Illegal railway crossing remains open until slip road, drain repaired

23rd May, 2012

PUTATAN: The illegal railway crossing fronting Jamilah Enterprise here will not be closed until the slip road and drainage system has been repaired and improved.Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Yahya Haji Hussin said this after meeting the traders and owners of business premises at Jalan Putatan who are affected by the closure of the illegal bypass connection yesterday.Later speaking to the media, Yahya who is also Minister of Agriculture & Food Industry said this measure will be temporary after taking into consideration the condition of the adjoining slip road and the requests of the business operators there.“Business operators and premises owners had complained that due to the nonexistence of a proper drainage system along the slip road, flash floods often occur during heavy rain,” he said.The problem, said Yahya, was aggravated further by the poor and bad condition of the narrow slip road that also makes it almost impassable to heavy vehicles.The State Assemblyman for Petagas also urged the Sabah State Railway Department to apply for government funding to resolve the problem that has persisted over the years immediately.Yahya was accompanied by Sabah State Railway Department general manager Mohd Zain Said, Putatan district officer Awang Abd Ghani Pg Yusof, Ministry of Agriculture & Food Industry political secretary Haji Mahlan Zinin, local community leaders and members of the media.

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KK to get “Green Library”

23rd May, 2012

KOTA KINABALU: A “Green Library” will be built in the city adjacent to the Perdana Park and Tanjung Aru Plaza, disclosed State Community and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Azizah Mohd Dun yesterday.The RM20 million-library which will also be disabled-friendly will begin construction this year with completion in 18 months from the date the project gets off the ground.She said the first-phase works would include building reading area, exhibition, conference room, café and surau.“This will be undertaken between the government and Lahad Datu Water Supply (LDW) under its corporate social responsibility (CSR),” she said adding that it would be an iconic building designed by Innotech Design Architects Sdn Bhd.Azizah was speaking to reporters after attending a briefing on the concept and design of the new six-storey library by architect Robert Chin from the firm.Present were the ministry’s permanent secretary Datuk Asnimar Sukardi and State Library director Wong Vui Yin.Azizah said the location of the library is strategic being adjacent to a park and commercial centre and nearby schools.“The location itself will attract visitors to the library,” she said adding that the library would serve the community well.Elaborating on the building, she said it would be able to absorb sounds from roaring jet engines since the Kota Kinabalu International Airport is close by.“We have taken into consideration that the building needs to absorb sound for the convenience of the people, she said.As to the city library adjacent to City Hall building, she said it would be converted into a children’s library, complementing the library in Suria Sabah mall.“We are encouraging more people especially youths to visit the library in the mall, which is a common haunt for them,” she added.Library@Suria is the first library in Sabah to be located in a mall.

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PM to announce RCI on illegal immigrants, says Ongkili

23rd May, 2012

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak is likely to announce the setting up of a royal commission of inquiry to look into the Sabah illegal immigrants’ problem next month, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili said yesterday.He said the prime minister was expected to make the announcement when he visits the state during the Pesta Kaamatan (harvest festival).“The prime minister is coming to Sabah on June 9 in conjunction with the National Kaamatan. We hope to hear from him (Najib) on the specific terms of reference of the RCI,” Dr Ongkili told reporters after launching the National Bioethics Council and presenting instruments of appointment to the council members, here yesterday.He said the RCI was expected to ensure that all problems associated with illegal immigrants in Sabah are resolved in a comprehensive manner.The setting up of the RCI has become an important issue following apprehension among the people and NGOs in Sabah over the existence of illegal syndicates supplying identity cards to illegal immigrants, resulting in the alleged rise in their number in the state.The Sabah Barisan Nasional Citizenship Committee, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, had been entrusted with the responsibility of coming up with the terms of reference of the RCI.

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Archaeological find unearthed in Bingkor

23rd May, 2012

KENINGAU: Another archaeological find has been unearthed at Jalan Kuangoh in Bingkor indicating what used to be a site for making Palaeolithic stone tools.The archaeological site about 15 minutes from here had been identified earlier and as of last May 9, excavation work began and is expected to finish on May 29 next week.Within 10 days, the team consisting of researchers from the Global Archaeological Research Centre of University Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Sabah Museum Department discovered several items.

These included tools such as an anvil, core stone and hammerstone associated with debitage and even other items like chopper and flake tool.Director of the UMS Global Archaeological Research Centre Prof Dr Mokhtar Saidin believes it proved there were early humans that settled in the area. However he was not able to provide a date for when they existed in the prehistoric period as it required further detailed studies.Nevertheless, he stressed that it was an important find because it revealed the importance of West Sabah to Palaeolithic studies not only at the national level but for the world.The location was first explored in 2009 by the West Sabah Archaeological Project team led by Jaffrey Abdullah.According to Dr Mokhtar, prior to 2009 a lot of prehistoric data in Sabah was found on the east coast such as the Mansuli site that is believed to have existed 235,000 years ago.Another example is the Samang Buat Cave in Lahad Datu which has been in existence for 46,000 years and Bukit Tengkorak in Semporna that can be traced back to 5,000 years ago.Meanwhile, Sabah Museum director Joanna Kitingan said the latest discovery will put Keningau in the international spotlight as far as Palaeolithic findings are concerned.She suggested that the area can turn into a place for archaeo-tourism when it is gazetted as such under the Museum Department.Joanna said it would garner well for the local economy because tourists would be attracted to come and visit.Also present yesterday were Keningau assistant district officer for development Mohd Guntur Datuk Arif and community leaders.

