Road to Taman Inanam Laut needs streetlights
A resident of Taman Inanam Laut in Inanam has called for streetlights along the road to the residential area.
Jasni told Public Hotline that due to the lack of lights at the area, those using the road, especially pedestrians at night, are feeling insecure and motorists could not see the road properly.
Jasni, who moved there six months ago, said that he almost hit a pedestrian one night due to the dark stretch.
“The authorities have to look into the matter urgently as it concerns public safety. A few days ago, I almost knocked down a pedestrian when he was trying to cross the road,” he said.
“Taman Inanam Laut is not in a rural area, so the question of not having streetlights should not arise. According to one of my friends who also resides here, the matter has been brought to the attention of the relevant authorities, but until now no action has been taken,” claimed Jasni.
Public Hotline was informed that the matter is under the jurisdiction of Kota Kinabalu City Hall.
Its Public Complaint Unit head, Mr Laudin Zaman, urged the residents who wish to have streetlights in the area to send in an application letter to City Hall.
“The residents there must send an application to the Mayor. In their letter, they should mention the reason why they make the application. The letter must contain the signatures of the residents in the area to support their application,” he said.
“The application letter will be considered by City Hall and if there is enough allocation for this year, the streetlights will be put up,” he added.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
SATURDAY-1ST DECEMBER 2007-2.02 MIL FOREIGN WORKERS;MANY MORE COMING
KOTA KINABALU:
The implementation of development corridor project is expected to lead to a significant increase in the number of foreign workers in the country, said Immigration Director General Datuk Wahid Md Don.
Wahid said there are currently 2.02 million foreigners working in various sectors in Malaysia and the figure will escalate once the development corridor is launched.
He however assured that his department is aware and fully prepared to face the greater challenges awaiting them.
He said with more foreign workers coming in, the department’s task to monitor their entry would not only become more difficult but also more significant, as it is vital to ensure safety is maintained and the investors remain confident.
To ensure the government development programme is carried out smoothly, the department must also make sure that problems will not lead to a shortage of workers.
In this regard, he said the department officers and staff need to be not only efficient and fast but also thorough in doing their job.
For example, he said, the issuance of identification documents to foreign workers as well as the Immigration I-Card to expatriates must be done as fast as possible to avoid any difficulties or delays in the project implementation.
“The Immigration not only needs to carry out their responsibility in ensuring safety but also to provide customer-friendly services and not to make it difficult for the investors,” he said.
The actual number of foreign workers needed for the development corridor will depend on the study to be conducted by a committee on foreign workers in the Cabinet, said Wahid.
“The study will be conducted by Human Resource Ministry, in which the Immigration Department will act as one of its pilot committees,” he said after officiating the Immigration Day 2007 at the Federal Administration Complex in Jalan Sulaman yesterday.
The event also saw the department launching its Passport Kiosk which enables the public to renew their international passports without having to go through service counter.
Wahid said that apart from reducing congestion at the service counter, the new services provided through the kiosk are meant to enhance the delivery system and ensure much more convenience for the customers.
He said the use of the new services has been tested and proven successful after two of such kiosks were introduced in the federal capital two years ago.
On average, 200 passport holders use the kiosks daily, he said.
In addition to Kota Kinabalu, four other kiosks, two in Johor and one each in Pulau Pinang and Perak were launched yesterday.
Also present at the event were Federal Secretary Datuk Ismail Wadin and State Immigration Director Datuk Baharon Talib.
The implementation of development corridor project is expected to lead to a significant increase in the number of foreign workers in the country, said Immigration Director General Datuk Wahid Md Don.
Wahid said there are currently 2.02 million foreigners working in various sectors in Malaysia and the figure will escalate once the development corridor is launched.
He however assured that his department is aware and fully prepared to face the greater challenges awaiting them.
He said with more foreign workers coming in, the department’s task to monitor their entry would not only become more difficult but also more significant, as it is vital to ensure safety is maintained and the investors remain confident.
To ensure the government development programme is carried out smoothly, the department must also make sure that problems will not lead to a shortage of workers.
In this regard, he said the department officers and staff need to be not only efficient and fast but also thorough in doing their job.
For example, he said, the issuance of identification documents to foreign workers as well as the Immigration I-Card to expatriates must be done as fast as possible to avoid any difficulties or delays in the project implementation.
“The Immigration not only needs to carry out their responsibility in ensuring safety but also to provide customer-friendly services and not to make it difficult for the investors,” he said.
The actual number of foreign workers needed for the development corridor will depend on the study to be conducted by a committee on foreign workers in the Cabinet, said Wahid.
“The study will be conducted by Human Resource Ministry, in which the Immigration Department will act as one of its pilot committees,” he said after officiating the Immigration Day 2007 at the Federal Administration Complex in Jalan Sulaman yesterday.
The event also saw the department launching its Passport Kiosk which enables the public to renew their international passports without having to go through service counter.
Wahid said that apart from reducing congestion at the service counter, the new services provided through the kiosk are meant to enhance the delivery system and ensure much more convenience for the customers.
He said the use of the new services has been tested and proven successful after two of such kiosks were introduced in the federal capital two years ago.
On average, 200 passport holders use the kiosks daily, he said.
In addition to Kota Kinabalu, four other kiosks, two in Johor and one each in Pulau Pinang and Perak were launched yesterday.
Also present at the event were Federal Secretary Datuk Ismail Wadin and State Immigration Director Datuk Baharon Talib.
SATURDAY-1ST DECEMBER 2007-PROPERTY GOOD TO INVEST NOW
PROPERTY GOOD TO INVEST NOW
PENAMPANG:
December looks to be a prime period for investing in ready-built or upcoming property in Sabah as prices are projected to rise in the near future, according to a developer said.
Wah Mie Group director Ben Kong Chung Vui said property prices in general are expected to go up as much as 15 percent due to the increased cost of construction, hence it would be a good idea to invest in ongoing projects.
“Just last week the cost of steel bars went up by RMI 50 and we expect another round of increase in steel bar prices in January,” he told a press conference for the Visit and Win grand lucky draw at the Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (Shareda) office in Bundusan near here, yesterday.
“We also have to take into account the high oil prices which are expected to go up, and also the fact that transportation cost in Sabah is probably the highest in Malaysia ... all this put together constitutes a hike in property prices.
“The price increase will affect properties across the board, so if a purchase is made on any ongoing project, you are sure to gain positively,” he said.
Shareda Propex ‘07 organising chairman Francis Goh noted that there is a reasonable level of awareness among the public on property value appreciation, based on the feedback they received from visitors at the three-day exhibition at the Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex multi-purpose hall last weekend.
“We interviewed a few of the visitors and learned that they are interested in getting property because they believe the value will appreciate further,” he said, adding that doublestorey terrace houses maintained its position as the top-selling property at the exhibition.
Goh said the Shareda Propex ‘07 was a rousing success with some 20,000 people visiting the exhibition, dubbed the “Sabah Ultimate Home and Property Exhibition”.
“We matched the crowd volume that we attracted last year when we held it at Centre Point, but we must bear in mind that probably 30 percent of the visitors last year were incidental.
“We are currently unable to give any sales figures for this year but I can say that we had very good sales. The reason why we haven’t compiled all the figures is because several of our participants have asked for a three-week extension s they can close potential deals. We will probably only
be able to announce the results in January next year,” he said.
Goh however expressed his disappointment at the lack of participation in the exhibition from Semenanjung Malaysia-based developers who have invested into property development here.
“The market for commercial and retail property is there as we can see from the good response for Suria Sabah ... they managed to get 168 potential sales and because they were the only participants from the retail property they took the entire cake.
“In Kuala Lumpur there may be too many exhibitions but the Propex is definitely unique. Sixty percent of the participants comprised developers and that shows that this is an exhibition for the developers.
