Villagers call for committee to be disbanded
MENGGATAL:
The residents of Kampung Bandulan near here yesterday urged the Information Department to disband the village’s Komuniti Bestari Committee, saying it had failed to deliver its obligation since its formation seven years ago. Some 180 residents from the village have signed and sent a petition to the department urging for a new committee to be elected to replace the existing one. The group’s spokesperson, Zawai Datuk Ahmad, stressed that the department should look into the matter and reform the committee based on the request of the majority. “The residents of Badulan are very disappointed given the fact that the committee has been receiving allocations from the Government but has not implemented any programme or activity,’ he said. Village Development and Security Committee chairman Ramli Ungking when contacted, confirmed that the petition had been sent to the Information Department and urged the department to appoint new members for the committee as soon as possible. “We regretted that this committee has been misused by irresponsible individuals. Rectification measures should have long been taken to enable the committee to truly benefit the village,” he said. According to Zawawi, they were made to understand that the committee chaired by Ismail Montiroi has been suspended by the department but the residents have yet to receive any formal notification letter regarding the matter.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
SUNDAY-16TH DECEMBER 2007-New junction gives easy access to residents
New junction gives easy access to residents
KOTA KINABALU:
The residents of Taman Sri Kepayan Phase 6, 7 and 8 now have easy access into their residential area with the completion of a new junction along the Kepayan By-pass. Kepayan assemblyman Datuk Edward Khoo said residents of the housing estate no longer need to make a “U” turn in order to enter the junction into Tanam Sri Kepayan. He said this after visiting the road junction which was completed about three months ago. Khoo who is also Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, said the residents had written to him about their plight. Previously, those who travelled from the city had to make a “U” turn before they could enter the junction to the housing estate.
“After receiving a letter about their problem, I made the proposal to the Public Works Department (PWD) to have a junction built and it was approved,” he said. Meanwhile, 21 low income families from Kepayan constituency yesterday received a special contribution from their assemblyman. The assistance was part of the special State Government allocation given to each assemblyman to assist the needy, including the poor in their respective constituency. Khoo said part of the financial aid had been given to students from poor families to lessen the burden of their parents. “For those who were not present today, we will send the assistance personally to them,” he said.
KOTA KINABALU:
The residents of Taman Sri Kepayan Phase 6, 7 and 8 now have easy access into their residential area with the completion of a new junction along the Kepayan By-pass. Kepayan assemblyman Datuk Edward Khoo said residents of the housing estate no longer need to make a “U” turn in order to enter the junction into Tanam Sri Kepayan. He said this after visiting the road junction which was completed about three months ago. Khoo who is also Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, said the residents had written to him about their plight. Previously, those who travelled from the city had to make a “U” turn before they could enter the junction to the housing estate.
“After receiving a letter about their problem, I made the proposal to the Public Works Department (PWD) to have a junction built and it was approved,” he said. Meanwhile, 21 low income families from Kepayan constituency yesterday received a special contribution from their assemblyman. The assistance was part of the special State Government allocation given to each assemblyman to assist the needy, including the poor in their respective constituency. Khoo said part of the financial aid had been given to students from poor families to lessen the burden of their parents. “For those who were not present today, we will send the assistance personally to them,” he said.
SUNDAY-16TH DECEMBER 2007-KEADILAN SABAH PRAISES POLICE
Keadilan Sabah praises police
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabah Keadilan had nothing but praises for the police on December 14 when Bersih decided to hand over a memorandum to Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah at the Istana. The memorandum which among others seeks a clean electoral roll, abolish the postal voting system and for a fair access to media, was received by the Governor’s deputy secretary, Ibrahim Mohd Asri. Bersih is an election watchdog and an umbrella organisation for 64 non governmental organisations and six political parties, including Keadilan. “When I read the report in the Borneo Post, I am so happy to note that the Bersih group was allowed to voice out their points contained in the memorandum by Acting City Police Chief Superintendent Rowell Marong and was allowed to head to the Istana to hand over the memorandum to His Excellency which was received by his deputy secretary. “I also like to congratulate Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim for his wisdom and patience. We have put meaning to Article 10 of the Federal Constitution which gives right to Malaysians to freedom of assembly,” said Sabah Keadilan information chief Dr Edwin Bosi ma statement yesterday. Commenting on the statement of Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan’s political secretary in a local paper (not the Borneo Post) on December 15, entitled “Sabah PKR: We don’t condone street demos”, Dr Edwin said that it is Kanul Gindol’s personal comment, and not the view of the party. “In the first place there was no street demonstration. It was a peaceful gathering with a very important mission to seek help from His Excellency concerning about electoral fraud. Sabah Keadilan believes in changing the Government via the ballot box. As stated by Keadilan Vice President Sivarasah a/l Rasah, all we want is a transparent election, not a transparent box.”
KOTA KINABALU:
Sabah Keadilan had nothing but praises for the police on December 14 when Bersih decided to hand over a memorandum to Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah at the Istana. The memorandum which among others seeks a clean electoral roll, abolish the postal voting system and for a fair access to media, was received by the Governor’s deputy secretary, Ibrahim Mohd Asri. Bersih is an election watchdog and an umbrella organisation for 64 non governmental organisations and six political parties, including Keadilan. “When I read the report in the Borneo Post, I am so happy to note that the Bersih group was allowed to voice out their points contained in the memorandum by Acting City Police Chief Superintendent Rowell Marong and was allowed to head to the Istana to hand over the memorandum to His Excellency which was received by his deputy secretary. “I also like to congratulate Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim for his wisdom and patience. We have put meaning to Article 10 of the Federal Constitution which gives right to Malaysians to freedom of assembly,” said Sabah Keadilan information chief Dr Edwin Bosi ma statement yesterday. Commenting on the statement of Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan’s political secretary in a local paper (not the Borneo Post) on December 15, entitled “Sabah PKR: We don’t condone street demos”, Dr Edwin said that it is Kanul Gindol’s personal comment, and not the view of the party. “In the first place there was no street demonstration. It was a peaceful gathering with a very important mission to seek help from His Excellency concerning about electoral fraud. Sabah Keadilan believes in changing the Government via the ballot box. As stated by Keadilan Vice President Sivarasah a/l Rasah, all we want is a transparent election, not a transparent box.”
