Latest news with #Abidin
Daily Express
03-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Two Ranau villages to be excised from reserve
Published on: Monday, June 02, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 02, 2025 By: Clarence Dol Text Size: Abidin and others show the thumbs up for the decision to excise the two villages from Forest Reserve as well as for the Kaamatan celebration in Kg Ponulangon. RANAU: The State Government has agreed to remove two villages here, namely Kg Ponulangon and Kg Walou, from the Forest Reserve area. Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Abidin Madingkir, said the matter was decided following several meetings with the Director of Forestry and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Hj Noor. 'I am pleased to announce that, in principle, the Chief Minister has given approval. 'This means that the villagers can apply for land ownership and the land can be cultivated for farming, building houses and so on, without interference from the Forest Department. 'However, this approval will be brought to the State Assembly for ratification,' said the Paginatan Assemblyman. He added that in this regard, the Forest Department will go down to the field to identify how much land will be removed from the Forest Reserve 'As the Wakil Rakyat, I will continue to strive to realise the aspirations of the villagers just like our efforts to realise the construction of a road from Kg Walou, Kg Ponulangon to Kg Tinanom. 'On the needs of the Mini Dewan in Kg Ponulangon, we submitted an application for the construction of a Mini Dewan to the District Office last year,' he said. 'I will instruct UPPM to refer back to the application. Hopefully we will be able to solve this matter this year too.' Abidin said this while officiating the Kg Ponulangon-level Kaamatan Festival held at the Balai Raya Kg Ponulangon, recently. He commended the leaders and residents of Kg Ponulangon for organising the village-level Kaamatan Festival. 'The theme 'Kaamatan for All' is significant because now Kaamatan is celebrated by all levels of society regardless of race or religious differences. 'For the KDMR community, Kaamatan is celebrated because we are grateful for the good harvest. All of this is a gift from God,' he said. According to him, the Kaamatan Festival is held every year because it is a local culture that must be preserved for future generations. Apart from that, he said, Kaamatan can unite the people. Meanwhile, Abidin said the government has revived the Sabah Padi and Rice Board with the aim of increasing local paddy production to reduce dependence on imported rice which is still at 72pc. He called on the residents of Kg Ponulangon to continue to support Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in the upcoming PRN17 for the continuation of the GRS government's development programme through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan. 'For our part, we will continue to serve the people because there are still many unfinished business. 'We are confident in the strong support of the residents of Kg Ponulangon,' he said. Also present were Special Officer to Datuk Abidin Madingkir, Juis Konsuling, CDO Jipili Sigal, KAN Dualis Porodtong, KAN Sawalin Zakaria, KAN Kapilin Hj Surop, Mukim Paus Developer, Jasni Maston and local leaders. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Research pact with Russians
Published on: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Published on: Tue, May 27, 2025 By: Clarence Dol Text Size: MoU signing between Sabah Parks and delegation from Russia. Kundasang: Two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) were signed between Sabah Parks Trustees Board and two entities from the Russian Federation, here, on Saturday. The MoUs aim to strengthen cooperation in the fields of academic research, sustainable development, and sustainable management of natural areas involving aspects of geoscience, mineral resources, climate change and sustainable tourism. Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Abidin Madingkir said the signing would form the basis for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and the implementation of collaborative projects between the two parties. Sabah Parks Board of Trustees was represented by Chairman of the Sabah Parks Trustees Board, Peter Lintar and the Director of Sabah Parks, Dr Maklarin Bin Lakim. The delegation from Russia was represented by the Executive Director of The Committee of The Republic of Bashkortostan for Unesco, and Co-Chairholder at The International Research and Educational Centre 'Geoparks and Territories of Sustainable Development', UFA University of Science and Technology, Dr. Renata Razifovna Lukmanova; and Chairholder at the same center, and Doctor of Geology and Mineralogy at The UFA University of Science and Technology, Professor Larisa Nikolaevna Belan. Advertisement Also participating in the event was a special guest, Director of Bashkiria National Park and The Bashkiria Unesco Biosphere Reserve, Representing The Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology of The Russian Federation, Vladimir Kuznetsov. Abidin welcomed the MoU and said that the presence of the delegation from Russia here really strengthens the bridge of international cooperation in sustainable development and science diplomacy. 'Sabah is very fortunate to have natural wealth, extraordinary biodiversity, and unparalleled cultural diversity. All these elements make Sabah not only a superior tourism destination, but also a reference in holistic regional development through the Geopark approach based on conservation, education and community development. 'This Geopark approach is very much in line with the State Government's development policy which emphasizes sustainable development, rural community empowerment, and the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. 