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Malay Mail
a day ago
- General
- Malay Mail
‘More than a harvest festival': In Gawai message, Wan Junaidi calls on Sarawakians to honour heritage and prioritise education
KUCHING, May 31 — Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has called on the Dayak community to preserve their rich cultural traditions while continuing to prioritise education as a key driver of development, as they return to their villages to celebrate Gawai Dayak. He said Gawai is not merely a harvest festival, but a powerful symbol of unity, gratitude and cultural pride. 'Each year on June 1, the Dayak community gathers to honour the fruits of their labour, strengthen family ties, and pass down traditions that reflect the values of togetherness, mutual respect and harmony,' he said in his Gawai Dayak message today. Recalling the historical significance of Gawai, which was officially recognised as a state celebration in 1965, Wan Junaidi paid tribute to the visionary leaders who championed the recognition of Dayak heritage. 'It is through traditions like 'ngajat', 'ai pengayu', and the communal spirit of 'gotong-royong' that we see the timeless values that continue to define us,' he said. Underscoring the importance of education in navigating the globalised and technologically advanced world, he lauded the Sarawak government's ongoing efforts to improve educational access and infrastructure, especially in rural areas. 'Various initiatives have been implemented to boost literacy rates and academic performance, including early intervention programmes and the establishment of learning guidance centres. 'It is my hope that parents continue to emphasise the importance of education to empower their children to succeed and build a brighter future,' he said. He revealed that over 200 projects to rebuild and upgrade dilapidated schools have been approved under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, reinforcing the state's commitment to equitable access to quality education. Wan Junaidi also acknowledged the vital role of infrastructure in bridging the development gap between urban and rural areas. 'The construction of 16 bridges, alongside the ongoing Pan Borneo Highway and coastal road network, stands as clear proof of the government's commitment to bridging the development gap between urban and rural areas,' he said. He further commended non-governmental organisations (NGOs) for their active role in supporting communities through educational aid, free health campaigns, and initiatives to preserve Dayak arts and customs. 'These partnerships are integral to building a more inclusive and resilient society,' he added. As Sarawakians return to their villages for the festive season, he reminded road users to travel responsibly and to prioritise safety. 'With better and more comfortable road networks such as the Pan Borneo Highway, let us not misuse these facilities as race tracks. 'Safety must come first, better to arrive late than never. 'I also urge all drivers to be courteous and always abide by traffic rules and regulations. Ensure that your vehicles are in good and safe condition, including tyre checks, brake systems, alignment, and steering. 'Before leaving, make sure your homes are securely locked and all electrical supplies are turned off to prevent unwanted incidents,' he said. He also expressed condolences and called for reflection following the recent tragic road accident involving the Federal Reserve Unit (PSP) in Teluk Intan, Perak. 'We must take this as a solemn reminder of the need to uphold safety and responsibility at all times,' he said. Wan Junaidi urged all Sarawakians to protect harmony, strengthen unity, and work together towards a prosperous future. 'Let us celebrate Gawai with joy, moderation and a strong sense of community spirit. ''Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai, Lantang Senang Nguan Menua!' he added. — The Borneo Post
Malay Mail
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Of ‘marks' and ‘crowns': Petronas celebrates Gawai and Kaamatan with heartfelt tales of heritage and belonging (VIDEO)
KUCHING, May 30 — In celebrating this year's Gawai festivities, Petronas proudly presents 'Marked' or 'Tanda Kasih', a touching story that explores the power of personal resilience, the strength of family bonds, and the beauty of cultural pride. In a statement, Petronas said the film, which premiered today across their official YouTube and Facebook channels, follows Melia, a young Iban girl, as she undergoes an emotional journey of self-acceptance, confronting the challenges of growing up with a prominent birthmark on her forehead. As Gawai approaches, Melia is asked to wear the sugu tinggi, a traditional Iban woman's headdress that symbolises dignity and cultural heritage. However, doubt lingers in her heart as she wonders if she is truly worthy of bearing such a significant piece of tradition. 