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80pc OF LOAN TAKERS ARE WOMEN

23rd May, 2012

KOTA KINABALU: More than 80 per cent of the people who have borrowed from licensed moneylenders in Sabah are women.The majority of them are Bumiputeras.And, 20 per cent of them who defaulted on their repayments have been getting “harassing” phone calls from the moneylenders.The enforcement chief of the Moneylenders & Pawnbrokers Division (MPD) under Ministry of Housing and Local Government Sabah Branch, Supt Haji Abdul Latif Haji Ibrahim told reporters this before launching a one-day workshop attended by 30 licensed moneylenders here yesterday.To a question, Latif said some 40 per cent of the borrowers were civil servants from the various government agencies.“However, there has not been any untoward incident like intimidation involving licensed moneylenders so far,” Latif said.And, he also said there were 219 licensed moneylenders throughout Sabah and Labuan.In Kota Kinabalu, there are over 70 licensed moneylenders, 38 in Sandakan and 25 in Tawau.He added that some of the borrowers have each even taken loans from 13 moneylenders.“Although the situation is quite alarming, it is under control. We are monitoring,” he said.On the workshop, Latif said among others, the participants would be able to learn more about the Moneylenders Act & Regulations (MAR) 1951 (Act 400) which is enforced throughout the country including in Sabah, Labuan and Sarawak.“The law came into effect last year to protect the interest of both the licensed moneylenders and borrowers,” he said.Latif meanwhile warned appropriate action would be taken against licensed moneylenders who breached the conditions stipulated in their licence.“We are not only the law enforcer but are also acting as a ‘middleman’ to resolve problems between the moneylenders and borrowers,” he said.Latif added that they would be conducting a second-series “Ops Carik” in Tawau soon to curb illegal moneylending activities in the district.And, he also advised licensed moneylenders to apply for a permit from the Ministry of Finance before putting up advertisements.

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RM700.1 million allocated for solar hybrids in Sabah

22nd May, 2012

BELURAN: Deputy Minister of Education II, Dr Haji Mohd Puad Zarkashi said the Barisan Nasional (BN) government has allocatedRM700.1 million for the provision of solar hybrids for 179 schools in Sabah to ensure that the schools will receive a 24-hour electricity supply.He said the first phase, the government allocated RM300.1 million to carry out the solar hybrid project in 78 schools in the state which has been completed.“Phase two of the project will involve RM400 million which will go to 101 schools, he said to reporters after officiating the Annual Beluran District Umno Branches Group Conference at the Beluran Town Multipurpose Hall here, yesterday.He added that in phase two, 64 of the completed projects have been handed over to the ministry while18 have been completed but have yet to be handed over and 19 more have yet to be started.Mohd Puad noted that the second phase will also be implemented in 13 schools in Beluran, three in Ranau, and one in Kota Belud and another in Sipitang.“In Sarawak, the government has provided RM 1.1 billion for the 24-hour supply of electricity in 368 schools through the usage of gensets,” he said, adding that in Peninsular Malaysia, the project involved 44 schools at the cost of RM98 million.“The project implementation in the Peninsula is carried out by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) where 19 projects used solar hybrids, 19 on line grids, two were completed and four more using generators,” he said.The schools which have been provided for such projects are in Perak, Johor, Pahang and Kelantan.“This project’s implementation ensures that there will be no schools that do not have a 24-hour electricity supply,” he said.Mohd Puad emphasised that the government always keeps its word in resolving the electricity problems of rural schools.

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Sukau folks asked to help curb encroachment into riparian zones

22nd May, 2012

SUKAU: Folks in Sukau have been advised to be the eyes and ears of the authorities to help curb encroachment by outsiders into the riparian zone along the Sungai Kinabatangan riverbank at Mukim Batu Putih.“Everyone has a role to play, including the people of Sukau, to prevent individuals from encroaching and carrying out planting activities along the “Corridor of Life,” Sukau Assemblyman Datuk Saddi Haji Abdul Rahman said after officiating the tree planting programme with Borneo Samudera Sdn Bhd at Sungai Pin yesterday.Saddi said he fully support conservation efforts undertaken by Borneo Samudera Sdn Bhd and others for the rehabilitation of riparian and wetland habitats that will enhance the value of the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and Forest Reserves in the lower Kinabatangan and to benefit the community at large.According to Saddi, many of those responsible for encroaching into the riparian zone are not from Sukau but neighbouring districts.Meanwhile, Sawit Kinabalu Group Managing Director, Haji Othman Walat, said, the tree planting programme is to educate the public and create awareness on the importance of preserving our riverbanks, our wildlife and our forests for the future generations.“They should not destroy the forest right up to the riverbanks for cultivation. There is a buffer zone of 20 metres (from the riverbanks) where no planting activities should be carried out within this area,” Othman added.Othman said his company has taken legal action against those who have encroached into the plantation land including riparian zone.“These court cases are pending including the injunction we filed against a national primary school constructed in the plantation without approval or consent from the company,” Othman said.He said the High Court in Sandakan would rule on the injunction on May 25.The tree planting programme is part of the activities under the 10-year MoU on Conservation Partnership Towards The Corridor Of Life In The Lower Kinabatangan signed on 28 August 2008 between Borneo Samudera Sdn Bhd and WWF Malaysia.Also present were Borneo Samudera Sdn Bhd Board member, Datuk KY Mustafa and representatives from government departments, financial institutions, NGOs and local villagers.