'What we are witnessing today is a manifestation of success resulting from close and continuous cooperation between various parties which include government agencies, non-governmental organizations, local communities, and strategic partners from home and abroad,' he said. Abidin, who is also Paginatan Assemblyman, said this while representing the Deputy Chief Minister and Kundasang Assemblyman, Datuk Dr Joachim Gunsalam in opening the Sambutan Tamu Geopark 2025 here on Saturday. The organisation of this Tamu, he said, not only celebrates the diversity of community heritage, but also presents an integrated approach to sustainable development based on geoparks. 'The Tamu Geopark held today brought together various levels of society, including agency representatives, Geopark partners and communities from across the Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark. 'The organisation of this programme highlighted various important elements such as exhibitions by government and private agencies, local products and handicrafts, traditional clothing, as well as food exhibition featuring the uniqueness and diversity of traditional dishes from various districts in Sabah. 'Not to be missed is the traditional cooking competition which is a medium to introduce local food culture to the community and external visitors,' he said. Abidin added that this approach is not just about showcasing the results of community efforts, but reflects how the Geopark concept can encompass various sectors such as tourism, community economy, education and conservation simultaneously. Meanwhile, he said, through the State Tourism Development Strategic Plan and planning under the National Tourism Policy, initiatives such as the Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark (KUGGp) can be used as an important platform to strengthen inclusive and resilient community-based tourism. 'In fact, the efforts of the State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment in supporting international recognition such as the Unesco Global Geopark are seen in line with the National Geopark Development Policy which is currently being actively developed by the Federal Government. 'This policy aims to provide a more structured, cross-ministerial Geopark management framework, as well as emphasising the balance between the conservation of geological, cultural and biodiversity heritage with local socio-economic progress. 'We believe that the success of a Geopark does not only depend on international recognition, but also on the extent of the involvement and awareness of the local community towards the values of the heritage they possess,' he said. Therefore, he said, the Tamu Geopark is one of the most effective approaches to bring the community closer to the values of the Geopark through direct cultural, economic and educational activities. Also present were State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, Ranau District Officer Tinus Manggam, Sabah Parks Board of Trustees Member Gabriel Sinit, and others. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Chief Minister praises San Chuan's youth involvement
Published on: Monday, May 26, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 26, 2025 Text Size: Abidin with representatives of care homes. Kota Kinabalu: Youth are the torchbearers of change in the present day and the leaders of tomorrow, says Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor. He said that young people's active involvement in charitable work reflects their maturity and concern for the wellbeing of society, while also demonstrating their readiness to shoulder leadership responsibilities in the future. 'They are not merely the leaders of tomorrow, but significant contributors to today's progress. Their energy, creativity, and idealism must be nurtured and harnessed,' he said. Hajiji's speech were delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Abidin Madingkir, at the charity dinner and officiating of the San Chuan Sabah Welfare Association at the Hakka Hall, here on Friday. Hajiji said, to strengthen youth development, the government will draft the Sabah Youth Development Enactment as a legal framework to reinforce the organisational structure of youth bodies, formally recognise youth activism, and provide a more systematic platform for long-term growth. 'Through this enactment, we aim to give every youth leader in Sabah the time, space, and support needed to lead confidently and contribute meaningfully to the state,' he said. Advertisement Hajiji commended the San Chuan Sabah Welfare Association's inclusive approach, which has succeeded in engaging more than 90 per cent of its members from the younger generation. He said the association's youth involvement as a model that should be emulated and encouraged. 'Youth participation in volunteerism and welfare initiatives signals that they care, are responsible, and capable of uniting diverse communities towards common goals,' he added, also highlighting how young people are effectively using social media as a tool to spread awareness. He further welcomed the association's ongoing fundraising efforts to acquire its own premises, a strategic move towards more organised and sustainable operations. Hajiji expressed confidence that with the support of the community and generous donors, the aspiration will become a reality and pave the way for more charitable initiatives in the future. 'I hope the success of tonight's event will serve as an inspiration for youth to continue contributing to community welfare and the advancement of Sabah,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
25-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Express
Aizen emerge champions
