Latest news with #Filepic
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
‘More youths showing interest in agriculture'
Many are unaware of the grants to assist youths in starting up their own business in farming, livestock farming, fisheries or agro-based industries. — Filepic IF you are between 18 and 45 years old and want to venture into farming, the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is offering a start-up grant worth up to RM30,000. Johor Fruit Farmers Association chairman Alvins Lo said many people were unaware of the 'Geran Agropreneur Muda' (GAM) to assist youths in starting up their own business in farming, livestock farming, fisheries or agro-based industries. 'Interest among youths towards the agricultural sector has increased in recent years. 'We have been receiving many inquiries from youths looking for entrepreneurship opportunities and subsidies in the agriculture sector, which is a good sign,' he said in an interview. As such, the association organised an agricultural talk in Yong Peng attended by about 40 youths. Lo said the association invited Batu Pahat Agriculture Department's urban farming unit assistant officer Muhamad Izad Zolzali who spoke about incentives and subsidy programmes available for the participants to apply. Lo (left) presenting a token to Muhamad Izad who shared about the incentives for young farmers. 'He promoted the GAM initiative, which was met with enthusiasm from the attendees as the grant addresses the needs of young farmers by providing them non-cash assistance. 'The speaker gave a detailed explanation about the eligibility of the grant and common reasons for rejection,' said Lo. He added that Muhamad Izad also gave tips and recommendations for their application such as financial planning and harvest estimates. Lo said there was an opportunity for GAM recipients to further apply for another initiative called GAM Scale-up, to help them with upstream activities. 'The scale-up grant, worth up to RM50,000 per individual, would be disbursed in the form of agrotechnology, mechanisation and automation equipment. 'In the question-and-answer portion of the event, Muhamad Izad addressed the participants' concerns and advised them to register their business as an enterprise to ease subsidy applications as well as enjoy future benefits,' he added. Apart from disseminating information about the incentives, the talk was also a way of bridging the gap between the government agency and young farmers. Lo said the association would continue working closely with the ministry to organise more talks to promote initiatives such as the Malaysian Good Agricultural Practices and Maximum Residue Limits for pesticide use. 'It is through good agricultural practices and management that we can ensure our farmed products reach consumers in a safe and edible condition to improve market standards. 'I also took the opportunity to encourage the young farmers to join the association as a platform to communicate and build strength to contribute to agricultural development,' he said.
The Star
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Mano Maniam, revered Malaysian actor and theatre stalwart, dies at 79
Mano Maniam in a 2007 Kuala Lumpur production of 'Krapp's Last Tape' by Samuel Beckett. The distinguished Malaysian actor - a towering figure in theatre, television, and film - passed away last night. He was 79. Photo: The Star/Filepic Mano Maniam, the distinguished Malaysian actor, arts advocate, educator and cultural anthropologist – an extraordinary multi-hyphenate whose presence shaped the nation's performing arts landscape – died last night. He was 79. News of his passing has prompted tributes from PEN Malaysia, theatre contemporary Patrick Teoh, performing arts outfit theatrethreesixty, publisher/filmmaker Amir Muhammad and many others on social media. To the mainstream audience, Mano was best known as the affable 'Uncle Chan' from the beloved late-1990s, early 2000s television series Kopitiam – a role that brought him widespread recognition and endeared him to a new generation of viewers. The cast of the late 1990s TV series 'Kopitiam' (from left): Rashid Salleh, Mano Maniam, Lina Teoh and Douglas Lim. Photo: The Star/Filepic Born in Ipoh in 1945, Mano was a towering presence in the Malaysian performing arts scene for over five decades. His love for the stage began in childhood, enchanted by colourful bangsawan and sandiwara shows (Malay theatre road shows) in Ipoh. At ACS Ipoh in the early 1960s, he discovered Shakespeare – a passion that led him back to the school as a teacher, inspiring others as he once was. With a career that spanned theatre, television, film, education, and cultural discourse, he brought gravitas, warmth, and intellect to every role he inhabited. In 1996, 'Adorations' stood out as a significant local theatre work - an Odissi dance performance framed as a dialogue between guru (Mano Maniam, pic) and disciple (Ramli Ibrahim). Photo: Sutra Foundation Whether commanding the stage in Shakespearean leads or Beckett monologues, or appearing in international productions like Anna and the King and Netflix's Marco Polo , he brought a quiet intensity and presence that transcended language and genre. On the local front, Mano will be remembered for his roles in the cult film Mat Gelap (1990), the gritty big city drama Kolumpo (2013), and the acclaimed Barbarian Invasion (2021). His deep, resonant voice, commanding stage presence, and gentle wisdom made him not just a household name, but also a mentor to generations of theatre practitioners and students alike. Throughout his long career, Mano moved effortlessly between the intimate spaces of theatre and the global reach of screen. On local television, he was a familiar and grounding presence in both English and Tamil dramas, further cementing his role as a cultural bridge across communities. Even in his later years, Mano remained a tireless force in the arts. Well into his 70s, he lent his rich, resonant voice to narration work and found joy in teaching acting to senior citizens at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC), continuing to nurture creativity in others. Just last year, his voice brought poetic dimension to Meniti Cakerawala: The Science & Romance Of The Cosmos, a production that, fittingly, married science and wonder echoing the same balance of intellect and soul that defined his life's work.
