Celebrations a way to resolve misunderstandings
PENAMPANG: As any other celebrations, Christmas is a platform for people from different culture, background and religion to unite, harmonize and resolve misunderstandings, especially over sensitive issues such as religion. President of Sabah Justice of Peace Council, Datuk Clarence Bongkos Malakun said this during a Christmas dinner at his residence, Polunggal Villa, in Kampung Limbanak here on Tuesday. He added that such gatherings are instrumental in strengthening goodwill and the existing bond between different races and religions in Sabah. Among guests who attended the event were Moyog Assemblymen, Philip Lasimbang, former Sports and Youth Minister, Datuk Conrad Mojuntin, MAJAPS Secretary, Datuk Lawrence Thien and KSS President, Marcel Leiking.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-LPPB to review woeful joint -ventures
LPPB to review woeful joint -ventures
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabah Housing & Town Development (LPPB) will review all joint venture agreements with its partners whose projects failed to get off the ground after five years or were abandoned.
Its chairman, Datuk Rubin Balang issued the stern warning in his speech during LPPB’s staff awards presentation and annual luncheon here yesterday. Rubin however added that LPPB will give the developers a grace period of three months to get things going, failing which their projects will be terminated. Meanwhile, LPPB general manager PS Wong in her speech urged the staff to show their appreciation to their employer by working harder. Quoting former US president John F Kennedy, she told them: “Ask not what LPPB can do for you, but what you can do for LPPB.”
Sarbineh Abd Ghani was awarded LPPB’s Employee of the Year award. Another 12 staff, namely, Abd Nain Kastan, Amat Udin, Baddri Ahmad, Chung Thien Cheong, Janic Dalambun, Monsu Godon, Nancy Jintoni, Noreen Ooi Bee Yan, Rahman Amun, Shim Mie Sing, Sulaiman Liman, and Yusof Matasan received their Excellence Service awards.
Rubin (left) presenting Sarbineh with the Best Employee award.
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabah Housing & Town Development (LPPB) will review all joint venture agreements with its partners whose projects failed to get off the ground after five years or were abandoned.
Its chairman, Datuk Rubin Balang issued the stern warning in his speech during LPPB’s staff awards presentation and annual luncheon here yesterday. Rubin however added that LPPB will give the developers a grace period of three months to get things going, failing which their projects will be terminated. Meanwhile, LPPB general manager PS Wong in her speech urged the staff to show their appreciation to their employer by working harder. Quoting former US president John F Kennedy, she told them: “Ask not what LPPB can do for you, but what you can do for LPPB.”
Sarbineh Abd Ghani was awarded LPPB’s Employee of the Year award. Another 12 staff, namely, Abd Nain Kastan, Amat Udin, Baddri Ahmad, Chung Thien Cheong, Janic Dalambun, Monsu Godon, Nancy Jintoni, Noreen Ooi Bee Yan, Rahman Amun, Shim Mie Sing, Sulaiman Liman, and Yusof Matasan received their Excellence Service awards.
Rubin (left) presenting Sarbineh with the Best Employee award.
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-Street protests a threat to peace
Street protests a threat to peace Maijol urges Sabahans to stay clear of demos
KOTA KINABALU: Senator Maijol Mahap has appealed to Sabahans to refrain from being involved in street demonstrations and any other form of public rally that would jeopardize the harmonious relationship among the people here. “The various communities in Sabah have been living together in a peaceful manner all these years and this situation has continued after Merdeka and the formation of Malaysia,” he said. “The harmonious relationship has been strengthened through open house tradition during various cultural and religious festivities and other form of gatherings. “We cannot deny that there exists certain groups of people who are not satisfied with how development projects have been implemented and how the current economy has worked against them in one way or another.” But this does not mean that the Government is not looking after them or that they have been sidelined, Maijol pointed out after handing over two heads of cattle to the community in Kg Simpangan and Kg Beliajung/ Toritipon, both in the district of Kota Marudu, in conjunction with the Aidiladha celebration. According to him, though government projects meant to uplift the socio-economic standard of the people have been implemented, there would definitely be those groups of people who get to enjoy the benefits earlier than others. “I urge the people to be tolerant and be patient as sooner or later the benefits of all the developments will be enjoyed by everyone,” he said. He also stressed that public rallies and street demonstrations are not part of Malaysian norm and culture. “We have seen these happening in other countries on the television and we also know what is happening to those countries that condone such acts. “Definitely we do not want to absorb these foreign elements into our society. Malaysians and Sabahans are made up of various races and religions; in fact, there are more than 32 identifiable ethnic groups from among the Kadazandusun group alone, while the Bajaus and Muruts are made up of various smaller ethnic groups as well,” he said. Maijol cited as an example how in the urban and town areas we see Chinese and Indians mixing together with the local native population either in coffee shops or other places where they can group together, and this harmonious relationship has been in place even before Merdeka. “I therefore urge the people not to be easily influenced by certain group of people who are instigating them to join public rallies and street demonstrations. Such actions will do us and the Government more harm than good. “Along these lines, I wish to extend my best Aidiladha greetings to all Muslim in Sabah,” he said.
KOTA KINABALU: Senator Maijol Mahap has appealed to Sabahans to refrain from being involved in street demonstrations and any other form of public rally that would jeopardize the harmonious relationship among the people here. “The various communities in Sabah have been living together in a peaceful manner all these years and this situation has continued after Merdeka and the formation of Malaysia,” he said. “The harmonious relationship has been strengthened through open house tradition during various cultural and religious festivities and other form of gatherings. “We cannot deny that there exists certain groups of people who are not satisfied with how development projects have been implemented and how the current economy has worked against them in one way or another.” But this does not mean that the Government is not looking after them or that they have been sidelined, Maijol pointed out after handing over two heads of cattle to the community in Kg Simpangan and Kg Beliajung/ Toritipon, both in the district of Kota Marudu, in conjunction with the Aidiladha celebration. According to him, though government projects meant to uplift the socio-economic standard of the people have been implemented, there would definitely be those groups of people who get to enjoy the benefits earlier than others. “I urge the people to be tolerant and be patient as sooner or later the benefits of all the developments will be enjoyed by everyone,” he said. He also stressed that public rallies and street demonstrations are not part of Malaysian norm and culture. “We have seen these happening in other countries on the television and we also know what is happening to those countries that condone such acts. “Definitely we do not want to absorb these foreign elements into our society. Malaysians and Sabahans are made up of various races and religions; in fact, there are more than 32 identifiable ethnic groups from among the Kadazandusun group alone, while the Bajaus and Muruts are made up of various smaller ethnic groups as well,” he said. Maijol cited as an example how in the urban and town areas we see Chinese and Indians mixing together with the local native population either in coffee shops or other places where they can group together, and this harmonious relationship has been in place even before Merdeka. “I therefore urge the people not to be easily influenced by certain group of people who are instigating them to join public rallies and street demonstrations. Such actions will do us and the Government more harm than good. “Along these lines, I wish to extend my best Aidiladha greetings to all Muslim in Sabah,” he said.
