Latest news with #Gerawat
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Sport
- Borneo Post
Gerawat urges KSH to support young athletes, explore sports tourism potential
Gerawat (centre) receives a souvenir from Romeo as Yii (third right), Dennis (third left) and others look on. MIRI (June 3): The Highlanders Sports Club (KSH) has been urged to take a more proactive role in helping young athletes access higher education and professional sports training through partnerships with local and international institutions. Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala, said KSH could serve as a key bridge connecting talented youths with sports academies such as Akademi Bola Sepak Malaysia, Bukit Jalil Sports School, and overseas universities offering sports scholarships. 'Our outstanding young athletes can pursue their academic and sporting ambitions simultaneously through these institutions,' he said during the closing ceremony of the Highlanders Sports Carnival held at the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Malaysia (Forum) building at Jalan Padang Kerbau here last night. Gerawat, who is also Mulu assemblyman, encouraged KSH to broaden its outreach by actively participating in initiatives run by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. He pointed out that excelling in sports can open doors to opportunities that are just as rewarding as those in other professions. 'Some of our national footballers are earning up to RM20,000 per month. I am optimistic that one of our rising young golfers, Abigail Pearson, will continue to excel in State and National tournaments and eventually earn a scholarship to study in the United States, following in the footsteps of others before her,' he said. He further challenged KSH to explore the potential of sports tourism in the Kelabit Highlands through the organisation of events such as marathon runs, mountain biking, cross-country races and activities with groups like the Hash House Harriers. 'With the backing of Rurum Kelabit Sarawak as its umbrella body, KSH has the potential to innovate by identifying and promoting new sports tourism products. By networking with successful sports institutions, they can continue to inspire and attract youth participation,' he added. Gerawat also expressed hope that the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak would consider incorporating such initiatives into the state's tourism calendar for the coming year. Touching on the recently concluded Highlanders Games Carnival, held here from May 31 to June 2, he said 10 contingents from across the country participated in all 14 sports events. He reiterated that the carnival aimed to promote and strengthen the community's engagement in sports, emphasising the need for unity within the Kelabit community, which constitutes less than one per cent of Malaysia's population. 'As a small community, it is vital that we remain cohesive and united. Only then can we make a meaningful impact and draw the attention of government and stakeholders to our needs and aspirations. 'I am heartened to see so many young people involved. It reminds me of the early years of KSH and Rurum Kelabit Sarawak in the 1980s, a time when some of you were not yet born. This strong youth presence gives our community hope and shows that the vision of our pioneers is being carried forward into the next generation,' he said. Among those present were Telang Usan assemblyman who is also Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chairman Dato Dennis Ngau, Pujut assemblyman who is also Miri mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang, political secretary to the Premier Dominic Nyurang Ajang, KSH president Romeo Peter Raja and several community leaders. athletes gerawat gala Kelab Sukan Highlanders lead youth
Borneo Post
18-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Six honoured with Sarawak Outstanding Worker Award
Abang Johari (centre) and Gerawat on his left in a photo call with the award recipients. — Ukas photo KUCHING (May 18): Six individuals were honoured with the Sarawak Outstanding Worker Award 2025 during the state-level Labour Day celebration held here earlier today. The recipients were recognised across six categories representing both the public and private sectors for their dedication and exemplary service. In the Sarawak Government – Management Category, the award was presented to Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) Quantity Surveying Branch senior assistant director Isabel Sim. For the Sarawak Government – Support Staff Category, Sarawak Premier's Department Human Resource Management and Development Unit general assistant Mohamad Sharif Mohamad Ekbar was recognised. Sarawak State Delevopment Office director Jasni Jubli received the award in the Federal Government – Management Category. Meanwhile, Office of the Federal Secretary of Sarawak office secretary Aidasuraya Bujang Seran was honoured in the Federal Government – Support Staff Category. In the private sector, Leader Steel Sdn Bhd deputy branch manager Tan Hong Kiat was the recipient under the Executive Category, while Amalgamated Batteries Manufacturing (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd warehouse supervisor Eric Kareng was awarded in the Non-Executive Category. Each recipient received RM5,000, along with a plaque and certificate, presented by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the event held at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here. The celebration's organising chairman Datuk Gerawat Gala praised the recipients in his speech. 