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Ronald: Support of selected BN candidate vital for victory

22nd May, 2012

BELURAN: One important asset to ensure victory for Barisan Nasional (BN) in the coming general election is the full support of all its component parties towards whoever the leadership chooses as candidate, said Beluran Member of Parliament, Datuk Ronald Kiandee.He said the BN candidate selected would have met the criteria set by the leadership and therefore would be a winnable choice.“In the spirit of BN, whoever is chosen to be candidate will be given full support because what matters most is that BN wins, whether it is defending a seat or taking over an area once controlled by the opposition,” he said.Ronald was speaking at the annual joint cluster meeting of Umno branches within Beluran held at the multi-purpose hall here yesterday.The Deputy Parliamentary Speaker also said that all BN members should reject efforts to sabotage candidates of the ruling coalition.He said sabotaging can seriously affect the chosen candidate and will not garner well for BN particularly at the 13th general election which is seen to be the most challenging yet.He reminded that the general election in 2008 should be a lesson for BN to learn.Nevertheless, he expressed satisfaction at the level of co-operation shown by the component parties in Beluran in making sure victory was imminent.Ronald believed people in the rural areas will continue to vote for BN to stay in government after having seen the transformation in their areas in terms of development.He said they surely wanted development to continue and for the government to look after their welfare and needs.“The government listens to the pulse of the people and the Prime Minister himself is prepared to go down to the ground to meet the people, listen to their problems and find the best ways to solve them,” he said.

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Hajiji: No local government election

22nd May, 2012

KOTA KINABALU: The posts of Mayor and district councillors will be appointed and not elected. To this effect, the provisions under Section 15 of the Local Government Ordinance will be maintained.Local Government and Housing Minister, Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor, said this to reporters after closing a five-day state level basic training for Rela Young Squad at the Sabah Rela Training Centre at Jalan Sulaman near here yesterday.He said the current law on the appointment of mayors and councilors for the local authorities and other related issues was good and applicable in Sabah.Hajiji was asked to comment on a recent statement by Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng on January 18 this year that they would seek a court declaration to compel the Election Commission to conduct local government election in Penang.

“Penang is governed by the opposition and we in Sabah have never planned to reinstate the local government election,” said Hajiji.The Minister for Housing and Local Government, Datuk Seri Chor Chee Heung, had said on the same day that the Penang state government should consult the National Council on Local Government (NCLG) before issuing a gazette notification exempting the local authorities in Penang from the provisions of Section 15 of the Local Government Act 1976.Section 15 of the Act provides that all laws relating to local government elections are of no effect.Meanwhile, Hajiji said since 2010, some 2,355 multi-racial Rela members from major districts throughout the state had attended basic training at the centre.He said it was vital to nurture the young generation and prevent them from picking up foreign cultures and getting involved in social ills and unhealthy activities like drug abuse.Hajiji also said the government has targeted the young generation in efforts to bring down the crime index under the National Key Results Area (NKRA).And, according to him, the Youth and Sports Department in collaboration with Rela had launched various volunteer programmes among the youths aged between 18 and 40.“Through the various volunteer programmes, we hope the young generation can contribute to the development of the nation,” he added.Some 184 Rela members comprising 149 men and 35 women from Kota Kinabalu, Penampang and Tuaran, including those from the Industrial Training Institute (ILP), National Youth Skills Institute (IKBN), and Eastern College, completed the five-day basic training.Among those present were state Youth and Sports Department (Federal) director Mohd Dahali Hj Matsin, Rela Training Centre commander, Colonel Darman Dabang, Rela training officer, Lieutenant Colonel Laungah Kandar, Mohd Arif Masrun, representative of Rakan Muda development division of the Youth and Sports Ministry.

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2,500 rubber farmers next year

22nd May, 2012

KOTA KINABALU: About 2,500 smallholders will take part in a rubber planting project by the Sabah Rubber Industry Board next year.It will involve some 7,000 hectares of land at a cost of RM73 million, said the board chairman, Ahmad Haji Bujang. “This year, the board is in the midst of implementing planting and

re-planting programmes on 6,392 hectares costing RM40.6 million,” he said.He was speaking at a lunch hosted by the board for media bureau chiefs and director generals with the Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Yahya Hussin who is also the Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry at the Pacific Sutera here yesterday.Also present were Assistant Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, Datuk Bobbey Suan and general manager of the Sabah Rubber Industry Board, Datuk Harris Mathews.Ahmad who is also the assemblyman for Sindumin, said the board was making steps forward to change its image and create a new environment to enable rubber smallholders in Sabah to enjoy development dynamically.“Challenges in this era demand that all levels of society increase their knowledge and new technologies offer various sources to obtain information rapidly. This means smallholders can get information easily and quickly and they can keep abreast of the current issues facing rubber smallholders in the state,” he said.He therefore called on media practitioners to help in disseminating information for the smallholders, particularly the latest updates from the Sabah Rubber Industry Board.