“I hope in future they will decide to join us as next time we hope to increase the number of booths and host the Propex at a better venue,” he said.
Goh added that Shareda are planning to include the Sabah Tourism Board and the Local Government and Housing Ministry as core members of the organising committee for future Propex.
PENAMPANG:
December looks to be a prime period for investing in ready-built or upcoming property in Sabah as prices are projected to rise in the near future, according to a developer said.
Wah Mie Group director Ben Kong Chung Vui said property prices in general are expected to go up as much as 15 percent due to the increased cost of construction, hence it would be a good idea to invest in ongoing projects.
“Just last week the cost of steel bars went up by RMI 50 and we expect another round of increase in steel bar prices in January,” he told a press conference for the Visit and Win grand lucky draw at the Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (Shareda) office in Bundusan near here, yesterday.
“We also have to take into account the high oil prices which are expected to go up, and also the fact that transportation cost in Sabah is probably the highest in Malaysia ... all this put together constitutes a hike in property prices.
“The price increase will affect properties across the board, so if a purchase is made on any ongoing project, you are sure to gain positively,” he said.
Shareda Propex ‘07 organising chairman Francis Goh noted that there is a reasonable level of awareness among the public on property value appreciation, based on the feedback they received from visitors at the three-day exhibition at the Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex multi-purpose hall last weekend.
“We interviewed a few of the visitors and learned that they are interested in getting property because they believe the value will appreciate further,” he said, adding that doublestorey terrace houses maintained its position as the top-selling property at the exhibition.
Goh said the Shareda Propex ‘07 was a rousing success with some 20,000 people visiting the exhibition, dubbed the “Sabah Ultimate Home and Property Exhibition”.
“We matched the crowd volume that we attracted last year when we held it at Centre Point, but we must bear in mind that probably 30 percent of the visitors last year were incidental.
“We are currently unable to give any sales figures for this year but I can say that we had very good sales. The reason why we haven’t compiled all the figures is because several of our participants have asked for a three-week extension s they can close potential deals. We will probably only
be able to announce the results in January next year,” he said.
Goh however expressed his disappointment at the lack of participation in the exhibition from Semenanjung Malaysia-based developers who have invested into property development here.
“The market for commercial and retail property is there as we can see from the good response for Suria Sabah ... they managed to get 168 potential sales and because they were the only participants from the retail property they took the entire cake.
“In Kuala Lumpur there may be too many exhibitions but the Propex is definitely unique. Sixty percent of the participants comprised developers and that shows that this is an exhibition for the developers.
“I hope in future they will decide to join us as next time we hope to increase the number of booths and host the Propex at a better venue,” he said.
Goh added that Shareda are planning to include the Sabah Tourism Board and the Local Government and Housing Ministry as core members of the organising committee for future Propex.
SATURDAY-1ST DECEMBER 2007-SANDAKAN COPS MONITORING ACTIVITIES OF STUDENTS
Sandakan cops monitoring
activities of students
They are believed to be involved in unhealthy activities and playing traunt
SANDAKAN:
Police are monitoring a group of students who have been playing truant and said to be involved in unhealthy activities at the Taman Fajar area at Mile 7 here.
OCPD ACP Rosli Mohd Isa said this when responding to a question raised by the head of the Taman Fajar Rukun Tetangga, Otoh Sibik, during a dialogue and meet-the-community session at the district police headquarters yesterday.
“We have obtained information and are looking into it although we have not received any official report,” he said and assured that the police were doing everything they could and would take the necessary action to address the problem.
He urged the parents to monitor their children’s activities and give their full cooperation to the police in tackling issues concerning their children.
Otoh disclosed that he had received information about these students and was concerned over the negative influence they had on other youths in schools in the neighbourhood.
Elopura People Development Leader Chan Tzun Hei highlighted the complaints from residents of Taman Mesra and Sri Taman who were disturbed by the noise created by youths playing guitars at the
two housing areas in the evening.
“If the disturbances persisted beyond midnight, residents can contact the police at 089 21 2222 and our patrol car will be despatched to check on the complaints,” Rosli said.
Touching on the crime situation in the district for the first 10 months of this year, Rosli said theft cases recorded the highest at 42.81 percent, night housebreaking 12.87 percent and daylight housebreaking 9.28 percent.
“Other cases are not that alarming while the few robberies reported recently have been solved with the arrest of several suspects from outside Sandakan (Penampang),” he added.
“The theft cases included the stealing of telecommunication and electricity cables. We view such offences seriously as they have an impact on the economy of Sandakan,” he said.
Rosli explained these cases were committed mostly by drug addicts who turned to crime to get financial means to support their ‘habit’.
According to him, a special committee comprising the police, Telekom Malaysia Berhad, Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd and Water Department has been formed to tackle the issue.
He called on members of the public to notify the relevant authorities in the event of a supply disruption or contact the police if they see the presence of suspicious characters in the neighbourhood.
Rosli said while police have put in place a series of crime prevention measures, the cooperation between the public and the police is vital to combat crime in the district.
Also present were Elopura Assemblyman Au Kam Wah, acting deputy OCPD DSP Ooi Guan Siew, People Development Leaders from the various constituencies in Sandakan and community leaders.
activities of students
They are believed to be involved in unhealthy activities and playing traunt
SANDAKAN:
Police are monitoring a group of students who have been playing truant and said to be involved in unhealthy activities at the Taman Fajar area at Mile 7 here.
OCPD ACP Rosli Mohd Isa said this when responding to a question raised by the head of the Taman Fajar Rukun Tetangga, Otoh Sibik, during a dialogue and meet-the-community session at the district police headquarters yesterday.
“We have obtained information and are looking into it although we have not received any official report,” he said and assured that the police were doing everything they could and would take the necessary action to address the problem.
He urged the parents to monitor their children’s activities and give their full cooperation to the police in tackling issues concerning their children.
Otoh disclosed that he had received information about these students and was concerned over the negative influence they had on other youths in schools in the neighbourhood.
Elopura People Development Leader Chan Tzun Hei highlighted the complaints from residents of Taman Mesra and Sri Taman who were disturbed by the noise created by youths playing guitars at the
two housing areas in the evening.
“If the disturbances persisted beyond midnight, residents can contact the police at 089 21 2222 and our patrol car will be despatched to check on the complaints,” Rosli said.
Touching on the crime situation in the district for the first 10 months of this year, Rosli said theft cases recorded the highest at 42.81 percent, night housebreaking 12.87 percent and daylight housebreaking 9.28 percent.
“Other cases are not that alarming while the few robberies reported recently have been solved with the arrest of several suspects from outside Sandakan (Penampang),” he added.
“The theft cases included the stealing of telecommunication and electricity cables. We view such offences seriously as they have an impact on the economy of Sandakan,” he said.
Rosli explained these cases were committed mostly by drug addicts who turned to crime to get financial means to support their ‘habit’.
According to him, a special committee comprising the police, Telekom Malaysia Berhad, Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd and Water Department has been formed to tackle the issue.
He called on members of the public to notify the relevant authorities in the event of a supply disruption or contact the police if they see the presence of suspicious characters in the neighbourhood.
Rosli said while police have put in place a series of crime prevention measures, the cooperation between the public and the police is vital to combat crime in the district.
Also present were Elopura Assemblyman Au Kam Wah, acting deputy OCPD DSP Ooi Guan Siew, People Development Leaders from the various constituencies in Sandakan and community leaders.