SUNDAY-16TH DECEMBER 2007-Govt fair in giving assistance: Rosnah
Govt fair in giving assistance: Rosnah
PAPAR:
The Barisan Nasional (BN) Government has always been fair and transparent in providing assistance to the people, especially when it comes to helping them improve their socio-economy and standard of living. Papar Member of Parliament Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin said to ensure the people’s problem and grouses are heard, the Government has appointed its agents such as the village chiefs and the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) to be its eyes and ears. “Therefore any problems should be forwarded to these agents as they can assist in finding the solutions as well as giving the rakyat the right information about the BN Government’s policies,” she said at a meet-the-people session at Kampung Limbahau here recently.
PAPAR:
The Barisan Nasional (BN) Government has always been fair and transparent in providing assistance to the people, especially when it comes to helping them improve their socio-economy and standard of living. Papar Member of Parliament Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin said to ensure the people’s problem and grouses are heard, the Government has appointed its agents such as the village chiefs and the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) to be its eyes and ears. “Therefore any problems should be forwarded to these agents as they can assist in finding the solutions as well as giving the rakyat the right information about the BN Government’s policies,” she said at a meet-the-people session at Kampung Limbahau here recently.
Friday, December 14, 2007
FRIDAY-14TH DECEMBER 2007-STENCH FROM SEWERAGE SYSTEM:ANJUNG SENJA
Stench from sewerage system:
Anjung Senja
The sewerage system located near the Anjung Senja food court in Kota Kinabalu is the cause of the stench in the area. Awang Shariff, the supervisor of Anjung Senja and Anjung Selera in Likas told Public Hotline that the smelly air is not originated from Anjang Senja. An observation by Public Hotline found that some of the restaurants at the area discharged their waste directly into the sea and this also caused the sea to produce the stench. According to Awang who has been working at the place for almost 10 years, Anjung Senja has become a victim of circumstance because it is located near the sewerage system. He said many people who did not know about the actual matter, would blame Anjung Senja for the problem. “It is not fair to us. The smelly air is not from Anjung Senja. It is from the sewerage system and the sea. Some of the restaurants in this area discharged their waste directly to the sea causing it to produce the smelly air. We cannot do anything because it is out of our jurisdiction. We do our best to maintain Anjung Senja,” he said. “The smelly air has nothing to do with our place. We have installed our sewerage system and always maintain it to ensure the cleanliness of the place. For the public information, the sewerage system in our premises goes to the DBKK sewerage and not directly to the sea,” he added. Meanwhile, the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (KKCH) confirmed that the area is under its jurisdiction. Its spokeswoman also said that action had been taken to overcome the matter. “KKCH is now in process of ensuring that all the premises at the area do not discharge their waste directly to the sea,” she said, adding that they would also monitor the matter in stages. Earlier Public Hotline received a complaint from a member of the public about the stench at Anjung Senja area. It was published on December 6 under the heading “Anjung Selera dirty and smelly”. However, the headline should read “Anjung Senja dirty and smelly” and not what was published. Public Hotline apologies to the management of Anjung Senja and Anjung Selera for the error.
Anjung Senja
The sewerage system located near the Anjung Senja food court in Kota Kinabalu is the cause of the stench in the area. Awang Shariff, the supervisor of Anjung Senja and Anjung Selera in Likas told Public Hotline that the smelly air is not originated from Anjang Senja. An observation by Public Hotline found that some of the restaurants at the area discharged their waste directly into the sea and this also caused the sea to produce the stench. According to Awang who has been working at the place for almost 10 years, Anjung Senja has become a victim of circumstance because it is located near the sewerage system. He said many people who did not know about the actual matter, would blame Anjung Senja for the problem. “It is not fair to us. The smelly air is not from Anjung Senja. It is from the sewerage system and the sea. Some of the restaurants in this area discharged their waste directly to the sea causing it to produce the smelly air. We cannot do anything because it is out of our jurisdiction. We do our best to maintain Anjung Senja,” he said. “The smelly air has nothing to do with our place. We have installed our sewerage system and always maintain it to ensure the cleanliness of the place. For the public information, the sewerage system in our premises goes to the DBKK sewerage and not directly to the sea,” he added. Meanwhile, the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (KKCH) confirmed that the area is under its jurisdiction. Its spokeswoman also said that action had been taken to overcome the matter. “KKCH is now in process of ensuring that all the premises at the area do not discharge their waste directly to the sea,” she said, adding that they would also monitor the matter in stages. Earlier Public Hotline received a complaint from a member of the public about the stench at Anjung Senja area. It was published on December 6 under the heading “Anjung Selera dirty and smelly”. However, the headline should read “Anjung Senja dirty and smelly” and not what was published. Public Hotline apologies to the management of Anjung Senja and Anjung Selera for the error.
