Latest news with #ChiewChoonMan
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Borneo Post
Miri MP: Cultural festivals crucial for strong national identity
Chiew (second right) presents a certificate of excellence to one of the students who excelled in last years' Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination. Also in photo is Kebana president Hilary Samah Tet (second left). MIRI (June 4): Festivals that celebrate the unique cultures of Sarawak's indigenous communities play an important role in building a strong national identity, said Miri MP Chiew Choon Man. He said that events such as the Kenyah Badeng National Association (Kebana) Festival are more than just performances or exhibitions—they reflect the community's deep appreciation for its cultural heritage. 'It's a platform to honour the Kenyah Badeng culture while bringing together people of all ages through the spirit of 'segulai sejalai'—unity and togetherness,' he said during the closing ceremony and cultural night of the Kebana Festival at IKBN here on Monday. Chiew noted that the evening's programme showcased the traditions, values and identity of the Kenyah Badeng community and urged greater efforts to ensure these elements are passed down to future generations. 'Young people, not just from the Kenyah Badeng but from all communities, must play their part in keeping their respective culture alive. 'Our elders have worked hard to preserve our language, customs and identity. Now it's time for the younger generation to carry that forward, so it doesn't fade away,' he said. He also emphasised that Malaysia's rich mix of cultures—especially in Sarawak—is an integral part of the country's identity and strength. On the Kebana Festival, Chiew described it as more than just an annual gathering—it is a meaningful effort to promote unity and support the talents of Kenyah youth. 'From cultural competitions to academic awards and other activities, the festival shows that culture is something that grows and adapts. 'As the MP for Miri, I strongly support initiatives like this because I believe personal growth must be matched with cultural development,' he said. The festival, which took place from May 31 to June 2, featured various activities such as football and badminton competitions, long dance and solo dance contests, a beauty pageant and academic excellence awards for Kenyah Badeng children who excelled in their national examinations last year. Chiew Choon Man Kenyah Badeng National Association Festival lead
Borneo Post
30-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
No cut to household LPG subsidy, says Miri MP
MIRI (May 31): Miri MP Chiew Choon Man has moved to clarify growing public confusion over allegations that the federal government has abolished or reduced subsidies for household liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders. In a statement, he dismissed claims circulating on social media as 'inaccurate and misleading', stressing that the LPG subsidy for domestic use remains fully intact. 'There has been no removal or reduction of the LPG subsidy. What the government is doing is tackling leakage and abuse in the system, particularly involving illegal commercial use and black-market activities,' he said. His remarks came in response to public concerns following the enforcement of Operasi Gas Memasak (Ops Gasak) by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), which began on May 1. Chiew cited KPDN Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, who recently clarified that Ops Gasak is not a new policy but is instead based on the Supply Control Regulations (Amendment) 2021, in force since Oct 15, 2021. 'The operation targets the misuse of subsidised LPG in non-household sectors, especially illegal activities such as 'decanting', where gas is transferred from subsidised cylinders into non-subsidised ones for resale. 'The subsidy is intended for household kitchens, not for commercial or industrial profit,' he emphasised. Chiew also reassured the public that individuals using three or fewer 14kg cylinders (totalling up to 42kg) at any given time are not required to apply for a controlled goods permit under current regulations. He urged the public to rely on verified and official sources of information, and not to be swayed by viral content or unfounded speculation. 'I fully support the government's efforts to prevent subsidy leakage. Any abuse of the system ultimately harms those who truly need and deserve the assistance.'
Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Miri MP calls for nationwide digital infrastructure overhaul in schools
(From left) Dahlan, Alhadi, Chiew and Ko pose with one of the interactive smart boards donated to SMK Merbau. MIRI (May 17): A more comprehensive national approach to digital education is needed, as quality digital infrastructure in schools should no longer be viewed as a luxury but a basic necessity, said Miri MP Chiew Choon Man. He visited SMK Merbau recently to observe the implementation of a project under the People's Friendly Project (Projek Mesra Rakyat) for the Miri constituency. Through this initiative, he presented the school with two interactive smart boards and one multimedia projector. According to him, the new digital tools aimed to enhance the students' learning experiences and align classroom teaching with current technological advancements. 'These interactive smart boards, equipped with Android and Windows systems and 4K UHD displays, are not just tools – they are catalysts for a more interactive, visual, and effective learning process. They represent a strategic move toward the digital transformation of our schools,' he said. Chiew stressed that access to quality education must be equitable, regardless of whether students live in urban or rural areas. 'Our children deserve facilities that prepare them to compete globally, wherever they are,' he noted. He expressed hope that teachers would embrace the new technology to deliver more engaging and innovative lessons, while students use the tools as gateways to knowledge and creativity. However, he also acknowledged the challenges of meeting the digital needs in all schools, citing limited constituency funding. In view of this, he urged the federal government to implement a long-term, integrated plan to ensure that all schools – including those in rural areas – have access to essential digital infrastructure. 'Digital education is no longer optional. We must not allow the digital divide between urban and rural schools to widen. 'This gap undermines access to knowledge and denies students the opportunity to grow in an ecosystem comparable to that of developed nations,' he warned. Chiew said that he will bring the issue to Parliament, advocating for a national policy that places digitalisation of education on equal footing with current efforts to improve dilapidated schools. His proposal includes provisions for smart classrooms, high-speed internet, teacher training in digital pedagogy, and the alignment of digital content with the national curriculum. 'With a united effort and clear planning, I believe we can build an education system that is truly Madani – inclusive, progressive, and ready for the future,' he concluded. Present to welcome Chiew during his visit to SMK Merbau were Senior Assistant (Student Affairs) Dahlan Suliman, Senior Assistant (Co-curriculum) Alhadi Ekni, and Senior Assistant (Form 6) Ko Lee Fang. Chiew Choon Man digital education infrastructure lead schools
Borneo Post
03-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Aspiring homeowners invited to attend briefing on People-Friendly Housing Scheme in Miri on Sunday
File photo depicting Rumah Mesra Rakyat housing projects. – Bernama photo MIRI (May 3): Individuals and families aspiring to own a home are invited to attend a special briefing on the People-Friendly Housing Scheme (Rumah Mesra Rakyat or RMR) this Sunday, May 4, at the Grand Palace Hotel's Banquet Hall from 2pm to 4pm. The event is a joint effort between the Miri MP's Service Centre and Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB), a government-linked housing agency, of which Miri MP Chiew Choon Man is expected to be present. The briefing aims to provide crucial information on how to apply for the RMR scheme, which allows eligible Malaysians to build their own homes on their own land. SPNB representatives will guide attendees through the application process, eligibility criteria, and the benefits available under the scheme. The event is open to all members of the public, particularly those interested in affordable housing opportunities. No prior registration is required. Chiew Choon Man housing Rumah Mesra Rakyat
Borneo Post
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Monitoring continues over problematic preschool in Permyjaya, assures MP
Chiew (centre) inspects a section of the Tabika Perpaduan Permyjaya's building, following complaints about electrical supply and faulty wiring. MIRI (April 23): Monitoring is ongoing over Tabika Perpaduan Permyjaya, which has been identified as having infrastructure issues. In pointing this out, Miri MP Chiew Choon Man said immediate action was taken, including initiating long-term maintenance plans and enhancing classroom facilities to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for the childen, more conducive to learning. 'I recently visited Tabika Perpaduan Permyjaya, after receiving complaints about the prolonged issues with the electricity supply and wiring. 'Because of these problems, the preschoolers were unable to attend classes. 'From the visit, I obtained first-hand information from the staff and was able to personally assess the condition,' said Chiew in a statement. 'After the inspection, I immediately engaged a certified technician to run repair works on the damaged electrical wiring in the classroom. 'This issue was temporarily resolved, and classes were able to resume. 'However, I feel that there is a need to upgrade the electrical system to sustain the learning environment. In this resepct, I will be working with the Implementation and Coordination Unit (ICU) and the Miri Office of the Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN), as well as the Miri Parliamentary Service Centre, to implement the maintenance works under the Miri Parliamentary People's Projek Mesra Rakyat programme. 'This would include re-evaluating the existing electrical system and carrying out comprehensive repairs, whenever and wherever necessary,' said the MP. Chiew also conducted an inspection on Tabika Perpaduan Holiday Park, where he assessed the progress of the implementation of the Projek Mesra Rakyat, involving the provision of air-conditioning units and fans, as well as additional tables and chairs for the classrooms. 'As the member of Parliament for Miri, I sincerely hope that these contributions and initiatives would help create a safer and more comfortable learning environment for our children. 'Education is the most important long-term investment, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that future generations have access to the best possible facilities,' he added.
