KK rally: We never expected public – Keadilan
KOTA KINABALU: Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Sabah Youth yesterday expressed regret over the interpretation made by certain quarters about the presentation of Bersih's memorandum to Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah at the Istana Negeri here on Dec 14.
Its chief Abdul Razak Jamil, who headed the interim committee on the Bersih program, said a decision was reached on Dec 10 that a memorandum would be submitted to the Head of State with the participation of Sivarasa Rasiah, a Bersih's representative to Sabah.
Initially, he said, they expected about 20 people to be allowed to go to the Istana Negeri, which finally allowed six people only.
"We never informed the public to gather at the Padang Merdeka on that day (Dec 14). We expected only three people from the local media and a such, we were furious over the presence of about 300 policemen, including from the Federal Reserve Unit and members ofthe media," said Abdul Razak in a statement yesterday.
He said they would have applied for a police permit if they had planned to organise a massive gathering on that day.
"I feel sad that certain quarters had misinterpreted the submission of the memorandum (to the Istana Negeri) and that there were certain quarters who spread the rumours through the SMS (short messaging service).
"I readily admit that the presence of people on that day was not many as we only called a few specific individuals," said Abdul Razak, adding that Article 10 of the Federal Constitution allows a peaceful gathering with permit obtained from the police.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
WEDNESDAY-19TH DECEMBER 2007- KK BN rejects KL-style rally
KK BN rejects KL-style rally
Ex-CM Yong says some from elsewhere trying to come to KK to cause social instability
KOTA KINABALU: Kota Kinabalu Barisan Nasional (BN) Chairman Datuk Yong Teck Lee has urged the public to reject any further attempt by the opposition parties to stir social instability by organizing street protests.
Yong made the call yesterday in the wake of the peaceful demonstration at Padang Merdeka organized by Bersih, an umbrella organisation which groups 64 NGOs and six opposition parties.
The demonstration called for a fair and clean general election, but it received cool response from the public with less than 20 people turning up.
"In the wake of the violent protest in the Peninsular and the attempt (to hold similar protest) here last Friday, we (BN component parties) want to voice our collected view that there is no need for such demonstration," said Yong, who is also Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President.
Yong, who earlier chaired the BN Kota Kinabalu meeting at Beverly Hotel, endorsed a Barisan Nasional campaign asking the people to sign a petition against street protests in the country.
"There have been some efforts by some people from the other parts of the country to come to Kota Kinabalu just for the purpose-of holding demonstrations. Luckily the people of Sabah, especially in Kota Kinabalu, do not want to play any part in such street protests," he said.
Yong said the Government was very happy that the public, including members of the opposition parties rejected such demonstrations, adding the poor participation in the Bersih Demonstration indicated the strong support for BN.
"Generally in Sabah, the sentiments are still very much with BN. In respect of the low attendance at the protest at Padang Merdeka and (the talk) in Telipok, it shows that even their own members don't want to take part in such street protest," he said.
Yong criticized Parti Keadilan Rakyat for supporting the demonstration, saying: "It is a reminder of the Likas by-Election 2001. Never before in my 30 years of experience in the arena of politics I saw so much violence in Likas. And it was all because of Parti Keadilan. "
The meeting yesterday was attended by representatives from all Kota Kinabalu BN component parties, namely UMNO, LDP, PBS, MCA, PBRS, MIC, Gerakan and SAPP.
Yong said among the issues discussed during the meeting were inflation caused by increasing prices of goods in Kota Kinabalu in particular and Sabah in general.
Also discussed were efforts in strengthening BN spirit among coalition members in Kota Kinabalu, he said.
Other issues brought up in the meeting was the review of voting stations by the Election Commission SPR) which saw individuals' voting stations being changed to match the addresses in their MyKads, he added.
Noting that some of the BN members were also affected by the changes in voting stations, he advised the voters to check their voting stations with the SPR.
"If the change is in accordance with the address in MyKad, then it should be no problem unless if the address is an old one or no longer applicable," he said, adding that the voters can visit the SPR office or just log onto the commission's website for their convenience.
During the meeting, there was also a presentation by Special Affairs Department (JASA) followed by discussion on a number of issues including problems related illegal immigrant, unemployment and land matter.
Ex-CM Yong says some from elsewhere trying to come to KK to cause social instability
KOTA KINABALU: Kota Kinabalu Barisan Nasional (BN) Chairman Datuk Yong Teck Lee has urged the public to reject any further attempt by the opposition parties to stir social instability by organizing street protests.
Yong made the call yesterday in the wake of the peaceful demonstration at Padang Merdeka organized by Bersih, an umbrella organisation which groups 64 NGOs and six opposition parties.
The demonstration called for a fair and clean general election, but it received cool response from the public with less than 20 people turning up.
"In the wake of the violent protest in the Peninsular and the attempt (to hold similar protest) here last Friday, we (BN component parties) want to voice our collected view that there is no need for such demonstration," said Yong, who is also Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President.
Yong, who earlier chaired the BN Kota Kinabalu meeting at Beverly Hotel, endorsed a Barisan Nasional campaign asking the people to sign a petition against street protests in the country.
"There have been some efforts by some people from the other parts of the country to come to Kota Kinabalu just for the purpose-of holding demonstrations. Luckily the people of Sabah, especially in Kota Kinabalu, do not want to play any part in such street protests," he said.
Yong said the Government was very happy that the public, including members of the opposition parties rejected such demonstrations, adding the poor participation in the Bersih Demonstration indicated the strong support for BN.
"Generally in Sabah, the sentiments are still very much with BN. In respect of the low attendance at the protest at Padang Merdeka and (the talk) in Telipok, it shows that even their own members don't want to take part in such street protest," he said.
Yong criticized Parti Keadilan Rakyat for supporting the demonstration, saying: "It is a reminder of the Likas by-Election 2001. Never before in my 30 years of experience in the arena of politics I saw so much violence in Likas. And it was all because of Parti Keadilan. "
The meeting yesterday was attended by representatives from all Kota Kinabalu BN component parties, namely UMNO, LDP, PBS, MCA, PBRS, MIC, Gerakan and SAPP.
Yong said among the issues discussed during the meeting were inflation caused by increasing prices of goods in Kota Kinabalu in particular and Sabah in general.
Also discussed were efforts in strengthening BN spirit among coalition members in Kota Kinabalu, he said.
Other issues brought up in the meeting was the review of voting stations by the Election Commission SPR) which saw individuals' voting stations being changed to match the addresses in their MyKads, he added.
Noting that some of the BN members were also affected by the changes in voting stations, he advised the voters to check their voting stations with the SPR.
"If the change is in accordance with the address in MyKad, then it should be no problem unless if the address is an old one or no longer applicable," he said, adding that the voters can visit the SPR office or just log onto the commission's website for their convenience.
During the meeting, there was also a presentation by Special Affairs Department (JASA) followed by discussion on a number of issues including problems related illegal immigrant, unemployment and land matter.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007- Sabah to have Intellectual Property High Court
Sabah to have Intellectual Property High Court
KOTA KINABALU: The Government will set up the Intellectual Property High Court at six locations in the country. “The court which will operate in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Perak, Sabah and Sarawak will have the jurisdiction to hear into appeals for intellectual property cases,” Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk S. Veerasingam said when launching the State-level Intellectual Property Seminar here yesterday. Those operating in East Malaysia are called Borneo Intellectual Property High Court while the ones in Peninsular Malaysia are called Malaya Intellectual Property High Court.
Veerasingam urged Malaysians to register their intellectual properties to protect their rights. “The Government wants to protect our own intellectual properties which can help to develop our country’s economy,” he said. “The Sessions Court in Jalan Duta (Kuala Lumpur) has already solved 26 of the 184 registered cases. This is a good sign that our society has already realized the importance of their intellectual properties right,” he added. Veerasingam also explained that the public is not aware of the Trade-Related Aspect of Intellectual Property Right (TRIPS) agreement that protects geography signal as one of the intellectual properties components.