Friday, November 30, 2007
FRIDAY-30TH NOVEMBER 2007-YEE:SITE EARMARKED FOR MSC CYBER CENTRE
Yee: Site earmarked for MSC Cyber Centre
KOTA KINABALU:
A land area within the State Capital has been earmarked for setting up of the First MSC Cyber Centre in Sabah in line with the Government’s initiative to develop the Sabah Development Corridor. Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai said that this showed that the State Government recognises the potentials of information communication and technology (ICT) in political and socioeconomic transformation. As Sabah strides to the next phase of ICT development, he urged the private sector to render their fullest support in ensuring the success of such initiatives, which eventually will benefit the industry as a whole. At the same time, Yee reckoned that institutions of higher learning and research organisations should play their role accordingly as well. “I am serious about the tripartite university-industry-Government tie-up and I am prepared to study any proposal to that effect,” he said when launching the first Regional Conference on Computational Science and Technologies at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort here yesterday. Yee said beginning next year, his ministry will embark further ICT development in the State, which will enhance the public sector operations, with efforts in bridging the digital divide. “We will focus more on development of ICT as a strategic industry contributing to the creation of a k-economy, while at the same time, enhancing the efforts to transform public sector operations and bridge the digital gap,” he said. Yee said that his ministry will work closely with the relevant Federal agencies in bringing about this development. Towards this end, he said the State Government had established the Sabah Information Technology Council in 1996 to spearhead ICT development, and the vision is to acknowledge society encompassing the people, business, NGOs and the Government, interacting with each other. “The key here is the ability to interact among all levels of society. ICT is the key enabling and strategic tool to turn this vision into reality,” he said Dr Yee said there are two major dominions, namely the e-government to enhancing service delivery, where services are brought to the people and not the other way round, and secondly, the k-society is bridging the digital divide, enabling ubiquitous and equal access by all. “No one should be left behind in the digital revolution lest the gap of digital poverty widens,” he added. He said the main factors of production in the knowledge are namely the people, content and infrastructure. They are the building blocks of k-society. “Among the three, the most important of all is the people. People innovate and create and not machines which are mere tools that help the people,” he added. Yee said they are needed to equip the people with necessary knowledge and skills to use and access to such services. Hence, he said e-Desa centres, places where the people can have access to the net, will continue to be built in un-served or under served areas. He said by the end of the year four more e-Desa centres will be in place, bringing the total to ten. An additional 16 will be built over the next few years, catering specifically to the rural folks. “At the same time, training of the masses in increasing IC literacy will continue to be featured. This is because demand has far outstripped supply,” he added. He said thus far, 21,000 people from all walks of life, including teachers, orphans, women, youth and elderly have benefited from the programme initiated since 2005. “All these efforts are to ensure that digital poverty will not become an issue in the future,” he added. According to Yee, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and learning are strategic sectors identified for intensive ICT development, and as a result, the MSC Cyber Centre will serve as a catalyst for value creation and economic generation. He said his ministry will also capitalise on the national broadband roll-out plan, which targets to have a nationwide broadband penetration rate of 5 percent by 2010. Broadband is a critical part accessibility. Only with accessibility can people utilise the systems and deliver services to the people. On the conference, Yee said it served as a platform for researchers, practitioners and graduate research students to share and publicise their findings, with the hope that they will benefit the industries. About 85 participants from Japan, India, Poland, Czech Republic and Malaysia participated in the conference.
FRIDAY-30TH NOVEMBER 2007-SAWIT KINABALU TO FURTHER IMPROVE ITS PERFORMANCE
Sawit Kinabalu to further improve its performance
KOTA KINABALU:
Sawit Kinabalu State Government Group of companies with the support from the State Government, will continue to implement appropriate strategies to further improve its performance to enhance its productivity, quality and efficiency to boost its profitability.
On a longer term, the company will continue to strive for sustained profitability and growth through implementing its replanting programme and continue looking for new land either through joint venture or acquisition.
Its Group Managing Director, Salim Mohammad, disclosed this after presenting a mock cheque of RM2O million being loan payment to the State Government, to Finance Ministry permanent secretary Datuk Hj Yussof Datuk Hj Mohd Kassim.
Similarly, he said Sawit Kinabalu would continue its diversification activities in the following business areas, namely development and, marketing of Sandakan Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC), further improving the refinery complex and production of animal feed as a value add to its cattle business.
With these strategies, Sawit Kinabalu will be able to achieve its corporate objectives and will be in the position to further contribute to the State’s coffers.
Salim further emphasized that the strength of Sawit Group lies in its highly dedicated and committed people within the company.
He also said that the continuous support from the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, who is the chairman of the company and various stakeholders, has enabled the company to achieve its expansion and profitability. The total loan repayment to date by the Group is RM360 million since its corporatisation in 1996, leaving an outstanding balance of RM6O million. Salim said with the favourable palm oil price, Sawit Kinabalu achieved a profit before tax of RM212 million for the period of 10 months and is expected to earn an estimated profit of RM250 million for the year.
With this good profit, Sawit Kinabalu is able to pay the loan payment of RM2O million. Musa, who witnessed the check presentation, thanked Sawit Kinabalu for the RM2O million loan repayment and congratulated the management and staff for recording a handsome profit for the fiscal year 2007.
He said that this proved that any Government-linked companies (GLCs) like Sawit Kinabalu can be successful if properly managed. He is hopeful and confident that Sawit Kinabalu is well positioned to become one of the premier GLCs of Sabah befitting its status as a premier investment arm of the State. In line with the development agenda of the State’s Halatuju and forthcoming launching of Sabah Development Corridor, the Chief Minister said that the Government had identified the oil palm industry as one of the key economic sectors contributing to the prosperity of the State. For instance, the recent implementation of the POICs in Sandakan and Lahad Datu is a clear testimony of the Government’s seriousness in the development of the State’s oil palm industry, which will ultimately benefit the rakyat and the State as a whole. Already seen as Malaysia’s largest palm oil producer, Sabah will soon become the nation’s hub for oil palm related activities.
KOTA KINABALU:
Sawit Kinabalu State Government Group of companies with the support from the State Government, will continue to implement appropriate strategies to further improve its performance to enhance its productivity, quality and efficiency to boost its profitability.
On a longer term, the company will continue to strive for sustained profitability and growth through implementing its replanting programme and continue looking for new land either through joint venture or acquisition.
Its Group Managing Director, Salim Mohammad, disclosed this after presenting a mock cheque of RM2O million being loan payment to the State Government, to Finance Ministry permanent secretary Datuk Hj Yussof Datuk Hj Mohd Kassim.
Similarly, he said Sawit Kinabalu would continue its diversification activities in the following business areas, namely development and, marketing of Sandakan Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC), further improving the refinery complex and production of animal feed as a value add to its cattle business.
With these strategies, Sawit Kinabalu will be able to achieve its corporate objectives and will be in the position to further contribute to the State’s coffers.
Salim further emphasized that the strength of Sawit Group lies in its highly dedicated and committed people within the company.
He also said that the continuous support from the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, who is the chairman of the company and various stakeholders, has enabled the company to achieve its expansion and profitability. The total loan repayment to date by the Group is RM360 million since its corporatisation in 1996, leaving an outstanding balance of RM6O million. Salim said with the favourable palm oil price, Sawit Kinabalu achieved a profit before tax of RM212 million for the period of 10 months and is expected to earn an estimated profit of RM250 million for the year.
With this good profit, Sawit Kinabalu is able to pay the loan payment of RM2O million. Musa, who witnessed the check presentation, thanked Sawit Kinabalu for the RM2O million loan repayment and congratulated the management and staff for recording a handsome profit for the fiscal year 2007.
He said that this proved that any Government-linked companies (GLCs) like Sawit Kinabalu can be successful if properly managed. He is hopeful and confident that Sawit Kinabalu is well positioned to become one of the premier GLCs of Sabah befitting its status as a premier investment arm of the State. In line with the development agenda of the State’s Halatuju and forthcoming launching of Sabah Development Corridor, the Chief Minister said that the Government had identified the oil palm industry as one of the key economic sectors contributing to the prosperity of the State. For instance, the recent implementation of the POICs in Sandakan and Lahad Datu is a clear testimony of the Government’s seriousness in the development of the State’s oil palm industry, which will ultimately benefit the rakyat and the State as a whole. Already seen as Malaysia’s largest palm oil producer, Sabah will soon become the nation’s hub for oil palm related activities.