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Musa praise for Progressive Insurance

22nd May, 2012

KOTA KINABALU: It cannot be denied that the insurance sector faces stiff competition, and constantly needs to address new challenges.And, coupled with periodical financial instability in different parts of the world, it is certainly not easy to be a player in the insurance sector.“But I must commend Progressive Insurance for its achievements over the years. The figures quoted by the chairman just a moment ago is testimony of how well this company is doing.“I believe that your achievement is a culmination of efficient management and commitment to your core business,” Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman said at the Progressive Insurance Berhad dinner here yesterday.Musa who is also Finance Minister added that as one of the main shareholders of Progressive Insurance, the State government was pleased to note that the company has not backed down from charting milestones and improving what it could offer shareholders.“I am pleased to note that you have even revised upwards your projected revenue for this year, and to learn that in the last eight years, you have declared gross dividends of over RM50 million to shareholders,” he said.As a main shareholder, he said the State government had benefited from these dividend payouts.The Chief Minister also said the State government was pleased to receive a gross dividend payment of RM3,309,623 from Progressive Insurance yesterday evening.“It is through dividends that we can help further develop Sabah, and improve the wellbeing of the people,” he added.Musa also hoped that Progressive Insurance would remain on top of changes in financial markets and the insurance sector.By staying alert, he said the company could take quick steps to overcome projected challenges whenever a problem or issue started impacting the ever changing insurance industry.“It is important that you continue to uphold sound management practices, good corporate governance makes transparency, accountability and efficiency part of your daily operations.“And, with a forward looking management team, and with investment that the company has put in training its employees and agents, I am confident that Progressive Insurance will continue to chart higher dividends for its shareholders in the coming years,” he said.Meanwhile, Musa said Sabah’s development was on track via both State and Federal projects.Investors, he said, were continuing their interest in what Sabah has to offer, including in the oil and gas sector apart from agriculture, tourism and manufacturing.Existing businesses and prospective ventures require insurance “and so I wish to call on Progressive Insurance to offer relevant and attractive packages to meet demand from new and existing business ventures in Sabah, and beyond the State”.

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Folks demand RM1m per unit over 'corpse water'

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Tawau: Residents of the Sri Titingan People's Housing Project (PPR) here staged a peaceful protest Monday following the discovery of a corpse inside one of its water tanks on May 12.They held posters claiming RM1 million compensation for each unit claiming they had consumed the contaminated water.Some of them also displayed posters calling for the relevant authorities to act in accordance with the 1Malaysia concept of "People's First, Performance Now".They conducted the protest before a dialogue and health check-up session of the residents that was attended by State Finance Assistant Minister cum Apas Assemblyman Datuk Tawfiq Abu Bakar, Tawau Municipal Council President Datuk Ismail Mayakob and Tawau Health Director II, Dr Mohammad Nazaruddin.In the dialogue, several residents questioned the level of water security in the housing and became emotional over the issue.However, Tawfiq assured the residents that they should not worry over the supply of clean water to their houses as it is safe to be consumed and that the Health Department has taken proactive steps to clean up the water tanks.He also advised the residents not to be influenced by opposition propaganda as they are taking advantage of the situation and issuing baseless statements."To those unsatisfied residents, they have the right to voice out but discharge your rights in accordance to the law and Constitution," Tawfiq said.Meanwhile Dr Mohammad said the Department has carried out inspection and monitoring on the cleaning works of the affected water tanks and that chlorine has been put into the main water tank that channels water to the residents' homes."The Department carried out health examination on the people here, Monday, to ensure the level health of the residents is good."At the same time, the residents should boil water when they want to consume water and get immediate treatment at the hospital should they suffer allergies or pain," he said.

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Coming polls to be the last for me: Max

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Marudu: If Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili is chosen by the Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Barisan Nasional (BN) leadership to defend his Kota Marudu parliamentary seat and wins it in the next general election, it will be his last term, he said.Ongkili, who is also PBS Deputy President, told delegates at the PBS Tandek 27th annual meeting, here, that he was ready to serve the constituency for the last time before making way for a younger, capable local leader to take over."Nevertheless, I will continue to serve the people in other capacities such as a mentor and advisor," he pledged.He said the Kota Marudu parliamentary seat as well as the Tandek and Matunggong state seats under it, remained to be BN strongholds."The Kota Marudu constituency has progressed enormously over the past 10 years with the support and special attention of the BN Federal and State governments," he said."This can be seen from new development programmes taking place in Kota Marudu, which include construction of two new secondary schools (SMK Marak Parak and SMK Langkon), a RM300 million water reticulation system and the Marak-Parak road to connect Kota Marudu to Ranau."Besides this, Kota Marudu has also enjoyed one of the highest quotas for housing for the poor in the state," he added.Ongkili attributed these successes to the fact that Kota Marudu folk had always been ardent supporters of BN.Meanwhile, Ongkili's sudden interest in Keningau district, as seen by his presence during the recently concluded district-level Tadau Kaamatan celebration, sparked public speculation as to whether he would shift base there.The Keningau parliamentary seat is currently held by Tambunan Assemblyman and Deputy Chief Minister-cum-Infrastructure Development Minister as well as Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) President, Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.They noted that although Dr Maximus had studied at a school in Keningau previously, he seldom came to the district.Dr Maximus, who is Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, is PBS Deputy President and the party's likely choice as replacement for Pairin in Keningau should he (Pairin) not wish to continue.There was earlier speculation about Pairin's health but the latter said he was fit to lead the party to another election battle.There was also talk that Jack Nointin, who is PBS Liawan Division chief, would take over Pairin as Keningau MP if Dr Maximus decides to continue holding onto his Kota Marudu parliamentary seat.