According to him, three of the four geography signals that have been registered in Malaysia are from Sabah local products, namely Sabah Tea, Kopi Tenom and Borneo Virgin Coconut Oil. The deputy minister also said in Sabah alone there were 22 potential local products to be registered for intellectual properties under the geography signal component such as Belacan Papar, Tambunan’s Ginger and Beaufort’s Sweet Lime. “We hope more entrepreneurs will register their intellectual properties so that their products will be more unique and special than the other products in the market because they have the geography signal right,” he added.
KOTA KINABALU: The Government will set up the Intellectual Property High Court at six locations in the country. “The court which will operate in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Perak, Sabah and Sarawak will have the jurisdiction to hear into appeals for intellectual property cases,” Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk S. Veerasingam said when launching the State-level Intellectual Property Seminar here yesterday. Those operating in East Malaysia are called Borneo Intellectual Property High Court while the ones in Peninsular Malaysia are called Malaya Intellectual Property High Court.
Veerasingam urged Malaysians to register their intellectual properties to protect their rights. “The Government wants to protect our own intellectual properties which can help to develop our country’s economy,” he said. “The Sessions Court in Jalan Duta (Kuala Lumpur) has already solved 26 of the 184 registered cases. This is a good sign that our society has already realized the importance of their intellectual properties right,” he added. Veerasingam also explained that the public is not aware of the Trade-Related Aspect of Intellectual Property Right (TRIPS) agreement that protects geography signal as one of the intellectual properties components.
According to him, three of the four geography signals that have been registered in Malaysia are from Sabah local products, namely Sabah Tea, Kopi Tenom and Borneo Virgin Coconut Oil. The deputy minister also said in Sabah alone there were 22 potential local products to be registered for intellectual properties under the geography signal component such as Belacan Papar, Tambunan’s Ginger and Beaufort’s Sweet Lime. “We hope more entrepreneurs will register their intellectual properties so that their products will be more unique and special than the other products in the market because they have the geography signal right,” he added.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007- ONE SEN coins: Bank Negara says no plans yet to demonetize them
ONE SEN coins: Bank Negara says no plans yet to demonetize them
KOTA KINABALU: There are no plans to demonetize one sen coins following the Government’s move to phase out one sen coins from over- the-counter transactions, said Assistant Governor of Bank Negara Lillian Leong Bee Lian. The main objective of the rounding mechanism, which will be implemented on April 1 next year, is to reduce the demand for one sen coins around the country, according to her. “Of course the plan is to reach a point where people will stop using one sen coins, but for now there are no plans to demonetize one sen coins yet,” she said at a press conference after the launch of a briefing session with business and trader associations on the rounding mechanism at the Magellan Sutera here, yesterday. Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk S Veerasingam, who officially launched the briefing session, noted that his Ministry would be implementing various awareness programs around the country in addition to going through the mass media to ensure the public is aware of the mechanism.
“I must stress that the mechanism will not increase the cost of items being sold. It will only affect the overall cost when you pay the bill and not for individual items,” he said at the press conference. “As it is, there are not many consumers who use one sen coins. When they go out to buy things, they do not bring one sen coins to pay ... some even leave the one sens on the counter after receiving their change or drop them in charity boxes. “For the traders, they will still have to return every sen to their customers and this means Bank Negara will constantly have to mint new one sen coins which eventually will not find their way back to the bank. “For the one sen coins to participate in the economic cycle, they must make their way back to the bank but that is not happening so it would be more prudent economically if we take out the one sen coins from the transaction,” he said. In his speech earlier, Veerasingam explained that the key justification for the mechanism’s implementation is that it saves money and eases calculations. “The initiative will make it easier for the public and also reduce costs for the Government and traders. “The public will no longer have to bring around one sen coins to make purchases and calculations for payment are made easier while traders can save on transport and operating costs with a reduction in demand for one sen coins,” he said. Veerasingam noted that traders will not need to change their cash registers and will only need to make a one-off calibration so their machines will display the overall payment on the bill before and after rounding. The mechanism, announced by Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Mohamed Shafie Apdal early last November, will round off bill payments in over- the-counter transactions to the nearest multiple of five. Shafie said there are around 4.4 billion one sen coins in circulation with a total of 360 million new coins minted by Bank Negara at a cost of RM14 million every year. The mechanism is adapted from similar initiatives employed by countries that have stopped using one cent coins such as Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland and South Africa.
KOTA KINABALU: There are no plans to demonetize one sen coins following the Government’s move to phase out one sen coins from over- the-counter transactions, said Assistant Governor of Bank Negara Lillian Leong Bee Lian. The main objective of the rounding mechanism, which will be implemented on April 1 next year, is to reduce the demand for one sen coins around the country, according to her. “Of course the plan is to reach a point where people will stop using one sen coins, but for now there are no plans to demonetize one sen coins yet,” she said at a press conference after the launch of a briefing session with business and trader associations on the rounding mechanism at the Magellan Sutera here, yesterday. Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk S Veerasingam, who officially launched the briefing session, noted that his Ministry would be implementing various awareness programs around the country in addition to going through the mass media to ensure the public is aware of the mechanism.
“I must stress that the mechanism will not increase the cost of items being sold. It will only affect the overall cost when you pay the bill and not for individual items,” he said at the press conference. “As it is, there are not many consumers who use one sen coins. When they go out to buy things, they do not bring one sen coins to pay ... some even leave the one sens on the counter after receiving their change or drop them in charity boxes. “For the traders, they will still have to return every sen to their customers and this means Bank Negara will constantly have to mint new one sen coins which eventually will not find their way back to the bank. “For the one sen coins to participate in the economic cycle, they must make their way back to the bank but that is not happening so it would be more prudent economically if we take out the one sen coins from the transaction,” he said. In his speech earlier, Veerasingam explained that the key justification for the mechanism’s implementation is that it saves money and eases calculations. “The initiative will make it easier for the public and also reduce costs for the Government and traders. “The public will no longer have to bring around one sen coins to make purchases and calculations for payment are made easier while traders can save on transport and operating costs with a reduction in demand for one sen coins,” he said. Veerasingam noted that traders will not need to change their cash registers and will only need to make a one-off calibration so their machines will display the overall payment on the bill before and after rounding. The mechanism, announced by Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Mohamed Shafie Apdal early last November, will round off bill payments in over- the-counter transactions to the nearest multiple of five. Shafie said there are around 4.4 billion one sen coins in circulation with a total of 360 million new coins minted by Bank Negara at a cost of RM14 million every year. The mechanism is adapted from similar initiatives employed by countries that have stopped using one cent coins such as Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland and South Africa.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007- Be firm but courteous, CM tells religious teams
Be firm but courteous, CM tells religious teams
KOTA KINABALU:
Enforcement agencies including Islamic religious bodies and the Police must be firm but courteous in implementing Islamic laws, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said. “We want the Muslim community to have a perception that the enforcement agencies are their allies in ensuring that there are rules and order and the society can live in a more organized and prosperous manner,” he said. He also said a holistic enforcement of Syariah (Islamic) laws is the best solution in deterring immoral activities among Muslims.
Musa said the implementation of Islamic laws would also preserve the tradition of Islam as a religion that promotes good and noble values as the culture of life. Officiating the National Convention on Enforcement and Prosecution of Syariah Laws here yesterday, he said Islamic laws had been recognized and used in Sabah since before its independence in 1963 and since then gone through a lot of changes and refinement. The introduction of new laws and amendments to the existing ones had further strengthened the State Islamic religion enforcement agency under the Federal Constitution, lifting the standard of Islamic laws to be on par with civil laws, he said.
“The Government does not make Islamic laws as the only mechanism in educating and punishing offenders but the Syariah court is now recognized as equal with the civil court and its rulings cannot be canceled or amended by other courts. “The question now is no longer about the (Islamic) laws but how the laws can be implemented so that it will be seen as more effective in organizing the life of the community, he said. The convention held at Kompleks Tabung Haji yesterday was jointly organized by Jabatan Hal Ehwal Agama Islam Negeri Sabah (Jaheains) and Universiti Malaya (UM) with cooperation from Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) and Federal Territory Islamic Religion Council. Musa said the two-day convention featuring a presentation of research reports and papers on issues and problems related to enforcement and prosecution of Islamic laws provides useful inputs for the authorities involved to further improve the existing laws and its management. He said the State Government takes the Islamic laws seriously and would ensure that the enforcement of the laws is well implemented and continuously improved.