FRIDAY-14TH DECEMBER 2007-Farmers Association Board urged to improve
Farmers Association Board urged to improve
KOTA KINABALU:
Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail has urged the Sabah Farmers Association Board (LPP) to grab every opportunity to improve and equip themselves with the necessary skills. He also encouraged every LPP member to practise working principles in organization as well as perform all their duties conscientiously. “I would like to say here that you must do it right the first time, never settle for less than the best,” said Abdul Rahim when launching the Quality Day for the Sabah Farmers Association Board here yesterday. “It is very important to enhance your skills and implement the latest technology in the agricultural sector so that you can make positive contribution to the State and country,” he added. According to Abdul Rahim, the Government is focusing on the agriculture sector to help improve the living standard of the people, especially the rural folks. Thus, he urged farmers and livestock breeders to constantly improve their paddy and livestock yields in order to improve their family’s economy. “The Government is seriously developing the agriculture sector and this can been seen from the establishment of the Sabah Development Corridor,” said Rahim. During the event, Abdul Rahim presented the Sabah Farmers Association Board Quality Award 2007 to 11 LPP branches.
Kamisah Ahmad received the Quality Leadership Award and Jamdin Abdullah the Best Speaker Award. Kamisah was the only woman who received an award during the Quality Day celebration.
During the event, Abdul Rahim also launched a book entitled “Apa Kata Y.B. Menteri Pertanian & Industri Makanan Negeri Sabah Jilid 10”.
Also present were both, Assistant Agriculture and Food Industry Ministers, Datuk Bobbey Suan and Datuk Japlin Akim as well as Sabah Farmers Association Board director Kamalrul Badri Mat Ali.
KOTA KINABALU:
Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail has urged the Sabah Farmers Association Board (LPP) to grab every opportunity to improve and equip themselves with the necessary skills. He also encouraged every LPP member to practise working principles in organization as well as perform all their duties conscientiously. “I would like to say here that you must do it right the first time, never settle for less than the best,” said Abdul Rahim when launching the Quality Day for the Sabah Farmers Association Board here yesterday. “It is very important to enhance your skills and implement the latest technology in the agricultural sector so that you can make positive contribution to the State and country,” he added. According to Abdul Rahim, the Government is focusing on the agriculture sector to help improve the living standard of the people, especially the rural folks. Thus, he urged farmers and livestock breeders to constantly improve their paddy and livestock yields in order to improve their family’s economy. “The Government is seriously developing the agriculture sector and this can been seen from the establishment of the Sabah Development Corridor,” said Rahim. During the event, Abdul Rahim presented the Sabah Farmers Association Board Quality Award 2007 to 11 LPP branches.
Kamisah Ahmad received the Quality Leadership Award and Jamdin Abdullah the Best Speaker Award. Kamisah was the only woman who received an award during the Quality Day celebration.
During the event, Abdul Rahim also launched a book entitled “Apa Kata Y.B. Menteri Pertanian & Industri Makanan Negeri Sabah Jilid 10”.
Also present were both, Assistant Agriculture and Food Industry Ministers, Datuk Bobbey Suan and Datuk Japlin Akim as well as Sabah Farmers Association Board director Kamalrul Badri Mat Ali.
FRIDAY-14TH DECEMBER 2007-KPD TAMU THIS SUNDAY
KPD Tamu this Sunday
KOTA KINABALU:
Korporasi Pembangunan Desa (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 Pembangunan Desa (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.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
THURSDAY-13TH DECEMBER 2007-Polytechnic director pays farewell call on TYT
Polytechnic director pays farewell call on TYT
KOTA KINABALU:
Outgoing Sabah Polytechnic director Datuk Azizi Lin and his wife Datin Zuraidah Mohd Daud called on the Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah and his wife Toh Puan Hajah Dayang Masuyah Awang Japar at the Istana Negeri here yesterday. Azizi has been seconded to the Higher Education Ministry in Kuala Lumpur as the Director of Examination and Evaluation in the Polytechnic Studies and Community College Department at Putrajaya, effective Dec 1. During the meeting, Azizi also introduced Mustafar Kamar Ujung, who succeeds him as the director of Sabah Polytechnic and the latter’s wife, Nurizan Suhaimi and Deputy Director (Support Division) Sahul Hamid Wahab, and Trade Department head Charim Ibrahim. He also briefed the Governor on the current development of polytechnics in Sabah in terms of administration and the courses offered for next year intake.
KOTA KINABALU:
Outgoing Sabah Polytechnic director Datuk Azizi Lin and his wife Datin Zuraidah Mohd Daud called on the Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah and his wife Toh Puan Hajah Dayang Masuyah Awang Japar at the Istana Negeri here yesterday. Azizi has been seconded to the Higher Education Ministry in Kuala Lumpur as the Director of Examination and Evaluation in the Polytechnic Studies and Community College Department at Putrajaya, effective Dec 1. During the meeting, Azizi also introduced Mustafar Kamar Ujung, who succeeds him as the director of Sabah Polytechnic and the latter’s wife, Nurizan Suhaimi and Deputy Director (Support Division) Sahul Hamid Wahab, and Trade Department head Charim Ibrahim. He also briefed the Governor on the current development of polytechnics in Sabah in terms of administration and the courses offered for next year intake.
THURSDAY-13TH DECEMBER 2007-SEPA hails building of biomass fired power plant in Lahad Datu
SEPA hails building of biomass fired power plant in Lahad Datu
KOTA KINABALU:
The Sabah Environmental Protection Association (SEPA) has hailed the plan by the State Government to build the Sabah’s first biomass-fired power generation plant in Lahad Datu. “We welcome the State Government’s initiative in bringing in technology and investors to implement a project that is in line with the Clean Development Mechanism,” said SEPA chairman Datuk Sue Jayasuriya. “Perhaps the State Government can apply to have the capacity of the combined head and power plant enlarged so that there will be no need to pursue the construction of the proposed coal- fired power plant at Silam near Lahad Datu,” she said. According to her, the combined head and power plant (CHP) will be able to help reduce the emission of greenhouse gases by the oil mill effluent or POME. She acknowledged the fact that before the CHP, a number of oil palm players in Sabah have been using empty fruit bunches and palm kernel shells for the production of electricity or as feedstock for firing their boilers. She said the oil palm industry in Sabah, which is the main revenue earner for the State, is a major producer of methane gas, one of the four main greenhouse gases contributing to global warming. The proposed 24 megawatt and 150 tonne-per-hour steam plant at the Lahad Datu palm oil industrial cluster is expected to be commissioned in 2010. State-owned POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd, the developer of the Lahad Datu palm oil industrial cluster, signed an agreement with Korean company Eco Biomass Energy Sdn Bhd for the purchase of 20 acres of land for the CHP plant. Other than POME, the methane gas also comes from rotting empty fruit bunches. At present, only a small fraction of empty fruit bunches are used as feedstock for energy production. Much of it is spread onto oil palm plantations for mulching. Empty fruit bunches emit emthane when they rot, and rotting takes places within several days after being left in the open.