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Sabah sees no need for local council elections

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: There are no plans for the State government to have local government elections because the current system is working well.Local Government and Housing Minister, Datuk Hajiji Noor said even though there is room for improvement in the current local government administration system, there is no need for elections to change the existing structure."Penang is an opposition stateÉthe Sabah government and authorities do not have such suggestions or notion to follow suit."He said this after closing the second series of a five-day Rela Youth Squad basic training participated by a total of 184 youth at its training centre here on Monday.The Penang Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the Local Government Elections (Penang Island and Province Wellesley) Enactment 2012 on May 9.Hence, barring any legal challenges from the Barisan Nasional federal government or the Election Commission (EC), local government elections must be held in Penang within 180 days from the day the enactment has been enforced.State executive councillor in charge of local government and traffic management affairs, Padang Kota assemblyman Chow Kon Yeow had said that the state government would attempt to obtain a pre-emptive court declaration that the enactment was not ultra vires the Federal Constitution to compel the EC to conduct the local polls.On other developments, Hajiji said the Rela basic training was held to provide knowledge and experience to youth regarding the roles of Rela, as well as to let them understand and appreciate the spirit of volunteerism.He explained that youth make up of about 40.2 per cent or 11.4 million of the total population in Malaysia, hence their contribution to the country's development is significant.He pointed out that it was important to mould their characters to be someone successful and to be proud of, who can contribute to the national development from a young age."There are so many issues facing the youth, such as drug abuse, crime, uncontrolled partying and illegal racing, thus the government is taking all sorts of initiatives to tackle these problems," he said.In this respect, Sabah Rela Training Centre Commander, Colonel Rela Darman Dabang said the participants from areas such as Penampang, Kota Kinabalu, Tuaran and students from Eastern College, Institut Kemahiran Belia Negara (IKBN) and the Industrial Training Institute (ILP) were given mental and physical training the past five days."This is to train them to be more disciplined people, instill leadership, religious and cooperative values among them," he said.

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Cuepacs decides on three-point proposal

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: The Congress Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) decided on a three-point proposal following a dialogue session with State Government Grade 41 and 44 officers here, on Monday."The three proposals are reviewing on the issue of having similar time base implemented on teachers to be implemented on these groups, reviewing the maximum salary scale and taking seniority into consideration for appointment promotion."Its President, Dato Osman Omar said this at a dialogue session with Grade 41 officers and Grade 44 officers from the State civil service in Promenade Hotel here, Monday.The dialogue was organised by Cuepacs with the objectives of looking into their predicaments as well as to act as a platform for them to gain motivation towards achieving the needed working standards."In this dialogue, we heard the predicament of some Grade 41 officers who have worked for 18 years, some for 30 years but have not received career advancement opportunities which eventually spoils the image of civil servants themselves."We in Cuepacs are aware of their predicament and we will present these proposals hopefully within this six months," he said."We hope by 2013 a new scheme would be available for those in the civil service," he said.Also present were Cuepacs Sabah Chairman Pengiran Anak Pengiran Mubin and the Department of Public Services Sabah Deputy Director (Development) Ahmad Shah Mohd Talip.

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Rubber board makes RM30m pre-tax profit

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Rubber Industry Board (SRIB) generated a pre-tax profit of RM30 million last year, said its Chairman Ahmad Bujang here Monday.He said the agency was pleased with the performance as it has registered losses the past two to three years."The pre-tax profit of RM30 million is a good sign that the agency is beginning to progress after suffering losses for several years," Ahmad said during a media luncheon with news editors, bureau chiefs and journalists at a hotel here on Monday."Therefore, we are also targeting to earn about the same amount of profit before tax this year through our new management that has gone forward to improve SRIB's image."The management has created a new environment and approaches including programmes that would benefit the people especially the smallholders in tandem with what the government aspires for the people," he said.Ahmad said the agency is currently implementing a new rubber plantation programme and re-planting rubber programme on a total acreage of 6,392 hectares involving a funding of RM40.6 million for this year.He said the agency has also planned to develop about 7,000-ha of land with rubber trees utilising RM73 million and involving about 2,500 rubber smallholders."It cannot be denied that the media plays a major role as it has been giving publicity and wide coverage on SRIB and the people of Sabah now are more familiar with the agency's roles and functions," Ahmad said.Deputy Chief Minister cum Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Yahya Hussin also attended the event along with his assistant minister Datuk Bobbey A. Suan and SRIB General Manager Datuk Harris Mathews.

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Sabah may become No.1 ginger State

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: The State Government is currently formulating strategies to make Sabah the biggest producer of ginger in the country.Assistant Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Musbah Haji Jamli said this was following the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman's recommendation, considering Sabah's ginger is known to be the best of its kind in the country."This is part of the State Government's effort to ensure Sabah is no longer viewed as incapable to compete with the other states É the Chief Minister is also very concerned over agriculture development in the State and aspires to bring it to a level that we can be proud of," he said at the launching of the Sabah zone-level Kor Tani by the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry at the Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex here Monday.Musbah, who represented Deputy Chief Minister cum Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Yahya Hussin at the event, said the State Government is also hoping that the Federal government can channel more allocations to Sabah.