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-DR JEFFREY SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ACCIDENT
Dr Jeffrey seriously injured in accident
KOTA KINABALU: Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Vice President, Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, was seriously injured in a road accident near Pekan Nabalu, some 60 kilometres from here, yesterday. The 60-year-old received 10 stitches on the forehead. Jeffrey, who also sustained a spine injury, is currently warded at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. He was returning home from a three day PKR roadshow in Semporna along a female family member and their driver Elaiser. The other two escaped minor injuries and bruises, only.
“His condition is reported to be stable …… he is alert and conscious. Currently, the doctors told us that he would be put under observation for the next 48 hours at the Neuro Surgical Ward and would later be transferred to another ward to enable him to recuperate,” said Jeffrey’s political secretary, Kanul Gindul. Jeffrey’s older brother, Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who is also the Parti Bersatu Sabah president, deputy Chief Minister and the Huguon Siou (paramount leader of the KadazandusunMurut community) had spent between 10-15 minutes with the younger Kitingan. Other PKR Sabah-based leaders, Christina Liew, Awang Ahmad Shah and others, also visited him at the ward. “On behalf of (Datuk) Jeffrey’s family, office and supporters, I would like to thank everybody for their help and prayers. I have also informed the top leaders in Kuala Lumpur,” Gindul said. Jeffrey’s wife, Datin Susan Kitingan, who is currently abroad was also informed of the accident. It was reported that she had personally spoken to the doctor treating her husband to find out his condition. Tuaran District Police chief DSP Suhaimi Wiro, when contacted, disclosed that the accident occurred around 5am at KM36 along Jalan Tamparuli-Ranau, near Kampung Bongol. “Initial investigations revealed that they were moving downhill and on an ‘S’ curve when the driver lost control of the fourwheel drive vehicle, before it overturned and crashed onto the foothill,” he said. Jeffrey was later rushed to the Tuaran District Hospital before he was transferred to QEH for further treatment.
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-Conversational English skill for job-seekers
Conversational English skill for job-seekers Most participants to find job after three-month course
KOTA KINABALU: Greater focus will be given to improving the level of proficiency of English among job-seekers in Sabah to increase their chances of employment, said Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai. He said that the Human Resource Development Department JPSM has so far been successful with its first Daily Conversational English course and plans are in the pipeline to extend the course beyond Kota Kinabalu. “I have just spoken with JPSM director Puan Rosalind Chew and she told me that it is very likely that most, if not all of the participants (of the course) will get a job at lBorneo,” He said after officially closing the course at his office’s auditorium here, yesterday. Yee said that after Kota Kinabalu, where some 124 school-leavers and job-seekers attended the three-month course, the department plans to expand into other districts such as Sandakan and Tawau and the interior areas. He stressed that it is particularly important to extend training on the use of English to youths from poor families in rural areas, where there is limited access to such training. Taking the example of a job interview at the Human Resource Development Department (JPSM) a few years back for for position at a private hospital here, Yee said the only hindrance these youths is their lack of confidence in conversing in English.I spoke with them and found that they were all intelligent and capable individuals, but from there I could also determine who would have a better chance at getting the job. “The only thing stopping them was that they were not comfortable speaking in English and I am sure there were a lot of applicants that day that were left heart-broken because they did not get the job ... what we want to do here is give them a bit of help so they can get the job (they aim for),” he said. Meanwhile, the Daily Conversational English course is a joint-effort between JPSM and AMC College. Also present at the closing ceremony were Resource Development and Information Technology Ministry permanent secretary Datuk Abidin Madingkir, JPSM director Rosalind Chew and AMC College chief executive officer Paul Voo.
KOTA KINABALU: Greater focus will be given to improving the level of proficiency of English among job-seekers in Sabah to increase their chances of employment, said Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai. He said that the Human Resource Development Department JPSM has so far been successful with its first Daily Conversational English course and plans are in the pipeline to extend the course beyond Kota Kinabalu. “I have just spoken with JPSM director Puan Rosalind Chew and she told me that it is very likely that most, if not all of the participants (of the course) will get a job at lBorneo,” He said after officially closing the course at his office’s auditorium here, yesterday. Yee said that after Kota Kinabalu, where some 124 school-leavers and job-seekers attended the three-month course, the department plans to expand into other districts such as Sandakan and Tawau and the interior areas. He stressed that it is particularly important to extend training on the use of English to youths from poor families in rural areas, where there is limited access to such training. Taking the example of a job interview at the Human Resource Development Department (JPSM) a few years back for for position at a private hospital here, Yee said the only hindrance these youths is their lack of confidence in conversing in English.I spoke with them and found that they were all intelligent and capable individuals, but from there I could also determine who would have a better chance at getting the job. “The only thing stopping them was that they were not comfortable speaking in English and I am sure there were a lot of applicants that day that were left heart-broken because they did not get the job ... what we want to do here is give them a bit of help so they can get the job (they aim for),” he said. Meanwhile, the Daily Conversational English course is a joint-effort between JPSM and AMC College. Also present at the closing ceremony were Resource Development and Information Technology Ministry permanent secretary Datuk Abidin Madingkir, JPSM director Rosalind Chew and AMC College chief executive officer Paul Voo.
