Wong Chen sees a stronger, more diverse PKR post-GE15

Since entering the party in 2009, Subang MP Wong Chen said he has seen the party go through a major transformation and is continuing to build toward becoming stronger and more relevant by appealing to multicultural Malaysia. – Malay Mail photo

KUALA LUMPUR (June 1): PKR was a truly multicultural party, said Subang MP Wong Chen, who predicted that its diversity would increase with the next generation of leaders.

Since entering the party in 2009, Wong said he has seen the party go through a major transformation and is continuing to build toward becoming stronger and more relevant by appealing to multicultural Malaysia.

“When I first joined PKR, there were still racial elements. You know, there was a (WhatsApp chat) group called PKR Chinese and another group called PKR Indians; there was always a sense that it’s not truly multiracial.

“But five years later, by the 2013 election, I could see it all changed, it is really multiracial even by looking at the two camps within the party competing during party elections,” Wong told Malay Mail during an interview.

Wong said this was something special about PKR, and that its multiracial element was genuine rather than tokenism.

“It’s really real, and that is the biggest hope we have for PKR. Multiracialism in PKR is infectious and real, it is even reflected in my office. We stopped looking at colour and race,” he added.

Although the party is currently going through a transition, Wong said he was confident that under the leaders of the future, possibly those such as former Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli and Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah Anwar, the party will flourish.

“Rafizi and Izzah are Malaysian leaders, and that’s what PKR will stand for in the future.

“For every succession plan every party will go through a down period. But in the future, I still see PKR as growing more relevant, stronger and more multiracial,” he said.

He added multiculturalism and progressiveness were the natural trajectories for countries as they become more wealthy and educated.

“If we can do that there is a lot of hope in this country, the process is going to be tough, but what we don’t want is like the situation in the Philippines where [Filipinos] are willing to forgive the Marcos and bringing the son back into power, or Najib (former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak) coming back into power.

“If that kind of culture comes to Malaysia, it’s going to be very problematic in the country,” he said.

Last month, the Philippines welcomed the son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr, Ferdinand “BongBong” Marcos Jr, as the country’s 17th president.

The Marcos family has a history filled with repression, cronyism, and kleptocracy, and exercised the martial law regime in the early 1980s.

Wong was addressing recent news reports indicating that party president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that he will head PKR for at least one more election cycle as part of a succession plan.

PKR just concluded its party election which saw Rafizi Ramli being appointed as the new deputy president. Wong had said that the eventual winner will be the next person to lead PKR in the coming elections after the GE15.

“If this truly is Anwar’s last election, what he’s doing is to create a succession plan, that’s the idea.

“We have seen the DAP transition from [former secretary-general Lim Guan Eng]to [current secretary-general]Anthony Loke, I think we will see in the next five years or so, more and more political parties doing that.

“It is likely a period for generational change, of some sort, we shall see,” he said. – Malay Mail

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PETRONAS rings in Gawai Dayak with release of “366: Hari Ke-152”

This Gawai, ’Hari Ke-152’ (Day 152) tells the story of Marilyn in her homecoming journey.

KUALA LUMPUR (June 1): PETRONAS is ringing in the Gawai celebrations this year with the release of the fourth episode in its 366 drama series, “Hari ke-152” (Day 152).

In this episode, the narrative focuses on Zhi Yi’s mother Margaret, who has found refuge in kindhearted Marilyn, the ambulance driver who brought Zhi Yi to the hospital following the crash in an earlier episode.

Marilyn offers to care for Margaret as she is diagnosed with dementia.

The story explores why Margaret stayed away from her daughter, and highlights Marilyn’s generosity and compassion towards Margaret that eventually led to why Zhi Yi ended up travelling to Sarawak.

PETRONAS Head of Group Strategic Communications, Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz said, “The hospitality and warmth of the Sarawak community is the unifying factor for the various races in the state – our underlying inspiration for this episode.

An emotional moment shared between Marilyn and her mum.

“We hope that this episode will be able to inspire all of us to be more generous and compassionate because this is what Malaysia needs today. Thank you for being on this journey with us so far, and we hope you will continue watching the upcoming episodes later this year.”

The 366 series is directed by award-winning film director Kabir Bhatia. A tale filled with love, friendship and acceptance, it embodies PETRONAS’ central festive theme ‘Live Again’ for 2022.

Margaret joins Marilyn’s relatives in the Gawai celebration at the long house.

Throughout the seven-episode drama series, its characters continue to navigate through adversities and life experiences and grow from these challenges.

“366: Hari Ke-152” can be viewed on PETRONAS’ official social media channels.

