Still looking for closure
ON Friday, Sabahans commemorated one of the most pivotal moments in their state's history, which occurred 49 years ago.
The Double Six Tragedy claimed the lives of then Chief Minister, Tun Fuad Stephens, and several key state ministers when the GAF N-22B Nomad aircraft they were on crashed in Sem-bulan, Kota Kinabalu, on June 6, 1976.
Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.
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Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.
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The Star
2 days ago
- The Star
A landmark celebration of faith and community
Strong foundation: Congregants marking the 130th anniversary of St Mark's Church in Butterworth. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star BUTTERWORTH: For university student Joel Cephasraj Harris, St Mark's Church is more than a place of worship – it is part of his family's story. The 20-year-old said the church has been central to three generations, from his grandfather to his father and now himself. 'Practically my whole family worshipped here, from my grandfather to my generation,' he said during the church's 130th anniversary celebration yesterday. Joel, who has volunteered there for several years, described the church as a melting pot of English, Bahasa Malaysia and Tamil speakers. 'It goes beyond religion – it's about shaping people into better individuals and strengthening the community,' he said. Engineer S. Prabakaran brought his wife and two children from Seberang Jaya for the occasion. 'It's a proud day for us. The church has evolved into more than just a religious institution – it's where the community comes together,' said the 44-year-old. Prabakaran said he took advantage of the weekend holiday to bring his family to join the anniversary celebration. 'It's not every day you get to witness a 130-year celebration. I wanted my children to see and appreciate the church's history and the role it plays in our lives,' he said, adding that he also met up with his friends there. His wife, K. Kavitha, 40, said it is heartening to see people of all ages sharing stories and celebrating a place that has stood the test of time. Even non-members joined in the celebration such as Butterworth resident Eduard Lim, 25, who came to support friends and neighbours. 'I've always admired how the church opens its doors to everyone, regardless of background. It's part of what makes this community special,' he said. Lim added that the event is also a chance to appreciate the church's history, noting that such heritage buildings are rare and should be preserved for future generations. Yesterday's celebration drew hundreds of congregants and community members who came together to mark the anniversary with prayers, hymns and cultural performances. The event also offered a variety of community services, including free dental check-ups provided by the Health Ministry, medical screenings by Polyclinic Bagan, blood pressure and glucose tests, eye examinations and a blood donation drive by Hospital Baling. Children were treated to games and activities, adding a festive atmosphere to the occasion. Anglican Churches' Bishop of the Diocese of West Malaysia Rev Canon Dr D. Steven Abbarow led the service. The church also launched a fundraising drive for RM180,000 to buy a new van for its children's ministry, replacing a 20-year-old vehicle. Vicar Rev Anthony Jude said the van is essential for transporting Sunday school students. 'Our existing van is becoming too costly to maintain,' he said. The church also set a target of raising between RM30,000 and RM40,000 yesterday. Present during the anniversary celebration were Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, Bagan Dalam assemblyman K. Kumaran, Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen and senator Dr Lingeshwaran R. Arunasalam. Founded in 1893 by Rev Hubert C. Henham, the Church of St Mark the Evangelist began as a wooden chapel seating 70 and was completed in 1894 on a government-granted land along Jalan Bagan Luar. It was consecrated in January 1895. In 1929, the church moved to a larger site to serve a growing congregation, and the brick building consecrated that year gave Jalan St Mark its name. Today, the church stands in a Butterworth enclave known as a 'street of harmony', near Hindu and Buddhist temples and a Gurdwara, reflecting the town's interfaith heritage. St Mark's remains under the Anglican Diocese of West Malaysia, holding services in English and Tamil.