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-FREE SHOWS BY CHINA ACROBATICS TROUPE HERE
Free shows by China Acrobatics Troupe here
KOTA KINABALU:
In conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year, the China Acrobatics Troupe will be giving public performances here from Dec 12 this year until Jan 2O next year. The twice-daily shows will be held at the Ground Floor Event Hall of Plaza Tanjung Aru from 3pm and 7.3Opm. The event is jointly organized by the Management Corporation of Plaza Tanjung Aru and Mount Kinabalu Event, and sponsored by C.H. & Sons Development Sdn Bhd. There will be a dragon and lion performance at the launch of the event on Dec 29 at 3pm as well as booths selling products from China and Malaysia for charitable organizations. For further enquiries, the public may contact Michael Leong at 012- 8287766 or 012-8281766
KOTA KINABALU:
In conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year, the China Acrobatics Troupe will be giving public performances here from Dec 12 this year until Jan 2O next year. The twice-daily shows will be held at the Ground Floor Event Hall of Plaza Tanjung Aru from 3pm and 7.3Opm. The event is jointly organized by the Management Corporation of Plaza Tanjung Aru and Mount Kinabalu Event, and sponsored by C.H. & Sons Development Sdn Bhd. There will be a dragon and lion performance at the launch of the event on Dec 29 at 3pm as well as booths selling products from China and Malaysia for charitable organizations. For further enquiries, the public may contact Michael Leong at 012- 8287766 or 012-8281766
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-SAFETY HAZARD AT RENOVATION SITE
SAFETY HAZARD AT RENOVATION SITE
•A lack of safety precautions at a renovation site in Kampung Air, Kota Kinabalu has prompted a passerby to voice concern. Mr D, who frequently passes by the area, claimed that the construction works on a building there poses a serious hazard to motorists and pedestrians alike. “Pedestrians passing by the site are at the risk of being hurt by falling building materials,” he told Public Hotline. He urged the relevant authorities to look into the matter and ensure adequate precautions are taken to prevent untoward incident. He said if the contractor continues to use substandard material in the scaffolding and netting, it may not withstand the impact of a falling concrete object. “The object could fall through and hit a pedestrian or passing vehicle. I don’t understand why the authorities are not doing anything about it,” he said. A spokesman for the Department of Occupational Safety and Health, when contacted over the matter, said they will look into the claim immediately. “We will have to investigate before taking further necessary action,” he said.
“Public Hotline also reported the matter to Kota Kinabalu City Hall and its spokesperson said We will take immediate action if the renovation work is a safety hazard,” he said, thanking the complainant for pointing out the prob1em.
•A lack of safety precautions at a renovation site in Kampung Air, Kota Kinabalu has prompted a passerby to voice concern. Mr D, who frequently passes by the area, claimed that the construction works on a building there poses a serious hazard to motorists and pedestrians alike. “Pedestrians passing by the site are at the risk of being hurt by falling building materials,” he told Public Hotline. He urged the relevant authorities to look into the matter and ensure adequate precautions are taken to prevent untoward incident. He said if the contractor continues to use substandard material in the scaffolding and netting, it may not withstand the impact of a falling concrete object. “The object could fall through and hit a pedestrian or passing vehicle. I don’t understand why the authorities are not doing anything about it,” he said. A spokesman for the Department of Occupational Safety and Health, when contacted over the matter, said they will look into the claim immediately. “We will have to investigate before taking further necessary action,” he said.
“Public Hotline also reported the matter to Kota Kinabalu City Hall and its spokesperson said We will take immediate action if the renovation work is a safety hazard,” he said, thanking the complainant for pointing out the prob1em.
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-Streetlights still not functioning after complaints
Streetlights still not functioning after complaints
Despite numerous complaints made to the relevant authorities, the streetlights along Jalan Sulaman-UMS are still not functioning properly, claimed a motorist. James pointed out to Public Hotline that without proper lighting, the road near UMS is dark and expose all road users to safety risk. “This is about public safety as there is a high chance of pedestrians being hit by cars. Even with my vehicle headlights on, it is still not bright enough to see what is in front,” he said. James related a recent personal experience in which he nearly hit a motorcyclist which was coming from the direction of Alam Mesra. He said that because the area is dark, motorists tend to switch on their high headlights and this affects other road users, especially those coming from the opposite direction. According to James, he normally uses the route at about 10pm to 11pm and as a developing area, the road should be sufficiently lit. A spokesman for Kota Kinabalu City Hall acknowledged that they have received similar complaints before. “We will inform our authorised contractor to check and take action as soon as possible,” he said.
Despite numerous complaints made to the relevant authorities, the streetlights along Jalan Sulaman-UMS are still not functioning properly, claimed a motorist. James pointed out to Public Hotline that without proper lighting, the road near UMS is dark and expose all road users to safety risk. “This is about public safety as there is a high chance of pedestrians being hit by cars. Even with my vehicle headlights on, it is still not bright enough to see what is in front,” he said. James related a recent personal experience in which he nearly hit a motorcyclist which was coming from the direction of Alam Mesra. He said that because the area is dark, motorists tend to switch on their high headlights and this affects other road users, especially those coming from the opposite direction. According to James, he normally uses the route at about 10pm to 11pm and as a developing area, the road should be sufficiently lit. A spokesman for Kota Kinabalu City Hall acknowledged that they have received similar complaints before. “We will inform our authorised contractor to check and take action as soon as possible,” he said.
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-Surprising twist in Tawau open space devt case
Surprising twist in Tawau open space devt case Council agrees joint-venture pact for project is invalid
TAWAU: In a surprising turn of event at the High Court here yesterday, the ten plaintiffs in the controversial Sabindo open space development case reached an amicable settlement with the Tawau Municipal Council (TMC), which is the second defendant. What was supposed to be a trial turned out to be a hearing as the plaintiffs’ lawyer Datuk Simon K. Y Shim informed Judicial Commissioner Y.A Puan Yew Jen Kie that the second defendant had agreed to the plaintiffs’ claims as follows: 1. A declaration that the joint venture agreement dated 13th December 1996 between the 1st and 2nd defendants is invalid, illegal and unenforceable, being ultra vires the Local Government Ordinance 1961 and the Tawau Municipal Council Instrument 1983 (G.N.S. 22 of 1983) 2. A declaration that the Development Plan submitted on 12th October 2004 and approved by the 2nd defendant on 27th May 2005 vide DP37/2004 is invalid, illegal and unenforceable; 3. An order that the said Development Plan DP37/2004 be set aside. 7. The second defendant agreed on no contest on the plaintiffs’ claim for cost. 4. An order restraining the 1st defendant, their servants or agents from entering, trespassing on, remaining and carrying out construction works on the open public places described under TL107522985 together with the adjoining land; 5. An order compelling the 1st defendant
whether by themselves or their servants or agents or any of them or otherwise howsoever to forthwith dismantle, remove and clear all plants, equipments and materials laden on the said land. The plaintiffs, on the other hand, waived their claims to damages in addition to the aforesaid orders; and any other relief this Honourable Court may deem fit to grant. The first defendant Jeramas Sdn Bhd and Aggasf Construction Sdn Bhd’s lawyer Ronny Cham objected to the application by the plaintiffs’ lawyer for permission from the court to enter the terms of consent judgement. He applied for an adjournment of the proceedings as the 2nd defendant in the case is closed tight together with the 1st defendant not only as a joint- venture partner but also as the approving authority. Cham said, “Whatever the amicable settlement that they may be, it would only mean that the second defendant is admitting that they have got the whole thing wrong as far as the joint-venture and the approving of project is concerned. “In view of the surprise turn of event this morning and the fact that we now have to draw in the second defendant as third party, I am of the view the trial fixed today should be adjourned to allow the first defendant to take stock of the situation to reconsider the pleadings in this case especially the third party proceedings. There are other reasons which I have stated in my written submission I wonder whether I need to proceed or my learned friend agreed with the adjournment,” he said. The court granted the adjournment and fixed 25 January next year for the hearing of a third party notice. Cham said that in regards to the third party proceedings, he and fellow lawyer Brendon Keith Soh would like to take the instruction from their clients to possibly join the State Government as a third party because the council’s approval must be with the consent of the minister concerned. The plaintiffs in the case are Chong Sui Jin, Yong Sie King, Lee Kok Ming, Pang Koh Len, Wong Chew See, Chin Kon Tai, Chen Yuh Bih, Lim Kon Hock, Yong Yu Min and Rev. James Wong Chong Leong, who had recently obtained an injunction to halt the open space development by Jeramas Sdn Bhd and Aggasf Construction Sdn Bhd. All the plaintiffs are represented by lawyer Datuk Simon K. Y. Shim and Wilson Lim, while the first defendant are represented by lawyer Ronny Cham and Brendon Keith Soh, and second defendant by Mohd Hanafiah Mohd Kassim and State AttorneyGeneral Department.