FRIDAY-30TH NOVEMBER 2007-FINGERSTYLE GUITARISTS GIVE FIRST BEACH CAFE PATRONS SPECIAL TREAT
Fingerstyle guitarists give First Beach Cafe patrons special treat
KOTA KINABALU:
Patrons at Tanjung Aru’s First Beach Cafe were given a special treat on Wednesday night as they got up close and personal with fingerstyle guitarists Scotsman John Goldie and local star Roger Wang.
In a one-off performance that lasted a couple of hours, the crowd were brought on a joyride of catchy and mostly recognisable tunes that got their feet tapping and heads bobbing.
Goldie was making a brief stop-over before making his way to the Penang Jazz Festival this weekend and later to the Malaysian Guitar Festival in December, on an Asian tour with acoustic guitar amplification specialists AER.
A self-professed freestyler, the affable Scotsman described his sound as “feelings”, which have a “hopefully musical” interpretation to the crowd.
“I never wanted to play just one style. At the time I switched to acoustic I was getting fed up with the electric and for a long time I was playing predominantly rock music,” he said.
“I guess I do have a bit of a jazzy sound but that’s only because I have been playing a lot of jazz when I was in the United States.
I find it more enjoyable to play a variety of music like pop, some old hits ... I hope to appeal to a large group of people.”
Wang, who knew Goldie when he was playing on the European guitar circuit, stressed the need for more events such as Wednesday night’s performance to spur local talents to come out in the open.
“There is no doubt there is talent in the market. We need venues that are open to the idea of giving them a chance and to be fair to them instead of taking advantage of them so eventually we can get more locals to get seriously into music.
“As the city grows, there will definitely be more people who will have specific tastes, so there is room for more venues to specialise. It will be difficult to fit in an acoustic set and suddenly have 70’s rock ... the crowd wouldn’t know what to expect,” he said.
Wang meanwhile is keeping his schedule to a minimum for the Christmas holiday season to make time for his wife and eight-month-old daughter.
“Having a family makes leaving home harder. My wife can’t follow me on tour anymore. Then there’s added pressure to bring home the bacon... but it’s a good feeling, it makes me feel complete,” he said.
The acclaimed guitarist however will participate in the Malaysian Guitar Festival and perform at the Christmas Carnival, while at the same time planning a collaboration with Mr Gambus, Farid Ali to cut a tribute album of songs by the late Tan Sri P Ramlee.
KOTA KINABALU:
Patrons at Tanjung Aru’s First Beach Cafe were given a special treat on Wednesday night as they got up close and personal with fingerstyle guitarists Scotsman John Goldie and local star Roger Wang.
In a one-off performance that lasted a couple of hours, the crowd were brought on a joyride of catchy and mostly recognisable tunes that got their feet tapping and heads bobbing.
Goldie was making a brief stop-over before making his way to the Penang Jazz Festival this weekend and later to the Malaysian Guitar Festival in December, on an Asian tour with acoustic guitar amplification specialists AER.
A self-professed freestyler, the affable Scotsman described his sound as “feelings”, which have a “hopefully musical” interpretation to the crowd.
“I never wanted to play just one style. At the time I switched to acoustic I was getting fed up with the electric and for a long time I was playing predominantly rock music,” he said.
“I guess I do have a bit of a jazzy sound but that’s only because I have been playing a lot of jazz when I was in the United States.
I find it more enjoyable to play a variety of music like pop, some old hits ... I hope to appeal to a large group of people.”
Wang, who knew Goldie when he was playing on the European guitar circuit, stressed the need for more events such as Wednesday night’s performance to spur local talents to come out in the open.
“There is no doubt there is talent in the market. We need venues that are open to the idea of giving them a chance and to be fair to them instead of taking advantage of them so eventually we can get more locals to get seriously into music.
“As the city grows, there will definitely be more people who will have specific tastes, so there is room for more venues to specialise. It will be difficult to fit in an acoustic set and suddenly have 70’s rock ... the crowd wouldn’t know what to expect,” he said.
Wang meanwhile is keeping his schedule to a minimum for the Christmas holiday season to make time for his wife and eight-month-old daughter.
“Having a family makes leaving home harder. My wife can’t follow me on tour anymore. Then there’s added pressure to bring home the bacon... but it’s a good feeling, it makes me feel complete,” he said.
The acclaimed guitarist however will participate in the Malaysian Guitar Festival and perform at the Christmas Carnival, while at the same time planning a collaboration with Mr Gambus, Farid Ali to cut a tribute album of songs by the late Tan Sri P Ramlee.
FRIDAY-30TH NOVEMBER 2007-ACT AGAINST OIL PALM PLANTERS
Act against oil palm planters, says Bung Moktar
KINABATANGAN:
Member of Parliament Datuk Bung Moktar Radin wants the State Government to take stern action against oil palm planters for encroaching into riparian reserves along the Kinabatangan River. “The State Government must take a firm stand and penalize planters who encroached into the reserves for commercial oil palm cultivation,” he said. Bung Moktar urged the State Government to set up a special board to act against those who encroached into riverbanks throughout the State, particularly along the Kinabatangan River.
“Do not be lenient with them. They will continue to violate the rules as long as no stern actions are taken against them,” he said. Bung Moktar said the State Government through the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry should give this issue priority because the planters’ irresponsible actions are threatening the wildlife.“Nearly 60 percent of the riparian reserves along Kinabatangan River have been encroached for commercial cultivation of oil palm and the companies involved must immediately cease their operations to enable the restoration of the river’s eco-system.”
FRIDAY-30TH NOVEMBER 2007-ENSURE NO ONE IS LEFT OUT
Assistance: Ensure no one is left out
Govt concerned over quality of delivery system, dept told
Govt concerned over quality of delivery system, dept told
LAHAD DATU: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin has reminded the Sabah Social Services Department to carry out their duties in a clean, trustworthy and efficient manner, and ensure that the Government’s assistance reaches the targeted group. The Government is very concerned about the quality of the delivery system and does not want anyone, especially those in the interior, to be left out in terms of welfare assistance. “We always ensure that the objective community, especially for the rural folks, is met,” said Yahya, who is also Community Development and Consumer affairs Minister. “The Government is always sensitive towards the people’s needs,” he added in a speech read by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Nasrun Datu Mansur, during the state-level National Senior Citizens Day 2007 celebration here, yesterday. The Government’s duty is to ensure that the people’s welfare is safe guarded and the Department should play an effective role to make sure the objective is realised. Statistics shows that there are some 19,346 senior citizens statewide who are eligible for the General Assistance Scheme and Senior Citizens Assistance Scheme, for which RM21 million has been allocated towards the two schemes. “To ensure their welfare is protected, the Government has introduced a lot of new programmes for them. I assure the citizens that apart from these existing schemes, we will come up with more programmes that would be beneficial to them,” he said. Yahya also urged the senior citizens with special skills and expertise to continue to be active, especially in welfare and community-based activities. “Those active senior citizens, especially with vast experience and knowledge, should continue to contribute towards the development of the State. You may share your expertise by joining non-governmental organisations or participate in whatever programmes that would benefit yourself and others too. “We want to further encourage senior citizens to contribute towards nation building and encourage the younger generation to participate in welfare services,” he said.
