company (SDC president, 1988; SRC president, 1994-1997), and Joyce Ong from 1st Kuching Company (SDC president, 1990-1993).
SRC chaplain, Bishop Dr Lau Hui Ming, who is also the Bishop of Sarawak Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Malaysia is presiding over the service.
“GB Sarawak would like to share this great joy with everyone as we are celebrating our 55th Anniversary. For those who are coming to join us on-site, we look forward to meeting you in person.
“The thanksgiving service will also be on YouTube live for those who live elsewhere. Do share the link. We would love to have our old and new members join us online,” said Captain Cindy Chow, Sarawak regional representative cum organising chairlady.
There will be a virtual band performance by Sibu companies, hand chimes performance by 3rd Kuching Company, praise and worship led by 2nd Kuching Company, and a virtual choir by members and officers from all over Sarawak.
“Coming together to celebrate our 55th anniversary showcases that we are united as one organisation, in Christ Jesus, spread all over Sarawak and have grown from one to 45 companies today,” said Lt. Wong Huong Yung, current SRC president, who is also the national vice president (East) of the Girls’ Brigade Malaysia.
Girls’ Brigade is an international girls’ organisation which started 1893 in Dublin and reached Malaysian shores in 1938.
The first company in the state, 1st Kuching Company, was formed in 1967 at St Thomas’s Cathedral by Ruth Duncombe.
In 1972, the Sarawak Group Council (SGC) was formed. It later evolved into Sarawak District Council (SDC) in 1978 and finally, the Sarawak Regional Council (SRC) in 1994.
To date, there are 45 active companies all over Sarawak with 4,600 members from age six to 17 years.
Today, the Girls’ Brigade is recognised by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Youth and Sports as a uniformed organisation for girls.
The last in-person event in Sarawak before the pandemic struck, Fonomarae international camp in December 2019.
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‘Only regular elections can ensure good governance’. — Bernama photo
THE freedom of association is among the nine fundamental liberties that are enshrined in the Constitution of the Federation of Malaysia (effective as at March 1, 2017). Such freedom is found at Article 10 of that Constitution. It is lumped together with the other freedoms (of speech, and of assembly).
If you want to know about the rest of the liberties, for good measure, here’s the list: Liberty of the Person; Slavery and Forced Labour Prohibited; Protection Against Retrospective Criminal Laws and Repeated Trials; Equality Regardless of Gender, Race or Religion; Prohibition of Banishment and Freedom of Movement; Freedom of Religion; Right to Education; and Rights to Property.
Quite a list, isn’t it?
What interests me is the ‘freedom of association’ – specifically when lawmakers leave their own party and join another, vulgarly known as ‘leaping frogs’.
In a 2020 Malaysian case known to lawyers as the ‘Nordin Salleh Case’, the court held that it was unconstitutional to remove the freedom of association from the legislator from Kelantan.
Unless and until that judgment is overruled by another case, or abrogated by an Act of Parliament, it remains the law of this nation.
In other words, frogging-hopping legislators are protected by law.
A legislator can do what he (and that includes ‘she’!) likes with his political life, forgetting about his obligation to the party, which put him up as a candidate and funded his campaign expenses.
The notion of honour is irrelevant as far he is concerned. The feelings of those who voted for him are of secondary importance; what matters most is the personal benefit that he will derive from leaving the party. No legislator leaves a party and joins another or becomes an independent lawmaker without a reason or two, best known to himself.
Bad law
This Nordin Salleh rule may be law in Malaysia, but it is bad law in the sense that the freedom of association can be abused with impunity by any legislator. If a large number of legislators switch allegiance, thereby upsetting the majority of parliamentary seats belonging to an incumbent government, the parliament no longer reflects the choice of the electorate. The ability of that government to rule is greatly affected.
This seems to be a perfect recipe for political instability in a country that has adopted a parliamentary system of government.