KOTA KINABALU:
The Sabah Environmental Protection Association (SEPA) has hailed the plan by the State Government to build the Sabah’s first biomass-fired power generation plant in Lahad Datu. “We welcome the State Government’s initiative in bringing in technology and investors to implement a project that is in line with the Clean Development Mechanism,” said SEPA chairman Datuk Sue Jayasuriya. “Perhaps the State Government can apply to have the capacity of the combined head and power plant enlarged so that there will be no need to pursue the construction of the proposed coal- fired power plant at Silam near Lahad Datu,” she said. According to her, the combined head and power plant (CHP) will be able to help reduce the emission of greenhouse gases by the oil mill effluent or POME. She acknowledged the fact that before the CHP, a number of oil palm players in Sabah have been using empty fruit bunches and palm kernel shells for the production of electricity or as feedstock for firing their boilers. She said the oil palm industry in Sabah, which is the main revenue earner for the State, is a major producer of methane gas, one of the four main greenhouse gases contributing to global warming. The proposed 24 megawatt and 150 tonne-per-hour steam plant at the Lahad Datu palm oil industrial cluster is expected to be commissioned in 2010. State-owned POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd, the developer of the Lahad Datu palm oil industrial cluster, signed an agreement with Korean company Eco Biomass Energy Sdn Bhd for the purchase of 20 acres of land for the CHP plant. Other than POME, the methane gas also comes from rotting empty fruit bunches. At present, only a small fraction of empty fruit bunches are used as feedstock for energy production. Much of it is spread onto oil palm plantations for mulching. Empty fruit bunches emit emthane when they rot, and rotting takes places within several days after being left in the open.
THURSDAY-13TH DECEMBER 2007-NRD to probe claim of Sandakan girl
NRD to probe claim of Sandakan girl
Rositah says officer asked her to apply for new identity
KOTA KINABALU:
The National Registration Department (NRD) will conduct an investigation into a 19-year-old local girl’s claim that she was asked by one of its officers to apply for a new identity after her MyKad was issued to another person. Putrajaya NRD public relations officer Jainisah Mohd Noor said that under no circumstances would a person be asked to change his or her identity if their MyKad had fallen into wrong hands. “We don’t have such a system whereby someone takes another identity if their personal particulars had been used by another person,” she said, adding that the MyKad was issued based on the particulars of the applicant’s birth certificate. Local Sandakan girl Siti Rositah Mustapah highlighted her problem to the media after she was told by a NRD officer in Kota Kinabalu to apply for a new identity as her MyKad had been issued to another person, She was also called an impostor. Rositah, whose parents and seven others siblings are all Malaysians, lodged a police report on Friday after she refused to take up a new identity as all school certificates were under her name as per her birth certificate. She had made a late application for a MyKad in 2005 but every time she checked, the NRD told her it was not ready and she was finally asked to go directly to the State NRD headquarters here last week. Jainisah advised Rositah to check with the State NRD headquarters again on the matter and assured that her case would be investigated and resolved quickly.
Rositah says officer asked her to apply for new identity
KOTA KINABALU:
The National Registration Department (NRD) will conduct an investigation into a 19-year-old local girl’s claim that she was asked by one of its officers to apply for a new identity after her MyKad was issued to another person. Putrajaya NRD public relations officer Jainisah Mohd Noor said that under no circumstances would a person be asked to change his or her identity if their MyKad had fallen into wrong hands. “We don’t have such a system whereby someone takes another identity if their personal particulars had been used by another person,” she said, adding that the MyKad was issued based on the particulars of the applicant’s birth certificate. Local Sandakan girl Siti Rositah Mustapah highlighted her problem to the media after she was told by a NRD officer in Kota Kinabalu to apply for a new identity as her MyKad had been issued to another person, She was also called an impostor. Rositah, whose parents and seven others siblings are all Malaysians, lodged a police report on Friday after she refused to take up a new identity as all school certificates were under her name as per her birth certificate. She had made a late application for a MyKad in 2005 but every time she checked, the NRD told her it was not ready and she was finally asked to go directly to the State NRD headquarters here last week. Jainisah advised Rositah to check with the State NRD headquarters again on the matter and assured that her case would be investigated and resolved quickly.
THURSDAY-13TH DECEMBER 2007-‘Back-from-dead’ Briton in court, police to quiz wife
‘Back-from-dead’ Briton in court, police to quiz wife
LONDON:
A British man who resurfaced more than five years after being presumed dead in a canoeing accident appeared in court Monday on fraud charges, as police prepared to question his wife. John Darwin was given a brief hearing before magistrates in Hartlepool, northeast England, and was remanded in custody until Friday. The 57-year-old is accused of lying to obtain a passport and obtaining a 25,000- pound life insurance payout by deception. The former teacher and prison officer was arrested last Tuesday, three days after walking into a central London police station and telling officers he thought he was a missing person but had amnesia. Darwin’s appearance in court -a procedural hearing at which he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth - came as detectives prepared to interview his wife, Anne. The 55-year-old former receptionist at a doctor’s surgery was arrested Sunday on her return to Britain from Panama, where she moved nearly two months ago. She was to undergo a medical examination before any formal interviews took place, police said. A news conference is scheduled for later Monday, they added. John Darwin had been declared legally dead in 2003, a year after he disappeared from the family home in Seaton Carew, near Hartlepool, and his battered red canoe was washed up on the shore.