Meanwhile over 1,000 people attended the event to witness the presentation of special awards to outstanding recipients. Senior Citizens Award for the Male Category was awarded to Datu Mansur Datu Jalilul Hassan, 84, Kampung Tabanak, while his village-mate Aliah Mahadin, 73, was awarded a similar recognition in the Female Category. Datu Mansur is a former teacher and Nasrun’s father. Another special award, dubbed the Senior Citizens Couple Award, was presented to Sawal Kerosdikeromo, 79, and wife Malandong Mohd Said, 73.
The award was presented based on their contribution and excellent performance, especially in raising their children. Also present were the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Michael Emban; Sabah Social Services Department Director Datuk Mastor Samin, who is also the event’s organising chairman, and the District Officer, Amat MD Yusof.
FRIDAY-30TH NOVEMBER 2007-ACCIDENTS AT WORK PLACE DROP 47.8 PER CENT SINCE 1994
Accidents at work place drop 47.8 per cent since 1994
KOTA KINABALU:
The number of accidents at the workplace dropped 47.8 percent since the Occupational Safety and Health Act was enforced in 1994. Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) director-general Datuk Ir Johari Basri said the Social Security Organisation (Socso) received reports of 117,231 cases in 1995 compared to 61,182 cases in 2005. “This means that industrial accidents had dropped 47.8 percent in the 10 years,” he said when opening an Occupation Safety and Health seminar for the Sabah public sector here yesterday. The text of his speech was read out by his deputy Zabidi Md Adib. Johari said although Malaysia could be proud of the achievement, it still lagged behind developed countries like Sweden and Britain which registered three and four accidents for every 1,000 workers compared to Malaysia with 5.6 cases for every 1,000 workers.
“However, the statistics are only based on cases reported to Socso by the private sector as the public sector is not keen to report such cases as required under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.” Johari said most of the cases reported to DOSH by the public sector comprised road acidents involving workers and exposure to radiation and chemicals. He added that overall, awareness on the importance of occupational safety and health at the workplace was still low in Malaysia. -Bernama
KOTA KINABALU:
The number of accidents at the workplace dropped 47.8 percent since the Occupational Safety and Health Act was enforced in 1994. Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) director-general Datuk Ir Johari Basri said the Social Security Organisation (Socso) received reports of 117,231 cases in 1995 compared to 61,182 cases in 2005. “This means that industrial accidents had dropped 47.8 percent in the 10 years,” he said when opening an Occupation Safety and Health seminar for the Sabah public sector here yesterday. The text of his speech was read out by his deputy Zabidi Md Adib. Johari said although Malaysia could be proud of the achievement, it still lagged behind developed countries like Sweden and Britain which registered three and four accidents for every 1,000 workers compared to Malaysia with 5.6 cases for every 1,000 workers.
“However, the statistics are only based on cases reported to Socso by the private sector as the public sector is not keen to report such cases as required under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.” Johari said most of the cases reported to DOSH by the public sector comprised road acidents involving workers and exposure to radiation and chemicals. He added that overall, awareness on the importance of occupational safety and health at the workplace was still low in Malaysia. -Bernama
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
WEDNESDAY-28TH NOVEMBER 2007-HUNTER SHOT DEAD BY FRIEND
HUNTER SHOT DEAD BY FRIEND IN SOOK
KENINGAU:
A 30-year-old man was fatally shot by his friend while hunting in the jungle near Kampung Kiulu Baru in Tulid, Sook on Sunday. Saimon Bagang died of his injuries at the scene of the accident which happened about 5pm, said district police chief DSP Zahari Mohammad.
The 40-year-old suspect surrendered to the police based in Tulid the same day,” said Zahari when confirming the case yesterday. According to Zahari, the two men from Kampung Kiulu Baru left home on November 24 to go hunting in the nearby jungle. About 5pm the next day, Saimon was accidentally shot by his friend, Zahari said, adding the police had seized a “bakakuk” from the suspect and detained him for investigations under Section 304A of the Penal Code. Zahari reminded the public that it is illegal to own firearms or ammunition without a valid licence and those found doing so will be charged under the Firearms Act.
“My advice to those in the district, Tambunan, Sook and Nabawan, who illegally own firearms, especially homemade ones, to surrender the weapons to the police. Shop owners are also not allowed to sell ammunition to those who cannot produce a valid firearm licence,” he said.
Zahari also sought assistance from village chiefs and the Village Development and Security Committees to disseminate the information in their respective villages and urge the villagers to comply with the police’s advice.
KENINGAU:
A 30-year-old man was fatally shot by his friend while hunting in the jungle near Kampung Kiulu Baru in Tulid, Sook on Sunday. Saimon Bagang died of his injuries at the scene of the accident which happened about 5pm, said district police chief DSP Zahari Mohammad.
The 40-year-old suspect surrendered to the police based in Tulid the same day,” said Zahari when confirming the case yesterday. According to Zahari, the two men from Kampung Kiulu Baru left home on November 24 to go hunting in the nearby jungle. About 5pm the next day, Saimon was accidentally shot by his friend, Zahari said, adding the police had seized a “bakakuk” from the suspect and detained him for investigations under Section 304A of the Penal Code. Zahari reminded the public that it is illegal to own firearms or ammunition without a valid licence and those found doing so will be charged under the Firearms Act.
“My advice to those in the district, Tambunan, Sook and Nabawan, who illegally own firearms, especially homemade ones, to surrender the weapons to the police. Shop owners are also not allowed to sell ammunition to those who cannot produce a valid firearm licence,” he said.
Zahari also sought assistance from village chiefs and the Village Development and Security Committees to disseminate the information in their respective villages and urge the villagers to comply with the police’s advice.
WEDNESDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 2007-TWO CLAIM TRIAL
Two claim trial to voluntarily causing hurt charges
KOTA KINABALU:
Two men who claimed trial to separate charges of voluntarily causing hurt while committing robbery, will be tried in March next year. Sessions Court judge Ismail Brahim reserved March 24 to 26, next year for the trial of Mohd Affendi b Jamainus @ Ah Chong who is accused of voluntarily causing hurt to Ong Ching Tek by punching on the latter’s right cheek and lip while robbing him of RM1O. The 31-year-old accused had allegedly committed the offence at the counter of Hotel Faris in Sinsuran here about 2.45 am on Nov 10. Meanwhile, Ismail set March 7 next year for Filipino Arjuna b Bongsuang @ Totok’s trial who allegedly hurt the head of Pakistani Ali Akbar Abdul Sharif while robbing the latter of a passport holder worth RM3. Ali received four stitches during the incident which allegedly happened about 9pm on Nov12 at Siraj Shamand Enterprise sundry shop in Kampung Sembulan Lama. Affendi and Arjuna were separately charged under Section 394 of the Penal Code which provides a jail term up to 20 years and also liable to fine or whipping on conviction. Affendi was released on RM5,000 bail but with RM1,000 deposited under two local sureties while Arjuna was ordered to be remanded further under Section 259 of the Criminal Procedure Code pending the trial as he is a foreigner. Chief Inspector Lim Swee Beng prosecuted the cases.
KOTA KINABALU:
Two men who claimed trial to separate charges of voluntarily causing hurt while committing robbery, will be tried in March next year. Sessions Court judge Ismail Brahim reserved March 24 to 26, next year for the trial of Mohd Affendi b Jamainus @ Ah Chong who is accused of voluntarily causing hurt to Ong Ching Tek by punching on the latter’s right cheek and lip while robbing him of RM1O. The 31-year-old accused had allegedly committed the offence at the counter of Hotel Faris in Sinsuran here about 2.45 am on Nov 10. Meanwhile, Ismail set March 7 next year for Filipino Arjuna b Bongsuang @ Totok’s trial who allegedly hurt the head of Pakistani Ali Akbar Abdul Sharif while robbing the latter of a passport holder worth RM3. Ali received four stitches during the incident which allegedly happened about 9pm on Nov12 at Siraj Shamand Enterprise sundry shop in Kampung Sembulan Lama. Affendi and Arjuna were separately charged under Section 394 of the Penal Code which provides a jail term up to 20 years and also liable to fine or whipping on conviction. Affendi was released on RM5,000 bail but with RM1,000 deposited under two local sureties while Arjuna was ordered to be remanded further under Section 259 of the Criminal Procedure Code pending the trial as he is a foreigner. Chief Inspector Lim Swee Beng prosecuted the cases.