It is painfully obvious to the ordinary voters that the Sheraton Move was not necessary. The rebels could have waited for another general election, normally held every four or five years.
Political and economic life in the country would have been less chaotic without the power struggle, which is still on-going especially in Peninsular Malaysia.
Three Prime Ministers in three years!
It looks as if we’re going to be governed by a sheaf of ‘statutory declarations’. These pieces of paper become a potent instrument to undermine our human right in terms of universal suffrage. All you need is a bundle of papers signed by a sufficient number of legislators, duly witnessed by a Commissioner of Oaths, in order to form a government.
No need for a general election during which, the voters might display ‘an inconvenient freedom of choice’! No necessity for the continued existence of the Election Commission! Back to the feudal days!
Is that what we want?
I do not subscribe to a government of Malaysia that is formed on the strength of Statutory Declarations. The established system is not perfect, but it provides for more certainty; it provides space and opportunity for checks and balances; it provides competition among the citizens seeking power and authority.
Most importantly, it provides a chance to the voters to make a choice: either to retain the services of their incumbent lawmakers, or to choose new ones.
That is the real freedom of choice!
A functional constitution
The federal constitution has been amended many times for reasons considered necessary by the government of the day. The constitution of a democratic country must be functional and it is meant to be amended from time to time, or even abrogated, in order to meet the needs of the day.
So making any law that has the effect of deterring the lawmakers from hopping from one political party to another in order to sustain a democratic government, is long overdue.
It’s a necessity.
At all costs, once a government is in place, Malaysian MPs should be disciplined to respect the mandate given by the voters and to allow the government to carry on with the responsibility of governing and delivering the goods.
If any government cannot deliver the goods, then make a change of it by the only legitimate way – through the ballot box, and not by any other methods such as through the back door or through the hole in the roof!
Selamat Menyambut Hari Raya Aidifitri!
* Comments can reach the writer via columnists@theborneopost.com.
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Young artist fashions attention-grabbing sculptures using organic materials that nobody takes notice of
Sahzy loves to share stories, but through the exhibition, he can share them with a broader audience.
IT was honestly a challenge for me to find HAUS KCH Creative Hub, despite it being within the familiar City Square area off Jalan Pending.
The ‘voice’ on Waze kept on saying ‘you have arrived at your destination’ as I kept on driving past a spot where there was a block with striking mural adorning the open wall on one of its sides.
‘This must be it’, I thought but just to be sure, I texted M Sahzy.
“You’re here. Come up. The door’s behind the building,” was his reply.
Bohemian was the feel that I got even before walking up the steps leading to the studio space.
“Hi. Welcome, welcome,” greeted Sahzy, gesturing me to the section where his showcase ‘The Jungle Portals’ was on display in connection with HAUS KCH’s month-long ‘temu1’ – a kick-start exhibition featuring the works of artHAUS residency artists.
‘From nature, back to nature’
The ‘Jungle Portals’ represents the concept that Sahzy wants to be known for – structural arts made from organic materials.
The very name befitted the considerably large artwork produced by Sahzy, whose real name is Mohd Sahrul Haziq Sarbini.
The whole structure had three components: a painting, the ‘portals’ and the ‘nest’, all connected by jungle vines down to the painting’s frame.
Sahzy said ‘Jungle Portals’ represented the concept that he wanted to be known for – structural arts made from organic materials, including the discarded excess from the city council’s landscaping works.
“Anywhere I can get materials for my artwork – from the streets, from the jungle, whatever is left from farm-clearing, pruning or tree-trimming works – I’d collect them, do some research and experiments, draw the sketches, and then do the sculpting.
“This concept allows me to express nature and the rainforest, and the skills that I have learned allow me to deliver that story,” the 25-year-old Kuchingite told thesundaypost.
Sahzy working on the vines for his ‘Jungle Portals’ setup.
For the exhibition, Sahzy would encourage the visitors to walk through the ‘portals’ barefoot.