He was arrested last Tuesday after the publication of a photograph of him and his wife in Panama in July 2006, prompting a rash of revelations from his wife in interviews with British newspapers. She told the Daily Mirror and Daily Mail she went along with her husband’s faked death to escape huge debts, and lived with him in secret for years. She said the couple had about 12 houses as rental investments and began to run up debts of tens of thousands of pounds (euros, dollars). Her husband told her faking his own death was the only way out. But she said she did not think his disappearance was fake, because they had not spoken about his plans for sometime. “I really thought that he was dead,” she said. Then in February 2003, he returned, looking dishevelled. He moved back in, hiding in the adjoining bedsit the couple owned when their two grieving sons visited. When going outdoors he used a woolly hat, upturned collar, walking stick and limp to disguise himself. He successfully applied for a passport in the name of John Jones. At one point the couple travelled to Cyprus with a view to moving there, before turning to Panama City, where they bought an apartment for 97,000 dollars in April this year. But when Darwin had to return to Britain as his visa was running out, he told his wife he was going to reemerge and claim memory loss. -AFP
LONDON:
A British man who resurfaced more than five years after being presumed dead in a canoeing accident appeared in court Monday on fraud charges, as police prepared to question his wife. John Darwin was given a brief hearing before magistrates in Hartlepool, northeast England, and was remanded in custody until Friday. The 57-year-old is accused of lying to obtain a passport and obtaining a 25,000- pound life insurance payout by deception. The former teacher and prison officer was arrested last Tuesday, three days after walking into a central London police station and telling officers he thought he was a missing person but had amnesia. Darwin’s appearance in court -a procedural hearing at which he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth - came as detectives prepared to interview his wife, Anne. The 55-year-old former receptionist at a doctor’s surgery was arrested Sunday on her return to Britain from Panama, where she moved nearly two months ago. She was to undergo a medical examination before any formal interviews took place, police said. A news conference is scheduled for later Monday, they added. John Darwin had been declared legally dead in 2003, a year after he disappeared from the family home in Seaton Carew, near Hartlepool, and his battered red canoe was washed up on the shore.
He was arrested last Tuesday after the publication of a photograph of him and his wife in Panama in July 2006, prompting a rash of revelations from his wife in interviews with British newspapers. She told the Daily Mirror and Daily Mail she went along with her husband’s faked death to escape huge debts, and lived with him in secret for years. She said the couple had about 12 houses as rental investments and began to run up debts of tens of thousands of pounds (euros, dollars). Her husband told her faking his own death was the only way out. But she said she did not think his disappearance was fake, because they had not spoken about his plans for sometime. “I really thought that he was dead,” she said. Then in February 2003, he returned, looking dishevelled. He moved back in, hiding in the adjoining bedsit the couple owned when their two grieving sons visited. When going outdoors he used a woolly hat, upturned collar, walking stick and limp to disguise himself. He successfully applied for a passport in the name of John Jones. At one point the couple travelled to Cyprus with a view to moving there, before turning to Panama City, where they bought an apartment for 97,000 dollars in April this year. But when Darwin had to return to Britain as his visa was running out, he told his wife he was going to reemerge and claim memory loss. -AFP
THURSDAY-13TH DECEMBER 2007-PKR shares concern of CASH
PKR shares concern of CASH
KOTA KINABALU:
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) also shares the concern of CASH President Datuk Patrick Sindu that one day Sabah might see street protests like the ones in Peninsular, if the State’s perennial problems continue to worsen and unresolved. Problems of overflowing illegal immigrants, dubious citizens, rising crimes and weak economy of the natives are fuelling uneasiness and anger among bona fide citizens of Sabah and this could spark open demonstration in future, said PKR Keningau division deputy chairman Jius Awang. “What Datuk Patrick said is true, and the Federal Government should not wait till such a time when the people, including the natives, take it to the streets to demand correction of policies and protection from the Government,” he added in a statement yesterday.
KOTA KINABALU:
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) also shares the concern of CASH President Datuk Patrick Sindu that one day Sabah might see street protests like the ones in Peninsular, if the State’s perennial problems continue to worsen and unresolved. Problems of overflowing illegal immigrants, dubious citizens, rising crimes and weak economy of the natives are fuelling uneasiness and anger among bona fide citizens of Sabah and this could spark open demonstration in future, said PKR Keningau division deputy chairman Jius Awang. “What Datuk Patrick said is true, and the Federal Government should not wait till such a time when the people, including the natives, take it to the streets to demand correction of policies and protection from the Government,” he added in a statement yesterday.
THURSDAY 13TH DECEMBER 2007-Unfair to blame Govt, says Liew
Unfair to blame Govt, says Liew
KOTA KINABALU:
It was unfair for a certain community in the country to accuse the Government of marginalizing them, when in the first place they were the ones who failed to embrace and participate in the development programs catered by the Government. Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Liew Yun Fah pointed this out yesterday when asked to comment on the series of events that took place in Kuala Lumpur of late. He noted that the present Government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Abdullah Badawi’s leadership has been fair to all the communities in this country, with special focus given to the youths. Liew is thus of the opinion that the issue of “racial marginalisation” does not exist in this country but merely an issue exploited by the opposition to undermine the present Government, especially when the election is just around the corner. He thus called on the people of Sabah, the youths especially, not to be easily influenced and misled by such a gimmick, instead to actively take part in the various development programs provided by the Government.