KOTA KINABALU:
Enforcement agencies including Islamic religious bodies and the Police must be firm but courteous in implementing Islamic laws, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said. “We want the Muslim community to have a perception that the enforcement agencies are their allies in ensuring that there are rules and order and the society can live in a more organized and prosperous manner,” he said. He also said a holistic enforcement of Syariah (Islamic) laws is the best solution in deterring immoral activities among Muslims.
Musa said the implementation of Islamic laws would also preserve the tradition of Islam as a religion that promotes good and noble values as the culture of life. Officiating the National Convention on Enforcement and Prosecution of Syariah Laws here yesterday, he said Islamic laws had been recognized and used in Sabah since before its independence in 1963 and since then gone through a lot of changes and refinement. The introduction of new laws and amendments to the existing ones had further strengthened the State Islamic religion enforcement agency under the Federal Constitution, lifting the standard of Islamic laws to be on par with civil laws, he said.
“The Government does not make Islamic laws as the only mechanism in educating and punishing offenders but the Syariah court is now recognized as equal with the civil court and its rulings cannot be canceled or amended by other courts. “The question now is no longer about the (Islamic) laws but how the laws can be implemented so that it will be seen as more effective in organizing the life of the community, he said. The convention held at Kompleks Tabung Haji yesterday was jointly organized by Jabatan Hal Ehwal Agama Islam Negeri Sabah (Jaheains) and Universiti Malaya (UM) with cooperation from Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) and Federal Territory Islamic Religion Council. Musa said the two-day convention featuring a presentation of research reports and papers on issues and problems related to enforcement and prosecution of Islamic laws provides useful inputs for the authorities involved to further improve the existing laws and its management. He said the State Government takes the Islamic laws seriously and would ensure that the enforcement of the laws is well implemented and continuously improved.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007-800 General Operations personnel to occupy new complex next April
800 General Operations personnel to occupy new complex next April
KOTA KINABALU:
All the 800 General Operations Force officers and personnel will be transferred to their own complex in Kinarut by April next year. Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Musa Hassan, said the RM149 million GOF Complex would include staff quarters, administration blocks, a field, clinic, mosque and several few shops. “To date, it is about 66 per cent completed and we were told that all will be done by April 2008. The GOF officers and personnel will then be placed there,” he told reporters after a briefing at the Kepayan Police Headquarters, yesterday. In addition to this, Musa said works are also being carried out to enhance the Police Headquarters here. “We (police) are expanding and we need more buildings to improve. It is part of enhancing the IPK (Police Headquarters),” he said. He disclosed that the Sabah’s crime rate showed an increase of 10 per cent with 75 per cent of these crimes being contributed by locals. Only 25 per cent of the crimes in Sabah are contributed by the foreigners, and most of their cases involved violent crimes, he said. “I was briefed by the Sabah Police Commissioner (Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim) on the crime situation here, and although it showed an increase in crimes such as gang robberies and house break-ins, certain cases showed a decrease. “The concentration of these crimes is at Tawau, Lahad Datu, Sandakan and here. In places where the volume of crime is higher, we hope the Sabah Police would concentrate in these four districts to reduce the crime rates,” he said. Despite the crime rate increase, Musa said the Sabah Police had, however, crippled several gangs and syndicates involved in electricity and telephone cable thefts, in which they had seized weapons from some of the groups. The Narcotics Unit had also scored several successes including intercepting attempts to smuggle in drugs into the State from neighbouring countries.
“One of our problems is when the smugglers illegally enter Sabah. This is where the police and other agencies can work together to carry out checks. If we detect drugs in anyone, we will charge them under the Dangerous Drug Act,” he said.
Touching on commercial crimes, Musa said there was a two per cent increase and the Commercial Crime Department had been directed to investigate the matter. “Some of these crimes are related to land deals, Short Messaging Services and even through the internet. We are on a lookout for such cases at all times,” he said.
KOTA KINABALU:
All the 800 General Operations Force officers and personnel will be transferred to their own complex in Kinarut by April next year. Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Musa Hassan, said the RM149 million GOF Complex would include staff quarters, administration blocks, a field, clinic, mosque and several few shops. “To date, it is about 66 per cent completed and we were told that all will be done by April 2008. The GOF officers and personnel will then be placed there,” he told reporters after a briefing at the Kepayan Police Headquarters, yesterday. In addition to this, Musa said works are also being carried out to enhance the Police Headquarters here. “We (police) are expanding and we need more buildings to improve. It is part of enhancing the IPK (Police Headquarters),” he said. He disclosed that the Sabah’s crime rate showed an increase of 10 per cent with 75 per cent of these crimes being contributed by locals. Only 25 per cent of the crimes in Sabah are contributed by the foreigners, and most of their cases involved violent crimes, he said. “I was briefed by the Sabah Police Commissioner (Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim) on the crime situation here, and although it showed an increase in crimes such as gang robberies and house break-ins, certain cases showed a decrease. “The concentration of these crimes is at Tawau, Lahad Datu, Sandakan and here. In places where the volume of crime is higher, we hope the Sabah Police would concentrate in these four districts to reduce the crime rates,” he said. Despite the crime rate increase, Musa said the Sabah Police had, however, crippled several gangs and syndicates involved in electricity and telephone cable thefts, in which they had seized weapons from some of the groups. The Narcotics Unit had also scored several successes including intercepting attempts to smuggle in drugs into the State from neighbouring countries.
“One of our problems is when the smugglers illegally enter Sabah. This is where the police and other agencies can work together to carry out checks. If we detect drugs in anyone, we will charge them under the Dangerous Drug Act,” he said.
Touching on commercial crimes, Musa said there was a two per cent increase and the Commercial Crime Department had been directed to investigate the matter. “Some of these crimes are related to land deals, Short Messaging Services and even through the internet. We are on a lookout for such cases at all times,” he said.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007-Skills training for youths to reduce jobless rate: CM
Skills training for youths to reduce jobless rate: CM
PAPAR: The Government will increase its efforts to provide skills training to youths, particularly SPM leavers, in its bid to reduce the unemployment rate in Sabah, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman. Musa said he is confident of a reduction of the State’s current unemployment rate of 5.7 per cent if youths are willing to take every opportunity provided by the Government. “There are numerous opportunities to gain knowledge and skills and it is up to the youths to take those opportunities,” he said after launching the Technical and Trade Training Institute’s (ILTP) 25th anniversary and certificate presentation ceremony here yesterday. Musa noted that aside fiom the State Government, the Federal Government also provides numerous training facilities through institutions such as Pusat Giat Mara, Polytechnics and Technical Colleges. Earlier in his speech, he stressed that the Government is paying serious attention to the recent revelation that 70 per cent of SPM leavers are unable to further their tertiary education due to poor academic qualifications or financial difficulties. “This group of youths need to be given skills training in various fields so that they are able to fulfill the job market demands for skilled labour. “The new phenomena of globalisation and liberalisation that forms the concept of a borderless world needs support from all in strengthening ourselves from within as we adapt to current needs,” he said.