TAWAU: In a surprising turn of event at the High Court here yesterday, the ten plaintiffs in the controversial Sabindo open space development case reached an amicable settlement with the Tawau Municipal Council (TMC), which is the second defendant. What was supposed to be a trial turned out to be a hearing as the plaintiffs’ lawyer Datuk Simon K. Y Shim informed Judicial Commissioner Y.A Puan Yew Jen Kie that the second defendant had agreed to the plaintiffs’ claims as follows: 1. A declaration that the joint venture agreement dated 13th December 1996 between the 1st and 2nd defendants is invalid, illegal and unenforceable, being ultra vires the Local Government Ordinance 1961 and the Tawau Municipal Council Instrument 1983 (G.N.S. 22 of 1983) 2. A declaration that the Development Plan submitted on 12th October 2004 and approved by the 2nd defendant on 27th May 2005 vide DP37/2004 is invalid, illegal and unenforceable; 3. An order that the said Development Plan DP37/2004 be set aside. 7. The second defendant agreed on no contest on the plaintiffs’ claim for cost. 4. An order restraining the 1st defendant, their servants or agents from entering, trespassing on, remaining and carrying out construction works on the open public places described under TL107522985 together with the adjoining land; 5. An order compelling the 1st defendant
whether by themselves or their servants or agents or any of them or otherwise howsoever to forthwith dismantle, remove and clear all plants, equipments and materials laden on the said land. The plaintiffs, on the other hand, waived their claims to damages in addition to the aforesaid orders; and any other relief this Honourable Court may deem fit to grant. The first defendant Jeramas Sdn Bhd and Aggasf Construction Sdn Bhd’s lawyer Ronny Cham objected to the application by the plaintiffs’ lawyer for permission from the court to enter the terms of consent judgement. He applied for an adjournment of the proceedings as the 2nd defendant in the case is closed tight together with the 1st defendant not only as a joint- venture partner but also as the approving authority. Cham said, “Whatever the amicable settlement that they may be, it would only mean that the second defendant is admitting that they have got the whole thing wrong as far as the joint-venture and the approving of project is concerned. “In view of the surprise turn of event this morning and the fact that we now have to draw in the second defendant as third party, I am of the view the trial fixed today should be adjourned to allow the first defendant to take stock of the situation to reconsider the pleadings in this case especially the third party proceedings. There are other reasons which I have stated in my written submission I wonder whether I need to proceed or my learned friend agreed with the adjournment,” he said. The court granted the adjournment and fixed 25 January next year for the hearing of a third party notice. Cham said that in regards to the third party proceedings, he and fellow lawyer Brendon Keith Soh would like to take the instruction from their clients to possibly join the State Government as a third party because the council’s approval must be with the consent of the minister concerned. The plaintiffs in the case are Chong Sui Jin, Yong Sie King, Lee Kok Ming, Pang Koh Len, Wong Chew See, Chin Kon Tai, Chen Yuh Bih, Lim Kon Hock, Yong Yu Min and Rev. James Wong Chong Leong, who had recently obtained an injunction to halt the open space development by Jeramas Sdn Bhd and Aggasf Construction Sdn Bhd. All the plaintiffs are represented by lawyer Datuk Simon K. Y. Shim and Wilson Lim, while the first defendant are represented by lawyer Ronny Cham and Brendon Keith Soh, and second defendant by Mohd Hanafiah Mohd Kassim and State AttorneyGeneral Department.
THURSDAY-20TH DECEMBER 2007-Students’ involvement in drug abuse worrying
Students’ involvement in drug abuse worrying
KOTA KINABALU: More and more youths especially students are getting involved in drug activities and the trend is worrying, Assistant Minister of Community Development and Consumer Affairs Jornah Mozihim said. Statistics have revealed that more and more students are involved in social ills including drug abuse, Jornah said when closing PEMADAM’s Anti-Dadah prevention programme held at the Kota Kinabalu community centre yesterday. “Drug abuse involving the hardcore addicts and relapse addicts are affecting our society and statistics show that children as young as seven years old were involved,” she said. Jornah said the younger generation are the country’s future leaders and must be guided to contribute positively towards nation building. According to her, there are many contributing factors to the problem, one of which is parental neglect of children. “As a parent, we cannot assume that by giving our children material satisfaction is enough as they need moral support,” she said. Parents, she added, must provide a safe and conducive environment for their children to grow up in so that they are not swayed or tempted by social ills. Children must be showered with love and care so that they will grow up into responsible and caring individuals, she added. Meanwhile, National Drug Agency’s officer Aza Savelyeva Ramlee disclosed that Sabah has recorded the highest number of female drug addicts in the country and that 80 percent of the Bachok rehabilitation centre inmates were from here. Aza Savelyeva also said the number of female drug addicts in Malaysia kept increasing and existing rehabilitation centres are having problems accommodating them. “To ease the congestion in the existing centres, a new one for women will be built in Papar in 2008,” she said. This year’s statistics showed that most of the drug addicts in Sabah were picked up from Sembulan, Tanjung Aru, Kinarut, Luyang and Penampang. Kota Kinabalu has the highest number of people involved in drug abuse followed by Sandakan.