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BN govt will never break promises, assures Sabah MIC

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah MIC on Monday assured that the Barisan Nasional (BN) Government will never break its promises.Its Liaison Chief, Datuk V Jothi said, the Barisan would also never disregard the people's requests."With 50 years of experience running the country, only the BN Government is capable of developing the country and its people," he said at the leader-with-people session in Lahad Datu.Citing Sabah, he said, the development enjoyed by the people such as electricity, water, roads, schools and institutes of higher learning such as Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), were made possible because of the Barisan Nasional.He said it is also because of the leaders who place the people foremost in their minds when planning for the country.To this, he firmly urged the people to continue supporting the government especially Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and Sabah Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Musa Aman. He said the BN has already proven itself and this is evidenced with its vision and mission aimed at enhancing the people's lives irrespective of their race, religion and locality."The BN Government is indeed a government that fulfils its promises," he said.When Najib was appointed the sixth Prime Minister, he planned various strategies so as to help people with low income.The Federal Budget 2012, Jothi said, is one example where it is geared towards improving the people's lives.In education, aid is provided to the pupils including secondary students and also students at institutes of higher learning. "There is also a special fund to repair schools, purchasing of equipment and construction of additional blocks," he said.In addition, he said, the government also conducts various programmes to spur the people's economy from time to time.To top it up, the government also distributes aid directly to the people via its transformation programmes such as the First House Scheme, 1Malaysia Housing Scheme, Fishermen Housing Scheme and People's Friendly Housing Scheme.He said the government recently distributed RM500 to each family that earns less than RM3,000 a month."In Sabah, almost 356,000 people have received the Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia (BR1M) scheme," he said.Jothi also expressed the Indian community's gratitude to the State and Federal Governments for their concern and aid such as the RM800,000 to repair temples and also for Indian associations throughout the State.On this, he urged the Sabah Indian younger generation who have yet to register as voters to do so now.He said their support for the government is very much needed.

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KL aware of Sabah's need for more funding

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: The Federal Government is seriously looking into Sabah's need for more allocation for agriculture development and will strive to help fulfilling such needs, said Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Wira Mohd Johari Baharum."What's important is that Barisan Nasional (BN) must win in Sabah (during the forthcoming General Election). If BN wins in Sabah, surely there would be no problem," he said."Like in Kedah, my place, we lost. So if we lose, it would be difficult, because we will have a problem with the (opposition) State Government. So we hope BN would continue to rule in Sabah, so we can continue to assist the StateÉwe can help many things in the State," he told reporters after he officiated at the launching of Sabah zone-level Kor Tani by his Ministry at Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex in Likas here Monday.He said the Federal Government is well aware of the problem (Sabah's need for more Federal Government allocation) as most of the Members of Parliament from Sabah have raised it in their debates in Parliament.Citing an example, Mohd Johari pointed to the government assistance in repairing the houses of fishermen which is now being implemented in stages.Apart from that he said the Government is also now building homes for the fishermen at a cost of RM50,000 per unit. But to do this the Federal Government requires the cooperation of the State Government to provide land for the purpose.The same goes for other agriculture development, he said, adding it is for this reason that the people of Sabah must continue to give their support to the present BN State Government and its leaders.Mohd Johari also blamed the opposition's attempt to interfere in the government effort to develop Kota Belud's rice bowl by campaigning against the construction of a proposed dam that is meant to provide for the irrigation for the paddy cultivation area in the district."So that's why I said if Sabah is to be ruled by the opposition, it would make it hard for us to continue developing the State Éwe hope the people in Sabah would reject the opposition and give their full support to the existing BN State Government under the Umno leadership," he said.Some 515 people in Sabah and Labuan participated as members of Kor Tani, which aims to register 10,000 members throughout the country this year.So far nearly 6,000 people aged between 18 and 40 have joined this movement, which was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak at national-level on April 22 this year.They comprise the Pasar Tani participants, small and medium industry entrepreneurs, graduates involved in production/marketing, farmers, breeders and so on.Mohd Johari said the Ministry is now looking at probably providing an opportunity to those unemployed Kor Tani members to develop lands under the Ministry's jurisdiction that are still idle for food production.In another development, Mohd Johari said the peninsula is presently importing bananas from Sabah and Sarawak due to the banana plague that has badly affected banana cultivation there.

 Daily Express

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Pensions event in Likas

Published on: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: The Pension Division of the Public Service Department will be conducting "a day with pensioners" programme at Dewan Kecil, Maksak, Likas on May 25.An important briefing on retirement will take place at the event.Problems pertaining to pension payment will also be highlighted.Feedback is required on each questionnaire form to assist in a study on the closing of the Public Service Department's Pension Processing unit here in Sabah.All pensioners, receivers of derivative pensions and their heirs in Sabah are welcome.

Daily Express 

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Kota Marudu to see more projects

Kota Marudu: Once a backwater district with hardly any commercial centres, the Kota Marudu district has seen much progress in recent years.

Basic amenities such as roads, electricity, water, housing and schools have been provided to many of the villages here with little sign of the development slowing down.

Kota Marudu MP Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili, however, said there were still more areas that needed attention from the Barisan Nasional government and it was imperative for the people to remain united.

He said this during the launch of the district-level Pesta Kaamatan or Harvest Festival by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan over the weekend.

"The district has been earmarked for many projects related to agriculture, aquaculture and agro-based industries which look set to bring more development," said Ongkili.

Ongkili, who is also the science, technology and innovation minister, said the latest programmes included prawn breeding which had been identified as an Entry Point Project under the National Key Economic Areas for Kota Marudu and Pitas, while a project for induced spawning of sea cucumber was also being implemented.