PAPAR: The Government will increase its efforts to provide skills training to youths, particularly SPM leavers, in its bid to reduce the unemployment rate in Sabah, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman. Musa said he is confident of a reduction of the State’s current unemployment rate of 5.7 per cent if youths are willing to take every opportunity provided by the Government. “There are numerous opportunities to gain knowledge and skills and it is up to the youths to take those opportunities,” he said after launching the Technical and Trade Training Institute’s (ILTP) 25th anniversary and certificate presentation ceremony here yesterday. Musa noted that aside fiom the State Government, the Federal Government also provides numerous training facilities through institutions such as Pusat Giat Mara, Polytechnics and Technical Colleges. Earlier in his speech, he stressed that the Government is paying serious attention to the recent revelation that 70 per cent of SPM leavers are unable to further their tertiary education due to poor academic qualifications or financial difficulties. “This group of youths need to be given skills training in various fields so that they are able to fulfill the job market demands for skilled labour. “The new phenomena of globalisation and liberalisation that forms the concept of a borderless world needs support from all in strengthening ourselves from within as we adapt to current needs,” he said.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007-State Govt serious in solving illegal problem: Pairin
State Govt serious in solving illegal problem: Pairin
KENINGAU: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan has denied the opposition claim that the Government was not serious in handling the illegal immigrant problem in the State. He said various measures and actions had been taken by the Government, including operations to arrest and send these foreigners back to their country of origin. “The Barisan Nasioal (BN) Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is very concerned about -the illegal immigrant problem in this country and will overcome it soon,” he said at a meet-the-people session for eight villages at Kampung Toboh Laut here on Sunday. About 1,000 people from Kampung Toboh Laut, Baginda Ulu, Kota Ayangan, Baginda Laut, Tigot, Tuarid aud, Tuarid Liawan Low Cost Housing and Dangulad, including Datin Seri Panglima Genevieve Kitingan, Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Haji Sairin Karno and Bingkor Assemblyman Justin Guka were present at the function. Pairin who is also the Rural Development Minister, ensured that with cooperation from all quarters, including the security forces, the illegal immigrant problem in the State could be resolved. He said every individual, including community leaders such as village headmen, Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairmen and native chiefs, must be committed and work together to give information to the security forces on illegal immigrants hiding in their areas. According to him, protecting illegal immigrants is an offence and those found doing so can be charged in court under the Immigration Act. Meanwhile, Pairin who is also the president of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), hit out at the opposition leaders, especially those from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) for saying that the BN Government had failed to handle the illegal immigrant and poverty issues in the State. “They went to the villages and raised the old issues to confuse the people. If they are true leaders who are going to help the people, they should have done it when they were with us (BN),” he said. Pairin also praised Pak Lah’s leadership which brought a lot of development to Sabah and Sarawak. He urged the people in the State to unite and continue to defend the BN struggle. “The people need a peaceful, harmonious and prosperous Government which can give them progress and development. Only the BN which practises sharing power among the ethnics in this country, can do it,” he said. At the function, Pairin declared open the village’s concrete bridge and library building and announced several development projects for the eight villages which will be implemented next year. He also accepted 102 new PBS members from several villages in Mukim Tuarid Liawan.
KENINGAU: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan has denied the opposition claim that the Government was not serious in handling the illegal immigrant problem in the State. He said various measures and actions had been taken by the Government, including operations to arrest and send these foreigners back to their country of origin. “The Barisan Nasioal (BN) Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is very concerned about -the illegal immigrant problem in this country and will overcome it soon,” he said at a meet-the-people session for eight villages at Kampung Toboh Laut here on Sunday. About 1,000 people from Kampung Toboh Laut, Baginda Ulu, Kota Ayangan, Baginda Laut, Tigot, Tuarid aud, Tuarid Liawan Low Cost Housing and Dangulad, including Datin Seri Panglima Genevieve Kitingan, Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Haji Sairin Karno and Bingkor Assemblyman Justin Guka were present at the function. Pairin who is also the Rural Development Minister, ensured that with cooperation from all quarters, including the security forces, the illegal immigrant problem in the State could be resolved. He said every individual, including community leaders such as village headmen, Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairmen and native chiefs, must be committed and work together to give information to the security forces on illegal immigrants hiding in their areas. According to him, protecting illegal immigrants is an offence and those found doing so can be charged in court under the Immigration Act. Meanwhile, Pairin who is also the president of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), hit out at the opposition leaders, especially those from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) for saying that the BN Government had failed to handle the illegal immigrant and poverty issues in the State. “They went to the villages and raised the old issues to confuse the people. If they are true leaders who are going to help the people, they should have done it when they were with us (BN),” he said. Pairin also praised Pak Lah’s leadership which brought a lot of development to Sabah and Sarawak. He urged the people in the State to unite and continue to defend the BN struggle. “The people need a peaceful, harmonious and prosperous Government which can give them progress and development. Only the BN which practises sharing power among the ethnics in this country, can do it,” he said. At the function, Pairin declared open the village’s concrete bridge and library building and announced several development projects for the eight villages which will be implemented next year. He also accepted 102 new PBS members from several villages in Mukim Tuarid Liawan.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007-Malay body to help former Labuan college students
Malay body to help former Labuan college students
LABUAN: Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM) Labuan is prepared to assist the 11 former students of Labuan International College whose diploma is not recognized by the National Accreditation Board(LAN). Its deputy president, Mohd Alias Abd Rahman, said in a statement yesterday that the plight and predicament of the students had brought to the attention of the DPMM. ‘Therefore, being a Malay organization which struggles for the future of the Malay community in general, we feel that we are obliged to assist them,” he said. DPMM came forward after several media statements highlighted the issue of the ex-students who would be given compensation following an order from the Consumer Claims Tribunal recently. The former students were awarded RM275, 000, with each of them to be compensated of RM25,000. The college whose director is the Member of Parliament of Labuan, Datuk Suhaili Abd Rahman, is said to have ceased its operation.
Alias said that the DPMM was ready to struggle in the interest of Malay students. “We are even ready to help to bring the case to the civil court for them to be compensated a deserving amount due to the higher expenses they have incurred during their studies as well as the loans they have obtained from PTPTN and Mara,” he said. Alias, who expressed regrets over what had happened, said the course in question should have been accredited by the LAN before the students were recruited. He said the issue of the 11 students who are mostly from Sabah was a good lesson to parents. He also believed the number of victims was just ‘a tip of the iceberg’, as almost 100 students had enrolled in the college. “We are openly offering to assist the students to take further legal action. And they may liaise with us,” he said. Alias urged the relevant authorities, especially the various ministries dealing with education, to look into this matter seriously. “We cannot afford to have the issue recurring or more students will be victimized,” he said.
LABUAN: Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM) Labuan is prepared to assist the 11 former students of Labuan International College whose diploma is not recognized by the National Accreditation Board(LAN). Its deputy president, Mohd Alias Abd Rahman, said in a statement yesterday that the plight and predicament of the students had brought to the attention of the DPMM. ‘Therefore, being a Malay organization which struggles for the future of the Malay community in general, we feel that we are obliged to assist them,” he said. DPMM came forward after several media statements highlighted the issue of the ex-students who would be given compensation following an order from the Consumer Claims Tribunal recently. The former students were awarded RM275, 000, with each of them to be compensated of RM25,000. The college whose director is the Member of Parliament of Labuan, Datuk Suhaili Abd Rahman, is said to have ceased its operation.
Alias said that the DPMM was ready to struggle in the interest of Malay students. “We are even ready to help to bring the case to the civil court for them to be compensated a deserving amount due to the higher expenses they have incurred during their studies as well as the loans they have obtained from PTPTN and Mara,” he said. Alias, who expressed regrets over what had happened, said the course in question should have been accredited by the LAN before the students were recruited. He said the issue of the 11 students who are mostly from Sabah was a good lesson to parents. He also believed the number of victims was just ‘a tip of the iceberg’, as almost 100 students had enrolled in the college. “We are openly offering to assist the students to take further legal action. And they may liaise with us,” he said. Alias urged the relevant authorities, especially the various ministries dealing with education, to look into this matter seriously. “We cannot afford to have the issue recurring or more students will be victimized,” he said.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007-Indiscriminate parking daily headache at KK central market
Indiscriminate parking daily headache at KK central market
• An unhappy motorist voiced his frustration over the inconsideration showed by drivers who parked indiscriminately along the road from the UNHCR Filipino market all the way to the central market. Julian, a marketing executive, said the inconsiderate action of these drivers had obstructed the traffic along the whole stretch of road causing a lot of inconvenience to other road users. “To make things worse, bus drivers are also seen double parking near the central market,” he said, adding that the area is congested throughout the day and even into the night. Julian also told Public Hotline that some of the vehicle owners act like they own the road by occupying almost half of the lane. “These drivers often park in a manner that makes section of the road impassable to other vehicles. And what made it worst is that the buses also often stop at the area to wait for or pick up passengers,” he said. He hoped the authority concerned will monitor the situation in the area and resolve the daily traffic congestion there. Julian also urged the relevant authorities to look into the matter seriously as it not only involves obstruction of traffic but also public safety. The spokesperson for Kota Kinabalu City Hall when asked to comment on the matter, said summonses would be issued to the drivers of buses or cars that are found obstructing traffic. He said the unavailability of parking lots is not an excuse for them to park wherever they like. He assured that the complaint would be forwarded to the enforcement unit for action to be taken. Meanwhile the City traffic police when contacted about the matter, said the police personnel are always monitoring the traffic along the road, especially during peak hours. “We try our best to reduce the congestion in the city by having a team of police personnel at areas where motorists are known to double park their vehicles but as soon as they leave the area, the problem happens again,” he said. The police spokesperson also appealed to the motorists to cooperate and abide by the law.