WEDNESDAY-28TH NOVEMBER 2007-FORMER CONVICTS HELD
Former convicts held over burglaries, thefts
KOTA KINABALU:
Two brothers and their friend were picked up from their house at Kampung Bambangan in Inanam for involvement in seven house and car break-ins and snatch theft cases here. City police chief ACP Ahmad Sofi Zakaria yesterday said the brothers, aged 22 and 29, and their 27-year-old friend were detained following a public tip-off. During the arrest, the police also recovered several items which had been reported missing from the victims’ houses. Among the items were four car rims with tyres, seven jade pendants, a Casio watch, a digital camera, two Sony speakers, two jade bracelets and two three-foot long electric cables. “They are all ex-convicts. The brothers were released from prison in August while the friend in October,” said Sofi. Initial investigation also showed that brothers had committed the crime earlier was later joined by the third person after his release from prison.
KOTA KINABALU:
Two brothers and their friend were picked up from their house at Kampung Bambangan in Inanam for involvement in seven house and car break-ins and snatch theft cases here. City police chief ACP Ahmad Sofi Zakaria yesterday said the brothers, aged 22 and 29, and their 27-year-old friend were detained following a public tip-off. During the arrest, the police also recovered several items which had been reported missing from the victims’ houses. Among the items were four car rims with tyres, seven jade pendants, a Casio watch, a digital camera, two Sony speakers, two jade bracelets and two three-foot long electric cables. “They are all ex-convicts. The brothers were released from prison in August while the friend in October,” said Sofi. Initial investigation also showed that brothers had committed the crime earlier was later joined by the third person after his release from prison.
WEDNESDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 2007- 911 WILL NOT DISCOURAGE MALAYSIANS FROM STUYDING IN US:EMBASSY
911 will not discourage Malaysians from studying in US:EMBASSY
KOTA KINABALU:
The September 11 tragedy would not discourage Malaysians from taking up diploma or degree courses in accredited colleges and universities in the United States, due to the flexibility of the visa process called F-1 visa (student visa). Andrew Miller, the general consul of the American Embassy in Malaysia, disclosed this to The Borneo Post while interacting with over 20 potential students in the Lincoln Corner at the State Library here yesterday. According to Andrew, potential Malaysian students need not be anxious of the new US policies on visa application and generally, the number of students is increasing every year, even after the September 11. “For example, nine out of 10 students applying for the visa have been approved. It has nothing to do with the tragedy and it has never discouraged determined applicants to visit, study and even work part time or full time (during a semester break) in the US. When asked for his view on a past incident where a Malaysian with a middle name of “Bin”had a hard time entering US and was informed that a Sabahan carrying the middle name ‘Bin’ need not be a Muslim, he explained: “We understand the students’ concern. That is why we are here to clarify things and to assist them. We are open minded in this matter. Whatever new policies implemented are due to security reason, but as I said, it need not be that hard, that is why we have approved 90 percent of the applicants since 2001. The approval rate is our commitment to encourage Malaysians to study in the US.” On the latest opportunities for students to study and earn a living in the US Andrew said there are various ways to earn a living. When the students enroll for the academic studies (diplomas and degrees) that require Optional Practical Training (OPT), they are eligible for up to 12 months of work experience which is paid hourly. “Students carrying the F-1 visa and allowed to do OPT need not apply for a work permit but have to show an 1-20 Form signed by his or her college officer for approval to take OPT, depending on the academic requirements. ‘Besides OPT, the students could also enrol1 for the paid internship programs should they enroll for the academic studies that require a completion of internships, for example, in the travel industry management and engineering. ‘Sbould the students’ studies do not require an OPT or internship, but they wish to work due to financial problem, they could apply for the ‘Academic Hardship’ work permit that would enable them to study and work for any number of hours (full time or part time) in any organizations,” he said. According to Andrew further, after their graduation, the US Government would offer the graduates an opportunity to work in any industry that favours them. They could also apply for a PR (permanent resident) or normally known as green card. When they hold a green card, they need not give up their Malaysian citizenship.
KOTA KINABALU:
The September 11 tragedy would not discourage Malaysians from taking up diploma or degree courses in accredited colleges and universities in the United States, due to the flexibility of the visa process called F-1 visa (student visa). Andrew Miller, the general consul of the American Embassy in Malaysia, disclosed this to The Borneo Post while interacting with over 20 potential students in the Lincoln Corner at the State Library here yesterday. According to Andrew, potential Malaysian students need not be anxious of the new US policies on visa application and generally, the number of students is increasing every year, even after the September 11. “For example, nine out of 10 students applying for the visa have been approved. It has nothing to do with the tragedy and it has never discouraged determined applicants to visit, study and even work part time or full time (during a semester break) in the US. When asked for his view on a past incident where a Malaysian with a middle name of “Bin”had a hard time entering US and was informed that a Sabahan carrying the middle name ‘Bin’ need not be a Muslim, he explained: “We understand the students’ concern. That is why we are here to clarify things and to assist them. We are open minded in this matter. Whatever new policies implemented are due to security reason, but as I said, it need not be that hard, that is why we have approved 90 percent of the applicants since 2001. The approval rate is our commitment to encourage Malaysians to study in the US.” On the latest opportunities for students to study and earn a living in the US Andrew said there are various ways to earn a living. When the students enroll for the academic studies (diplomas and degrees) that require Optional Practical Training (OPT), they are eligible for up to 12 months of work experience which is paid hourly. “Students carrying the F-1 visa and allowed to do OPT need not apply for a work permit but have to show an 1-20 Form signed by his or her college officer for approval to take OPT, depending on the academic requirements. ‘Besides OPT, the students could also enrol1 for the paid internship programs should they enroll for the academic studies that require a completion of internships, for example, in the travel industry management and engineering. ‘Sbould the students’ studies do not require an OPT or internship, but they wish to work due to financial problem, they could apply for the ‘Academic Hardship’ work permit that would enable them to study and work for any number of hours (full time or part time) in any organizations,” he said. According to Andrew further, after their graduation, the US Government would offer the graduates an opportunity to work in any industry that favours them. They could also apply for a PR (permanent resident) or normally known as green card. When they hold a green card, they need not give up their Malaysian citizenship.
WEDNESDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 2007-TOURISM PLAYERS URGED TO HELP TO DEVELOP SABAH ECONOMY
Tourism players urged to help to develop Sabah economy
KOTA KINABALU:
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Karim Bujang has urged tourism players to actively assist the State Government in developing the economy and focus on greater efforts in bringing in more tourists to the State. Karim made the call when launching Scubazoo Images Sdn Bhd’s coffee table book entitled ‘Reef exploring the underwater world’ in Sabah at Le Meridien Hotel here yesterday. According to the assistant minister, diving is a popular tourism activity in Sabah and it will make a wonderful life experience for a person. “Last year there were 28,000 divers who contributed RM14O million. This shows that tourism really helps to develop our country’s economy,” he said. Karim said Scubazoo’s production would help to promote Sabah as a tourism destination in the world, especially in the ecotourism sector. “Reef is the best publication that I have seen so far because I can feel an intense love, understanding and appreciation of the marine world in the photos shown in Reef and this makes it so special,” he added. Reef will promote Sabah as the best underwater world spot for tourists, especially divers when it is distributed worldwide and translated into four different languages besides its English version. So far Reef has been translated into French and Japanese for the world market. “The main goal is to create a higher level of awareness about the marine environment, its inhabitants, biology and the importance and need for its preservation for the future,” said Roger Munns, one of the Scubazoo’s photographer team members in his speech. Scubazoo’s strong commitment to marine environment is reflected when 10 percent of the profits from the sale of the book will be donated to the Marine Conservation Society and used to help the research team in Tun Sakaran Park, Semporna for marine conservation and awareness projects. “The funds contributed by our organization will help the State (Tun Sakaran Park) to create awareness about marine environment and the need for its preservation for the future,” said Jason Isley in his interview. Also present at the function yesterday were Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Tengku Adlin Zainal and Scubazoo senior officers.