Published on: Sunday, May 25, 2025 Published on: Sun, May 25, 2025 By: Clarence Dol Text Size: Hillary (standing sixth from the left) with the winners. RANAU: Aizen emerged champions of the Ranau Open Slingshot Competition organised by the Bahab Slingshot Club (BSC) after collecting 29 points and beating 49 other participants here recently. In second place were Kumpit GSC with 28 points, followed by Azdie Debra with 27 points after winning the sudden death round with five other participants. Fourth to eighth places went to Perantau Desa (fourth), Alpian Sahadi (fifth), Wairin GSC (sixth), Kiong KGS (seventh) and Aidee TST (eighth). Participants who got 26 points were shared by Muliadi Padu, Faizul MGS, Ajan SSC, Samli Libra, Idin GSTC and Well LST. Meanwhile, participants who got 25 points were shared by Mirul SSC, Ajirie SSC, Sam Tai Wong, Pak Nim, Mass Apid and Sofea MPR. Collectors of 24 marks were shared by nine participants, 23 marks by 11 participants, 22 marks by 10 participants and 21 marks by five participants. Advertisement The Ranau Open Slingshot Competition held at the Kg Bahab Hall was officiated by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister cum Paginatan Assemblyman Datuk Abidin Madingkir. His speech was read by the Head of Paginatan Wiramuda Star, Hillary Salmoen who represented Abidin. Abidin congratulated the organisers and participants. 'Seeing the encouraging response this time shows that the organisers have achieved their goal and are very successful.' He added that organising the competition could strengthen the relationship between the participants, leaders and the surrounding community. 'The encouraging participation in the event shows the youth here always practise a healthy lifestyle. It also indirectly allows participants to show their talents. 'A competition like this can also unearth talents that can be showcased at a higher level. 'The event can even prevent the youth from falling into unwanted activities, namely social ills,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
KK sets milestone as Sabah's first child-friendly city
Abidin (centre), Sabin (second left) and Robert (second right) at the MoU signing ceremony of the Child-Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI) between DBKK and UNICEF Malaysia. KOTA KINABALU (May 6): Kota Kinabalu has become the first city in Sabah to implement the Child-Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI), following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Malaysia on Tuesday.. The MoU was officiated by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Abidin Madingkir and Kota Kinabalu Mayor Datuk Seri Sabin Samitah. The initiative aims to transform the city centre into a place where every child can grow, learn and play safely and inclusively. 'This initiative reflects the essence of what we, as a responsible state government, aim to achieve, development that is not measured solely by economic metrics or infrastructural growth, but by the dignity with which our children live, the opportunities available to them and the protection they are afforded in their most vulnerable years. 'The government of Sabah has long recognised that children are not only our future, but also our moral compass. 'In recent years, we have sought to strengthen policies that ensure inclusive access to education, health, protection and participation. However, this partnership today brings something particularly valuable, a focused, structured and internationally supported framework to localise the principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child at the urban governance level,' said Abidin. While Kota Kinabalu is the first city in Sabah to embark on the initiative formally, Abidin expressed that the State Government's ambitions extend beyond the capital. 'This MoU marks the beginning of what I hope will be a state-wide movement. Our vision is to encourage and support other local authorities across Sabah to follow in this path, so that from Sandakan to Tawau, from Keningau to Kudat, every town and every district places children at the centre of its planning and priorities. 'Sabah, with its rich cultural diversity and unique geographic composition, faces distinct developmental challenges. Children in our remote areas, indigenous communities and lower-income households often experience multiple forms of deprivation. 'This initiative gives us an avenue to address those disparities through a child-sensitive lens, one that listens to their voices, respects their rights and adapts policies to their needs,' he added. Launched globally in 1996 by UNICEF and UN-Habitat, CFCI supports local governments in implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child at the city level. In Malaysia, the initiative is anchored on three core principles, namely, raising awareness of children's rights among both children and adults; promoting meaningful child participation in urban planning and policymaking through Child Councils and other mechanisms; and creating safe, inclusive environments that meet the needs of all children, including those with disabilities. UNICEF Representative to Malaysia, Robert Gass, highlighted the significance of the partnership with Sabah. 'The long-standing collaboration between UNICEF and the Sabah government has driven many efforts to advance children's well-being. Now, CFCI emerges as an integral part of the Sabah Action Plan 2024–2025, developed alongside state ministries and agencies led by the Sabah State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN). 'What makes a city truly child-friendly is not just what it provides, but how it places children's rights at the heart of its decisions. 'In Malaysia, CFCI continues to gain momentum. In October 2023, the city of Petaling Jaya became the first city to be recognized by UNICEF as a Child-Friendly City. In Sarawak, all seven city councils and municipalities have committed to the initiative, forming the country's first state-wide cohort, and Penang Island has also recently come on board,' he said. As part of its commitment, Kota Kinabalu will establish its own Child Council to ensure that young voices are included in shaping local policies, programmes and services. Following the MoU signing, DBKK will begin assessing the current situation for children in the city to identify key needs and priorities. Based on the findings, the city and UNICEF will work together to develop a local action plan. UNICEF will provide technical support, training, and opportunities to learn from other cities in Malaysia and the region.