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PETRONAS unveils third episode of 366 drama series

PETRONAS set up a booth outside the KDCA hall to promote the ‘366’ Drama series.

PENAMPANG (June 1): PETRONAS has debuted the third episode of its 366 drama series “Hari ke-151” (Day 151) in conjunction with the Kaamatan Festival.

The episode was unveiled during the Sodop Unduk Ngadau held at the KadazanDusun Cultural Association (KDCA) in front of 1,000 guests who attended the event on May 29.

The patrons were among the first to enjoy the third episode which tells the story of Adam, a Sabahan computer programmer who has to muster up the courage to tell the truth that may ruin his friendship with Zhi Yi and Poji.

The actors of ‘366: Hari ke-151’ who were at the Sodop Unduk Ngadau held at KDCA.

Through Adam’s work to preserve the memories of his father, the audience learns the reason that drives his work, while exploring the wonders of computer engineering and data science.

The story also features the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area, a 27,599-hectare home to Sabah’s precious flora and fauna.

PETRONAS has committed a total of RM83 million towards conserving the area, including setting up the Imbak Canyon Studies Centre.

The actors of ‘366: Hari ke-151’ who were at the Sodop Unduk Ngadau held at KDCA.

PETRONAS Senior General Manager of Group Strategic Communications, Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz said: “We hope that the audience will enjoy watching how the latest part of this seven-episode drama series unfolds as its characters continue to navigate through adversities and life experiences and grow from these challenges.

“’Hari ke-151’ pays homage to the mesmerizing beauty of Sabah, its cultural diversity, and harmonious people – the magic we want to capture.

SHOWCASING THE CULTURES OF SABAH … In this scene of the ‘366: Hari ke-151’, Zhi Yi’s father, Mr Lim, is seen playing the Kulintangan musical instrument and surrounded by traditionally attired musicians.

“The core message in this episode is how the courage to be truthful can become the foundation to a sincere and strong relationship. I hope that this year’s Kaamatan festival can be celebrated meaningfully, together with family and friends.

The 366 series is directed by award-winning film director Kabir Bhatia. Showcasing a tale filled with love, friendship and acceptance, the drama series embodies PETRONAS’ central festive theme ‘Live Again’ for 2022.

ABSORBED … patrons of the Sodop Unduk Ngadau watching a scene in the 366: Hari ke-151 where Adam (right), his mother (left), Zhi Yi (second from left) and Poji are seen celebrating the Kaamatan festival.

“’366: Hari ke-151’ can be viewed on PETRONAS official social media channels.

The first and second episodes of the 366 drama series are also available for viewing on the PETRONAS official social media channels.

Also attending the Sodop Unduk Ngadau were the wife of the Chief Minister, Datin Seri Panglima Juliah Salag, Sabah Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan and Rural Development Minister Datuk Jahid Jahim.

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Social activist commends success of Dayak community

Datuk Seri Ang Lai Soon — File photo

KUCHING (June 1): Gawai Dayak was first officially recognised and celebrated in Sarawak on 1 June 1965. It has since been the symbol of unity, hope and aspiration of the Dayaks, the majority ethnic group in Sarawak.

Traditionally after a rice harvest, Gawai is a thanksgiving day, however, social activist Dato Seri Ang Lai Soon in his Gawai message said things have changed in the last 50 years.

He noted that Dayaks are found in many fields of human endeavours and there are among them successful judges, doctors, nurses, lawyers, journalists, accountants, civil servants, police and armed forces personnel, immigration and Fire and Rescue officers, and diplomats to name a few.

Many businesses and industries in Sarawak are staffed by Dayaks while others have gone into politics as well, he added.

Commending the success of the Dayak community achieved, he said, “I am exceedingly proud of their achievements and contributions to the progress and prosperity of the country.”

This year like in the past few years, Gawai is celebrated in a most trying time with the war on the invisible and crafty Covid19 still not really over yet.

“As if this is not enough, there are wars, conflicts and unrest in some parts of the world. The people suffer untold miseries and sufferings, especially the poor, the sick and the underprivileged.

“Global economy is almost crippled beyond description. It affects almost everything on earth. Employment, family, food on the table, mental health, the ugly white collar crime, rising crime rate.”

Ang cautioned while many countries are reopening, the people must still continue to be careful and vigilant especially those who celebrate Gawai.

Global inflation and threatening famine caused by geopolitical tensions should be addressed immediately, and climate change and its ill effects on humankind, flora and fauna and the environment is a monumental issue.