“The objective is for them to get that same feel that I have when I do my work.
“I construct my work barefoot; I love hearing the leaves rustling and twigs snapping in every step.”
He said much of his work was inspired by renowned sculptural artist Spencer Byles, who was his mentor for two years.
“He (Byles) taught me so many things, like what materials to use and why, and gave me ideas on ways I could present my story through my work.
“All these had actually helped me figure out my Iban roots and ancestry, through this form of nature art.”
Sahzy said it took him almost six months to finish ‘Jungle Portals’, and much of that time was spent working undisturbed in a quiet, rather remote area.
Asked where that place might be, the artist just smiled.
“This (sculpture) will rot, eventually,” he quickly moved on to the next subject.
“That’s the concept of this project – that art created out of nature, would return to nature.
“And its storage is not a room in a building, but in the jungle. I would take artwork out only for exhibitions, and once done, I’d put it back in the ‘jungle storage’.”
Family matters
Sahzy’s father Sarbini Ahmad always helps source the materials to be used in his art projects.
Sahzy was well aware about the ongoing stigma associated with being an artist in Sarawak — that it was not something encouraged in society, even more so in his close-knit neighbourhood of Kampung Tabuan Melayu.
For a while, when he was younger, he complied with such condition.
Then, tragedy struck.
“My big brother, Mohd Shahrol Nizul, was killed in a car accident.
“I don’t quite remember the year, most likely it was 2014 and he was 29 at the time, but it was in that moment that I realised the importance of doing what I love.
“It was that thought that had pushed me into becoming who I am now,” said Sahzy, the youngest of five brothers — the late Shahrol Nizul was the eldest.
Having a comfortable job in the civil service was never Sahzy’s goal, despite it being one for many people close to him.
“I never wanted it.
“Not many people understood my work and I never put the blame on them. They didn’t have the same kind of perspective as mine, so I had to go out and meet different people with different opinions.
“My parents have been super, super supportive, though at first, they did ask me: ‘Do you really want to do this?’
“To me, it’s a matter of connection – I know what I want, and I must explain it to my family.
“Again, you must not blame people for not understanding what you want, and why you want to do it.”
Sahzy and brother No 4, Mohd Sahrul Haqimi, with their parents and Maryam in a Hari Raya photo-call.
Sahzy said he could not ask for any better support from his family, and would forever be indebted to them for having his back.
“Now, they’re with me all the way. When I hosted a rooftop party for my preview recently, Mum and Dad prepared the food, with my brother helping out.
“Dad always helps source materials to be used in my projects,” he smiled.
Sahzy also mentioned another special person in his life – his girlfriend Maryam Evetovics, whom he regarded as ‘being instrumental in helping him find himself’.
“She and her parents, Tengku Hilda and Ivan Evetovics, have been giving me the fullest of support in terms of transportation, a place to stay and at times, financial assistance – though I never asked any of it.
“We’re not married yet, but they really treat me like a son.
“Their solid support really pushes me into being more focused on doing the things I love, and encourages my growth tremendously. I’m so lucky to have them in my life,” he said.
Pursuing passion
Sahzy and Byles during an offroad trip into a jungle area somewhere near Batu Kawa.
Sahzy might not be forthcoming about the exact site of his ‘jungle studio’, but he was open in telling me about having dropped out of a university in Cyberjaya, where he took a degree in film-making after graduating with a diploma in graphics design.
“My background in graphics did help me in my artwork, but the degree programme, I didn’t find it reasonable and I didn’t learn anything from it at all, so I chose to drop out.
“That’s when I started to mix around with the art community – that’s when I met Spencer (Byles) and the artHAUS folks.
“Without them, I wouldn’t have come this far, I wouldn’t have this exhibition, and I wouldn’t be talking to you right now. They have really pushed me to be more open, more outgoing and more daring, and encouraged me to share my creativity with others.”
It was not always like that at first, though, he recalled.
