Latest news with #Jeffrey
Daily Express
a day ago
- Politics
- Daily Express
Sabah parties must help realise Labuan's vision
Published on: Tuesday, July 29, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jul 29, 2025 Text Size: Jeffrey with Walther, Linggu, Stephen, Peter Mak and Harun Pudin. LABUAN: Political parties from Sabah operating here must work together to achieve the shared goal of realising the vision for Labuan that was hoped for when the island was handed over to become a Federal Territory in 1984. Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said the current situation in Labuan is far from the original expectations. 'In fact, Labuan, once a duty-free island, no longer enjoys the same duty-free status as it once did. 'This concern is based on fact. Even former Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Harris Salleh, who was the architect behind Labuan's handover as a Federal Territory, has acknowledged that his original objective for Labuan has failed,' he said Dr Jeffrey when launching the Star Labuan Division. Jeffrey emphasised that since 1984, the hope was for Labuan to be developed economically, creating ample job opportunities and increasing income levels for its people. 'Back then in 1984, the entire Borneo region hoped Labuan would become a catalyst for development in Sabah and Sarawak,' he added. Jeffrey, who is also Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I, noted that the changes in Labuan have strayed far from the original 1984 aspirations. Instead, the culture and traditions of some Labuan residents — who were once part of Sabah — have been 'Malay-ised.' 'Today, some Labuan residents feel sidelined in the Federal Territory's administration. They want to be involved in policy-making and implementation,' he said. According to Jeffrey, the concerns being raised are not out of anger or resentment but simply calls for positive changes that would make Labuan a source of pride for all. He added that this is precisely why Star established its division in Labuan. Through cooperation with fellow component parties under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, the aim is for Labuan's politics to one day be led and managed by Sabah-based parties. 'This issue has also been raised in Parliament. I myself have repeatedly called for the restoration of Labuan's duty-free status, but unfortunately, our pleas have yet to be heard,' he said. Some 500 people attended the event. Also present were Star Secretary-General Senator Datuk Edward Linggu, Labuan Star Coordinator Datuk Kapitan Stephen Teo, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Labuan Division Chief Datuk Peter Mak and Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) Deputy Division Chief Dr Harun Pudin. * 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
a day ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Sabah-based parties must unite to revive 1984 Labuan's original vision – Jeffrey
Jeffrey with Walther, Linggu, Stephen, Peter Mak and Harun Pudin. LABUAN (July 28): Political parties from Sabah operating in Labuan must work together to achieve the shared goal of realizing the vision for Labuan that was hoped for when the island was handed over to become a Federal Territory in 1984. President of Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) Sabah and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan, said the current situation in Labuan is far from the original expectations. In fact, Labuan, once a duty-free island, no longer enjoys the same duty-free status as it once did. 'This concern is based on fact. even former Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Harris Salleh, who was the architect behind Labuan's handover as a Federal Territory, has acknowledged that his original objective for Labuan has failed,' he said. Jeffrey emphasized that since 1984, the hope was for Labuan to be developed economically, creating ample job opportunities and increasing income levels for its people. 'Back then in 1984, the entire Borneo region hoped Labuan would become a catalyst for development in Sabah and Sarawak,' he added. Jeffrey made these remarks at the launching ceremony of STAR's Labuan Division on Saturday, which was attended by Secretary-General Senator Datuk Edward Linggu, Labuan STAR coordinator Datuk Kapitan Stephen Teo, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Labuan Division chief Datuk Peter Mak, and Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) deputy division chief Dr Harun Hj Pudin. During the event, which drew around 500 attendees, STAR Labuan Division chief Walther Philip Michael expressed that the administration in the Federal Territory of Labuan does not fully represent the interests of all ethnic groups, particularly the native Sabahans whose customs are protected under traditional ordinances. Jeffrey noted that the changes in Labuan have strayed far from the original 1984 aspirations. Instead, the culture and traditions of some Labuan residents — who were once part of Sabah — have been 'Malay-ised.' 'Today, some Labuan residents feel sidelined in the Federal Territory's administration. They want to be involved in policy-making and implementation,' he said. According to Jeffrey, the concerns being raised are not out of anger or resentment but are simply calls for positive changes that would make Labuan a source of pride for all. He added that this is precisely why STAR established its division in Labuan. Through cooperation with fellow component parties under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, the aim is for Labuan's politics to one day be led and managed by Sabah-based parties. 'This issue has also been raised in Parliament. I myself have repeatedly called for the restoration of Labuan's duty-free status, but unfortunately, our pleas have yet to be heard,' he stated. Jeffrey concluded that Sabahans in Labuan have urged STAR to act as a voice for their concerns and to propose ideas that would lead to a more developed and inclusive Labuan.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- General
- Hindustan Times
Why are people so mean on internet? Therapist explains psychology behind online cruelty