“While all these man-made and natural disasters affect almost all parts of the world, most unfortunately, the less well-to-do are always the most greatly affected. It is expected that the effects of the pandemic and the geopolitical war will push tens of millions of people world-wide back into poverty.

“I bring such tidings of human despair up on what is supposed to be a joyous celebration to create awareness of how relatively blessed we are to be shielded from many of these instances of sufferings in other parts of the world.”

Ang pointed out as food and oil prices go up, inflation will go up and, inevitably, everyone will all be affected one way or another, even when the governments do their best to cushion the people from more severe effects.

“As we celebrate another Gawai festival, let us be reminded again to celebrate in moderation. Both humans and Planet Earth must stay healthy for their own sake and that of future generations. God bless our people. God bless our country.

“Selamat Ari Gawai, Gayu Guru, Gerai Nyamai. Selamat Kaamatan.”

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Fatimah sets vision and ideals for Rumah Seri Kenangan

Fatimah (centre) witnesses the handover of RSK Kuching from Zuraimi to Noriah (second left) as others look on.

KUCHING (June 1): Institutionalisation should be the last resort for children or senior citizens, said Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.

“Whether children or senior citizens, the institution should be the last resort for them. Children are best taken care of by their parents and nurtured by their family, if possible.

“Likewise, for our senior citizens, the last years of their lives should be spent in their family circle. But we know in this world, there are individuals who are alone and without family or kin.

“So the last resort would be an institution like Rumah Seri Kenangan (RSK),” she remarked at the handover of RSK Kuching project site yesterday.

However, Fatimah advised that RSK should not be just an institution but something that feels like a ‘Shangri-la’ for seniors.

“That was the concept that we wanted to put into the complex. We want the senior citizens placed in RSK to have a dignified existence.

“We must treat them right, and the environment must be right,” she said.

The minister also requested the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak to take a step further in their corporate social responsibility by fixing air conditioner units in the new multi-purpose hall.

“Activities planned in the hall include festive celebrations with the residents. It will be the centre of activities. Visitors will also be brought here for programmes that we organise,” she explained.

Fatimah revealed that admission criteria to RSK include those who are poor and aged 60 years and above, not suffering from any infectious diseases, have no family or guardian, without a permanent place of residence, and without ability to take care of themselves during the time of entry.

“When we planned for this complex, we planned for it to be like one’s own home, with facilities that make residents feel at home and living within a community even though it is inside the complex,” she said.

Some of the facilities are the music workshop, gym, mini theatre, coffee shop, souvenir shop, mini library, salon and sewing workshop.

The construction of RSK Kuching is divided into two phases on a land area of 25.37 acres. The project, which was planned since 2012, costs around RM35.9 million.

It was a collaboration between the ministry and state Welfare Department together with agencies such as JKR Sarawak, Department of Irrigation and Drainage Sarawak, Padawan Municipal Council, State Financial Secretary, State Implementation Monitoring Unit, Land and Survey Department Sarawak, Fire and Rescue Department, Kuching Resident’s Office and Kuching District Office.

Also present at the event were Fatimah’s deputy ministers Datuk Rosey Yunus and Mohammad Razi Sitam, state Welfare Department director Noriah Ahmad and JKR Sarawak director Datu Zuraimi Sabki.

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Travellers all excited for homecoming Gawai despite last-minute rush

Passengers ready to board an executive coach at Kuching Sentral. — Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING (June 1): Lela Wati Kedeni has not returned to her hometown Sri Aman for four years.

That is why this year’s Gawai Dayak means a lot to her as she finally gets to celebrate it with her grandparents there.

“The last time I was there (in Sri Aman) was in 2018. Currently, I work in Johor Baharu.

“I just arrived from Johor Bahru, at about 7pm this morning.

“Then, I rushed to the bus terminal,” she said when met by The Borneo Post at Kuching Sentral yesterday.

Passengers relax while awaiting the bus to depart. — Photo by Chimon Upon

The city’s central bus terminal was not as packed as it was expected to be on the eve of Gawai Dayak, as many people had already arranged for early homecoming trips.

It was a contrast to the times before the Covid-19 pandemic, when travellers would throng the terminal up until the departure of the last express bus.

Some of those met at Kuching Sentral were very happy to be able to return home after several years of being away from their home towns and villages.

Marini Abdullah, 22, had made the arrangements to bring along her husband Awang Kuadha, 37, and their two young children to her hometown in Debak, and celebrate Gawai with her parents there.

“I have not gone back to Debak for four years now. I’m so glad that we’re able to return home this year and celebrate the occasion with my parents.