The Star
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Making room for Penang tourism
(From left) Penang housing and environment state exco Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Zairil and Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow having a discussion during the state assembly sitting. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star Aerial view of the Silicon Island Reclamation project site. — Filepic THIRTEEN new hotels have opened in Penang since August 2023 to meet growing demands of the state's tourism industry, with seven more expected to begin operations soon. Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the 13 hotels had contributed 2,311 rooms to the state's capacity for visitors' accommodation. The new rooms comprise 1,670 at 11 hotels in the northeast district, 298 at a southwest district hotel and 343 at a hotel in north Seberang Perai. An aerial view of the Silicon Island Reclamation project site. Wong was responding to a question from Heng Lee Lee (PH-Berapit) on the increase in hotel developments, at the state assembly sitting in George Town. Meanwhile, state infrastructure, transport and digital committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said land reclamation of the 930ha Silicon Island, off Penang's southern coast, would take 10 to 15 years. He said reclamation works, which had begun in September 2023, were being carried out in two phases. Phase one involves the reclamation of 510ha while phase two covers 420ha. 'As of April 30 this year, 60ha of land, equivalent to 6.5% of the project, had been reclaimed,' he told the assembly. In response to questions from Muhamad Kasim (PN-Telok Bahang), Zairil (PH-Tanjong Bungah) said no land acquisition was involved. However, he said land acquisitions in Permatang Damar Laut would be needed for construction of phase one of the Pan Island Link 2A (PIL2A) highway connecting Batu Maung to Silicon Island. 'It involves 13 land lots, 17 residential houses, two business premises, one welfare home and one place of worship. 'The land acquisition process was approved by authorities on May 8 last year and gazetted on July 11 last year under Section 8 of Land Acquisition Act 1960,' he said. Zairil disclosed that owners of the premises had received compensation based on valuations by the Valuation and Property Services Department. 'A majority of the stakeholders received compensation of over RM1.5mil for each lot of land. 'Three individuals received ex-gratia payments of RM43,500 each. 'The total compensation for land acquisition under PIL2A amounted to RM24,154,948.73, with ex-gratia payments totalling RM130,500,' he added. Mohamad Kasim had asked about the land reclamation progress of Silicon Island, the number of residents involved in land or property acquisition and the compensation they received. Silicon Island, previously known as Island A, is being developed by Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd. The developer also oversees the design and management of Phase 1 reclamation works via turnkey contractor SRS TC Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Gamuda Bhd.