KOTA KINABALU:
It was unfair for a certain community in the country to accuse the Government of marginalizing them, when in the first place they were the ones who failed to embrace and participate in the development programs catered by the Government. Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Liew Yun Fah pointed this out yesterday when asked to comment on the series of events that took place in Kuala Lumpur of late. He noted that the present Government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Abdullah Badawi’s leadership has been fair to all the communities in this country, with special focus given to the youths. Liew is thus of the opinion that the issue of “racial marginalisation” does not exist in this country but merely an issue exploited by the opposition to undermine the present Government, especially when the election is just around the corner. He thus called on the people of Sabah, the youths especially, not to be easily influenced and misled by such a gimmick, instead to actively take part in the various development programs provided by the Government.
THURSDAY-13TH DECEMBER 2007-RM275,000 AWARD FOR 11 EX-STUDENTS OF LABUAN COLLEGE
RM275,000 AWARD FOR 11 EX-STUDENTS OF LABUAN COLLEGE
KOTA KINABALU:
The Consumer Claims Tribunal here yesterday awarded RM2 75,000 in compensation to 11 former students of Labuan International College (KAL), formerly known as Institut Teknologi Sara (ITS), which offered a course to them that is not recognized by National Accreditation Board (LAN). The President of the Tribunal, Datuk Lawrence S H Thien ordered the college to compensate each of the students RM25,000.
The claimants were Mohd Saiful Bahari, Emmanuel Kian Seng Henry, Zarina Zainal, Nur Farizah Raina Yahya, Abdul Halim Noor Sotimin, Maxly Robert, Nur Shazilinah Abdullah, Remawarnih Awg Tanjong, Clement Dindo Peruh, Rozaini Laksaman and Shariffah Nortasha. In July this year, Tribunal President Johari Hassan had ordered the college to pay the damages to the claimants but the order was put on hold in October after KAL director Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman asked to be given one month to settle the accreditation issue with the Public Services Department (PSD). Suhaili told the Tribunal that the course in question was offered under a joint programme between KAL and Universiti Putera Malaysia (UPM) and the University would study the matter. He said that as an established national public university, UPM should have been accredited by LAN and PSD, and he would discuss the matter with the relevant authorities. In their claims, the former students said KAL had failed to deliver this promise and should pay the compensation without further delay. On July 30, one of the students, Mohd Saiful said they were offered a diploma course by the college which was spread over a six-semester period. However, at the end of the fourth semester, he said they came to know that the college did not obtain the LAN accreditation for the course from PSD, thus the diploma issued by the college was not recognised by the Government. He said they had approached the principal who assured them that the college had received the LAN accreditation for the course, but the college’s website on the Internet stated that it did not receive the LAN accreditation. “We approached the principal again and he told us that the college has the LAN accreditation but that it would take a while for it to be posted on its website,” said Mohd Saiful, who took a Diploma in Science Computer course in the college. To a question from Johari, Mohd Saiful said they did not lodge a complaint with the Education Department nor the Higher Education Ministry, as they felt it would be a waste of time. The college did not send any officials during the Tribunal hearing yesterday, while some of the students were represented by their parents.
KOTA KINABALU:
The Consumer Claims Tribunal here yesterday awarded RM2 75,000 in compensation to 11 former students of Labuan International College (KAL), formerly known as Institut Teknologi Sara (ITS), which offered a course to them that is not recognized by National Accreditation Board (LAN). The President of the Tribunal, Datuk Lawrence S H Thien ordered the college to compensate each of the students RM25,000.
The claimants were Mohd Saiful Bahari, Emmanuel Kian Seng Henry, Zarina Zainal, Nur Farizah Raina Yahya, Abdul Halim Noor Sotimin, Maxly Robert, Nur Shazilinah Abdullah, Remawarnih Awg Tanjong, Clement Dindo Peruh, Rozaini Laksaman and Shariffah Nortasha. In July this year, Tribunal President Johari Hassan had ordered the college to pay the damages to the claimants but the order was put on hold in October after KAL director Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman asked to be given one month to settle the accreditation issue with the Public Services Department (PSD). Suhaili told the Tribunal that the course in question was offered under a joint programme between KAL and Universiti Putera Malaysia (UPM) and the University would study the matter. He said that as an established national public university, UPM should have been accredited by LAN and PSD, and he would discuss the matter with the relevant authorities. In their claims, the former students said KAL had failed to deliver this promise and should pay the compensation without further delay. On July 30, one of the students, Mohd Saiful said they were offered a diploma course by the college which was spread over a six-semester period. However, at the end of the fourth semester, he said they came to know that the college did not obtain the LAN accreditation for the course from PSD, thus the diploma issued by the college was not recognised by the Government. He said they had approached the principal who assured them that the college had received the LAN accreditation for the course, but the college’s website on the Internet stated that it did not receive the LAN accreditation. “We approached the principal again and he told us that the college has the LAN accreditation but that it would take a while for it to be posted on its website,” said Mohd Saiful, who took a Diploma in Science Computer course in the college. To a question from Johari, Mohd Saiful said they did not lodge a complaint with the Education Department nor the Higher Education Ministry, as they felt it would be a waste of time. The college did not send any officials during the Tribunal hearing yesterday, while some of the students were represented by their parents.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
WEDNESDAY-12TH DECEMBER 2007-SOLO ART EXHIBITION
Solo art exhibition
KOTA KINABALU:
The Sabah Art Gallery will hold a solo exhibition under the theme of “Tarot of the Fallen Ones” by Sabrina Majuakim from December 13 till January 13. Most of Sabrina’s art works were executed in surrealist style in oil colour depicting her own perception and thought of the humans who are committing sin. The opening ceremony will be officiated by Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Karim bin Haji Bujang on Thursday.