“Back then, I was really shy to ask anyone and I didn’t mix around much with the group.
“Later on, I realised that it’s the wrong way to think. You must try, you must communicate.
“Now, people start to recognise and appreciate the work and it’s good – it’s what I want.
“I’ve always known that I love to share stories, but now, I can share them with a broader audience.”
It was not ‘all arts and no play’ for Sahzy, however, whose film-making skills had helped generate income for him.
“Yes, I dropped out of the film-making degree programme last time, but that doesn’t mean I don’t like it. I do content videos, which is a revenue stream.
“I have worked with production houses and art departments and in addition to that, I love making my own videos,” said Sahzy, who cited futsal as his ‘totally non-art-related interest’.
Looking ahead
Sahzy explaining to his mother, Isah Lamat, the concept of the ‘nest’ component of the ‘Jungle Portals’.
Sahzy was all thanks to artHAUS for helping him do all the paperwork for ‘Jungle Portals’, allowing him to fully concentrate on the project.
His wish, though, would be to ‘dedicate’ the jungle sculpture to Mount Santubong.
“That would be great – to place it on a rather inconspicuous site where the hikers may come across it by chance, appreciate it, take nice photos, and spread the news.
“Only the portals and the nest, though – I do want to keep the painting,” he said.
On personal growth, the artist said the self-discovery process was still on-going.
“I’d want to know myself better, and to work on myself first so that I could connect better with my work.
“Hopefully in the future, everything would come together in terms of projects.”
On a broader term, Sahzy strove to keep working on his concept, and raising awareness of the importance of appreciating everything in nature, including the by-products.
“I began by working in solitary in the jungle, to be with nature and do my stuff; now, I have an exhibition where I get to share with others what I have done, so the next most sensible move would be to forge closer collaboration with the artHAUS community because they’re the ones who have helped me with the pitching, the paperwork and the organisation of events which have, in turn, facilitated the networking part for me.
“I’m also thinking about the possibility of being a part of the Rainforest World Music Festival, or other major events in Kuching.”
On top of these, Sahzy would be eyeing projects that could bring about strong and meaningful impact.
“This, of course, would require bigger funding, but I feel that I need to do it so that I would be able to hire many good talents from my village, Kampung Tabuan Melayu.
“It’s a way for me to give back to my neighbourhood.
“Hey, I have come this far – surely, I can make it work!” he enthused.
The ‘temu1’ exhibition at HAUS KCH runs until May 16, throughout which the resident artists are taking turns to host their respective features.
It is open to the public from 3pm to 8pm on Mondays and Thursdays, and 2pm to 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The hub closes on Sundays and public holidays.
Apart from Sahzy, the other resident artists are Carface, Ghali Foster and Joshua Teo.
Sahzy with fellow artHAUS resident artists (from left) Carface, Ghali Foster and Joshua Teo.
The artHAUS Creative Residency is partially sponsored by HAUS KCH, and produced by its director and co-founder Syed Syatbie Rusydie Syed Habib.
“We are honoured to offer the artHAUS Creative Residency as one such space.
“Working with these four artists has further ignited hope and encouragement in me for the Sarawakian creative industry.
“It is in the power of the local authorities to aid creative industry growth by working with local ‘placemakers’ to ensure that such growth is consistent and achieved with community consultation,” said Syed Syatbie Rusydie in a statement.
Meanwhile, HAUS KCH residency programme co-curator and director Sonia Luhong said she was encouraged by the ongoing positive reception to the programme, which was launched in late 2020.
“The full occupancy is a sign that grassroots participation is growing in the local arts scene, in addition to fulfilling a very real need among artists.
“As participation in art residencies is a valuable addition to any artist’s CV, we welcome those from within and outside Malaysia to apply for our artHAUS Creative Residency,” she said.
For more information, look for @hauskch on social media or email enquiries to haus.kch@gmail.com.