The internet was meant to connect us, but all too often it feels like a battleground of harsh comments, unsolicited opinions, and casual cruelty. From trolling and cancel culture to passive-aggressive tweets and nasty DMs, online spaces can quickly turn toxic. The internet fosters emotional disinhibition, allowing people to express cruelty without immediate consequences. (Freepik) But why do people say things online they'd never say in real life? What is it about a screen that brings out the worst in some of us? Therapist Jeffrey Meltzer, in his July 23 Instagram post, breaks down the psychology behind this digital rudeness and why the internet can make us meaner than we realise. (Also read: Therapist says these 5 everyday habits could secretly damage your mental health: 'It destroys your attention span' ) Why people feel safer being mean online Jeffrey explains in his post, 'There's actually a term that explains why people are so mean on the internet, it's called emotional disinhibition. When people are online, they feel safer behind a screen. There's no eye contact, no facial feedback, no real-time consequences. Because of that, they feel less accountable for what they say, meaning their empathy drops significantly.' He further adds, "Emotional disinhibition means people are more likely to express thoughts or emotions they'd usually hold back in person. They become more unfiltered, more impulsive. They might lash out, make fun of others, troll people, usually just to get a reaction. And when others join in, it creates a kind of mob mentality. Meanness spreads quickly, and no one wants to take responsibility." When justification masks responsibility "That's when moral disengagement kicks in. People justify their actions by saying things like, 'I was just joking,' or 'I barely said anything,' or 'Everyone else was way worse.' It's how they downplay their role, by convincing themselves it wasn't a big deal or that they were just going along with the crowd," says Jeffrey. He concludes, "But the irony is, most of these same people would never say those things face-to-face, not because they're different people, but because the presence of another human being reminds them that their words have consequences." Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Daily Express
2 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
RM5k aid for Tambunan small traders
Published on: Monday, July 28, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jul 28, 2025 By: Gerry Lewis Text Size: Dr Jeffrey presenting aid to recipients. TAMBUNAN: A total of RM275,000 was distributed to 55 licensed small stall traders in Tambunan through a one-off special aid of RM5,000 each. The assistance was presented by Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan at the Tambunan District Community Hall. The initiative is part of the 'Bantuan Untukmu' program aimed at easing the operational costs of traders, improving their business infrastructure, and boosting grassroots entrepreneurship. In his speech, Dr Jeffrey expressed pride in the achievements of the Tambunan community, noting that the district has nearly eradicated hardcore poverty. However, he acknowledged that there remain segments of the population living in poverty who require targeted strategic support tailored to current needs. He stressed the importance of continued support and new initiatives to ensure no citizen is left behind in the development process. Dr Jeffrey also reminded the people of Tambunan to stay alert to the various forms of assistance available, not only from the State Government but also from the Federal Government. He emphasized that such aid is not meant to foster dependency but to serve as a stepping stone toward self-reliance and long-term well-being. The federal government, through the Sabah Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industries (Maffi), has also intensified efforts in rural development with allocations exceeding RM33.59 million for agri-food projects across Sabah. These projects include the rehabilitation of 534.55 hectares of abandoned paddy fields, the construction of 23 agricultural produce collection centres, and the implementation of integrated cash crop and livestock initiatives. These efforts not only generate economic output but also empower the local agricultural sector. He also highlighted the Agropreneur Muda program, which offers opportunities for youth aged 18 to 45 to become agricultural entrepreneurs. The program provides grants, fertilizer assistance, access to productive land, and technical training. He noted that the initiative is particularly relevant for young people in Tambunan who possess idle land with development potential. He advised the RM5,000 aid recipients to use the funds wisely, whether to improve their stall structures, upgrade business equipment, or increase inventory. The assistance is expected to boost their daily income and stimulate the local economy through higher-quality services and products. Furthermore, he encouraged traders to view the aid as a catalyst toward achieving more stable and sustainable income streams. In closing, he congratulated all recipients and expressed hope that their businesses would continue to grow and benefit their families and communities. He also called on the people of Tambunan to continue supporting his leadership as the Tambunan assemblyman, assuring that all assistance distributed is based on accurate data and genuine community needs. * 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
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sabah's food paradox: The road to self-sufficiency