The Star
3 days ago
- The Star
A future full of possibilities
Congratulations: Dr Wee (second left) sharing a light moment with graduates as Tan (left) looks on at the 27th VTAR Institute convocation in Kuala Lumpur. — LOW BOON TAT/The Star Proud day for parents as 336 VTAR students graduate KUALA LUMPUR: Not every success story starts in a university, as the proud graduates of VTAR Institute are proof that skills training can also turn dreams into reality. Among the graduates at the 27th convocation of VTAR Institute was 26-year-old bakery chef G. Logesvani Dhurga from Kepong, who finally experienced the joy of walking across a graduation stage. After five years working in a central kitchen and earning her Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) Level 3 certificate from the National Youth Skills Training Institute, the Covid-19 pandemic denied her a formal ceremony, until now. 'Now I finally know what it feels like to walk across the stage and have my efforts recognised,' beamed Logesvani with pride after receiving her Diploma in Bakery and Pastry. She credited VTAR's practical courses and industry-savvy lecturers for sharpening her skills. 'The knowledge and skills I gained here are instrumental in helping me climb further in my career. Earning this diploma gives me confidence, more opportunities for higher salaries and better prospects ahead,' she added. For 22-year-old Tang Jian Hao from Yong Peng, Johor, the day was doubly sweet as he was named Best Student of the Year 2024. Holding an SKM Level 3 in Electronics Equipment and now pursuing Level 4, Tang reflected on his journey from 'knowing nothing to being able to contribute to society'. He singled out a three-month study stint in China as a transformative experience. 'It was an eye-opener. I never thought I'd get the chance to go abroad to learn,' he said, thanking VTAR chief executive officer Tan Cheng Liang for making it possible. In his speech, Tang also expressed gratitude to his family and urged his peers to embrace the future with the skills they had gained. Lim Choo Shi, 20, from Kepong, said she was delighted to pursue her passion for baking at the institute. 'It's practical to study here. Many recommended it, and the fees are affordable without burdening my parents too much,' she said. VTAR not only taught her to bake, but also gave her business skills to one day run her own bakery. VTAR board adviser Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong commended the institute's embrace of technology and international exposure, including sending students to China for training. 'We are committed to aligning our programmes with the latest industry demands, ensuring our graduates are well prepared for the workforce,' he said. Despite governmental budget constraints, Dr Wee said VTAR's focus remains on connecting with young people, especially those who might not fit into traditional academic paths. 'We want them to see a future full of possibilities,' he said. Dr Wee, who is MCA president, added that the party's commitment is to the nation's progress while advocating for the rights of the people and contributing to society's betterment. VTAR Institute is a vocational education institution set up by MCA. In her speech, Tan noted VTAR's growth over its 35-year history, including partnerships with industry players to launch multiple tuition-free programmes. 'These programmes are funded by industry members and successful applicants not only enjoy full tuition fee waivers but also receive monthly living and accommodation allowances. 'This eases the burden on students in need, and I thank all our industrial partners for making it possible,' she said. Tan also dedicated a special tribute to parents by inviting all 336 graduates to rise and bow to them, reminding them to always show gratitude. Also present were VTAR board adviser Datuk Chong Sin Woon, chairman Soon Mon Huay and other board members.
The Star
4 days ago
- The Star
A swath of stripes in Balik Pulau
Flying the flag: Abd Hamid and wife Juriah decorating their yard with Jalur Gemilang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star BALIK PULAU: Believing that even a single Jalur Gemilang can ignite a sense of pride, former army personnel Abd Hamid Hussin has adorned his home in Kampung Titi Teras with thousands of flags. With his colourful home now a familiar sight during the Merdeka season, Abd Hamid hopes it will inspire others to fly the national flag as a show of patriotism. 'Nowadays, not many people, especially the younger generation, display the flag. 'I feel it's important to keep the spirit of patriotism alive,' he said when met at his house yesterday. Abd Hamid, 74, and his wife Juriah Samat, 61, spent several days arranging flags of various sizes to ensure they flutter across their yard. 'We took a few days to complete the display. Each year, I set aside about RM300 to buy new flags, while some are used flags from previous years. 'My wife helped buy the flags from nearby convenience shops this year. 'She is just as passionate as I am.' Abd Hamid said putting up the flags for National Day serves as a reminder – to him and others – of the struggles and sacrifices that built the nation. The grandfather of 12 said he has been carrying out this tradition for more than 15 years – a habit rooted in his days as a soldier, when discipline, respect for the country, and unity were instilled in him. 'Flying the flag is not just about decoration. It is about remembering our history, our struggles, and the sacrifices made by those before us,' he said. As he watches the Jalur Gemilang flutter in the breeze, Abd Hamid says he will continue the tradition for as long as he is able to. 'We may not be able to do grand things for the country, but small acts like these can keep the spirit burning.'
