Melaka should uphold heritage preservation standards, says Penang exco
GEORGE TOWN: Penang urges Melaka to follow heritage conservation guidelines in order to protect their joint listing as Unesco World Heritage sites.
Penang Tourism Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the state was committed to heritage conservation since it launched the George Town World Heritage Incorporated in 2008, which ensured that historic areas in George Town were protected under a strong legal framework.
He said Penang had enacted comprehensive heritage laws, established conservation offices and implemented council guidelines to protect not only historic buildings but also intangible cultural heritage.
"We have done quite a bit in terms of heritage protection, including this building and many others.
"We are not only moving along with heritage conservation but also expanding into intangible cultural heritage.
"Since George Town and Melaka share a joint Unesco World Heritage (listing), Melaka is equally responsible for complying with building and conservation guidelines to ensure the integrity of the shared heritage status.
"I read quite a bit about some of the building issues in Melaka.
"So if there are issues in Melaka, they must follow the building guidelines as well," he said when announcing the George Town Celebrations 2025 here today.
Wong did not specify the building issues in Melaka.
He said the joint listing legally protected both sites and their heritage status remained secure.
Wong's comments come amid renewed public discussion around the preservation of historic sites and the need for balanced development.
George Town and Melaka were jointly inscribed as United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage Sites in 2008.
They were recognised as "Historic Cities of the Strait of Malacca" for their shared rich trading heritage and cultural exchange between East and West over 500 years.
This year's George Town Celebrations — the 17th year of the annual heritage festival — is themed "Doors and Doorways".
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Borneo Post
21 hours ago
- Borneo Post
More calls to postpone SST expansion amid economic struggles
David Chan KOTA KINABALU (June 13): The federal government's intention to expand the Sales and Services Tax (SST) on July 1 has received more negative reactions in Sabah with more calls for its postponement. The National Consumer Foundation Malaysia (Sabah Chapter) expresses deep concern as it will inevitably worsen the cost of living for ordinary Malaysians. 'We are witnessing a continuous rise in daily expenses – from basic food items to essential services – and any increase in SST will directly impact business operating costs. These costs will be passed on to consumers, compounding financial hardship at a time when wages remain stagnant and employment insecurity is rising,' said its chairman, David Chan. He said the recent announcement by Petronas to cut 5,000 jobs is a significant signal of economic strain. As global markets are rattled by a prolonged trade war and rising import tariffs – particularly from the United States – Malaysia is not spared. The ripple effects are already being felt across multiple sectors, from manufacturing to logistics. 'At a time when the rakyat are already grappling with inflation and reduced purchasing power, we urge the Federal Government to defer any expansion of SST until the economy stabilises and international trade tensions ease. 'Instead, the focus should be on revitalising the domestic economy, protecting jobs, and ensuring affordable access to goods and services. Any tax adjustment should only be implemented with clear impact studies and mitigation plans to protect the low- and middle-income groups,' he said. 'Let us not burden the rakyat further in the name of fiscal reform. Economic recovery must be people-centred, and taxation policy must reflect the current realities faced by consumers and businesses alike,' Chan added. Junz Wong Warisan Vice President Datuk Junz Wong has strongly recommended the federal government to reconsider the decision, reminding that the move will impose unnecessary hardship on businesses and consumers, especially in Sabah. In a statement today, Wong questioned the rationale behind implementing such a far-reaching policy with less than three weeks' notice, calling it 'abrupt and confusing.' 'The government must explain why this drastic SST expansion is being rushed through. What is the urgency? Why weren't businesses given more time to adapt? Many don't even know what is taxed at 5%, 10%, or exempted,' said Wong. 'And we all know what happens next as ruthless and clueless merchants will simply apply the highest tax rate across their product range, passing the burden to consumers and families.' He stressed that Sabahans do not support the expansion of the SST regime and called for it to be reviewed immediately. Wong also questioned the fiscal position of Madani government. 'Is our government so cash-strapped that it now needs to extract more money from the people and SMEs?' he asked. 'Malaysians are suffering for years of Covid post effects, yet now rakyat and businesses must now carry the burden.' Wong further warned that Malaysia risks losing its business-friendly reputation in the region. 'This SST regime, combined with already burdensome regulations and tax compliance, is making Malaysia an expensive country to do business in,' he said. 'How do we expect to remain competitive in ASEAN when others are streamlining their systems and lowering costs while we keep adding more layers of taxation and red tape?' He warned that the expansion of SST may discourage foreign direct investments (FDIs) and even lead existing ones to exit Malaysia. 'Investors will think twice. Why stay in Malaysia when doing business here gets costlier and more complicated every year?' he asked. 'With the exit of FDIs, our economy will shrink, unemployment will rise, and inflation will worsen because we'll be forced to import more goods that could have been manufactured locally.' 'What happens to our palm oil, our coffee, our cocoa and other agricultural plantations? Instead of developing downstream industries, we'll go back to exporting raw materials and importing expensive finished goods.' Wong asked the federal government to lay out a long-term economic strategy. 'Madani government must show that they have real vision for Malaysia's future and not just obsessed with taxing businesses and people to fill the coffers?' Wong further questioned the silence of the Sabah GRS-PH government, accusing them of being too busy with issues like political survival, mining and logging to stand up for Sabahans. 'Sabahans are struggling. Small businesses are struggling. But does the GRS-led Sabah government care about Sabahans? 'Enough is enough. The rakyat should not be punished further by policies that are ill-timed, ill-planned. 'You cannot grow the economy by keep taxing it.'