“Most important, I’m looking forward to enjoying the peanut biscuits, the barbeques and the ‘manok pansuh’ (chicken in bamboo),” she laughed.

Her husband said he was also excited to eat the ‘manok pansuh’ and also the ‘pulut Iban’ (glutinous rice).

“These are definitely the delicacies that I am excited to try.

“Of course, Gawai is actually family time, and I look forward to celebrating with my wife, my children and also with my parents-in-law,” said Awang.

Another traveller Gilves Jeffery, 22, said he was relieved that his leave request had been approved.

“I’m just so happy to be able to go back to my longhouse Saratok and celebrate Gawai with my loved ones.

“My parents had been calling me several times, saying that they missed me, even though it had only been six months since I last met them.”

Asked about his culinary must-haves for Gawai, Gilves blurted: “Everything barbequed! Chicken, pork, fish – you name it, I love it!”

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Preserve Sarawak’s racial harmony, stability, says TYT in his Gawai message

Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud

KUCHING (June 1): The people of Sarawak should feel proud of the state’s ability in achieving a very encouraging level of development and progress, said Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.

He said this achievement is the result from the sense of benevolence of the people, which can be seen through close cooperation among all the races in economic and social development.

“We should be grateful for the blessings of the people’s unity and cooperation as well as the ability of all parties to maintain good relations with one another.

“This has resulted in Sarawak often referred to as a state of tolerance and harmony,” he said in his Gawai Dayak message.

The Head of State said the people of Sarawak should also be proud because the peace and harmony they enjoyed till today is the result of tolerance and the spirit of mutual trust among the people of various races, cultures and religions.

“This uniqueness is the strength of Sarawak, which serves as the pillar of unity and political stability of this state and this needs to be preserved.

“Therefore, I hope the unity and harmony practised by the people of Sarawak will continue to remain strong for many years to come,” said Taib.

He said the multi-ethnic and cultural diversity of the Dayak community can play a pivotal role in enriching culture as an important characteristic of Sarawak and Malaysia as a whole.

“We believe that a new way of celebrating Gawai can still raise awareness among the people that the future is bound together, regardless of race, genealogy and religion in the effort to bring Sarawak towards progress and prosperity,” he said.

Though Gawai Dayak is now celebrated under a new norm, Taib pointed out that the festivities this year provides an opportunity for many celebrants to return back to their hometown to reunite and celebrate Gawai Dayak with their families after being separated for a long time.

“It is expected that with the improving situation, many will be able to return to their village to ‘bergawai’ with their family members.

“Hari Gawai is a symbol of unity, desire and hope of the Dayak community. This celebration is celebrated as a day of Thanksgiving for the abundant harvest and also a time to plan for a new planting season as well.

“But we still need to be cautious during the celebration as we are still under the endemic phase of Covid-19,” he said.

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Call made on Putrajaya to consider building more fire stations in Sarawak

Uggah beats the drum to mark the launch of fire safety awareness campaign. On his right is Khirudin. — Photo by Lim How Pim

KUCHING (May 31): Putrajaya needs to consider building more fire stations in Sarawak, given its geographical challenges and also its size, which is almost as large as Peninsular Malaysia.

In pointing this out, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas says at the moment, there are 38 fire stations across Sarawak.

“In comparison, there are over 200 (fire stations) in the whole of Peninsular Malaysia.

“We will ask the relevant ministry in Kuala Lumpur to consider setting up more fire stations in Sarawak,” he said in launching a ‘Gawai 2022 Fire Safety Awareness Campaign’ at the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak headquarters here yesterday.

Uggah, who is also the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, said it was also equally important to train more Bomba volunteers to empower local communities in terms of knowing and being able to take the appropriate actions during times of disasters.

In relation to this, he said there were some fire incidents that had been prevented from turning into major disasters – thanks to the swift action taken by the local community.

“Long time ago, in the 1980s, I was about to go to a longhouse that had caught fire.

“At the time, the folks lacked training and understanding, and so, the 24-unit wooden longhouse was destroyed in 30 minutes.

“I believe that the impact from the fire could have been reduced if there were Bomba volunteers back then.”

Uggah also reminded the communities in Sarawak, especially those in the rural and remote areas, to always heed the advice and guidance given by Bomba to reduce the risks of fires.

As an example, he advised every household to have a working fire extinguisher at home and also to install fire prevention device in the longhouse.

In reinforcing his advice, Uggah said he was impressed by the grandchild of Bomba Sarawak director Datu Khirudin Drahman.

“The toddler questioned why matches were not kept in the right place.

“This is the kind of awareness that we need,” he said.