KOTA KINABALU: More and more youths especially students are getting involved in drug activities and the trend is worrying, Assistant Minister of Community Development and Consumer Affairs Jornah Mozihim said. Statistics have revealed that more and more students are involved in social ills including drug abuse, Jornah said when closing PEMADAM’s Anti-Dadah prevention programme held at the Kota Kinabalu community centre yesterday. “Drug abuse involving the hardcore addicts and relapse addicts are affecting our society and statistics show that children as young as seven years old were involved,” she said. Jornah said the younger generation are the country’s future leaders and must be guided to contribute positively towards nation building. According to her, there are many contributing factors to the problem, one of which is parental neglect of children. “As a parent, we cannot assume that by giving our children material satisfaction is enough as they need moral support,” she said. Parents, she added, must provide a safe and conducive environment for their children to grow up in so that they are not swayed or tempted by social ills. Children must be showered with love and care so that they will grow up into responsible and caring individuals, she added. Meanwhile, National Drug Agency’s officer Aza Savelyeva Ramlee disclosed that Sabah has recorded the highest number of female drug addicts in the country and that 80 percent of the Bachok rehabilitation centre inmates were from here. Aza Savelyeva also said the number of female drug addicts in Malaysia kept increasing and existing rehabilitation centres are having problems accommodating them. “To ease the congestion in the existing centres, a new one for women will be built in Papar in 2008,” she said. This year’s statistics showed that most of the drug addicts in Sabah were picked up from Sembulan, Tanjung Aru, Kinarut, Luyang and Penampang. Kota Kinabalu has the highest number of people involved in drug abuse followed by Sandakan.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Special Christmas program
Special Christmas program
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah V FM (English Unit) would be airing its special programme, dubbed the 'Kid's Talentime 2007' on Christmas Day starting from 11.30am — 12.15pm.
The programme, conducted by Penny Loid and Viola Masudal, was recorded at the Asia City Complex lobby on November 24.
Listeners will be entertained by the Kid's Talentime winners, namely Noorizuranie Abdul Mudar, Weenda Esthell Tisny and Crystal Anthony Thinsiong.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah V FM (English Unit) would be airing its special programme, dubbed the 'Kid's Talentime 2007' on Christmas Day starting from 11.30am — 12.15pm.
The programme, conducted by Penny Loid and Viola Masudal, was recorded at the Asia City Complex lobby on November 24.
Listeners will be entertained by the Kid's Talentime winners, namely Noorizuranie Abdul Mudar, Weenda Esthell Tisny and Crystal Anthony Thinsiong.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Rising cost of living means time to budget
Rising cost of living means time to budget
Consumers advised not to over-commit in spending income
KOTA KINABALU: Consumers Association of Sabah and Labuan (CASH) Deputy President, Nordin Thani yesterday advised consumers in the State not to be over-committed in their spending and budget their income wisely.
"By budgeting and planning our financial commitments as well as income, we can avoid debts and make the most of our income," he said in an interview here yesterday.
"We have to be realistic about what we can afford. It is easy to become financially over-committed. Our monthly commitments and extra bills would increase for example when we sign up for a new service, such as satellite TV or a post-paid mobile phone line (by contract), buy something on hire purchase or add to a credit card debt," he said.
Nordin added, "another reason for financial over-commitment may be a change in personal circumstances resulting to a drop ofincome, for example, if one loses his job or meet an accident resulting in loss of earning or the need to stop working. When this happens, we have to change our spending priorities."
According to him the most important thing a person has to do at times like this is to review his or her budget as it can help them plan ahead and make the most of their income.
"We must identify our commitments, for example, mortgage, rent, bills, cars and work out how much they cost," he said adding that there is a need to establish the source of income to make the payments with.
It is also important to review the budget regularly, because circumstances are likely to change, he said and pointed out, "by working out a budget we'll know how much money we have for our essential living expenses, such as household bills, rent or mortgage and food and how much we can afford to commit to other plans, like buying a car, taking out another mortgage, going on holiday or saving for the future.
"By prioritizing our commitments we can make sure our basic needs are met and then we can decide what else we can afford, and what we have to save for or do without. By shopping around and negotiating, not just for goods and services but also for financial products such as loans and credit cards, we can make our money go further," he said.
"If one is over-committed and have a debt problem, please, in my view, do not ignore the situation. That is the worst thing one can do, to ignore the problem, hoping it will go away as the earlier one contacts the creditors, the more flexible they're likely to be in coming to an agreement. It is better to decide which debts are priority debts and which are not," he stressed.
According to him, signs when an individual may have a problem include:
1. having rent or mortgage arrears
2. taking out new loans to pay off old ones
3. only paying the minimum amount on your credit card
4. using a credit card for day-to-day purchases
5. ignoring letters from creditors
Nordin added that too many people let debt take control over their life before they sought assistance to settle their problems.
"Consumers are encouraged to take control early to help stop spiraling debt especially at this time of year when people can be prone to mounting credit and debt as their thoughts turned to Christmas expenses.
"If one is really in financial trouble, one could seek help and assistance from Bank Negara, through their Credit Counseling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK) The AKPK offers a helpline, providing free and impartial financial advice to people with debt problems" said Nordin.
Consumers advised not to over-commit in spending income
KOTA KINABALU: Consumers Association of Sabah and Labuan (CASH) Deputy President, Nordin Thani yesterday advised consumers in the State not to be over-committed in their spending and budget their income wisely.
"By budgeting and planning our financial commitments as well as income, we can avoid debts and make the most of our income," he said in an interview here yesterday.
"We have to be realistic about what we can afford. It is easy to become financially over-committed. Our monthly commitments and extra bills would increase for example when we sign up for a new service, such as satellite TV or a post-paid mobile phone line (by contract), buy something on hire purchase or add to a credit card debt," he said.
Nordin added, "another reason for financial over-commitment may be a change in personal circumstances resulting to a drop ofincome, for example, if one loses his job or meet an accident resulting in loss of earning or the need to stop working. When this happens, we have to change our spending priorities."
According to him the most important thing a person has to do at times like this is to review his or her budget as it can help them plan ahead and make the most of their income.
"We must identify our commitments, for example, mortgage, rent, bills, cars and work out how much they cost," he said adding that there is a need to establish the source of income to make the payments with.
It is also important to review the budget regularly, because circumstances are likely to change, he said and pointed out, "by working out a budget we'll know how much money we have for our essential living expenses, such as household bills, rent or mortgage and food and how much we can afford to commit to other plans, like buying a car, taking out another mortgage, going on holiday or saving for the future.
"By prioritizing our commitments we can make sure our basic needs are met and then we can decide what else we can afford, and what we have to save for or do without. By shopping around and negotiating, not just for goods and services but also for financial products such as loans and credit cards, we can make our money go further," he said.