KOTA KINABALU:
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Karim Bujang has urged tourism players to actively assist the State Government in developing the economy and focus on greater efforts in bringing in more tourists to the State. Karim made the call when launching Scubazoo Images Sdn Bhd’s coffee table book entitled ‘Reef exploring the underwater world’ in Sabah at Le Meridien Hotel here yesterday. According to the assistant minister, diving is a popular tourism activity in Sabah and it will make a wonderful life experience for a person. “Last year there were 28,000 divers who contributed RM14O million. This shows that tourism really helps to develop our country’s economy,” he said. Karim said Scubazoo’s production would help to promote Sabah as a tourism destination in the world, especially in the ecotourism sector. “Reef is the best publication that I have seen so far because I can feel an intense love, understanding and appreciation of the marine world in the photos shown in Reef and this makes it so special,” he added. Reef will promote Sabah as the best underwater world spot for tourists, especially divers when it is distributed worldwide and translated into four different languages besides its English version. So far Reef has been translated into French and Japanese for the world market. “The main goal is to create a higher level of awareness about the marine environment, its inhabitants, biology and the importance and need for its preservation for the future,” said Roger Munns, one of the Scubazoo’s photographer team members in his speech. Scubazoo’s strong commitment to marine environment is reflected when 10 percent of the profits from the sale of the book will be donated to the Marine Conservation Society and used to help the research team in Tun Sakaran Park, Semporna for marine conservation and awareness projects. “The funds contributed by our organization will help the State (Tun Sakaran Park) to create awareness about marine environment and the need for its preservation for the future,” said Jason Isley in his interview. Also present at the function yesterday were Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Tengku Adlin Zainal and Scubazoo senior officers.
WEDNESDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 2007-WHEN BIG WAVES HIT !!!
Coastal folks recall the moment they will never forget as homes were destroyed
KOTA KINABALU:
Powerful waves that pounded and caused the collapse of the house where Norsalmah Kairan and her family shared, had given her an experience she would never forget. “I felt my house swayed three times. We quickly evacuated the house, took whatever we could grab out as we witnessed its collapse,” said the 52-year-old as she recalled the moment yesterday. The powerful waves struck Kampung Tanjung Aru Baru on Monday night and destroyed Norsalmah’s house where her two children, their other halfs and eight grandchildren lived. Other areas, namely Kanipung Numbak in Menggatal, Gaya Island, Likas Bay, as well as Meruntum, Kampung Contoh and Teluk Villa in Petagas were also affected by the big waves. Norsalmah said her family had packed their belongings earlier after noticing the rising waters. She and family are putting up at the Tan jung Aru multipurpose hail temporarily. Her neighbour, Osman Tawang, 35, said water started rising at 9pm and got worse around 11 pm. The tide, however, subsided at 2am. “My house is no longer fit for living. I will have to tear it all down and build a new one,” he said. Osman said they had expected the waters to rise, but not to that extent. “We have had such experience before, but this was by far the worst. I am just glad that my wife and five children are safe,” he said. Just like Norsalmah, Osman had also packed their belongings and had moved to a higher ground much earlier. For now, they will be putting up at their relatives’ house, like many other affected families.
Tanjung Aru Assemblyman, Edward Yong Oui Fah, who visited the affected areas yesterday said he had instructed the village development and security committees to hand in reports on the incident, including the damage suffered. “I will then submit them to the Government to determine the kind of help we could offer to the affected people,” said the Assistant Local Government and Housing Minister when met at the scene. At least 500 people were affected by the king tide, which also saw the collapse of six houses, with 36 others partially damaged in Kampung Tanjung Aru Baru and Meruntum. “There were no casualties reported. At the peak of the high tide last night (Monday), the water was about 2.4 metres high,” he said. City Police Chief ACP Ahmad Sofi Zakaria said the situation was expected to go on for another couple of days.
Fire Dept receives distress call
“Therefore, we would like to advise those living by the seaside to be cautious at all times. We also hope they would cooperate with us when we tell them to evacuate their homes immediately,” he said. Ahmad Sofi said the situation was not alarming and was under control. Fire and Rescue Services Department received a distress call on the situation at around 9pm on Monday. Firemen were quickly rushed to the scene to rescue those who were trapped in their houses after the strong waves broke the stilt bridges.
WEDNESDAY-28TH NOVEMBER 2007-40 WOODEN HOUSES RAZED IN SANDAKAN
40 wooden houses razed in Sandakan night blaze
SANDAKAN:
A fire destroyed nearly 40 wooden houses at Kampung Muhibbah off Mile 2.5, Jalan Utara here last night. There were no immediate reports of casualties in the blaze which broke out about 7. 4Opm. Medical personnel in an ambulance were on standby at the scene in the event of injuries. Sandakan Fire and Rescue Opoations Officer Andreas Anggang said firefighters succeeded in preventing the fire from engulfing more structures. The roads around the settlement were cramped with villagers who had moved their belongings to safety. The actual cause of the fire had yet to be determined. Eyewitnesses talked of having seen a man being escorted by policemen to a patrol car and taken away. Elopura Assemblyman Au Kam Wah accompanied by his aides, visited the scene on being informed of the blaze. Acting OCPD DSP Ooi Guan Siew was present to supervise police operations.
WEDNESDAY-28TH NOVEMBER 2007-KPD TAMU ON SUNDAY
KPD Tamu on Sunday
KOTA KINABALU:
Korporasi PembangunanDesa (KPD) will hold its tamu this Sunday at the KPD Marketing Complex, Tanjung Lipat, Teluk Likas, here from 6. 3Oam to 1pm. Various types of rural products will be available such as fresh Shiitake mushroom, Tenom pamelo, honey, fresh beef and chicken. The public are also encouraged to donate generously used clothings, books or children toys at the Charity Corner for the needy rural folks. The Health Corner will also be having blood pressure check-up and blood sugar test for tamu customers.
KOTA KINABALU:
Korporasi PembangunanDesa (KPD) will hold its tamu this Sunday at the KPD Marketing Complex, Tanjung Lipat, Teluk Likas, here from 6. 3Oam to 1pm. Various types of rural products will be available such as fresh Shiitake mushroom, Tenom pamelo, honey, fresh beef and chicken. The public are also encouraged to donate generously used clothings, books or children toys at the Charity Corner for the needy rural folks. The Health Corner will also be having blood pressure check-up and blood sugar test for tamu customers.