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
Dongfeng Motor Launches Flagship Innovation, Driving Global Value Chain Advancement with China Intelligent Manufacturing
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 13 June 2025 - The International Automotive & Supply Chain Expo (Hong Kong) 2025 opened on June 12, bringing together global industry leaders. Seizing this strategic opportunity in Hong Kong, Dongfeng Motor is showcasing its technological edge and promoting nine flagship models covering both passenger and commercial vehicle segments. Dongfeng Motor aims to rank among the top three Chinese passenger vehicle brands in the Hong Kong market by 2025 and to lead the high-end right-hand-drive commercial vehicle segment among Chinese brands. Technology-Driven Innovation Fuels Dongfeng Motor's Ambition for One Million Overseas Sales Following several days of international media attention and coverage, the Expo is now underway as scheduled. Dongfeng Motor, alongside 10 other leading Chinese automotive manufacturers, is taking part in the event to demonstrate the strength of China's automotive industry. Leveraging this global platform, Dongfeng Motor is elevating its international brand presence and targeting emerging markets with precision. On the opening day of the Expo, several distinguished guests—including Lau Yip-wong, Member of the Standing Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC); Zhou Qiang, Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR; and Li Peng, Chief Representative of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Representative Office in Hong Kong, representatives from leading organizations such as Sinomach (China National Machinery Industry Corporation), China Merchants Group, China Resources Group, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the Macao Chamber of Commerce, and the Hong Kong Cross-Strait Peaceful Development Association —visited the Dongfeng Motor booth and attended the official brand launch event. Under the theme 'Dongfeng Advance, The Pearl Radiates,' Dongfeng Motor arrived in Hong Kong bearing the achievements of Chinese innovation, aiming to position 'Chinese Automobiles' as an amazing business card of global connectivity. This initiative also supports Hong Kong's deeper integration into China's national development strategy. At the event, Mr. You Zheng, Deputy President of Dongfeng Motor Corporation, presented the brand's strategic vision to a distinguished audience of guests and leading media representatives. Mr. You highlighted that Dongfeng Motor was founded during the 'Third Front' construction, grew amid reform and opening-up, prospered in the new century—now rising with innovation in the new era. Technological innovation has always been the core of Dongfeng Motor's brand identity. The company continues to pioneer multiple powertrain pathways, focused on PHEV, pure electric and hydrogen energy. Dongfeng Motor has launched several pioneering platforms and architectures, including the MHERO new-gen off-road platform, quantum architecture all electric platform, and multi-energy low-carbon energy saving architecture, empowering the full spectrum of its passenger vehicle brands. In addition, Dongfeng Motor is accelerating the development of 'Embodied Intelligence,' advancing the integration of Tri-Network convergence, Penta-Smart integration. This strategy aims to equip Dongfeng Motor's next-generation smart vehicles with a robust physical structure ('Robust Body'), powerful performance systems ('Powerful Heart'), intelligent control systems ('Intelligent Brain'), and responsive digital infrastructure ('Agile Nervous System'). Recently, Dongfeng Motor also introduced its 'TIANYUAN Intelligence' technology brand, which anchors its new 'One Core + Dual Foundations + Dual Elements' smart mobility system. Mr. You emphasized that Dongfeng Motor will use the Hong Kong market as a strategic pivot to accelerate expansion into new global markets. In 2024, Dongfeng Motor's total vehicle exports exceeded 250,000 units, up 8.2% year-on-year. From January to April 2025 alone, overseas exported 77,000 units, marking a 7.7% increase over the same period last year. Dongfeng Motor is now accelerating the internationalization leap, with a clear target of 1-Million overseas sales annually in the near future. During the event, Dongfeng Motor signed strategic cooperation agreements with passenger and commercial vehicle fleet clients, marking a significant milestone and opening a new chapter of partnership and collaboration. Four Flagship Models Lead, Dongfeng Motor Redefines Urban Mobility for Hong Kong's Smart City Vision Dongfeng Motor's booth was among the largest corporate exhibits at this year's Expo, designed to highlight the integration of company's technology, intelligence, interactivity, and diversity. 