"If one is over-committed and have a debt problem, please, in my view, do not ignore the situation. That is the worst thing one can do, to ignore the problem, hoping it will go away as the earlier one contacts the creditors, the more flexible they're likely to be in coming to an agreement. It is better to decide which debts are priority debts and which are not," he stressed.
According to him, signs when an individual may have a problem include:
1. having rent or mortgage arrears
2. taking out new loans to pay off old ones
3. only paying the minimum amount on your credit card
4. using a credit card for day-to-day purchases
5. ignoring letters from creditors
Nordin added that too many people let debt take control over their life before they sought assistance to settle their problems.
"Consumers are encouraged to take control early to help stop spiraling debt especially at this time of year when people can be prone to mounting credit and debt as their thoughts turned to Christmas expenses.
"If one is really in financial trouble, one could seek help and assistance from Bank Negara, through their Credit Counseling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK) The AKPK offers a helpline, providing free and impartial financial advice to people with debt problems" said Nordin.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Letter from JP or village head for IC is illegal, says MP
Letter from JP or village head for IC is illegal, says MP
KOTA KINABALU: Sepanggar MP Datuk Eric Majimbun said the use of a statutory declaration letter from a Justice of the Peace (JP) or village head to certify late birth registrations for the purpose of applying for an identity card is' illegal.
He said such use is against the Birth and Death Ordinance 1953, Section 22(2) of the Federal Laws.
The section concerned shows that registration made after 42 days of the birth of a child is considered late registration and must be certified by a First Class Civil Magistrate's Court.
As such, he urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive study and carry out an investigation on those who had acquired the identity cards by using a statutory declaration letter from the JP or village head.
"A study or investigation is carried out because many had obtained the identity cards using such statutory declaration letter and many more will be using the same document to apply for the IC," he said.
Eric who said this in Parliament, reckoned that the people used the services of the Mobile Court to have the certification for their late birth registrations.
"Both the print and electronic media should also play their role by disseminating the schedule for the Mobile Court visits to the villages in the rural areas," Eric added.
KOTA KINABALU: Sepanggar MP Datuk Eric Majimbun said the use of a statutory declaration letter from a Justice of the Peace (JP) or village head to certify late birth registrations for the purpose of applying for an identity card is' illegal.
He said such use is against the Birth and Death Ordinance 1953, Section 22(2) of the Federal Laws.
The section concerned shows that registration made after 42 days of the birth of a child is considered late registration and must be certified by a First Class Civil Magistrate's Court.
As such, he urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive study and carry out an investigation on those who had acquired the identity cards by using a statutory declaration letter from the JP or village head.
"A study or investigation is carried out because many had obtained the identity cards using such statutory declaration letter and many more will be using the same document to apply for the IC," he said.
Eric who said this in Parliament, reckoned that the people used the services of the Mobile Court to have the certification for their late birth registrations.
"Both the print and electronic media should also play their role by disseminating the schedule for the Mobile Court visits to the villages in the rural areas," Eric added.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Festive celebrations at Sandakan Harbour Square
Festive celebrations at Sandakan Harbour Square
SANDAKAN: In conjunction with the coming festive season, Sandakan Harbour Square (SHS) will be organising activities to celebrate Christmas, New Year and the forthcoming Chinese New Year in February 2008.
Residents in the district are invited to the town square, the seafront harbour esplanade to join in the celebrations and enjoy the activities which SHS has lined up.
The celebrations will be kicked off by the opening of the @ease Boutique Hotel on December 23 and a fireworks display has been scheduled for 9.30pm.
Preceding the fireworks display, a 200 strong choir from the Church of Good Shepherd will serenade visitors at the town square.
Other programmes lined up by SHS are a karaoke session on December 24, a New Year eve concert on December 31, a children's colouring competition on the morning of New Year's day.
From February I to 6, SHS will be holding the traditional Chinese New Year night market sales at the town square.
SANDAKAN: In conjunction with the coming festive season, Sandakan Harbour Square (SHS) will be organising activities to celebrate Christmas, New Year and the forthcoming Chinese New Year in February 2008.
Residents in the district are invited to the town square, the seafront harbour esplanade to join in the celebrations and enjoy the activities which SHS has lined up.
The celebrations will be kicked off by the opening of the @ease Boutique Hotel on December 23 and a fireworks display has been scheduled for 9.30pm.
Preceding the fireworks display, a 200 strong choir from the Church of Good Shepherd will serenade visitors at the town square.
Other programmes lined up by SHS are a karaoke session on December 24, a New Year eve concert on December 31, a children's colouring competition on the morning of New Year's day.
From February I to 6, SHS will be holding the traditional Chinese New Year night market sales at the town square.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Umno Keningau wants Pairin retained as MP
Umno Keningau wants Pairin retained as MP
KENINGAU: UMNO Keningau has given its undivided and full support to Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) President Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan to contest as a Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Keningau Parliamentary area in the coming general election.
Keningau UMNO Chief, Datuk Haji Sairin Karno said the leadership of Pairin, who is also Deputy Chief Minister cum Rural Development Minister, is still needed by the Keningau people for their development.
"I believe Pairin's leadership has been accepted by the majority of the multiracial people from the area he has represented today, and BN should retain him as a BN candidate in this coming general election," he said in his speech in a meet-the-people session for people from eight villages held at Kampung Toboh Laut here on Sunday. Sairin, who is also Liawan Assemblyman, believed the people in the area still need and love Pairin, who has brought a lot of development for them.
According to him, Pairin still has influence in the interior area and he asked the BN leadership to let Pairin defend the Keningau seat in, the coming general election. Keningau Parliamentary area consists of Tambunan constituency represented by Pairin (PBS-BN), Bingkor represented by Justin Guka (UPKO-BN) and Liawan by Sairin (UMNO-BN). Sairin believed and is confident that with full and undivided support and cooperation from the BN component here, BN can win easily in the three constituencies, including Keningau.
Present at the function were Pairin and his wife Datin Seri Panglima Genevieve Kitingan, Justin and other BN component leaders.
KENINGAU: UMNO Keningau has given its undivided and full support to Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) President Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan to contest as a Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Keningau Parliamentary area in the coming general election.
Keningau UMNO Chief, Datuk Haji Sairin Karno said the leadership of Pairin, who is also Deputy Chief Minister cum Rural Development Minister, is still needed by the Keningau people for their development.