Sahzy with the participants of his open workshop on vine-sculpture, conducted on the last day of his exhibition run at HAUS KCH.
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KAPIT (April 30): The people here must verify any company or individual offering online investment schemes promising lucrative returns, warns Kapit police chief DSP Freddy Bian.
“Alternatively, consult with the CCID (Commercial Crime Investigation Department) of Kapit police,” said Freddy in a statement yesterday, issued in connection with a recent online fraud case.
The case involved a 31-year-old woman, who claimed to have lost RM17,500 to an online investment scam.
“The victim was surfing the Internet when she was drawn to an attractive investment prospect that offered a return of RM25,000 within a short period of time.
“She was then invited to join an investment group via Telegram application.
“Initially, she invested RM500 into the scheme, but the amount required began to increase to RM2,000, then RM5,000 before reaching RM10, 000.
“She began to sense that something was amiss when every time she was directed to deposit the money, different bank accounts would be given.
“Unfortunately by the time she lodged the police report, she had already lost RM17,500,” said Freddy, adding that the case is being investigated.
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Sharzede (second left) and others pose after yesterday’s press conference.
– Photo by Teo Yee Sing
KUCHING (April 30): Hybrid for the first time in Malaysian festival history, the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) is back this year to celebrate its 25th year with more heart-racing, foot-stomping world rhythms from June 17-19.
Themed ‘Legendary Rainforest Celebration’, this year’s RWMF will return to the Sarawak Cultural Village for the full festival experience, and simultaneously be livestreamed around the world.
It will feature 60 performers from a host of countries including Korea, Canada, China, India, Mexico and almost everywhere in between.
Sarawak Tourism Board chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor, who announced this at a press conference here yesterday, said this year will see more individual acts than ever before on the rainforest stage – some live at the Sarawak Cultural Village and some beamed in by the power of modern technology.
“This year, among others, we are joined by Bluguru from Australia, who set the soundwaves singing with their incredible blend of musical styles from Bluegrass to Blues, Indian to Celtic, Swing, Jazz and adventure too.
“The audience can enjoy the rapid switches from one genre and one instrument to another, backed by soaring vocal harmonies, blistering guitar and fiddle.
“We also feature Timo Väänänen, the leading exponent of Finland’s national instrument, the kantele. He will seamlessly blend the traditional model with the modern, electrical 39-string version to give the Sarawak audience a taste of a haunting and unique sound which has graced film, 25 albums and five solo CDs,” she pointed out.
Sharzede said for those watching RWMF from home, online viewers will get a two-hour experience nightly of RWMF through their own dedicated platform, combining livestream of the action at the Sarawak Cultural Village with original curated content.
She said individuals just need to sign up for one hour at RM25, then extend for another when the rhythm moves them.
She added that they could just book two hours in advance over all three evenings.
“Expect the same grand performances from global acts, but this time alternating with curated original video material, showing a range of local and international performers in their own environments.
“We are also able to showcase a unique range of acts which might never have previously been able to stage a whole set. Meet Sarawak’s cultural practitioners of purposeful sound – our chanters, drummers, and pratuokng players, all at home,” she said.
Sharzede said this year is a celebration but it is also about legacy building, with Randy Raine Reusch, originator of RWMF, returning to the stage and behind the scenes – the guiding hand of the artistic content.
“He is joined by two rising stars of Sarawak music, Alena Murang and Bob Meldrick of At Adau, as Randy passes the baton to the next generation of musicians who grew up with this festival.
“Our two Sarawak performers share their award-winning experience of video production and international travel with the next set of performers to appear on the stage that first welcomed them,” she added.
RWMF workshops, she said, often the highlight and defining feature of the festival, continue this year.
She said these workshops will bring together diverse musicians from many disciplines, drawing together these talents under unifying themes to showcase, jam and create unique music in the setting of the Sarawak Cultural Village.