'As we celebrate Labour Day, let us take a moment to honour the outstanding individuals being recognised at today's (May 17) function. Your hard work, passion, and integrity embody the very best of what Sarawak needs to become a high-income economy. 'Let your achievements be an inspiration to others, especially our younger generation, who will soon take the reins of our economy and society. To them, I say: strive to be outstanding—not for reward, but because your excellence shapes not just your own future but also the future of our beloved Sarawak,' he said. employees Labour Day lead Sarawak Outstanding Worker Award
Borneo Post
18-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak praised as fertile ground for outstanding workers
Gerawat delivers his speech at the event. – Photo by Ukas KUCHING (May 18): Sarawak continues to be a fertile ground for the growth of outstanding workers, supported by strong state government initiatives and strategic human capital investments, said Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala. He said this during the state-level Labour Day 2025 celebration at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here today. In his speech, Gerawat, who is also the event's organising chairman, emphasised the critical role Sarawak's workforce plays in the state's economic and social progress. 'We are proud to say that Sarawak continues to be a fertile ground where outstanding workers grow. Whether in energy, agriculture, services, or digital industries, our people are making their mark both locally and globally. 'The government remains committed to creating an enabling environment—through infrastructure, education, training institutions, upskilling programmes, and strategic investments—that allows every worker to thrive,' he said. Labour Day was officially recognised as a national holiday in Malaysia in 1972, marking a commitment to upholding workers' rights. Gerawat, however, pointed out that in Sarawak, the celebration holds deeper meaning due to the vital role of workers in sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing, which power the state's economy. 'Our workers are innovators, builders, caregivers, educators, and entrepreneurs, with each playing a vital role in driving our economy and shaping Sarawak's future,' he added. This year's Labour Day celebration was historic as it was the first time the event was held at the state level and jointly organised by both state and federal government agencies, along with workers and employers' representatives. Themed 'Pekerja Cemerlang Sarawak Maju Makmur' or 'Outstanding Workers Foster a Progressive and Prosperous Sarawak,' the event highlighted the value and aspirations tied to human capital development in the state. Gerawat noted that the theme reflects the belief that Sarawak's development is rooted in the excellence of its people. 'The term 'Pekerja Cemerlang' or 'Outstanding Workers' is not limited to technical expertise or job performance alone. It refers to individuals across all sectors, whether private or public, who go beyond their duties, demonstrating professionalism, innovation, teamwork, discipline, and an unrelenting commitment to self-improvement. 'These are the individuals who inspire others, lead by example, and strive every day to do better,' he said. In line with this, Gerawat highlighted several amendments to the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (SLO), which came into effect on May 1 this year and marked a significant milestone in the state government's commitment to a fair and forward-looking labour ecosystem. 'These reforms are not just legal updates, as they reflect our values as a state that honours dignity in work, protects workers, and prioritises social justice. 'We believe that a balanced approach, where both employers and employees are supported, will lead to greater stability, motivation, and long-term productivity,' he said, while thanking Abang Johari for his strong support in making the amendments possible, describing it as the best Labour Day present for Sarawak workers. In this regard, he called for continued cooperation among all stakeholders to support the state's long-term development goals. employees gerawat gala Labour Day lead workforce
Borneo Post
14-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 returns with 180 stalls, cultural festivities