The Star
20-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Penang bus ridership hits 46,000 daily, more women drivers wanted
Rapid Penang bus was first introduced in Penang on July 31, 2007. — Filepic MORE Penangites are taking public transportation, thanks to the introduction of Rapid Penang's On-Demand (ROD) van service and free bus rides. Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd northern region head Mohd Amir Abdul Halim said Rapid Penang's average daily ridership now stood at 46,333. Rapid Penang currently operates a fleet of 304 buses across Penang, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the island and mainland, he said. 'We provide affordable and reliable public transport for daily commuters, contributing to environmental sustainability by encouraging the use of public transport over private vehicles. 'The network helps reduce traffic congestion in urban areas and offers convenient access to major landmarks and commercial hubs. 'With frequent services and accessible facilities, Rapid Penang accommodates passengers of all ages, including seniors and people with disabilities,' he shared. Mohd Amir said through the Bus Information System (BIS), which enables real-time monitoring of bus positions, and Bus Control Centre (BCC) that manages and tracks the fleet to maintain service efficiency, the operations of buses were further strengthened. Women bus captains bring excellent customer service and a thoughtful approach to their work. — Filepic He also said that the introduction of dedicated bus lanes ensured smoother, faster journeys, while the MyRapid Pulse app kept customers informed, enhancing the overall travel experience. On the most popular route, Mohd Amir said Route 101 (Ferry Terminal to Teluk Bahang) was the most used. It connects George Town to popular tourist destinations like Batu Ferringhi and Escape Theme Park, serving both locals and tourists. 'This route's high ridership is driven by its accessibility to major attractions and residential areas,' he said. Rapid Penang currently has 706 bus captains across Penang. 'Out of this number, 19 are women. 'While the majority of Rapid Penang's workforce is still male, we are committed to encouraging more women to take up the role. 'We are focused on recruiting more female drivers as the company values the important contribution that they make,' he said, noting that women brought excellent customer service and a thoughtful approach to their work. 'Rapid Penang aims to encourage more women to join the team, believing that an increase in female drivers will help improve the overall service and provide a better experience for passengers.' Mohd Amir said Rapid Penang was focused on expanding its level of service, in terms of the number of buses on the road, from 232 to 280, to better meet growing demand for public transportation. Mohd Amir: The Bus Information System enables real-time monitoring of bus positions. 'Additionally, the ROD service will also be expanded with the addition of 50 vans throughout 2025. 'This aims to improve first- and last-mile connectivity and cater to areas with high passenger demand. 'These initiatives reflect Rapid Penang's commitment to providing more flexible and efficient public transportation options to meet the growing needs of commuters,' he said. Rapid Penang is a public bus operator in Penang operating under Prasarana Malaysia Bhd. Established on July 31, 2007, it is part of Rapid Bus, which also operates in the Klang Valley and Kuantan, Pahang. As of this year, Rapid Penang operates 47 routes, with a fleet of 350 buses. Of the 47 routes, 26 are within George Town and 15 are in Seberang Perai. There are two cross-strait routes connecting the two cities. The remaining four routes are interstate services that link Seberang Perai with nearby towns in Kedah and Perak. — By K. KASTURI DEWI
The Star
19-05-2025
- General
- The Star
Disquiet over more hillside homes
THE hills are alive in Ampang Jaya not with the sound of music, but the roar of land-clearing machinery for yet more development. Despite previous cases of landslides and the resulting severe damage, the demand for hillside homes here seems unwavering. A quick online search reveals a number of projects – many of them strata residences – currently under construction at or near slopes, with more possibly in the pipeline. Residents nearby, however, are concerned these projects could further put a strain on the already fragile ecosystem and pose dangers to surrounding communities. The public viewing the draft Ampang Jaya Local Plan 2035 during its exhibition period at MPAJ headquarters. — Filepic The allure and impact Ukay Perdana resident Safina Abd Samad said the combination of its strategic location and lush greenery, thanks to proximity to the Titiwangsa Range, made Ampang Jaya hills an attractive location for developers and homebuyers. 'The lack of flat space available for large-scale projects, meanwhile, has caused developers to expand to hillsides and nearby areas. 'As a result, much of the greenery that once characterised Ampang Jaya's landscape is now replaced with towering blocks and highways,' she said. But just last year, 400 slopes were designated as moderate risk and 114 others as high-risk by Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ). A resident looking at the landslide in Jalan E6 Taman Melawati in October last year. — FILEPIC Paradox and complacency Despite the seemingly strong opposition to hillside developments in the media, many continue to purchase units at such projects, said Taman Melawati Residents Association chairman Azhari Abd Taharim. 'They (buyers) don't do extensive research or go through planning documents prepared by local authorities, to learn more about the area,' he said. Azhari, who is also part of the Taman Melawati SlopeWatch Volunteer Group, urged stakeholders to be more proactive as well in the matter. 'Usually, when a new project is proposed, the public will be given time to submit objections to authorities. 