"I believe Pairin's leadership has been accepted by the majority of the multiracial people from the area he has represented today, and BN should retain him as a BN candidate in this coming general election," he said in his speech in a meet-the-people session for people from eight villages held at Kampung Toboh Laut here on Sunday. Sairin, who is also Liawan Assemblyman, believed the people in the area still need and love Pairin, who has brought a lot of development for them.
According to him, Pairin still has influence in the interior area and he asked the BN leadership to let Pairin defend the Keningau seat in, the coming general election. Keningau Parliamentary area consists of Tambunan constituency represented by Pairin (PBS-BN), Bingkor represented by Justin Guka (UPKO-BN) and Liawan by Sairin (UMNO-BN). Sairin believed and is confident that with full and undivided support and cooperation from the BN component here, BN can win easily in the three constituencies, including Keningau.
Present at the function were Pairin and his wife Datin Seri Panglima Genevieve Kitingan, Justin and other BN component leaders.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Rude power meter reader scares family
Rude power meter reader scares family
A resident of Kwan Loke Garden in Likas is unhappy with the attitude of a meter reader from Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd, as she claimed the man was rude to her.
Nikky told Public Hotline that the incident happened yesterday morning.
"It was roughly around 10.15am and I was still upstairs in the bathroom while the rest of the family members were in their own rooms after staying up late at night. Then I heard loud knocking sound of the padlock being repeatedly banged against the gate and a man shouting "Hoi! Hoi! Buka!" she said.
On hearing the noise and shouts, she rushed down to check and saw the man outside in the SESB uniform.
"I then rushed up to call one of my boys to come down to open the gate because I was not properly dressed to go out of the house," she said.
"We ran down again as the man seemed to be agitated and was making a lot of noise outside, "she said, adding that when the meter reader saw her son opening the grill to go out, he (meter reader) snorted loudly "malas betul" (really lazy) and some other rude words," Nikky said.
"When he was in the house compound, we immediately locked our grill and he grumbled loudly. I managed to note his name and when he saw what I was doing, he demanded to know why I wrote down his name.
"He was obviously angry and we just waited for him to hand us the bill, and then closed the door. Only after he had left that my boy went out to lock the gate again," said Nikky.
"This morning's incident was not only scary, it was also an embarrassment because some of the neighbours even peeped through their windows to see what the commotion was all about.
"I would not blame them because my first fear today when I heard the meter reader's shouts was that of an 'ah long' (loan shark) coming the wrong address," she said.
Nikky hoped that SESB would educate their staff to be more courteous for the benefit of both parties.
She also hoped that the SESB would not send the same guy to the area in the future.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for SESB, when contacted over the matter, assured that the complaint by the residents will be forwarded to the unit concerned so that action can be taken.
A resident of Kwan Loke Garden in Likas is unhappy with the attitude of a meter reader from Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd, as she claimed the man was rude to her.
Nikky told Public Hotline that the incident happened yesterday morning.
"It was roughly around 10.15am and I was still upstairs in the bathroom while the rest of the family members were in their own rooms after staying up late at night. Then I heard loud knocking sound of the padlock being repeatedly banged against the gate and a man shouting "Hoi! Hoi! Buka!" she said.
On hearing the noise and shouts, she rushed down to check and saw the man outside in the SESB uniform.
"I then rushed up to call one of my boys to come down to open the gate because I was not properly dressed to go out of the house," she said.
"We ran down again as the man seemed to be agitated and was making a lot of noise outside, "she said, adding that when the meter reader saw her son opening the grill to go out, he (meter reader) snorted loudly "malas betul" (really lazy) and some other rude words," Nikky said.
"When he was in the house compound, we immediately locked our grill and he grumbled loudly. I managed to note his name and when he saw what I was doing, he demanded to know why I wrote down his name.
"He was obviously angry and we just waited for him to hand us the bill, and then closed the door. Only after he had left that my boy went out to lock the gate again," said Nikky.
"This morning's incident was not only scary, it was also an embarrassment because some of the neighbours even peeped through their windows to see what the commotion was all about.
"I would not blame them because my first fear today when I heard the meter reader's shouts was that of an 'ah long' (loan shark) coming the wrong address," she said.
Nikky hoped that SESB would educate their staff to be more courteous for the benefit of both parties.
She also hoped that the SESB would not send the same guy to the area in the future.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for SESB, when contacted over the matter, assured that the complaint by the residents will be forwarded to the unit concerned so that action can be taken.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Police to meet public at Giant
Police to meet public at Giant
PENAMPANG: The public wishing to voice out their concern to the police may do so during a meet-the-people session at the Giant Supermarket in Putatan this Saturday starting from 9.30am to 1pm.
According to the District Police Management Division head, Inspector Yampil Garai, hope the public would show their support to the event which is also aimed at creating closer ties among each other besides creating awareness that when both the police and the people work together, they would be able fight crimes better.
"We hope to create awareness among them the importance of working together. In addition, we also hope that through such event, we will be able to create closer ties besides promoting our roles and responsibilities to the people," he said.
Yampil added that the event would also create an avenue for the people to interact and voice out their grouses to the police.
During the event, public would also be entertained by local artists and the Kombo PDRM IPK Sabah, traditional performance from the Monsopiad Cultural Village, K9 and T-Baton demonstration, as well as exhibition by the traffic, narcotics and air wing, among others.
PENAMPANG: The public wishing to voice out their concern to the police may do so during a meet-the-people session at the Giant Supermarket in Putatan this Saturday starting from 9.30am to 1pm.
According to the District Police Management Division head, Inspector Yampil Garai, hope the public would show their support to the event which is also aimed at creating closer ties among each other besides creating awareness that when both the police and the people work together, they would be able fight crimes better.
"We hope to create awareness among them the importance of working together. In addition, we also hope that through such event, we will be able to create closer ties besides promoting our roles and responsibilities to the people," he said.
Yampil added that the event would also create an avenue for the people to interact and voice out their grouses to the police.
During the event, public would also be entertained by local artists and the Kombo PDRM IPK Sabah, traditional performance from the Monsopiad Cultural Village, K9 and T-Baton demonstration, as well as exhibition by the traffic, narcotics and air wing, among others.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Eleven foreign women sought by Labuan police
Eleven foreign women sought by Labuan policeLABUAN: Police here are looking for ten Filipino and an Indonesian women who are required to appear as witnesses in the Labuan Magistrateis Court on 31 December.
They are involved in a court case brought against the manager of a local pub for employing them as PROs/waitresses without valid work pass.