'Welcome to the Dongfeng Motor booth. What you're seeing now is...' From the moment visitors set foot on the stand, they were greeted by an AI-powered robotic dog, adding a futuristic and engaging element to vehicle introductions and welcoming interactions. The booth also featured a variety of interactive experiences that blended automotive culture with entertainment, earning widespread praise and enthusiastic feedback from attendees. Dongfeng Motor presented a lineup of nine vehicles, spanning both passenger and commercial models, with a strong emphasis on newly launched products, new energy vehicles (NEVs), and intelligent mobility solutions. Four standout models made their international debut at the Expo: MHERO II, DONGFENG 007, DONGFENG VIGO, and DONGFENG KL320. In the exhibition area, Dongfeng Motor's luxury electric off-road brand MHERO showcased two models. The MHERO I, the brand's inaugural release, is built on the proprietary M TECH intelligent off-road platform. It boasts a peak power output of 800 kW and maximum torque of 1,400 N·m, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds—ensuring effortless performance in even the most demanding off-road environments. The MHERO II, hailed as the 'The Luxury Intelligent Off-Roader,' is the brand's second strategic model. It embodies MHERO's signature 'Chinese Awakening Lion' design philosophy and is equipped with CATL's cutting-edge Freevoy off-road battery. Notably, the MHERO II is one of the first models globally to feature Huawei ADS 4.0 and HarmonySpace, delivering a highly advanced and immersive driving experience. VOYAH DREAM, the flagship model of Dongfeng Motor Corporation's premium intelligent new energy brand VOYAH, made a high-profile appearance at the Expo. Upholding VOYAH's core service philosophy of 'Wholehearted Dedication' and the brand belief that 'Safety is the Ultimate Luxury,' the model embodies both emotional care and advanced engineering. MHERO and VOYAH are achieving impressive international growth, with year-on-year sales tripling. The MHERO I has entered over 50 countries, while VOYAH has expanded into more than 30 markets, setting new benchmarks for the global reach of Chinese premium new energy vehicle brands. Prominently featured at the Dongfeng Motor booth were other star models, including the DONGFENG 007—intelligent and elegant electric coupe; the DONGFENG VIGO—national smart and fun pure electric SUV; and the DONGFENG BOX—high-quality chic electric SUV tailored for urban drivers. According to sales data from January to April this year, the DONGFENG BOX has been exceptionally well-received in Hong Kong and Singapore, ranking among the top two in its segment. Also showcased were two commercial right-hand drive models: the DONGFENG KL320 and DONGFENG GX, built specifically to meet the needs of right-hand drive markets such as Hong Kong, Macau, and ASEAN countries. The DONGFENG KL320 is a all-scenario high-value commercial vehicle that serves a wide range of use cases—from trunk logistics and infrastructure projects to concrete transport. Equipped with 13 driving modes, it delivers leading fuel efficiency and driving comfort, making it particularly well-suited for Hong Kong's commercial operations. To date, Dongfeng Commercial Vehicles have achieved cumulative sales of over 15 million units. From January to April 2025, Dongfeng Motor ranked No.1 in terminal market share for the medium and heavy duty truck segment in China, holding a dominant 22.7% share and solidifying its leadership in the sector. As a trailblazer in China's automotive industry, Dongfeng Motor advances in harmony with the nation, the times, and the people. With a reputation for excellence and innovation, Dongfeng Motor is reshaping the international competitiveness of Chinese automotive brands. Leveraging this global platform, the company is intensifying efforts to expand in Hong Kong, Macau, ASEAN, and other emerging markets—creating a better mobility life for users in Hong Kong and beyond by smart technology & premium products. Dongfeng Motor is proud to be a shining symbol of China's automotive strength on the global stage—the 'Eastern Pearl' of the industry.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Borneo Post
Dapsy Sarawak urges delay in SST expansion amid ongoing US tariff negotiations
Wong warns that the combined impact of SST-related cost increases and potential US-imposed tariffs could further strain both businesses and consumers financially. KUCHING (June 11): The Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (Dapsy) Sarawak has urged the federal government to postpone the implementation of the expanded Sales and Services Tax (SST) until ongoing trade discussions with the United States (US) are concluded. Dapsy Sarawak treasurer Wong King Yii said that while he supports the government's broader objective of expanding the tax base to strengthen national revenue and promote long-term economic growth, the short timeframe for implementation presents significant operational challenges. 'Businesses will struggle, particularly in adapting to new compliance and reporting requirements at short notice,' he said in a statement today. Wong warned that the combined impact of SST-related cost increases and potential US-imposed tariffs could further strain both businesses and consumers financially. 'In this context, a more coordinated and deliberate approach is necessary. 'The government should defer the SST expansion until the tariff negotiations are concluded to avoid unnecessary economic pressure on the rakyat,' he said. Wong also called on the government to revise the exemption threshold for lessees that qualify as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He proposed raising the current RM500,000 annual sales threshold to RM1 million to ensure more MSMEs are shielded from immediate cost burdens. 'This adjustment is vital to help MSMEs weather the financial uncertainties that may result from both domestic tax changes and external trade developments,' he said. DAPSY expanded SST US Tariffs Wong King Yii