Earlier, Khirudin had said that his three-year-old grandchild asked why matches were simply being placed on the table.

“My grandchild even said ‘it’s risky’ to leave the matches there just like that.

“This is because we have created awareness. I’d never stop parents from bringing their children to fire stations for a visit, as this can raise better awareness of fire safety among the young children,” he said.

Khirudin also said Bomba would continue to carry out engagement activities to educate the public about fire safety, adding: “We want to see you before the fire, not after.”

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Gang robbery: Trio sentenced to 12 years, three strokes

Mohamad Hasraimie and Tan (right) being led away after sentencing.

KUCHING (May 31): Three men were each sentenced to 12 years in prison and three strokes of the cane by the Sessions Court here yesterday for committing gang robbery two years ago.

Chai is led from the courtroom after sentencing.

Judge Dayang Ellyn Narisa Abang Ahmad meted out the punishment against Mohamad Hasraimie, 30, Chai Cheng Weng, 24, and Tan Chia Wei, 34, during sentencing yesterday.

The three accused were convicted on May 12 this year under Section 395 of the Penal Code following a full trial.

The Section provides for a jail term of up to 20 years and whipping on conviction.

The offence was committed at around 11.35pm on Sept 7, 2020 at a flat near Jalan Ban Hock here.

Based on the facts of the case, the trio had gone to the flat looking for a man but was told by the man’s mother that he was not at home.

The mother, who is the complainant in the case, refused to open the door to the three accused, prompting one of them to use a broomstick to smash a window.

Another accused then kicked open the door and the trio forced their way inside the flat and entered the room of the complainant’s brother.

They left after taking a mobile phone and motorcycle helmet belonging to the complainant’s brother.

DPP Danial Muhamad Ali prosecuted.

 

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Poll: Overall good vibes from those making Gawai homecoming this year

Photo taken at Kuching Sentral yesterday shows people waiting for express buses bound for their respective hometowns and districts. The bus terminal is expected to be packed today, the eve of Gawai Dayak, as travellers make the journey back to celebrate the festival. — Bernama photo

KUCHING (May 31): Many Sarawakians are happy and excited that finally they are able to return to their respective hometowns and districts for Gawai Dayak this year, as the state transitions into the Covid-19 endemic phase.

Andrea Sow

Sri Aman-based engineer Andrea Sow, whose home village is Kampung Mundai in Padawan near here, is just thrilled to celebrate the festival with her family and friends this year.

“It took about two hours (from Sri Aman) for me to reach Kampung Mundai and throughout the journey, there was no heavy traffic as I travelled long the Pan Borneo Highway,” she told The Borneo Post.

Gelson Peter Gillen

Expressing similar sentiments, substitute English teacher Gelson Peter Gillen said it had been more than five years since he and his family went back to Kampung Bakerkong in Daro to celebrate Gawai.

“We now work and live in Sarikei.

“So to go back to Kampung Bakerkong, it would take about two hours and along the way, you would need to board.

“Now with a high number of cars on the road, I expect that the journey would be longer.”

Natalie Peter

For environmental executive Natalie Peter, whose family has settled in Bintulu, it could take up to 12 hours of driving to reach her home village of Kampung Kerumboi in Siburan Sub-District.

“Generally, we’d have to endure 10 to 12 hours – lesser if we did not make any stop.

“Yes, it’s exhausting, but it’s worth every minute because we get to celebrate Gawai in our hometown.

“I’m so grateful that my annual leave was approved, even for a few days.

“I’m just excited because everyone will be around. It’s been a few years since we last saw them,” said Natalie.

Denise Alexie Raymond

For makeup artist Denise Alexie Raymond, she had prepared early for this year’s celebration, but she also viewed the price hike of many items at the market as ‘a worrying trend’.

“The increase in prices of high-demand items like flour, eggs and sugar is very noticeable.

“I hope that the government would continue to monitor the market prices,” she said.

Dr Yvonne Campbell

Sharing similar views, lecturer Dr Yvonne Campbell noticed that the prices began to go up after the country declared the transition to the endemic phase.

“I find it as a huge burden, especially for single parents like me; the price hike is too much, while our pay stays the same. Even if there’s an increment, it’s not much.

“That’s why I need to plan carefully when it comes to things to buy.

“For Gawai this year, we’re celebrating it in a simple, moderate manner,” she said.

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PDP spoilt for choice when it comes to GE15 candidates for Mas Gading, says Veep

Dato Henry Harry Jinep

KUCHING (May 31): Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) is spoilt for choice when it comes to having aspiring candidates for Mas Gading.