Sabah is blessed with fertile soil, abundant rainfall, and incredible agricultural potential. Yet, it finds itself in a perplexing situation: it imports over 60% of its food, including essential staples like rice. This dependency isn't just a matter of convenience; it's a serious vulnerability. In an era of climate disruptions, geopolitical instability, and fluctuating global markets, a shock to the worldwide supply chain could send ripples of price volatility and food insecurity across the state. This is especially true for rice, the most critical staple for many Sabahans. The state's struggle for food security is complicated by a centralized federal system, especially when it comes to rice. Since 1996, the company Padiberas Nasional Berhad (BERNAS) has held a federal monopoly over all rice imports into Malaysia. This gives BERNAS sweeping powers over imports, pricing, and national stockpile management. While the intent behind BERNAS's concession is to safeguard national food security and stabilize farmer income, its implications for state autonomy — especially in Sabah and Sarawak — are profound. In Sabah, where the rice self-sufficiency level (SSL) hovers around 22.8%, the centralized import model severely restricts the state's ability to tailor responses to local shortages, price hikes, and regional preferences. Sabah's Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, has consistently called for Sabah to manage at least 50% of its rice imports, framing it not as a request but as a constitutional right to address local needs and safeguard food security. As the state's Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister, Jeffrey emphasizes that Sabah's challenges differ significantly from those in Peninsular Malaysia and thus require decentralized control over rice imports and production. This would empower both Sabah and Sarawak to respond more effectively to local supply-demand dynamics. Proposing a 50% share as a practical middle ground, he believes Sabah can demonstrate the benefits of localized management without fully dismantling the federal system, allowing for policy evaluation and adjustment. Jeffrey is a vocal critic of the current rice import monopoly, arguing it stifles competition, hampers progress, and harms Sabah's economy. He warns that such centralized power fosters inefficiency and potential abuse, and rejects the notion that competition is harmful. On the contrary, he argues, competition drives innovation, efficiency, and better outcomes for both farmers and consumers. Despite these strong arguments, federal authorities have stood firm, extending BERNAS's monopoly until 2031. They maintain that a single importer ensures price stability and strategic stockpile coordination. While Sabah has attempted to challenge this monopoly, such efforts are fraught with legal complexities, as rice is a federally regulated strategic commodity. Nevertheless, Sabah is not standing still. The state government, through its GLC Sawit Kinabalu and the Agriculture Department, has launched a 100-hectare pilot padi project in Kampung Ongkilan. The goal is ambitious: to raise Sabah's rice self-sufficiency to 60% by 2030. With an investment of RM5 million, the project incorporates modern technology, including drone monitoring and efficient irrigation systems. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has thrown his weight behind the effort. He has pointed out that 2,600 hectares of idle padi land remain untapped and has urged other GLCs to follow Sawit Kinabalu's lead. This is not just an agricultural initiative; it is a strategic economic push to reclaim local control over food security and revive Sabah's rural heartland. Beyond regulatory issues, Sabah's food security challenges are rooted in physical and logistical disconnections. Sabah's interior agricultural zones — from Keningau to Kudat — produce an abundance of food. But poor rural road networks, seasonal flooding, and inadequate post-harvest infrastructure render much of this food inaccessible. A sudden downpour can turn dirt roads into impassable swamps, leaving harvests stranded and spoiled in the field. Farmers bear high transport costs, and perishables rarely survive the journey to urban markets. Investing in resilient farm-to-market roads is not just a development priority; it is a necessity. Without reliable road infrastructure, no amount of agricultural expansion or policy reform will translate into real food on tables. The cold chain — the temperature-controlled storage and transport system vital for preserving perishables — is virtually nonexistent in most of Sabah's rural areas. Without cold storage, farmers experience post-harvest losses as high as 40%. This is not only an economic tragedy but a nutritional one. Sabah must embrace innovations such as solar-powered cold rooms, already tested successfully in India and Africa. These solutions are especially relevant for Sabah's off-grid rural areas and align with the state's green development goals. Simultaneously, smart irrigation systems are needed to mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall, which still dominates Sabah's agriculture and leads to inconsistent yields. Predictable production enabled by smart irrigation would lead to smoother, more cost-effective logistics down the line. Finally, the state's traditional agricultural value chain, which moves from farmer to middleman to wholesaler to retailer, is long and inefficient. Sabah should pivot toward a direct-from-farm model, powered by digital platforms. This would shorten the supply chain, reduce spoilage and costs, and empower farmers to keep a larger share of the profits. Such a transition requires investment in localized distribution hubs, training in post-harvest handling, and user-friendly digital platforms that connect farmers directly with buyers. Revamping Sabah's logistics system is not just a technical fix; it's a transformational policy that would touch every aspect of rural life. Better logistics mean higher incomes for farmers, more jobs in transportation, healthier diets for consumers, and stronger rural communities less dependent on external aid. Even forgotten infrastructure, like the railway to Tenom, could be revived as part of a modernized logistics system. The key to Sabah's food security lies not only in growing more food but in ensuring that food moves efficiently, affordably, and reliably from farms to kitchens. This requires a three-pronged approach: • Investment in Infrastructure: Fund roads, cold chains, and smart irrigation systems. • Embracing Innovation: Pivot to digital farm-to-market models. • Policy Reform: Open a dialogue with the federal government to reform policies that stifle state innovation, specifically regarding the rice import monopoly. The current situation, where local food rots while imported goods fill supermarket shelves, is no longer tenable. Sabah must be empowered to act as a protector of its food destiny. If logistics is the lifeblood of agriculture, then Sabah's heart is in critical condition. It's time to fix the chain — technically, economically, and politically — before the system breaks beyond repair.