'The problem with our culture is that many refuse to speak up, as they expect others to do so instead,' he said. Greater transparency To keep the public informed, Azhari said MPAJ should require developers to publicise their proposed projects in the media. He said the current practice of putting signboards near project sites was inadequate as they might be located in hard-to-reach areas. 'By the time residents notice and want to object, planning approval has already been issued,' he added. Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) chief operating officer Nur Asyikin Aminuddin is of the view that homebuyers are not to blame for continued demand for hillside properties. She said buyers relied on the fair assumption that these projects have been properly vetted by local authorities. 'We (buyers) should not be held responsible for placing our trust in the system meant to safeguard our well-being,' she said. A signboard in Bukit Antarabangsa notifying public about a slope in the area.(Below) A resident looking at the landslide in Jalan E6 Taman Melawati in October last year. More safeguards Although there are extensive laws and local regulations governing hillslope developments, stakeholders insist there is room for improvement. Nur Asyikin said developers should be made to disclose the history of its project site to prospective buyers, including if it was a landslide-prone area. She also called on local authorities to involve civil societies when vetting development applications, to ensure safety concerns were adequately addressed. Meanwhile, Safina said banks must also adhere to the Climate Change and Principle-based Taxonomy (CCPT) framework when assessing financing applications for development and purchase of properties at high-risk areas. Introduced in April 2021 by Bank Negara, the CCPT aims to encourage banks to support Malaysia's commitment towards ensuring a low-carbon economy. 'Though some claim the CCPT reduces the appeal of a property, it may have a positive effect in the long run,' said Safina. 'This is because the property will benefit from a stronger ESG (environmental, social, governance) reputation,' she added. Necessary hill upkeep Despite scepticism against hillside projects, leaving a slope untouched does not guarantee safety for nearby communities. According to MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari, Class 3 and Class 4 slopes are often unstable and need proper management. Slopes are classified according to degrees of incline: Class 1 (less than 15 degrees), Class 2 (less than 25), Class 3 (less than 35) and Class 4 (more than 35 degrees). 'Some Class 3 and Class 4 slopes are at risk of destabilising, and developing them could improve soil integrity and safety,' said Hasrolnizam. 'Development can be a way to improve their Factor of Safety (FoS),' he said, adding that development applications at Class 3 and Class 4 slopes would be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. FoS measures how stable a slope is – a higher value indicates better safety and a slope is considered safe when its FoS value is higher than 1. The landslide in Taman Bukit Permai 2 in 2022 caused major damage to surrounding properties. — Filepic A guideline by Public Works Department, which is currently used by MPAJ, recommends that FoS for all types of slopes be maintained between 1.3 and 1.5. Hasrolnizam, however, clarified that developing slopes would not necessarily entail building commercial or private premises, as it could also mean simply undertaking works to strengthen their structures. Hasrolnizam says Class 3 and Class 4 slopes are often unstable and need proper management. The local council recently initiated works to stabilise slopes at Taman Sering Ukay in Ukay Perdana to improve the FoS, as reported by StarMetro on May 14. The works reportedly involved cutting steep slopes to reduce gradients and minimise risks of soil erosion. Hasrolnizam explained that works at slopes required approval from the state's technical committee for development of environmentally sensitive areas, overseen by the Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia). He further said poorly maintained slopes were the primary reason for many past landslides in the municipality. He, however, said MPAJ could not undertake works to stabilise some of these slopes as they were located on privately owned lands. Azhari says proposed hillside developments should be publicised in the media. 'The state government had seized some land areas with slopes not properly managed,' Hasrolnizam revealed. 'This action had helped to improve awareness among landowners to maintain and upkeep their slopes,' he said. Spate of incidents Apprehension about hillside projects is well founded, given Ampang Jaya's history with landslides. Perhaps the most devastating incident took place on Dec 11, 1993, when one of three residential blocks known as Highland Towers in Taman Hillview collapsed, resulting in 48 deaths. On Nov 20, 2002, eight were killed, also in Taman Hillview, in a landslide that destroyed a bungalow. Then on Dec 6, 2008, a landslide in Bukit Antarabangsa hit several homes, killing four and injuring 15 others. These unfortunate incidents were among a handful of disasters that took place in recent decades, leading to increased calls from stakeholders for MPAJ to halt approval for further developments on slopes. In a StarMetro report on Oct 16, 2024, residents of Taman Melawati urged the authority to protect environmentally sensitive areas, which include slopes, outlined in Ampang Jaya Local Plan 2035. The calls came after a landslide caused by continuous rain forced residents from 20 homes there to be evacuated. According to the local plan, only developments of ecotourism and recreational facilities are permitted at sites located between 300m and 1,000m above sea level. MPAJ is undertaking works to stabilise the slopes in Taman Sering Ukay. — Filepic It also stated that other types of developments at Class 3 slopes with elevation below 300m above sea level could be considered, taking into account safety aspects, slope management and development feasibility. 'However, Class 4 slopes are off-limits unless for developments of infrastructure of national interests,' the Ampang Jaya Local Plan stated. For emergency, residents can call MPAJ hotline at 03-4296 8100 or 1-800-22-8100 or the Pantas squad at 03-4285 7333.