• An unhappy motorist voiced his frustration over the inconsideration showed by drivers who parked indiscriminately along the road from the UNHCR Filipino market all the way to the central market. Julian, a marketing executive, said the inconsiderate action of these drivers had obstructed the traffic along the whole stretch of road causing a lot of inconvenience to other road users. “To make things worse, bus drivers are also seen double parking near the central market,” he said, adding that the area is congested throughout the day and even into the night. Julian also told Public Hotline that some of the vehicle owners act like they own the road by occupying almost half of the lane. “These drivers often park in a manner that makes section of the road impassable to other vehicles. And what made it worst is that the buses also often stop at the area to wait for or pick up passengers,” he said. He hoped the authority concerned will monitor the situation in the area and resolve the daily traffic congestion there. Julian also urged the relevant authorities to look into the matter seriously as it not only involves obstruction of traffic but also public safety. The spokesperson for Kota Kinabalu City Hall when asked to comment on the matter, said summonses would be issued to the drivers of buses or cars that are found obstructing traffic. He said the unavailability of parking lots is not an excuse for them to park wherever they like. He assured that the complaint would be forwarded to the enforcement unit for action to be taken. Meanwhile the City traffic police when contacted about the matter, said the police personnel are always monitoring the traffic along the road, especially during peak hours. “We try our best to reduce the congestion in the city by having a team of police personnel at areas where motorists are known to double park their vehicles but as soon as they leave the area, the problem happens again,” he said. The police spokesperson also appealed to the motorists to cooperate and abide by the law.
TUESDAY-18TH DECEMBER 2007-Dept urged to look into claim over committee
Dept urged to look into claim over committee
MENGGATAL:
The Kampung Badulan’s Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) wants the State Information Department director to look into the alleged non-activation of the village’s Komuniti Bestari despite receiving allocation from the Government. Its chairman, Ustaz Ramli Ungking, said the committee had never implemented any Komuniti Bestari programmes in the village. “The JKKK has discussed the matter with village chief Zainah Godsung and he agreed that a new committee should be elected,” Ramli said. According to him, the officer in charge has failed to resolve the problem and therefore the Government should intervene as the villagers are wondering where the allocation went to. Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the villagers, Zawawi Datuk Ahmad, also has requested the Anti Corruption Agency (ACA) to conduct an investigation into the allegation. “The allocation was received by the Komuniti Bestari committee a year ago but we have yet to see any programmes implemented,” he said.
MENGGATAL:
The Kampung Badulan’s Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) wants the State Information Department director to look into the alleged non-activation of the village’s Komuniti Bestari despite receiving allocation from the Government. Its chairman, Ustaz Ramli Ungking, said the committee had never implemented any Komuniti Bestari programmes in the village. “The JKKK has discussed the matter with village chief Zainah Godsung and he agreed that a new committee should be elected,” Ramli said. According to him, the officer in charge has failed to resolve the problem and therefore the Government should intervene as the villagers are wondering where the allocation went to. Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the villagers, Zawawi Datuk Ahmad, also has requested the Anti Corruption Agency (ACA) to conduct an investigation into the allegation. “The allocation was received by the Komuniti Bestari committee a year ago but we have yet to see any programmes implemented,” he said.
Monday, December 17, 2007
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-Land applications top on Keadilan Govt agenda
Land applications top on Keadilan Govt agenda
INANAM:
Settling outstanding land applications would be top on the agenda of a Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Government, promised PKR State Steering Committee Chairman Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. “I promise you, the moment we come into power we would give land application matters top priority. In this computerized era, we should be able to settle problem-less land applications within three months. “We would also reinstate the power of all village chiefs to vet land applications in their respective areas so that only the rightful would get to apply for right purpose,” he said at the PKR’s meet-the-people session in Kampung Malawa near here on Friday night. Dr Jeffrey who is also PKR Vice President, promised to move a motion in the State Assembly to excise portions of State forest reserve lands that are occupied by natives so that those deserving and diligent would get to toil the lands. “Besides this, a PKR federal government would also give free textbooks, and abolish school fees. We are also studying the possibility to give scholarships to all first degree students in local universities,” said the maverick leader. Earlier, Datuk Chau Chin Tang, in his speech said PKR should study to reinstate the power Of Sabah Governor to appoint court judges which was taken away by the Federal since June 1994. “Look, if the power of our TYT could be taken away, what more other power? We must stop this rot, vote for Keadilan,” he said adding, a PKR Government would also look into injecting RM500 million into Saham Amanah Sabah to push its share to at least its original value at RM1. Both Dr Jeffrey and Chau also commended the more than 150 adults who turned out at the gathering despite police mounting a roadblock nearby, and a big presence of uniformed police force at the compound. Other PKR leaders present were State liaison deputy chairman Daniel John Jambun, liaison assistant secretary Peter Marajin, Edward Linggu, Kanul Gindol, Alex Kando and Paul Kuleling.
INANAM:
Settling outstanding land applications would be top on the agenda of a Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Government, promised PKR State Steering Committee Chairman Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. “I promise you, the moment we come into power we would give land application matters top priority. In this computerized era, we should be able to settle problem-less land applications within three months. “We would also reinstate the power of all village chiefs to vet land applications in their respective areas so that only the rightful would get to apply for right purpose,” he said at the PKR’s meet-the-people session in Kampung Malawa near here on Friday night. Dr Jeffrey who is also PKR Vice President, promised to move a motion in the State Assembly to excise portions of State forest reserve lands that are occupied by natives so that those deserving and diligent would get to toil the lands. “Besides this, a PKR federal government would also give free textbooks, and abolish school fees. We are also studying the possibility to give scholarships to all first degree students in local universities,” said the maverick leader. Earlier, Datuk Chau Chin Tang, in his speech said PKR should study to reinstate the power Of Sabah Governor to appoint court judges which was taken away by the Federal since June 1994. “Look, if the power of our TYT could be taken away, what more other power? We must stop this rot, vote for Keadilan,” he said adding, a PKR Government would also look into injecting RM500 million into Saham Amanah Sabah to push its share to at least its original value at RM1. Both Dr Jeffrey and Chau also commended the more than 150 adults who turned out at the gathering despite police mounting a roadblock nearby, and a big presence of uniformed police force at the compound. Other PKR leaders present were State liaison deputy chairman Daniel John Jambun, liaison assistant secretary Peter Marajin, Edward Linggu, Kanul Gindol, Alex Kando and Paul Kuleling.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-English questions for Maths, Science should stay: Ex-school inspector
English questions for Maths, Science should stay: Ex-school inspector
TAWAU:
The Ujian Peperiksaan Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) examination should not only be maintained but the candidates also have to answer the questions for Science and Mathematics subjects in English, said a former school inspector. Haji Husain bin Perumal, who stated this, has expressed shock and regret over a statement that the answering of questions in English for Science and Mathematics in UPSR and Penilaian Menengah Rendah (PMR) 2008 still pending approval. Husain, who served in the education sector 35 years, said anwering questions in English for Science and Mathematics in two public examinations is very important in determining the competence and achievement level of student.
“Let us try to imagine if a student who is unable to read, write and count (3M), what will happen to them in the future as Malaysian?