“Our Friday will kick off this year with our ‘Sape Gathering’. We are calling together anyone who can strum a sape in Sarawak to get together for a grand sape jam.
“This year, we have a kiddie’s workshop to bring on the next generation where they can play with instruments, create art and enjoy the festival ground to their hearts’ contents,” she said.
Early Bird ticket sale is happening now until May 14 for both the physical and virtual concerts.
Those interested in the physical concert can grab tickets in the different categories – Adult 1-Day Pass (RM150), Adult 3-Day Pass (RM375), Child 1-Day Pass (RM80), Child 3-Day Pass (RM155) and 1-Day Family Package Pass – two adults and two children (RM400).
The physical tickets are available for purchase via rwmf.net.
The virtual blocks will feature handpicked artistes that will showcase the allure of world music from both Sarawak and the international stage.
Audiences can choose to buy the virtual block of one hour each depending on their preferred lineup.
Virtual tickets will be sold at a later date which will be announced soon.
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Lee (centre) welcomes a tourist on board Flight AK1757 at Miri Airport.
MIRI (April 30): The Ministry of Transport is pushing AirAsia to give the nod for direct Singapore-Sibu flights to cater for demand from business travelers and tourists in central Sarawak, says Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
“AirAsia plans to add more flights to Sarawak, perhaps, toward the later part of the year,” he told a press conference after leading a welcoming party to welcome 67 passengers from Singapore to here yesterday, adding that flights revival in the state might likely include Pontianak in Kalimantan.
AirAsia Flight AK1757 touched down at Miri Airport at 11.35am yesterday, bringing in among them tourists from France and Singapore, marking the return of this route by AirAsia and the first since Malaysian borders re-opened on April 1.
Among those in Lee’s entourage were mayor Adam Yii, and representatives of AirAsia and Sarawak Tourism Board.
With a welcoming theme ‘Welcome Back! We missed you’, AirAsia staff decked in their trademark red costumes held placards ‘Nice to See You Again’ while STB, represented by Orang Ulu in their traditional costumes, held ‘Back from a Super Holiday’ placards for the occasion.
AirAsia is mounting daily Singapore-Kuching and four Singapore-Miri return flights weekly starting yesterday.
It has played an important role in Sarawak air transportation, connecting major towns in the state to Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and now Singapore, and Lee hoped it could further promote Sarawak in BIMP-EAGA region and bring in more business, tourists and travelers to the state.
Lee also expects AirAsia and Scoot Airlines, which also fly to Kuching and Miri from Singapore, would boost arrivals in the state with healthy competition that will result in attractive airfares and generate more passenger volume and tourist receipts.
AirAsia in a statement said it operates 44 flights weekly between Singapore and Malaysian destinations and will be increasing frequencies in tandem with demand.
It (AirAsia) will also continue to explore opportunities to connect Sarawak to more destinations within Asean and beyond, pledging to support the full re-opening and resumption of the travel and tourism industry in collaboration with stakeholders.
Lee, meanwhile, called on airlines operating in Sarawak to offer affordable airfares during festive seasons such as Hari Raya, Gawai Dayak and Christmas this year to enable more people to fly while advising would-be passengers to book their flights early to avoid paying more.
Lee said domestic flights in Sarawak are back on track with 362 weekly flights connecting major towns and rural airports which are mostly operated by MasWings and the rest by MAS and AirAsia.
Miri Airport records the highest connectivity with 211 flights weekly, followed by Kuching (158), Sibu (74), Bintulu (51) and Limbang (33). The rest are short take-off and landing ) STOL) airports under the rural air service sector.
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MIRI (April 30): Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (Sheda) Kuching branch chairman Datuk Sim Kiang Chiok believes the relaxation of Covid standard operating procedure (SOP) starting tomorrow will ease the move towards pre-Covid freedom.
In a press statement, he opined that high vaccination rates, low hospitalisation, availability of antiviral drugs and temporary hospitals in major towns in the event of a spike in infection ease the move towards endemicity.