A private company had also shown interest in rearing oysters at the Marudu Bay which has been tested and proven as conducive for this activity.

"Once it takes off, this project can provide 1,000 jobs for locals including fishermen."

The ministry was also conducting scientific research in cooperation with various universities to develop and sustainably manage Marudu Bay near here, including training local people to participate in eco-tourism.

Pairin, who is also the Parti Bersatu Sabah president, called on the people to remain united to effectively voice their needs to the government.

"The government is very perceptive to the needs of the people and wishes to protect their interests. However, to enable the government to help the people, it is important that they remain united in voicing their needs.

"Our unity will make us stronger in voicing our views and concerns. The government is always listening to the people and will do all it can to fulfil their development needs."

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ACCCIM impressed with Sabah

21st May, 2012

KOTA KINABALU: The President of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Malaysia, Tan Sri William Cheng is impressed with the rapid economic development that has taken place in Sabah over the last couple of years.“I see a lot of changes in Sabah. It looks different…the economic landscape is different,” he said to reporters after a breakfast meeting hosted by the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman with members of ACCCIM.Attributing the positive changes to the leadership of Musa, he said the current political stability, sound government policies and focused economic direction have led to the significant economic development in Sabah.He said such factors were important in pulling in business and investors to a country and state.William said Malaysia and Sabah have these attributes in terms of the capacity to attract investors and tourists alike.“Sabah is rich in natural resources…oil and gas, timber, minerals and so on but most important, you have the right leadership to take Sabah to greater heights,” he said.He said the sectors of tourism and agriculture namely aquaculture in the state were doing well and had the potential to become bigger.“I am also told that Sabah has strong environmental conservation laws. This is also good for the state in terms of eco -tourism,” he said.Meanwhile, Musa said investors were attracted to do business in Malaysia because of the conducive investor climate, good government policies and stable politics under the able leadership of Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak who strives to be fair to all communities regardless of race and religion.Here in Sabah, he said the State government strives to do the same for all Malaysians in the state.He said the environmental laws on conservation and protection put in place by the present state government actually has long-term positive impact on the overall development of a state.“Protecting your forest, phasing out logging and reforestation means in 30 to 40 years time, the future generation can once again have tropical rainforests which were previously logged,” he said.He said having clean air and water also had positive impact in drawing investors and business to Sabah.Citing a US-based multi-national company, Darden Incorporated, he said the food giant committed some USD2 billion to develop lobster farming off the coast of Semporna because the water is not polluted and the State has sound environmental policies.“The also told me that the other important reason as to why they chose to come here was because of the prevailing economic and political stability in Malaysia and Sabah included, “ he said.On another note, Musa said the Sabah Government valued the contributions by the Chinese community in Sabah especially towards the economic growth of the state.“The government both at the Federal and State level understands the needs of the Chinese community. They want opportunities for their businesses to flourish, their security assured, quality education for their children and their houses of worship continue to remain relevant,” he said.He said the BN government will continue and strive to meet the needs of the Chinese community in Sabah, adding that their continued support is important to the wellbeing of the state.William who is also the President of the Selangor Chinese Chamber of Commerce and his 15-member delegation had breakfast with Musa prior to a discussion.Among those present were Sabah United Chinese Chamber of Commerce President (SUCCC) Datuk Seri Panglima Guan Sau Wah, ACCCIM Vice President and Johor Chinese Chamber of Commerce President Tan Sri Lim Bah, ACCCIM Vice President and Pahang CCC President , Dato’ Lim Sing, ACCCIM Vice President and Negeri Sembilan CCC President Dato’ William Tan, ACCCIM Deputy Secretary General and Terangganu CCC President, Dato Low Kian Chuan, and SUCCC Deputy President Datuk Seri Panglima Sari Nuar.

http://www.newsabahtimes.com 

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College status for vocational schools

PILOT PROGRAMME: Move part of govt's efforts to transform education system

NILAI: ALL vocational schools in the country will be upgraded to college status in stages by 2015 in line with the government's efforts to strengthen the national education system.

Deputy Education Minister Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi said 15 vocational schools in each state had been upgraded to college status under a pilot programme to transform the education system.

"The upgrading will focus on skills training.

"Students will no longer have to wear uniforms. We will also change the learning environment," he said after launching the SK Kompleks KLIA's Parent-Teacher Association Carnival and Expo, here, yesterday.

"Other than introducing a few new courses such as aviation to attract the interest of students, the vocational curriculum will be completely revamped to achieve standards that will meet the job market demands."

He said there were 78 vocational schools nationwide and a few more would be built and given the college status right away.

On the proposed muzakarah (discussion) between Umno and Pas, he said it should be expedited for the sake of Malay unity and finding a common ground for various issues. Bernama

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21 May 2012

3 factors why investors love Sabah

KOTA KINABALU: SABAH'S political stability, sound policies and focused economic directions  are three key factors that have caught the attention of the country's business community.

Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia president Tan Sri William Cheng Heng Jem said this here yesterday after leading a delegation for a meeting with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.

"Rapid economic development has taken place in Sabah. It looks different and the economic landscape is different," Cheng said, adding that the three factors were prerequisites investors looked for in a country or state.

"Sabah is rich in natural resources, such as timber, minerals, oil and gas. However, what is important is it takes the right leadership to take the state to greater heights."

Cheng said tourism and agriculture, including aquaculture, were doing well in the state and had the potential to grow.