Gerawat (seated, centre) in a photo-call with members of the Gawai Bazaar organising committee after the meeting. – Ukas photo KUCHING (May 14): The Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025, set to take place for 11 days tomorrow (May 15) till May 25, will feature 180 stalls and a range of cultural activities at the MJC Batu Kawah New Township, said Datuk Gerawat Gala. Gerawat, who chairs the main committee for the state-level Gawai Dayak celebration, said the stalls would include those selling to handicrafts, as well as food, beverages, and dry goods operated by the local community. He also announced that the opening ceremony will be officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, with the date to be finalized soon. 'This bazaar not only adds vibrancy to the Gawai Dayak celebration but also serves as a platform to promote local crafts, foster unity, and showcase the rich cultural diversity of the Dayak community,' he was quotes as saying by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) after chairing the Gawai Bazaar organising committee meeting, here yesterday. He added that a variety of cultural and entertainment programmes are also scheduled throughout the bazaar, including the Gawai Idol competition, Ratu Gawai pageant, and the Battle of the Band event. 'These activities are expected to attract participation from youth and members of the public from all walks of life,' he said. 'This bazaar is open to all races. We welcome everyone to join in the festivities while supporting local entrepreneurs,' added Gerawat, who is also Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring). He expressed hope that broader community participation would further highlight the uniqueness of the Gawai celebration as a pillar of unity and cultural heritage in Sarawak. This year, the Orang Ulu community has been given the honour of hosting the celebration, providing an opportunity to showcase their rich customs and traditions to Sarawakians and visitors alike. Gerawat also revealed that the 2025 Sarawak-Level Gawai Dayak celebration will include several main events, such as the Gawai Tradition Carnival on June 12 and 13 at the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations of Sarawak, Malaysia (FORUM) building in Miri. A Gawai Dayak Parade will be held on June 21 at the Kuching Waterfront which will be officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The highlight of the celebrations, the Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner, will be held on June 22 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) and is expected to be graced by Yang Di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. A coffee table book themed around Dayak culture and heritage will also be launched in conjunction with the celebration. community cultural food festival Gawai Dayak Bazaar gerawat gala lead
Borneo Post
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Pre-Gawai event signifies PWOUM's outstanding leadership
Kijan (fifth left) hands over a token of appreciation to Gerawat on stage. MIRI (May 5): The pre-Gawai celebration hosted by Persatuan Wanita Orang Ulu Miri (PWOUM) here on Sunday night gathered over 500 guests. In his address, the guest-of-honour Deputy Minister in Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala congratulated the association for continuing to be active and visible in Miri and Marudi, playing a meaningful role in community development through various programmes meant for Orang Ulu womenfolk. He credited the association's continued success to strong and transparent leadership, particularly under the present chairwomanship of Kijan Toynbee. 'Kijan is truly a people-focused leader who continues to serve the community even after retiring as political secretary to the chief minister. 'Her passion is clear through her involvement in community-based initiatives that are healthy and inclusive, especially traditional and contemporary dance,' said Gerawat, the assemblyman for Mulu. On the pre-Gawai event, he regarded it as being more than just a festive gathering. 'It serves to strengthen friendships and nurture interethnic unity. 'It is a very healthy activity to promote unity and a harmonious society, which Sarawak is well known for and which is something that we want to preserve.' This year, the Orang Ulu community has been entrusted with the honour of hosting the state-level Gawai Dayak celebration, with Gerawat being appointed chairman of the working committee responsible for organising four major programmes set throughout this month. Among the highlights is the Gawai Bazaar, to be held from May 15 to 25 in Kuching, featuring 170 stalls offering various items – from food and beverages, to handicrafts. This May 12 and 13, the Gawai Carnival will be taking place in Miri, marking the first time that such an event is held outside Kuching Division. Apart from food and handicrafts, the carnival will also feature traditional games, cultural shows, and the Orang Ulu Keligit pageant. In support of PWOUM's continued efforts, Miri Mayor Adam Yii pledged RM5,000 to the the organisation, while Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau, who is also Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chairman, contributed RM10,000. Gerawat also announced an allocation of RM15,000 for the association. Gawai gerawat gala lead Persatuan Wanita Orang Ulu Miri