“Our economic sectors have to be revived by post-Covid economic plans by the Sarawak and Federal governments. However, time must be given for the industries and businesses to regenerate,” said Sim.
However, he reminded that it is still crucial to take precautions to protect the vulnerable.
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Gan (sixth right) joins Ting (sixth left), (from right) Chee, Chong and others in a group photo after the presentation of the mock cheques to the representatives of the donation recipients. — Photo by Lim How Pim
KUCHING (April 30): GS-Tech Engineering Sdn Bhd aspires to be a leading engineering contractor company in Sarawak.
In stating this, its managing director Andrew Gan said his team would also be looking forward to extending the business in Sabah in the near future.
“We are also keen on capitalising on the relocation of Indonesia’s capital to Nusantara, Kalimantan.
“It is hoped that with the continuous growth in our business, we could unearth more local talents, and provide more career opportunities to fellow Sarawakians,” he spoke at the grand opening of the company’s new base in Demak Laut Industrial Park here yesterday.
According to Gan, GS-Tech Engineering’s core business is supplying mechanical, electrical, civil and structural products and services.
“We also specialise in dealing with maintenance and installation of industrial pipes, pumps and motors, as well as are actively involved in supplying and servicing our major clients in the manufacturing industry, particularly the mechanical works.
“We are also actively participating in the reticulation water supply pipe-laying and maintenance works throughout Sarawak,” he added.
Moreover, Gan announced that GS-Tech Engineering had been appointed by Grundfos as the latter’s authorised dealer in Sarawak.
Grundfos is a renowned pump manufacturer, which delivers efficient, reliable and sustainable pumping solutions across the globe.
“We at GS-Tech are indeed proud to be a partner of Grundfos.”
Established in 2009, GS-Tech Engineering has recently been relocated to Demak Laut Industrial Park from its previous base in Bintawa Industrial Estate here.
In connection with the launch yesterday, GS-Tech Engineering donated RM10,000 each to Sarawak Cheshire Home and Sarawak Society for the Deaf.
Among those present were GS-Tech Engineering human resources and finance director Lynna Ting, its technical director Minggu Chong and director Joanne Chee.
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KUCHING (April 30): Sarawak Business Federation (SBF) has expressed regret that the government has not responded to the outcry of the business community over the revised minimum wage.
It said it had hoped for a deferment of implementation, or for a revision of the quantum to be done progressively over the next two to three years, but such hope was dashed following the publication of the revised minimum wage in the gazette on April 27.
SBF secretary-general Dato Jonathan Chai conveyed this via a statement yesterday, issued in response to the implementation of the national minimum wage of RM1,500, effective May 1.
Chai also said the stakeholders had not been consulted prior to the government going ahead with the revised minimum wage.
“I guess nothing much can be done now, but I need to say that the outcome has been utterly disappointing; that the stakeholders have not been adequately consulted.
“In the midst of the recovery of our fragile economy following the rampage of the pandemic over the past two years, the timing of such revision seems too harsh on the employers, especially the small and medium enterprises in the suburban and less-developed areas, even though with some exemptions on the micro enterprises for a period of eight months until December 2022,” he said.
Chai also believed that the business community was generally supportive of a review on the minimum wage, ‘but just not now’.
He said the practical issues like the timing and the margin of revision should have been carefully considered and well thought out to ensure the survival and sustainability of the businesses amidst this challenging environment.
The Minimum Wages Order 2022 was published in the federal government gazette on April 27 this year, stating that the new minimum wage level of RM1,500 would take effect nationwide this Labour Day.
The exception would be for employers with fewer than five staff members, but they must comply with the new minimum-wage policy come Jan 1 next year.
“Therefore, they would still be paying the existing minimum wage of RM1,200 or RM1,100, depending on places, for eight months from May 1,” stated the order.
Malaysian Trade Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak had expressed delight with the upward revision of minimum wage for employees in general.
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