Latest news with #GanAyLing


The Sun
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Perlis launches National Month with youth-focused patriotic activities
KANGAR: The Perlis Department of Information (JAPEN) chose Sekolah Kebangsaan Seberang Ramai as this year's venue for the state-level National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign launch. The initiative aims to cultivate patriotism among younger generations through interactive activities. Perlis Information Director Aidatul Shima Che Hassan highlighted student involvement in a decorated bicycle parade and crafting the longest Jalur Gemilang. She noted the participation of 14 departmental vehicles and 30 motorcycles from the Perlis Scooter Club in the Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang convoy. The convoy will traverse three parliamentary constituencies over two days. Indera Kayangan assemblyman Gan Ay Ling officiated the event, emphasising community engagement. Aidatul Shima urged residents to support the 1 House 1 Jalur Gemilang Campaign as a tribute to independence heroes. SK Seberang Ramai Headmaster Suzaide Md Noh expressed pride in hosting the launch. He said the programme gave students firsthand exposure to independence values through flag-making and performances. Suzaide hopes the experience will leave a lasting impression on the pupils. - Bernama


New Straits Times
7 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Why hike water rates when service remains poor, PKR asks Perlis government
KANGAR: The Perlis government has been urged to justify its decision to raise water tariffs by 22 per cent from RM7.20 to RM8.80 despite allegedly persistently poor water services across the state. Perlis PKR deputy chairman Gan Ay Ling said the increase would place additional financial strain on residents, particularly those in rural areas and low-income households already grappling with the rising cost of living. She said the tariff hike, announced amid worsening economic pressures, is especially burdensome for women, single mothers, and heads of households struggling to meet basic daily needs. "The people of Perlis have the right to question the justification for this hike if the water supply services remain at a disappointing level," she said in a statement today. Gan, who is also the state opposition leader and Indera Kayangan assemblywoman, questioned the rationale behind the increase. "I have received numerous complaints about low water pressure in densely populated areas and rural communities, as well as reports of murky and unhygienic water supply," she said. She also raised concerns over frequent supply disruptions without prior notice and highlighted the alarmingly high non-revenue water (NRW) rate, estimated at 62 per cent. "This means more than half of treated water is lost before it even reaches consumers," she added. Gan said there appears to be no clear long-term strategy or transparent plan from Syarikat Air Perlis (SAP) to reduce NRW, such as upgrading ageing pipelines or enhancing treatment plant capacity. She called on the state government and SAP to provide a comprehensive explanation for the tariff hike, including detailed plans on how the additional revenue would be used. "This is the steepest water tariff hike implemented in one of the country's poorest states. It lays bare the administrative shortcomings and the state government's failure. "The state government must clarify whether there are any subsidy mechanisms or exemptions for low-income groups, and how it plans to address service quality issues like low pressure and poor water quality. "The state leadership must understand the people's struggle for survival. Do not make the rakyat pay for the government's mismanagement. It is like rubbing salt into an open wound," she added.


Free Malaysia Today
10-06-2025
- Politics
- Free Malaysia Today
Sangetha Jayakumar appointed Wanita PKR secretary
Sangetha Jayakumar, a former Wanita PKR vice-chief, has been appointed secretary of the wing. (Facebook pic) PETALING JAYA : Sangetha Jayakumar, the daughter of former PKR vice-president Dr Xavier Jayakumar, has been appointed Wanita PKR secretary for the 2025-2028 term. Her appointment was announced by the wing's chief Fadhlina Sidek today. Prior to the party polls, Sangetha had criticised former Bar Council president Ambiga Sreenevasan for proposing an end to the women's wings in political parties, saying the idea was 'detached' from the realities faced by women in politics. Sangetha is a former Wanita PKR vice-president. Fadhlina appointed Perlis opposition leader Gan Ay Ling to the post of treasurer. Bukit Lanjan assemblyman Pua Pei Ling will lead the strategy bureau while former Machap Jaya assemblyman Ginie Lim will lead the international bureau. In a statement, Fadhlina said: 'I am confident they will be able to carry out their responsibilities with integrity and will be progressive and inclusive in pushing the party's agenda.'