How the Government could act to achieve their desires if the students do not know how to read and understand the art elements? “Hence, UPSR is the greatest examination for the primary students and we should not neglect it. It is a good chance for the students to learn English effectively as well as able to answer questions in English for Science and Mathematics subjects. Besides that, it will generate motivation and moral values among the students,” he pointed out to The Borneo Post. According to him, examination is the most effective method to educate the students to be more responsible, mature and develop a humankind module. “In generating a dynamic humankind module, it should start from education. Each party should act more rationally and be concerned over the children’s academic performance.
“After conducting a study, I suggest that those students who are anwering questions in English for Science and Mathematics subjects starting from next year onwards will be given 10% to 15% bonus marks from their academic results. “The teachers who are teaching Science and Mathematics will be given a one-month basic salary bonus. We are sure to get positive effects from the incentives,” Husain pointed out.
TAWAU:
The Ujian Peperiksaan Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) examination should not only be maintained but the candidates also have to answer the questions for Science and Mathematics subjects in English, said a former school inspector. Haji Husain bin Perumal, who stated this, has expressed shock and regret over a statement that the answering of questions in English for Science and Mathematics in UPSR and Penilaian Menengah Rendah (PMR) 2008 still pending approval. Husain, who served in the education sector 35 years, said anwering questions in English for Science and Mathematics in two public examinations is very important in determining the competence and achievement level of student.
“Let us try to imagine if a student who is unable to read, write and count (3M), what will happen to them in the future as Malaysian?
How the Government could act to achieve their desires if the students do not know how to read and understand the art elements? “Hence, UPSR is the greatest examination for the primary students and we should not neglect it. It is a good chance for the students to learn English effectively as well as able to answer questions in English for Science and Mathematics subjects. Besides that, it will generate motivation and moral values among the students,” he pointed out to The Borneo Post. According to him, examination is the most effective method to educate the students to be more responsible, mature and develop a humankind module. “In generating a dynamic humankind module, it should start from education. Each party should act more rationally and be concerned over the children’s academic performance.
“After conducting a study, I suggest that those students who are anwering questions in English for Science and Mathematics subjects starting from next year onwards will be given 10% to 15% bonus marks from their academic results. “The teachers who are teaching Science and Mathematics will be given a one-month basic salary bonus. We are sure to get positive effects from the incentives,” Husain pointed out.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-Rhinos have quality to move up, says Dragic
Rhinos have quality to move up, says Dragic
KOTA KINABALU:
Premier League outfit Sabah have the quality to gain promotion to the Super League next season, said Dragic Dalidor. He said he was impressed with the existing Sabah squad and the arrival of several players have only further strengthened the team to face the 2007/2008 Malaysian League. “I think we are capable of doing well this season,” said the Bosnia-Herzegovina defender in halting English as chief coach Drago Mamic interpreted for him. “We have good players and a balanced team and what we must do now is work harder. With sheer determination nothing is impossible,” he said. “Having played in the last Malaysia Cup campaign for Sabah, I found out that there is not much different among the teams in Super League and Premier League. “Sabah is a good side… I really hope that we will be able to register good results and get the promotion,” he said, adding that Sabah should be able to end their title drought with the current team. Dragic, a father of 10-year-old son, started his professional career with FC Borac in the Bosnian League. This is a club where he met former Sabah tough tackling defender Veselin Kovacevic. The 35-year-old is expected to play a big part in Sabah defence this season where his experience playing in the UEFA. Championships and stints with some of the European top clubs such as FC Levski Sofia of Bulgaria will be of great help in bringing stability to the backline. Meanwhile, Dragic said he was impressed with several local players that he believes would have no problem plying their trade in Europe. “I believe players like Ejati (Azrul Ejati Damsah), Alif (Radzi Hussin) as well as Zulamri (Muhammad) who have explosive power as well as speed can even play in Europe, but before that they must keep improving in their game,” Dragic said, adding Malaysian football should improve with proper development planning.
KOTA KINABALU:
Premier League outfit Sabah have the quality to gain promotion to the Super League next season, said Dragic Dalidor. He said he was impressed with the existing Sabah squad and the arrival of several players have only further strengthened the team to face the 2007/2008 Malaysian League. “I think we are capable of doing well this season,” said the Bosnia-Herzegovina defender in halting English as chief coach Drago Mamic interpreted for him. “We have good players and a balanced team and what we must do now is work harder. With sheer determination nothing is impossible,” he said. “Having played in the last Malaysia Cup campaign for Sabah, I found out that there is not much different among the teams in Super League and Premier League. “Sabah is a good side… I really hope that we will be able to register good results and get the promotion,” he said, adding that Sabah should be able to end their title drought with the current team. Dragic, a father of 10-year-old son, started his professional career with FC Borac in the Bosnian League. This is a club where he met former Sabah tough tackling defender Veselin Kovacevic. The 35-year-old is expected to play a big part in Sabah defence this season where his experience playing in the UEFA. Championships and stints with some of the European top clubs such as FC Levski Sofia of Bulgaria will be of great help in bringing stability to the backline. Meanwhile, Dragic said he was impressed with several local players that he believes would have no problem plying their trade in Europe. “I believe players like Ejati (Azrul Ejati Damsah), Alif (Radzi Hussin) as well as Zulamri (Muhammad) who have explosive power as well as speed can even play in Europe, but before that they must keep improving in their game,” Dragic said, adding Malaysian football should improve with proper development planning.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-Sabah set for winning start
Sabah set for winning start Rhinos face Armed Forces in opener tonight
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabah are all set to kick start their 2007/2008 Premier League campaign with a bang when they take on Armed Forces (ATM) at the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium tonight. Team Manager Rahman Zakaria believed a winning start would be important in terms of boosting the players’ confidence in facing the challenges ahead of them this season. Rahman said the team have prepared well for the new season under chief coach Drago Mamic. “It is time to show our hard work preparing for the new season will not go down the drain… we are ready for the Premier League as well as the FA Cup and Malaysia Cup,” he said. “We will be playing our first game tomorrow (today) and a victory will be important. “I have confidence in the team to deliver the result as the players are in top shape and the spirit in the team is high… we will be going all out for the maximum points,” he added. Having said that, Rahman was however cautious and reminded the players of complacency against ATM who are no pushovers. “I want to remind here also that all the players will have to fight for their first team places and they are no automatic choice,” he said. “Fighting for first team places should create a healthy competition among the players that would eventually see them giving the best in training and most importantly during matches.
“I believe the coach has his best players to win the match,” he said. Drago has named an 18-member squad for the trip with Irwan Jamil expected to start in goal while Mohd Salawi Jasad, who makes the trip in place of the usual second choice Harold John who is down with fever, is his deputy. The rest of the squad are skipper Rosdin Wasli, Munir Imran, Wong Sai Kong, Zulamri Muhamad, Zuraindey Jumai, Chow Chee Wing, Nafuzi Zain, Zainizam Marjan. Bobby Gonzalez, Salvester Sindeh, Eddie Gapil, Radzi Hussin, Azrul Ejati Damsah and Hardy Parsi as well as foreign imports Dragic Dalibor and Jamie Phoenix. Thirteen teams, including debutants ProtonFC, Felda United FC and the national Under-19 squad, will be competing in the Premier League, which offers two automatic promotion spots to the elite Super League.
The rest of the teams are Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Kelantan, Selangor PKNS, Kuala Muda Naza, Shahzan Muda and KL Plus FC.
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabah are all set to kick start their 2007/2008 Premier League campaign with a bang when they take on Armed Forces (ATM) at the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium tonight. Team Manager Rahman Zakaria believed a winning start would be important in terms of boosting the players’ confidence in facing the challenges ahead of them this season. Rahman said the team have prepared well for the new season under chief coach Drago Mamic. “It is time to show our hard work preparing for the new season will not go down the drain… we are ready for the Premier League as well as the FA Cup and Malaysia Cup,” he said. “We will be playing our first game tomorrow (today) and a victory will be important. “I have confidence in the team to deliver the result as the players are in top shape and the spirit in the team is high… we will be going all out for the maximum points,” he added. Having said that, Rahman was however cautious and reminded the players of complacency against ATM who are no pushovers. “I want to remind here also that all the players will have to fight for their first team places and they are no automatic choice,” he said. “Fighting for first team places should create a healthy competition among the players that would eventually see them giving the best in training and most importantly during matches.