In stating this, Deputy Minister of Transport II Dato Henry Harry Jinep, who is PDP vice-president, said the party had identified a few individuals up for selection to be fielded in Mas Gading in the 15th general election (GE15).

Neither any figure nor name was disclosed by him, but he did say that the party would still have to assess these individuals and narrow the number down to at least three.

“We even allow them to move on the ground to see if the ‘rakyat’ (people) would accept them or not,” theTasik Biru assemblyman told The Borneo Post here.

Asked again about the names, Henry said he could not reveal any at this moment as it was still premature to do so.

Mas Gading is currently represented by Mordi Bimol from Democratic Action Party (DAP), who claimed the parliamentary seat by a 3,204 vote-majority over PDP’s Datuk Anthony Nogeh Gumbek, who was then contesting on a Barisan Nasional (BN) ticket.

Mas Gading constitutes the state constituencies of Tasik Biru and Opar.

Following the loss of Mas Gading and Saratok to the Opposition in GE14 in 2018, PDP currently holds the parliamentary seats of Bintulu and Baram, with party president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and Anyi Ngau as the respective MPs.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also chairman of the state’s ruling coalition GPS, had made a stand that the GPS would field its candidates in all 31 parliamentary constituencies in Sarawak.

GPS comprises Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) where Abang Johari is the president, Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and PDP.

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Time for Syariah Courts to make full use of innovation, says Awang Tengah

Awang Tengah puts his signature on the replica of a journal to mark the launch. On his left is Awang Suhaili, while Wan Hamid is standing at second left.

SIBU (May 31): It is time for Syariah Courts to incorporate innovation in conducting the proceedings, such as video-conferencing and holding virtual hearings.

In pointing this out, Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan highlights Islamic law as ‘always dynamic and progressive; it is meant for the good of all human beings’.

He acknowledges the requirement in syariah for all parties to be at the same place during a court proceeding, but citing the words of scholar Ibn al-Qayyim in the book ‘Ilam al-Muwaqqin An Rabb al-Aalamin’, he says the ‘fatwa’ (judgement or ruling) changes with the change of time, places, circumstances, intentions and customs.

“Thus, this refutes the perception of some quarters about the syariah in Islam being rigid and stagnant,” he spoke at closing of ‘Sarawak Islamic Family Law Seminar 2022 at Sibu Islamic Complex Hall yesterday.

The event, which hosted over 500 participants, also held the launch of the ‘Syariah Court Journal Special Edition 2022’.

Adding on, Awang Tengah highlighted the importance of effective governance in the delivery of judicial services towards elevating the status of Syariah Courts further.

“The Syariah Courts must be seen as an institution that upholds all principles of justice with full authority.

“In this regard, I know that Sarawak Syariah Judiciary Department is always doing its best to spread awareness and understanding of Islamic law among Muslim community.

“I also hope that by organising activities like this seminar, our society would be more aware of the law,” he said.

Sarawak Syariah Court Chief Judge Datu Awang Suhaili Ledi and local Malay community leader Temenggong Datuk Wan Hamid Edruce Tuanku Mohamad also attended the event.

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After two years of restrictions, Kanowit folk over the moon for Gawai

(From right) Lia, Timah, Nora, Jampi and their fellow longhouse resident Suri Renggan giving a toast to another year of bountiful harvest.

KANOWIT (May 31): Paddy farmers Lia Jepon and her husband Jalak Bujun cannot wait to meet their eldest child, who will finally be returning to their longhouse Rumah Genam Dunggau at Nanga Ngungun here to celebrate Gawai.

They are excited as they have not met their son Robin Jalak, who is currently working in Ipoh, Perak, for over five years.

Lia, 65, said they made arrangements with a private van driver to fetch Robin and his family from Sibu Airport on the morning of May 30.

“His eldest son was still in Form Three when they last returned for Gawai — now our grandson has completed his police training.

“We had even planned to slaughter a pig for them this Gawai, but unfortunately all our pigs died due to African Swine Fever (ASF),” she told The Borneo Post.

Still sad about her pigs, Lia said they booked 10 kilogrammes (kg) of meat from a longhouse resident as part of her preparations for the celebration.

She also dried and milled the rice she harvested in March for her son.

Lia’s tuak is now ready for Gawai.

As for ‘tuak’, she said it had been prepared in early May and was now ready to be served for Gawai after left to brew for about two weeks.

For 50-year-old Nora Galeh, this Gawai celebration will be a joyous occasion as they will have a double celebration due to the wedding ceremony of her younger brother scheduled for May 31.