WEDNESDAY-28TH NOVEMBER 2007-STAGE BUS OPERATORS BLAME AUTHORITIES FOR DROP IN INCOME
Stage bus operators blame authorities for drop in income
SANDAKAN:
The issuance of too many permits by the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) and the failure by the authorities to act against illegal public transport operators are the main reasons for stage bus operators in Sabah, particularly those in major towns like Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, to experience dwindling income. “CVLB should approve the licence applications based on demand and the number of passengers each bus can carry. Too many permits have been issued to new operators for existing routes,” Pan Malaysian Bus Operators’ Association president Datuk Mohamad Ashfar Ali said during a media conference at Sandakan Hotel before the start of the 352nd PMBOA council meeting on Tuesday. He said from a survey the population of Sabah was increasing but the income of stage bus operators was getting lesser and they wanted to find out from our members the reasons for this. “From our discussions, the blame is completely on the authorities for the issuance of too many permits for existing routes and the failure to act against illegal public transport operators,” Mohamad Ashfar said. He said the association members would not object if the permits were to provide services to new areas but they were upset because the licences were being issued for overlapping routes. “Members are complaining that the capacity now is about 40 percent and sometimes during peak period it is only 60 percent. This is not fair as our buses are carrying empty seats and it is completely ridiculous for CVLB to continue issuing new permits,” he pointed out. Mohamad Ashfar urged CVLB to implement a better control over the approval and issuance of permits by setting a time frame for applicants to submit their applications. “They have to set an open and closing date whereby applications must be submitted within these dates,” he said. According to Mohamad Ashfar, at present there are about 540 licensed mini buses and 270 licensed stage buses operating in Sandakan. Touching on illegal public transport, he said the problem was rampant in Sabah compared to Peninsular Malaysia. “We brought the matter up with the authorities in Sabah nearly two years ago but it appears nothing has been done to address this despite having told us then they would act on it. The relevant Government agencies are giving lame excuses for their failure to act against illegal public transport operators,” he said. “We are genuine and licensed operators and it is the moral duty of the authorities to look after our interest. We are paying income tax, licences, wages and EPF to our workers, passengers’ insurance and our buses are subjected for inspections but the illegal operators pay nothing to the Government,” he added. He said the association would be writing to CVLB, the police and Road Transport Department on problems affecting its members in Sabah and urging for actions to be taken. Mohamad Ashfar said he and his committee were meeting members around the country to study their problems and requirements, to check the fare structure in Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia before submitting a fare review request to the Government. “The fare structure differs in Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia. Bus operators in Sabah are faced with a higher operational cost as the vehicles and spare parts are more expensive here compared to the other two areas,” he said.
SANDAKAN:
The issuance of too many permits by the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) and the failure by the authorities to act against illegal public transport operators are the main reasons for stage bus operators in Sabah, particularly those in major towns like Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, to experience dwindling income. “CVLB should approve the licence applications based on demand and the number of passengers each bus can carry. Too many permits have been issued to new operators for existing routes,” Pan Malaysian Bus Operators’ Association president Datuk Mohamad Ashfar Ali said during a media conference at Sandakan Hotel before the start of the 352nd PMBOA council meeting on Tuesday. He said from a survey the population of Sabah was increasing but the income of stage bus operators was getting lesser and they wanted to find out from our members the reasons for this. “From our discussions, the blame is completely on the authorities for the issuance of too many permits for existing routes and the failure to act against illegal public transport operators,” Mohamad Ashfar said. He said the association members would not object if the permits were to provide services to new areas but they were upset because the licences were being issued for overlapping routes. “Members are complaining that the capacity now is about 40 percent and sometimes during peak period it is only 60 percent. This is not fair as our buses are carrying empty seats and it is completely ridiculous for CVLB to continue issuing new permits,” he pointed out. Mohamad Ashfar urged CVLB to implement a better control over the approval and issuance of permits by setting a time frame for applicants to submit their applications. “They have to set an open and closing date whereby applications must be submitted within these dates,” he said. According to Mohamad Ashfar, at present there are about 540 licensed mini buses and 270 licensed stage buses operating in Sandakan. Touching on illegal public transport, he said the problem was rampant in Sabah compared to Peninsular Malaysia. “We brought the matter up with the authorities in Sabah nearly two years ago but it appears nothing has been done to address this despite having told us then they would act on it. The relevant Government agencies are giving lame excuses for their failure to act against illegal public transport operators,” he said. “We are genuine and licensed operators and it is the moral duty of the authorities to look after our interest. We are paying income tax, licences, wages and EPF to our workers, passengers’ insurance and our buses are subjected for inspections but the illegal operators pay nothing to the Government,” he added. He said the association would be writing to CVLB, the police and Road Transport Department on problems affecting its members in Sabah and urging for actions to be taken. Mohamad Ashfar said he and his committee were meeting members around the country to study their problems and requirements, to check the fare structure in Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia before submitting a fare review request to the Government. “The fare structure differs in Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia. Bus operators in Sabah are faced with a higher operational cost as the vehicles and spare parts are more expensive here compared to the other two areas,” he said.
WEDNESDAY-28TH NOVEMBER 2007-SERVING SMUGGLED DRINKS WILL SPOIL OUR IMAGE:MASIDI
Serving smuggled drinks will spoil our image: Masidi
KOTA KINABALU:
The tourism image of the State will be tarnished if hotel operators continue to serve smuggled alcoholic drinks to their customers.Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun yesterday disclosed that there were complaints that several small hotels were selling contraband liquor to their customers in the hope to gain quick profit without realising the damage it would cause in the long run.“I believe tourists, especially those from foreign countries, would tell their experiences while holidaying in our country. And if the small hotels were to sell contraband liquor, they would definitely share it with their family and friends.
“When such bad experience is spread, our tourism industry’s image will be tarnished,” he said at a dialogue session between the police and resort and tourism players in the State yesterday. Also present were State Police Commissioner Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim, his deputy Datuk Abdul Razak Ghani and some 200 tourism players from throughout the State.Masidi added tourists would think that the laws in the State are ‘incomplete’ and easily broken to enable such thing to happen.“They would think that we are unable to handle the situation and in long run, our good name will be affected,” he said.After learning this, many foreign visitors would avoid coming to the country, and if this happens, the tourism industry will be badly affected.The act, he said, would also cause losses to the Government in terms of taxes, but the bigger impact would be on the tourism industry.Masidi also advised resort and hotel operators to be cautious when employing employees to work in the service line. “Check their background carefully. Do not just simply employ anybody. Their records must be clean, meaning they have never been involved in any crime whatsoever,” he said, adding such thorough checking would prevent any untoward incident from happening. “Our hospitality employees are very much well trained and annually, about 10 per cent would be absorbed by foreign hotels. “Such situation would cause an urgent need for employees. However, hotel and resort operators must be careful when selecting their workers make sure they are fit and with clean background before employing them,” he said.
KOTA KINABALU:
The tourism image of the State will be tarnished if hotel operators continue to serve smuggled alcoholic drinks to their customers.Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun yesterday disclosed that there were complaints that several small hotels were selling contraband liquor to their customers in the hope to gain quick profit without realising the damage it would cause in the long run.“I believe tourists, especially those from foreign countries, would tell their experiences while holidaying in our country. And if the small hotels were to sell contraband liquor, they would definitely share it with their family and friends.
“When such bad experience is spread, our tourism industry’s image will be tarnished,” he said at a dialogue session between the police and resort and tourism players in the State yesterday. Also present were State Police Commissioner Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim, his deputy Datuk Abdul Razak Ghani and some 200 tourism players from throughout the State.Masidi added tourists would think that the laws in the State are ‘incomplete’ and easily broken to enable such thing to happen.“They would think that we are unable to handle the situation and in long run, our good name will be affected,” he said.After learning this, many foreign visitors would avoid coming to the country, and if this happens, the tourism industry will be badly affected.The act, he said, would also cause losses to the Government in terms of taxes, but the bigger impact would be on the tourism industry.Masidi also advised resort and hotel operators to be cautious when employing employees to work in the service line. “Check their background carefully. Do not just simply employ anybody. Their records must be clean, meaning they have never been involved in any crime whatsoever,” he said, adding such thorough checking would prevent any untoward incident from happening. “Our hospitality employees are very much well trained and annually, about 10 per cent would be absorbed by foreign hotels. “Such situation would cause an urgent need for employees. However, hotel and resort operators must be careful when selecting their workers make sure they are fit and with clean background before employing them,” he said.
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