“I believe the coach has his best players to win the match,” he said. Drago has named an 18-member squad for the trip with Irwan Jamil expected to start in goal while Mohd Salawi Jasad, who makes the trip in place of the usual second choice Harold John who is down with fever, is his deputy. The rest of the squad are skipper Rosdin Wasli, Munir Imran, Wong Sai Kong, Zulamri Muhamad, Zuraindey Jumai, Chow Chee Wing, Nafuzi Zain, Zainizam Marjan. Bobby Gonzalez, Salvester Sindeh, Eddie Gapil, Radzi Hussin, Azrul Ejati Damsah and Hardy Parsi as well as foreign imports Dragic Dalibor and Jamie Phoenix. Thirteen teams, including debutants ProtonFC, Felda United FC and the national Under-19 squad, will be competing in the Premier League, which offers two automatic promotion spots to the elite Super League.
The rest of the teams are Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Kelantan, Selangor PKNS, Kuala Muda Naza, Shahzan Muda and KL Plus FC.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-
Family among 35 who pledge to donate organs
KOTA KINABALU: Thirty-five persons, including a family of four, have pledged to donate their organs and tissues. The family from Inanam, Lam Cheng Min, 48, his wife Choi Kui Fong, 43, and their two sons - Lam Huat Kiat, 16, and Lam Hong Kiat, 20, yesterday filled up the organ donor pledge forms after the Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation’s blood and organ donation campaign yesterday. Hong Kiat was one of the 125 people who donated blood at the campaign held at the premises of the Foundation in Likas from 9am to 3pm. “I want to donate my organs as they will be of no use to me when I am dead. It’s better for me to donate my organs to other people to save their lives,” Choi said when asked why she pledged to donate her organs. Her husband said that when a person donated his or her organs and tissues, he or she could save the lives of a number of people. “I would like to encourage people to make a pledge to donate their organs and tissues as it is also the ultimate humanitarian act of charity and benevolence,” Lam said. The couple also encouraged people to donate their blood to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH)’s blood bank. “By donating our blood, we can also save the lives of people,” said the couple who have donated blood 11 times but did not join yesterday’s campaign due to unavoidable reasons.
Brain dead patients can donate
Another organ donor pledger, Chen Mey Chung, a 51 year-old housewife, stressed the same reason for pledging to donate her organs and tissues. Chen said she was encouraged to donate her organs after seeing patients in Likas Hospital suffering from various illnesses such as Thalassaemia and cancer. “When I die, I wish to donate all my organs and tissues as long as they could be used,” Chen said, adding that she also encouraged her husband and her three children to make the same pledge to help other people. Meanwhile, Dr Lily Ng who gave a talk about the organs donation campaign, hoped that more people will make a similar pledge. “All teachings such as Islam, Christianity and Buddhism also encourage us to donate our organs and tissues,” said Lily who is the head of the anaesthesiology and intensive care department in the QEH. Lily also said that many people had died while waiting for organs for transplantation. “Until today, there are a few people who have donated their organs and tissues after their death and we need more organs and tissues for transplantation,” she said, adding the organ donor pledge forms could be obtained from the QEH. Dr Lily also said that if a person who is brain dead but his heart is still beating, his organs and tissues can be donated. If his heart is not beating, only his tissues can be donated. The commonly transplanted organs are kidney, heart, liver, lung and pancreas while the transplantable tissues are eye, bone, skin and heart valves. During the blood donation campaign, the foundation managed to collect 125 pints of blood. According to Connie Cheong, the coordinator of the campaign, 161 people actually turned up to donate their blood but only 36 were not allowed to do so. “We conduct a blood donation campaign once in every three months and our next campaign will be held on March 16, next year,” Connie said. Another 30 pints of blood were collected for the hospital’s blood bank at another blood donation campaign organized by the Che Sui Khor Uplifting Society yesterday.
KOTA KINABALU: Thirty-five persons, including a family of four, have pledged to donate their organs and tissues. The family from Inanam, Lam Cheng Min, 48, his wife Choi Kui Fong, 43, and their two sons - Lam Huat Kiat, 16, and Lam Hong Kiat, 20, yesterday filled up the organ donor pledge forms after the Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation’s blood and organ donation campaign yesterday. Hong Kiat was one of the 125 people who donated blood at the campaign held at the premises of the Foundation in Likas from 9am to 3pm. “I want to donate my organs as they will be of no use to me when I am dead. It’s better for me to donate my organs to other people to save their lives,” Choi said when asked why she pledged to donate her organs. Her husband said that when a person donated his or her organs and tissues, he or she could save the lives of a number of people. “I would like to encourage people to make a pledge to donate their organs and tissues as it is also the ultimate humanitarian act of charity and benevolence,” Lam said. The couple also encouraged people to donate their blood to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH)’s blood bank. “By donating our blood, we can also save the lives of people,” said the couple who have donated blood 11 times but did not join yesterday’s campaign due to unavoidable reasons.
Brain dead patients can donate
Another organ donor pledger, Chen Mey Chung, a 51 year-old housewife, stressed the same reason for pledging to donate her organs and tissues. Chen said she was encouraged to donate her organs after seeing patients in Likas Hospital suffering from various illnesses such as Thalassaemia and cancer. “When I die, I wish to donate all my organs and tissues as long as they could be used,” Chen said, adding that she also encouraged her husband and her three children to make the same pledge to help other people. Meanwhile, Dr Lily Ng who gave a talk about the organs donation campaign, hoped that more people will make a similar pledge. “All teachings such as Islam, Christianity and Buddhism also encourage us to donate our organs and tissues,” said Lily who is the head of the anaesthesiology and intensive care department in the QEH. Lily also said that many people had died while waiting for organs for transplantation. “Until today, there are a few people who have donated their organs and tissues after their death and we need more organs and tissues for transplantation,” she said, adding the organ donor pledge forms could be obtained from the QEH. Dr Lily also said that if a person who is brain dead but his heart is still beating, his organs and tissues can be donated. If his heart is not beating, only his tissues can be donated. The commonly transplanted organs are kidney, heart, liver, lung and pancreas while the transplantable tissues are eye, bone, skin and heart valves. During the blood donation campaign, the foundation managed to collect 125 pints of blood. According to Connie Cheong, the coordinator of the campaign, 161 people actually turned up to donate their blood but only 36 were not allowed to do so. “We conduct a blood donation campaign once in every three months and our next campaign will be held on March 16, next year,” Connie said. Another 30 pints of blood were collected for the hospital’s blood bank at another blood donation campaign organized by the Che Sui Khor Uplifting Society yesterday.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-Vandals lack religious, moral education: Mayor
Vandals lack religious, moral education: Mayor
KOTA KINABALU:
Parents have been urged to provide religious and moral education to their children as most of the youths involved in vandalism are those who lack in religious and moral upbringing. Mayor Datuk Iliyas Ibrahim pointed this out yesterday when officiating the closing and prize presentation ceremony of a campaign to clean up graffiti in the city. “Members of the community should be more concerned and responsible when they witness any vandalism activities in their area. They should lodge complaints to the authorities concerned and not just keep quiet,” he said, adding most of the vandals were youths. According to the Mayor, the Government has to come out with a substantial amount of money every year to repair the public facilities damaged by vandals. These funds could be channelled for better use to improve the living standard of the city folks. “The community cannot use the public facilities that are damaged. The image of our city is also damaged and this will give a negative image to the foreign visitors and affect the tourism sector of our State,” he added. He also said the campaign was aimed at instilling a sense of responsibility among the younger generation on the need to protect public amenities and to get more City Friend members to play an active roles against vandalism. Iliyas also disclosed that the local authorities, including the Kota Kinabalu City Hall, are empowered to fine vandals up to a maximum of RM2,000. Those found guilty can also be jailed. Over 200 people divided into nine groups, including City Friend members, cleaned up the graffiti in the city areas from 7.3Oam to lOam yesterday. Among the areas they covered were Sembulan, Tanjung Aru, Kepayan, Luyang, Menggatal, Inanam, Telipok, Likas and the City centre.