She said her brother and his Bidayuh bride from Kampung Taee, Serian had planned to have their wedding at the longhouse.

“I have been making some preparations such as three large plastic containers of tuak and other items to be used for ‘miring’.

“I am looking forward to the event because all my relatives will come to attend the wedding.

“Furthermore, events such as weddings are rarely held at our longhouse,” she said.

However, Lia and Nora’s neighbour Timah Chendan, 52, had mixed feelings about Gawai this year.

While she was eager to celebrate the festival, as it was the only time that longhouse residents could get together after two years of being unable to do so due to Covid-19 restrictions, Timah also lamented the increase in the prices of goods.

“The prices of flour, chicken and pork have gone up — we have no choice but we cannot disregard the festival because it is our tradition to celebrate Gawai on a small or big scale every year.

“I hope all our longhouse residents can return home for Gawai. In addition, there will be a wedding at our longhouse,” she said.

Like Lia, both Nora and Timah’s pigs had also been infected by ASF and died.

As for Timah’s husband Jampi Lenggang, Gawai is a special time for family members to reunite.

Despite so, the festive mood has been dampened due to the increase in prices of goods.

“This Gawai we are facing a hike in prices of goods such as pork, chicken, eggs, flour and other essential items — we can feel the heat from the price hike this time compared to previous years.

“We would like to ask the state government and our elected representative to convey our hardship to the higher authorities so they know it is difficult for us rural folk to cope with the price hike,” said the 56-year-old farmer.

Valentina Prosser. — Photo courtesy of Valentina Prosser

Touching on reunions, the first person that 26-year-old Valentina Prosser wants to meet is her seven-year-old daughter, who is arriving from Johor Bahru.

The single mother also wishes to meet her parents and three siblings after two years of Gawai celebrations spent apart.

In anticipation, she had purchased her flight tickets six months earlier.

“I packed the things I wanted to bring home weeks before my flight date so I will not miss my flight just in case there are last minute changes by the airline operator.

“I have planned many activities that I missed the most during the last two years (stuck) in Johor Bahru. We will go on a picnic at kerangan (pebble beach) and trap tekuyung minyak (river snails),” she enthused.

Excitement notwithstanding, Valentine cautioned they must follow the Gawai protocols released by the authorities to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Rami showing her homemade ‘ciping’ and traditional kuih.

Meanwhile, Rami Banji, 44, sees good demand starting March until up to two weeks before Gawai for the sale of her homemade ‘ciping’ (yeast).

Her traditional kuih like ‘sarang semut’, ‘cuan’, ‘lidah buaya’ and ‘biskut makmur’ also receives similar demand.

“I had to stop taking orders for ciping and kuih since last week because I need to start my own Gawai preparations.

“Last Saturday, I spent the whole day sending orders to customers in Sibu,” she said, adding they would celebrate Gawai in her husband’s hometown in Sri Aman this year.

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Man arrested after smearing Mona Lisa with cake at Louvre

File photo showing museum visitors looking at the Mona Lisa. — AFP photo

PARIS (May 30): A 36-year-old man has been arrested and placed in psychiatric care after he smeared a glass screen encasing the Mona Lisa with cake, prosecutors said Monday, in a purported protest against artists not focusing enough on “the planet”.

Officials at the Louvre Museum in Paris, where the enigmatic portrait holds pride of place, declined to comment on the bizarre incident on Sunday, which was captured on several phones and circulated widely on social media.

The treasured work by Leonardo da Vinci, which has been the target of vandalism attempts in the past, was unharmed thanks to its bulletproof glass case.

A Twitter user identified as Lukeee posted a video showing a museum employee wiping a mess off the glass and another showing a man dressed in white being escorted away by security guards.

“A man dressed as an old lady jumps out of a wheelchair and attempted to smash the bulletproof glass of the Mona Lisa. Then proceeds to smear cake on the glass and throws roses everywhere, all before being tackled by security,” Lukeee wrote.

Speaking French, the man says: “There are people who are destroying the Earth… All artists, think about the Earth. That’s why I did this. Think of the planet.”

No image have emerged showing the actual incident.

An inquiry into “an attempt to vandalise a cultural work” has been opened, the Paris prosecutor’s office said.

The Mona Lisa has been behind glass since a Bolivian man threw a rock at the painting in December 1956, damaging her left elbow. In 2005, it was placed in a reinforced case that also controls temperature and humidity.

In 2009, a Russian woman threw an empty teacup at the painting, which slightly scratched the case.