"I am also told that Sabah has strong environmental conservation laws.

"This is also good in terms of ecotourism."

Meanwhile, Musa said investors were interested in Malaysia because of the conducive atmosphere, good government policies and stable politics under the able leadership of Prime Minister Dauk Seri Najib Razak.

He said the environmental laws on conservation had a long-term positive impact on the overall development of the state.

"Protecting the forests, phasing out logging and focusing on reforestation means that future generations can once again have tropical rainforests, which had been logged, in 30 to 40 years' time."

Similarly, he said a clean and unpolluted environment helped to draw investors to Sabah.

Citing a United States-based multinational company, Darden Incorporated, he said the food giant had committed about US$2 billion (RM6.3 billion) to develop lobster farming off the coast of Semporna because the water was not polluted.

"They also told me that another important reason why they chose to invest here was because of the prevailing economic and political stability in Malaysia."

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Sabah ready for 13th General Election anytime - Musa Aman

TAWAU, -- Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Musa Aman said Sabah BN was ready for the 13th general election anytime as it had made early preparations.

The Chief Minister said Sabah BN's preparations had always been based on preparing early and serving the people at all times and anywhere, without waiting for the elections to be approaching.

"We are prepared. From the beginning, I've told our assemblymen and members of parliament when they were chosen as elected representatives and given the mandate by the people, they should be grateful and thankful.

"Don't regard the YB title that we've got as a privilege or a high rank. We should humbly accept it as not 'Yang Berhormat' but as 'Yang Berkhidmat' to the people," he said in his speech at a meeting with Tawau Zone community leaders, here, Friday.

Musa was confident that the opposition parties would not be able to penetrate BN strongholds if the BN elected representatives continued to work hard and serve the people with dedication.

-- BERNAMA

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Astro gives RTM RM500m for better Sabah coverage

Published on: Sunday, May 20, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: Pay TV station Astro allocated RM500 million to Radio-Television Malaysia (RTM) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to enable the government-owned broadcaster to widen its coverage especially in Sabah and Sarawak, said Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim.He said Astro and RTM signed a memorandum of understanding for the purpsoe for a period of three years beginning this year."My Ministry thanks Astro for the gesture. This will put an end to non-receipt of Astro and RTM broadcasts and other sources of broadcast disturbances," he said, after attending the opening of the Ministry's new integrated complex in Jalan Lintas, Kepayan, here.The complex was opened by Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin. Rais said under the MOU, Astro would also be supplying 1,800 decoder units to eligible recipients in Sabah and 2,000 in Sarawak in the near future.He said his Ministry through RTM would also be increasing programmes with content suited to the taste of target audiences in Sabah and Sarawak and a few selected areas in the peninsula.Rais said in connection with this, local television content producers were invited to submit suitable programmes to complement 16 suppliers of such programmes in Sabah and Sarawak.He said besides television programmes broadcast on RTM's TV1, TV2 and TV interaktif (TVi) networks, the collaboration would also allow people in Sabah and Sarawak obtain satellite broadcasts of RTM's radio stations, namely Klasik Nasional and its English, Mandarin and Tamil stations.On the complex sited on a 6.76-hectare site and costing RM80 million, Rais said it had the latest radio and television transmission facilities and was a new landmark here in line with RTM's growth over the years.

http://www.dailyexpress.com

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RCI must haul up anyone

Published on: Sunday, May 20, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: The Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) on illegal immigrant issues in Sabah must be kept short in order to keep its focus on the real objective.Suhakam Commissioner Jannie Lasimbang said it was important that the RCI be given the authority to subpoena anybody they want to facilitate in the investigations."What we want is investigation into the extraordinary population boom," she said at the Proham Round Table Discussion on Citizenship Issues in Sabah at the School of Social Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Saturday.However, she does not believe that the Philippines and Indonesia are eager to welcome their nationals back since for as long as they are in Sabah the problem will not be theirs.She said political differences must be set aside in order for the RCI to do its job effectively. It was also pointed out during the discussion that in the case of the death of Teo Beng Hock, the Government had stated that it was not obliged to follow the recommendations of the RCI.In this respect, she said the Suhakam was open to any suggestion to be part of the RCI. Moderator, Datuk Dr Denison Jayasooria said the setting up of the RCI is under the purview of the Commission of Inquiry Act and it has the power to subpoena any witness.Under the Act, it provides protection for witnesses and they cannot be sued or charged in court for their statements, similarly the commissioners are also immune to lawsuits, he said.Later, Dr Jayasooria said the roundtable discussion showed there was a consensus that the population growth in Sabah was not proportionate to those in other states in the country.There was also a consensus that the RCI was the best vehicle to address the issue and its main TOR is to investigate the reason for the extraordinary population boom in Sabah, to review all data, complaints, anomalies, examples or sightings that local people were being outnumbered and to make specific recommendations to the Government to solving this.He said there must also be transparency in terms of the people appointed to the RCI to ensure its credibility and independence in order to restore public confidence.The Human Rights Promotion Association (Proham) was set up in March last year to accommodate former Suhakam commissioners and the Royal Malaysian Police Commission of Inquiry commissioners.Proham Deputy Chairman, Datuk Prof Hamdan Adnan said the former commissioners felt they could still contribute through the vast experience accumulated during their service in the two commissions.Suhakam commissioners are only allowed to sit for a maximum two terms.

http://www.dailyexpress.com.my

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