Representatives from Government agencies and nongovernmental organizations; including Telekom Malaysia and Sabah Electricity Sdñ Bhd, also participated in the symbolic event. Rakan Muda Kolej Yayasan Sabah, which was chosen as the best group, received an appreciation certificate and RM500 cash while Tamnan Kemajuan Likas which sent 75 members, received a special award for having the most number of participants. The main sponsor for the event, Nippon Paint Sabah, donated 100 litres of paint worth RM3,000 to paint the walls and surfaces which were vandalised with graffiti.
KOTA KINABALU:
Parents have been urged to provide religious and moral education to their children as most of the youths involved in vandalism are those who lack in religious and moral upbringing. Mayor Datuk Iliyas Ibrahim pointed this out yesterday when officiating the closing and prize presentation ceremony of a campaign to clean up graffiti in the city. “Members of the community should be more concerned and responsible when they witness any vandalism activities in their area. They should lodge complaints to the authorities concerned and not just keep quiet,” he said, adding most of the vandals were youths. According to the Mayor, the Government has to come out with a substantial amount of money every year to repair the public facilities damaged by vandals. These funds could be channelled for better use to improve the living standard of the city folks. “The community cannot use the public facilities that are damaged. The image of our city is also damaged and this will give a negative image to the foreign visitors and affect the tourism sector of our State,” he added. He also said the campaign was aimed at instilling a sense of responsibility among the younger generation on the need to protect public amenities and to get more City Friend members to play an active roles against vandalism. Iliyas also disclosed that the local authorities, including the Kota Kinabalu City Hall, are empowered to fine vandals up to a maximum of RM2,000. Those found guilty can also be jailed. Over 200 people divided into nine groups, including City Friend members, cleaned up the graffiti in the city areas from 7.3Oam to lOam yesterday. Among the areas they covered were Sembulan, Tanjung Aru, Kepayan, Luyang, Menggatal, Inanam, Telipok, Likas and the City centre.
Representatives from Government agencies and nongovernmental organizations; including Telekom Malaysia and Sabah Electricity Sdñ Bhd, also participated in the symbolic event. Rakan Muda Kolej Yayasan Sabah, which was chosen as the best group, received an appreciation certificate and RM500 cash while Tamnan Kemajuan Likas which sent 75 members, received a special award for having the most number of participants. The main sponsor for the event, Nippon Paint Sabah, donated 100 litres of paint worth RM3,000 to paint the walls and surfaces which were vandalised with graffiti.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-City Hall urged to look into claim against City Bus drivers
City Hall urged to look into claim against City Bus drivers
KOTA KINABALU:
The Sabah Bumiputera Bus Operators Association (PPBBS) has urged the City Hall to look into the allegation that City Bus drivers have been using the car park lots near the Bank Negara building to wait for passengers. Its information chief, Abdul Rahman Piut, yesterday many bus operators from Sepanggar had voiced their dissatisfaction over the alleged action by the City Bus drivers, saying it is unfair as bus operators are not allowed to wait for passengers anywhere in the City except at the main bus terminal near Wawasan Plaza. “If this is what is happening the City Hall should act promptly and consider relocating the rest bay to a more suitable area,” he said in a statement here yesterday. Rahman said they were made to understand that the lot next to KK Plaza was meant for City Bus drivers to park their buses during their rest hours. An operator providing services between the City and Sepanggar last Friday complained that City Bus had taken advantage of the area and used it as a terminal to wait and pick up passengers. Former policeman Ribin Bidong urged the authorities, including the City Hall and traffic police, to be fair to other bus operators and take due action against the City Bus drivers. The one-page statement said bus operators in the City often voiced their grouses to the related authorities, including by writing through the association.
KOTA KINABALU:
The Sabah Bumiputera Bus Operators Association (PPBBS) has urged the City Hall to look into the allegation that City Bus drivers have been using the car park lots near the Bank Negara building to wait for passengers. Its information chief, Abdul Rahman Piut, yesterday many bus operators from Sepanggar had voiced their dissatisfaction over the alleged action by the City Bus drivers, saying it is unfair as bus operators are not allowed to wait for passengers anywhere in the City except at the main bus terminal near Wawasan Plaza. “If this is what is happening the City Hall should act promptly and consider relocating the rest bay to a more suitable area,” he said in a statement here yesterday. Rahman said they were made to understand that the lot next to KK Plaza was meant for City Bus drivers to park their buses during their rest hours. An operator providing services between the City and Sepanggar last Friday complained that City Bus had taken advantage of the area and used it as a terminal to wait and pick up passengers. Former policeman Ribin Bidong urged the authorities, including the City Hall and traffic police, to be fair to other bus operators and take due action against the City Bus drivers. The one-page statement said bus operators in the City often voiced their grouses to the related authorities, including by writing through the association.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-Death of woman: Man detained for investigation
Death of woman: Man detained for investigation
TUARAN:
Police have detained a 21-year-old man to facilitate investigation into the murder of an elderly woman in Kampung Raganan here last week. The suspect, a local from Kampung Kiwato, Topokon, Tamparuli was found hiding in an empty house about 100 metres from the scene of the crime. He was picked up by police about 3pm on Saturday. A police spokesperson said police received information that a suspicious character was seen hiding in the ceiling of the abandoned house. The spokesperson added that a team of police personnel was sent to investigate and found the suspect hiding in the house. He did not resist arrest. In the incident last week, Tebah Angkat, 67, was found dead with a belt around her neck about 9pm.
Tebah was staying with her 18-year- old grandson who was also detained to facilitate investigations into the woman’s death. The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code and police have yet to determine the motive of the murder.
TUARAN:
Police have detained a 21-year-old man to facilitate investigation into the murder of an elderly woman in Kampung Raganan here last week. The suspect, a local from Kampung Kiwato, Topokon, Tamparuli was found hiding in an empty house about 100 metres from the scene of the crime. He was picked up by police about 3pm on Saturday. A police spokesperson said police received information that a suspicious character was seen hiding in the ceiling of the abandoned house. The spokesperson added that a team of police personnel was sent to investigate and found the suspect hiding in the house. He did not resist arrest. In the incident last week, Tebah Angkat, 67, was found dead with a belt around her neck about 9pm.
Tebah was staying with her 18-year- old grandson who was also detained to facilitate investigations into the woman’s death. The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code and police have yet to determine the motive of the murder.
MONDAY-17TH DECEMBER 2007-Upko Shah Alam launching postponed
Upko Shah Alam launching postponed
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabahans in Peninsular Malaysia will have to wait a little longer for the formalisation of the Upko Shah Alam Division. Upko Secretary General Datuk Wilfred Madius Tangau said he received an early morning call yesterday about the latest turn of event. “We are all set. Our president Tan Sri Bernard Dompok is ready. A group of us from Sabah are to fly to Kuala Lumpur either today or tomorrow morning. Then the protern chief Jorius Rendie told us of the postponement,” he said. Rendie said they have to delay the soft launching due to unforeseen circumstances, adding: “My committee had been very excited and anxiously await the scheduled big do for us on Monday. Sad though it might be, we have decided to postpone it until further notice.” The businessman apologized for the eleventh hour decision, and assured that the division would definitely be launched not too long from now.
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabahans in Peninsular Malaysia will have to wait a little longer for the formalisation of the Upko Shah Alam Division. Upko Secretary General Datuk Wilfred Madius Tangau said he received an early morning call yesterday about the latest turn of event. “We are all set. Our president Tan Sri Bernard Dompok is ready. A group of us from Sabah are to fly to Kuala Lumpur either today or tomorrow morning. Then the protern chief Jorius Rendie told us of the postponement,” he said. Rendie said they have to delay the soft launching due to unforeseen circumstances, adding: “My committee had been very excited and anxiously await the scheduled big do for us on Monday. Sad though it might be, we have decided to postpone it until further notice.” The businessman apologized for the eleventh hour decision, and assured that the division would definitely be launched not too long from now.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