The ten Filipinos are Ma Cecil Zaldaviar Amada, 20, passport no: VV 0078226; Agnes Salmasan Villa, 30, passport no: UU 0609938; Mary Christine Castro Hernandez, 20, passport no: VV 0132565; Daisy Rerrer, 20, passport no: TT 0802113; Catherine Relota Santos, 23, passport no: RR 0881727; Charito Torres Dizon, 30, passport no: UU 0672490; Marilou Belmonte Abagon, 21, passport no: UU 0218744; Berberly Tonaco Nanabat, 18, passport no: VV 0313768; Nadia Lalican Padilla, 21, passport no: VV 0343428; Maridel Brillantes De San Juan, 18, passport no: UU 0643585 and the Indonesian woman is Pratiwi Juwita, passport no: A 313786.
According to the investigating officer of the case, Inspector Zuraini Bte Md Zin, the eleven women were charged in court on 16 July this year under Section 39(B) of the Immigration Act 1959, for working without proper permit, but discharged not amounting to acquittal (DNA).
The women are believed to be still in Labuan and anyone with information on their whereabouts is requested to contact Inspector Zuraini at 019-8093263 of 087412222.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Technology, loans to lure youths to farms
Technology, loans to lure youths to farms
Aging farmers, traditional farming worrying: Minister
KENINGAU: A RM20 million Paddy Seedling Centre will be officially opened at Kota Belud in January next year.
The centre, the third and largest such facility in the State, has the capacity to store 2,000 metric tons of paddy seedlings, said Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail here yesterday.
Rahim said the other two centres with storage capacities of 1,000 metric tons and 1,500 metric tons are located in Papar and Tenom respectively.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman will officiate at the opening of the centre at Kota Belud early next month, he said after officiating at the handing over of paddy harvesting machines to 11 selected farmers from several districts at the Agriculture Department Paddy Mechanization Station in Binaong near here.
Rahim hoped that with the full operation of the Paddy Seedling Centres, farmers in this State will not be facing any problem in getting paddy seedlings, especially during planting season.
Regarding the seedling centre situated at Tenom, he said only 75 percent is used for paddy seedlings while another 25 percent is used for other crop seedlings.
Earlier in his speech, he said 60 per cent of the farmers, livestock breeders and fishermen today are aged above 65 years old.
"The government views this matter seriously, especially in attracting our youths to get involved in agricultural field in an effort to maintain and expand the sector in the State," he said.
He is also worried because younger generations today are not interested to work in the farms.
Besides, many farmers are still practising traditional farming, which cannot increase their crop yield.
Rahim believed that using modern technology could create an impact and attract new farmers among the younger generations to be involved in this sector.
"Besides providing modern technology facilities, the Government through the Ministry also will give loans with easy repayments," he said.
He also urged farmers' bodies in this State to give their full support to the Government's halatuju in an effort to reduce food imports in the State by increasing their paddy yields and through balance of trade in the agricultural sector.
He said this includes implementing various biodiversity programs involving timbers, bakau woods, palm oil, rubber and wide sea, which have good potentials and give better returns to them.
Rahim hoped farmers would commercialize their paddy planting which could provide them with good returns.
Present at the function were Assistant Ministers of Agriculture and Foods Industry, Datuk Bobbey Suan and Datuk Japlin Akira, Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Haji Sairin Karno, Bingkor Assemblyman Justin Guka, Agriculture and Foods Industry Permanent Secretary Datuk Gregory Juatol, State Agriculture Department Director MC Ismail Salam and District Officer Haji Zulkifli Nasir.
Aging farmers, traditional farming worrying: Minister
KENINGAU: A RM20 million Paddy Seedling Centre will be officially opened at Kota Belud in January next year.
The centre, the third and largest such facility in the State, has the capacity to store 2,000 metric tons of paddy seedlings, said Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail here yesterday.
Rahim said the other two centres with storage capacities of 1,000 metric tons and 1,500 metric tons are located in Papar and Tenom respectively.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman will officiate at the opening of the centre at Kota Belud early next month, he said after officiating at the handing over of paddy harvesting machines to 11 selected farmers from several districts at the Agriculture Department Paddy Mechanization Station in Binaong near here.
Rahim hoped that with the full operation of the Paddy Seedling Centres, farmers in this State will not be facing any problem in getting paddy seedlings, especially during planting season.
Regarding the seedling centre situated at Tenom, he said only 75 percent is used for paddy seedlings while another 25 percent is used for other crop seedlings.
Earlier in his speech, he said 60 per cent of the farmers, livestock breeders and fishermen today are aged above 65 years old.
"The government views this matter seriously, especially in attracting our youths to get involved in agricultural field in an effort to maintain and expand the sector in the State," he said.
He is also worried because younger generations today are not interested to work in the farms.
Besides, many farmers are still practising traditional farming, which cannot increase their crop yield.
Rahim believed that using modern technology could create an impact and attract new farmers among the younger generations to be involved in this sector.
"Besides providing modern technology facilities, the Government through the Ministry also will give loans with easy repayments," he said.
He also urged farmers' bodies in this State to give their full support to the Government's halatuju in an effort to reduce food imports in the State by increasing their paddy yields and through balance of trade in the agricultural sector.
He said this includes implementing various biodiversity programs involving timbers, bakau woods, palm oil, rubber and wide sea, which have good potentials and give better returns to them.
Rahim hoped farmers would commercialize their paddy planting which could provide them with good returns.
Present at the function were Assistant Ministers of Agriculture and Foods Industry, Datuk Bobbey Suan and Datuk Japlin Akira, Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Haji Sairin Karno, Bingkor Assemblyman Justin Guka, Agriculture and Foods Industry Permanent Secretary Datuk Gregory Juatol, State Agriculture Department Director MC Ismail Salam and District Officer Haji Zulkifli Nasir.
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- Roads closed for Gaya Christmas Celebration
Roads closed for Gaya Christmas Celebration
KOTA KINABALU: Roads at Jalan Bandaran (near City Hall building and Lembaga Tabung Haji) and Block 1 of Gaya Street would be closed to traffic between Dec 19 and 21 beginning from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.
City Hall Public Relations Officer Syron A Tunggolou, in a statement yesterday, disclosed that the road closure was meant to make way for the Gaya Christmas Celebration, organised jointly by City hall and the Sabah Churches Council.
Public are therefore urged to use alternative roads to avoid traffic jams in the area.
KOTA KINABALU: Roads at Jalan Bandaran (near City Hall building and Lembaga Tabung Haji) and Block 1 of Gaya Street would be closed to traffic between Dec 19 and 21 beginning from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.
City Hall Public Relations Officer Syron A Tunggolou, in a statement yesterday, disclosed that the road closure was meant to make way for the Gaya Christmas Celebration, organised jointly by City hall and the Sabah Churches Council.
Public are therefore urged to use alternative roads to avoid traffic jams in the area.
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