KOTA KINABALU:
The Sabah Art Gallery will hold a solo exhibition under the theme of “Tarot of the Fallen Ones” by Sabrina Majuakim from December 13 till January 13. Most of Sabrina’s art works were executed in surrealist style in oil colour depicting her own perception and thought of the humans who are committing sin. The opening ceremony will be officiated by Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Karim bin Haji Bujang on Thursday.
THURSDAY-13TH DECEMBER 2007-Change of name for Cooperative Devt Dept
Change of name for Cooperative Devt Dept
KENINGAU:
The Malaysia Cooperative Development Department (JPK) will be known as the Malaysia Cooperative Commission (SKM) beginning next year, State Cooperative Development Department director Umar Sarim Saidin said yesterday. “JPK will be abolished and become SKM starting January 1, 2008,” he said when officiating the RM47,000 Kampung Panoi and Marasak Cooperative Berhad new shop building at the village here. Umar Sarim said following the change of its name, SKM would become one of the Federal Government corporations. According to him, cooperatives are recognized by the Government as the third sector that generates the country’s economy. He said the recognition given by the Government showed the important role played by cooperatives in the nation’s economy development. Umar Sarim hoped cooperative members would grab the opportunity to implement activities which had been planned and could give better returns to the members. “There are various activities that could be taken part by cooperatives but those members who have been trusted to carry away the cooperative business and administration must be efficient in implementing them. “Various challenges will be faced by the cooperative movement in the present globalization era and its administration should be strengthened for the future challenges,” he said. Umar Sarim also urged cooperative members to upgrade their knowledge by participating in courses and seminars organized by JPK, Malaysia Cooperative College and ANGKASA. Present at the function were Keningau Regional Cooperative Development Department assistant director Jeffrey Chong, JPK officer Rosemary Gitang and Kampung Panoi Marasak Cooperative Berhad chairman Juinol Manggor.
KENINGAU:
The Malaysia Cooperative Development Department (JPK) will be known as the Malaysia Cooperative Commission (SKM) beginning next year, State Cooperative Development Department director Umar Sarim Saidin said yesterday. “JPK will be abolished and become SKM starting January 1, 2008,” he said when officiating the RM47,000 Kampung Panoi and Marasak Cooperative Berhad new shop building at the village here. Umar Sarim said following the change of its name, SKM would become one of the Federal Government corporations. According to him, cooperatives are recognized by the Government as the third sector that generates the country’s economy. He said the recognition given by the Government showed the important role played by cooperatives in the nation’s economy development. Umar Sarim hoped cooperative members would grab the opportunity to implement activities which had been planned and could give better returns to the members. “There are various activities that could be taken part by cooperatives but those members who have been trusted to carry away the cooperative business and administration must be efficient in implementing them. “Various challenges will be faced by the cooperative movement in the present globalization era and its administration should be strengthened for the future challenges,” he said. Umar Sarim also urged cooperative members to upgrade their knowledge by participating in courses and seminars organized by JPK, Malaysia Cooperative College and ANGKASA. Present at the function were Keningau Regional Cooperative Development Department assistant director Jeffrey Chong, JPK officer Rosemary Gitang and Kampung Panoi Marasak Cooperative Berhad chairman Juinol Manggor.
WEDNESDAY-12TH DECEMBER 2007-Move to turn run-down Natikar Building into hotel
Move to turn run-down Natikar Building into hotel
KOTA KINABALU:
The City Hall is all set to assist developers wishing to redevelop the Natikar Building, which has been an eyesore after being left abandoned since the early 1990s. To date, two developers have shown interest to develop the 11 -storey building near Padang Merdeka here and turn it into a hotel, said City Hall Building Engineer, Kalvin Liaw. In this respect, the City Hall is trying to trace some of the 24 private lot owners of the building to enable works to be done on it, he said, adding that the project can be done immediately after all the lot owners have been located and given their consent.
“It would be easier for us to develop the abandoned building. Turning it into a hotel would also be good considering there is a lack of hotel rooms to accommodate the growing number of tourists entering Sabah,” he said. The building is in bad shape and is believed to be occupied by both locals and immigrants, as well as drug addicts. “Those occupying the building have even built their own personal rooms illegally, and made illegal electricity and water connections,” he said. Kalvin said that to enable the building to be certified fit for use, all facilities such as sewerage, water piping, electricity supply and elevator must be fixed and upgraded.
KOTA KINABALU:
The City Hall is all set to assist developers wishing to redevelop the Natikar Building, which has been an eyesore after being left abandoned since the early 1990s. To date, two developers have shown interest to develop the 11 -storey building near Padang Merdeka here and turn it into a hotel, said City Hall Building Engineer, Kalvin Liaw. In this respect, the City Hall is trying to trace some of the 24 private lot owners of the building to enable works to be done on it, he said, adding that the project can be done immediately after all the lot owners have been located and given their consent.
“It would be easier for us to develop the abandoned building. Turning it into a hotel would also be good considering there is a lack of hotel rooms to accommodate the growing number of tourists entering Sabah,” he said. The building is in bad shape and is believed to be occupied by both locals and immigrants, as well as drug addicts. “Those occupying the building have even built their own personal rooms illegally, and made illegal electricity and water connections,” he said. Kalvin said that to enable the building to be certified fit for use, all facilities such as sewerage, water piping, electricity supply and elevator must be fixed and upgraded.