The Louvre is the largest museum in the world, housing hundreds of thousands of works that attracted some 10 million visitors a year before the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries: Malaysia has not reached food crisis level

Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries secretary-general Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid said the move to import chickens and the Cabinet directive to stop poultry exports from June 1 would be able to stabilise the supply of poultry soon. — Malay Mail photo

KUALA LUMPUR (May 30): The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries (MAFI) today assured that food supply in the country has not reached crisis level as claimed by some quarters but is still sufficient.

Its deputy secretary-general (Development), Datuk Badrul Hisham Mohd said although there were some hiccups with regard to food supply, particularly chicken and wheat, it had not affected the domestic supply.

“This is because about 94 per cent of the chicken output is for local supply and only six per cent for export.

“Overall, this country produces around 54 million chickens per month and the production capacity is able to meet the domestic need,” he said while being a guest on Bernama TV’s Koresponden Bernama programme titled, “Food Crisis: What is MAFI’s Assurance for National Food Security?” today.

He also said that about 72 per cent of the overall cost of rearing chickens was for the feed, imported from countries like Brazil and Argentina.

“The corn used for the domestic chicken feed is no longer grown in Malaysia on a big scale and because of this, MAFI is moving towards creating a cornmeal industry in order to solve the problem of importing it,” he added.

Badrul Hisham also suggested that palm oil producers allocate a portion of their farm land to grow corn towards reducing the dependency on other countries for cornmeal as chicken feed which was costly.

On the issue of wheat, he said India’s decision to ban the export of its wheat had no effect on Malaysia as the main sources of this commodity were countries like Australia and the United States.

He added that India exported only about 1.9 per cent of its wheat to Malaysia while MAFI and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs were making efforts to solve the supply issue to ensure the people had sufficient food supply. — Bernama

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PBB seeks to amend constitution to allow recruitment of more youths

The PBB supreme council meeting in session. – Photo from Dato Sri Nancy Shukri’s Facebook page

KUCHING (May 30): Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) will seek to amend its constitution towards facilitating the recruitment of more youths, particularly those aged between 18 and 28.

According to Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who is PBB secretary-general, the proposal would be highlighted during the party’s triennial general meeting (TGM) next month.

“Those aged 18 and above are now automatically registered as voters.

“PBB needs to grab the opportunity to attract those aged 18 to 28 (into the party),” he told reporters during a press conference yesterday, held after PBB supreme council meeting chaired by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the party’s headquarters at Jalan Bako here.

Nanta said although PBB did not have the latest number of young individuals having joined the party, he did notice an increase in new memberships comprising those aged between 18 and 28.

It is reported that the TGM will take place at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) from June 16 to 19 this year.

In this regard, Nanta said this conference would include a party election.

“All the 82 PBB branches across Sarawak have already conducted their respective TGMs, and we have received many motions from all 82 branches.

“Among the most significant motions is calling for the party’s top posts to not be challenged,” he said.

In responding to a question about new faces being featured at branch-level elections, Nanta said he had neither any figure nor percentage in that regard.

“It seems that most of the branches are still led by veteran leaders, but there are some new faces – we do give opportunities to the young people, aged 18 and above,” he added.

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Dwindling supply of eggs frustrates Sibu traders, consumers

Only empty egg crates are left at a stall in Sibu Central Market, with supplies running out as early as 7am.

SIBU (May 30): The dwindling supply of chicken eggs over the past few weeks ahead of the Gawai Dayak celebration is frustrating both traders and consumers here.

An observation by sister paper Utusan Borneo at Sibu Central Market yesterday found the supply of eggs sold out as early as 8am, with customers arriving later visibly frustrated and disappointed when told that no more eggs were available.

A hawker who preferred to remain anonymous said suppliers started limiting the supply of eggs to traders a few weeks ago.

“I don’t know why they limit the number of eggs supplied to us. When asked, they just replied that the situation is not yet stable. I don’t know how to explain to customers as I only get a limited supply,” he bemoaned.

His limited supply of chicken eggs delivered around 6am was sold out by as early as 7am because customers were scrambling to buy eggs.

Meanwhile, Noni, 27, an employee of a nearby supermarket, said the supermarket has placed a limit on how many eggs a customer is able to purchase.

“If not, some buyers would take advantage by buying and re-selling elsewhere at a higher price,” she said.

A burger vendor, Abdul Wafi, 32, said the shortage of eggs has affected his business.

“I’ve had to temporarily take down my egg-based menu due to difficulty in getting supply.

“This has caused many of my customers to look for other burger stalls that still have eggs on their menu. I hope this situation will improve soon, otherwise my business will suffer losses,” he said.

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