The City Hall is ready to assist the developers in their applications and would give approval to those wishing to develop the Natikar Building, but first, the 24 lot owners must be located. “To ensure that the building structure is still strong, a registered professional engineer is required to carry out a thorough investigation and certify whether it is fit or otherwise,” Liaw said. Meanwhile, City Hall architect Sally Edward Ghani, when met, said the Natikar Building has four housing units at each level, meaning there are 48 units altogether. Twenty-four of them are under the Insolvency Department, while 24 others belong to private owners. In 1999, City Hall, in collaboration with Health and Water departments, Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) and police, inspected the building in a move to overcome a host of perennial problems such as cleanliness. Another inspection was conducted in 2003, followed by the issuance of letters to the owners based on their income tax addresses but only 24 of them responded. On Oct 6, 2004, the Legal Department and City Hall Urban Development Department issued a notice to the occupants to vacate the building. The City Hall and the police, Water Department, Immigration and SESB discussed on Oct 13, 2004 a proposal to obtain a court order to seal the building. The court order was obtained on Feb 28, 2005, following which barbed wires and fences were built around the building to prevent intruders from entering it.
WEDNESDAY-12TH DECEMBER 2007-Six houses demolished in Inanam, Sri Tanjung
Six houses demolished in Inanam, Sri Tanjung
KOTA KINABALU:
City Hall demolished six illegally built houses in Kampung Bambangan, Inanam and Sri Tanjung here yesterday. Its enforcement chief, Abdul Mukti Muchlis, said the demolition exercises which started about 9.3Oam, were carried out simultaneously. At Kampung Bambangan, two of the illegally built structures were torn down in a two-hour operation which saw the participation of eight City Hall personnel, three policemen, two Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) staff and two City Hall Health and Services Department personnel In the operation at Sri Tanjung, three City Hall enforcement personnel and two policemen dismantled four houses, while one illegal structure was torn down by its own owner. Mukti said the exercise was part of their on-going operation to get rid of illegal structures in the City.
KOTA KINABALU:
City Hall demolished six illegally built houses in Kampung Bambangan, Inanam and Sri Tanjung here yesterday. Its enforcement chief, Abdul Mukti Muchlis, said the demolition exercises which started about 9.3Oam, were carried out simultaneously. At Kampung Bambangan, two of the illegally built structures were torn down in a two-hour operation which saw the participation of eight City Hall personnel, three policemen, two Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) staff and two City Hall Health and Services Department personnel In the operation at Sri Tanjung, three City Hall enforcement personnel and two policemen dismantled four houses, while one illegal structure was torn down by its own owner. Mukti said the exercise was part of their on-going operation to get rid of illegal structures in the City.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
TUESDAY-11TH DECEMBER 2007-MESRA RAKYAT AND CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAMME
RELA MEMBERS ..... The RELA members personnel at the program
Mesra Rakyat and crime prevention programme
TAMBUNAN:
More than 350 people attended the Mesra Rakyat and crime prevention programme organized by Tambunan police at the community centre here recently. The participants were village headmen, Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairmen, RELA personnel, Government department staff and youths. During the function, a drugs exhibition and multi-media show were held. District Police Chief DSP Zahari Mohammad officiated the function and chaired a dialogue session with the participants. Various issues were raised by the participants such as crime cases drugs, rape, illegal immigrants and road accidents among others. Also present at thç function were District Chief OKK Augustine Kandawai, District Police Management Department head ASP Rahim Abdul Rahman, Logistics Department head Inspector Inspector Sharul Haji Harun, Narcotics Department head Chief Department Inspector Edrian, Special Branch head Chief Awang Damit Suanda and Tambunan OCS Sergeant Major Kasmin Saiman.
TUESDAY-11TH DECEMBER 2007-26 YOUTHS ATTEND INTEGRATION PROGRAMME
26 YOUTHS ATTEND INTEGRATION PROGRAMME
KENINGAU:
Twenty-six youths nationwide participated in three- day national integration program held at kampung Kota Ayangan here recently. Eleven of them were from Peninsular Malaysia, seven from Sarawak, six from Sabah and two from Labuan. The State-level program jointly organized by the Federal Youth and Sports Ministry was officiated by Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Haji Sairin Haji Karno. During the programme, all the participants stayed with their adopted parents in the kampung. The objective of the program is to expose youths in Malaysia to the socio-culture, political and economy development nationwide. It is also to increase the understanding and unity spirit among the Malaysian youths from various ethnics, cultures and religions. The program is also aimed at increasing the patriotic spirit and strong self-confidence value and to get closer with the community through interaction and community service programmes. The participants also carried out community service activities like gotong royong, Sukaneka games and showing their talent in the cultural shows. District Officer Haji Zulkifli Nasir, District Federal Youth and Sports Department officer Haji Idris Mohd Taufeck, Government officers and local community leaders attended the programme which was closed by Bingkor Assemblyman Justin Guka.
KENINGAU:
Twenty-six youths nationwide participated in three- day national integration program held at kampung Kota Ayangan here recently. Eleven of them were from Peninsular Malaysia, seven from Sarawak, six from Sabah and two from Labuan. The State-level program jointly organized by the Federal Youth and Sports Ministry was officiated by Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Haji Sairin Haji Karno. During the programme, all the participants stayed with their adopted parents in the kampung. The objective of the program is to expose youths in Malaysia to the socio-culture, political and economy development nationwide. It is also to increase the understanding and unity spirit among the Malaysian youths from various ethnics, cultures and religions. The program is also aimed at increasing the patriotic spirit and strong self-confidence value and to get closer with the community through interaction and community service programmes. The participants also carried out community service activities like gotong royong, Sukaneka games and showing their talent in the cultural shows. District Officer Haji Zulkifli Nasir, District Federal Youth and Sports Department officer Haji Idris Mohd Taufeck, Government officers and local community leaders attended the programme which was closed by Bingkor Assemblyman Justin Guka.
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