'Her silent struggles go largely unnoticed by her family, except for her grandmother, whose loving presence and gentle encouragement become a source of strength and guidance. 'More than a story of self-acceptance, 'Marked' celebrates the ties that unite us, family, and community, and reminds us that strength grows through connection and shared heritage,' the statement read. Petronas Vice President of Group Strategic Relations and Communications, Norafizal Mat Saad said 'Marked' is a tribute to the strength within communities in Malaysia and the richness of the Iban tradition. 'At Petronas, we believe in the power of storytelling to celebrate the diversity and beauty of our people and cultures. It also reflects the values of unity and shared purpose, reminding us that when we stand together and support one another, we create space for everyone to belong and thrive,' he was quoted as saying. Norafizal hoped that the story would encourage Malaysians to embrace their identity with pride and support each other in the journey of self-discovery. In the spirit of the harvest season, Petronas also presents 'Crown of Love' or 'Mahkota Teristimewa', a Kaamatan story that celebrates community strength and the meaning of love. 'Though from different cultures, both films share a message of embracing diversity and being true to ourselves, reflecting a Malaysia where differences connect, not divide,' the statement added. — Bernama
Malay Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Five ‘sick projects' in Sarawak to be completed under 13MP, says Rural and Regional Development Ministry
KUCHING, May 30 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi wants the five projects categorised as 'sick projects' in Sarawak, involving the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) under the 11th Malaysia Plan (11MP) and 12MP, to be completed during the 13MP period. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, said the causes for the projects' delay included site issues such as permits, land acquisition and overlapping pipe alignments, in addition to weather conditions. 'Since the 13MP will be tabled at the coming Dewan Rakyat session, any sick projects will be expedited and its completion period must be within the 13MP, namely from Rolling Plan 1 to 5. 'For example, for non-sick projects, but projects that have been delayed, namely the Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) in Lawas which has obtained approval but not yet implemented... my instructions is that it must be implemented under the 13MP Rolling Plan 1,' he said. He said this at a media conference after attending the Special Meeting on the Implementation of KKDW Development Projects in Sarawak here today. Ahmad Zahid said that following the landslide incident in Kampung Lereng Bukit, Miri in January, which completely damaged 14 houses, efforts to rebuild the houses of all the affected residents would be carried out after the Gawai Day celebration. 'A suitable plot of land has been obtained as determined by the Sarawak Land Custody and Development Authority (PELITA), with the implementation carried out by the state government agency,' he said, adding that the incident affected a total of 277 residents in the affected settlement. He also said that his ministry plans to set up the MARA Poly-Tech College (KPTM) of Sarawak either in Kuching or Samarahan to expand opportunities for youths in the state to further their studies at the pre-diploma, diploma and foundation level. He is targeting a total of 1,000 students to study at the KPTM by 2028. 'We plan to start with about 200 students and, in the following years, we expect to take in 500 students yearly,' he said, adding that the KPTM will offer studies in the fields of business, information technology and humanities. Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang and Sarawak Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Datuk Julaihi Narawi. Earlier, the nearly two-hour special meeting aimed to coordinate the implementation of KKDW rural development projects in Sarawak to ensure the people can enjoy the basic facilities and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the KKDW said in a statement that Sarawak has received an allocation of RM3.2 billion under the 12MP, involving the implementation of 403 programmes and projects, a total project cost of RM21.73 billion. It added that of the total, 178 projects or 44.71 per cent have been identified as still in the 'Pre-Implementation' status, with 155 projects having been approved from 2021 to this year. — Bernama
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- General
- Malay Mail
Sarawak Fire Dept: Six injured as car skids off road near Kampung Gua, Sri Aman
KUCHING, May 30 — Six individuals sustained injuries when the car they were travelling in skidded off the road near Kampung Gua along Jalan Serian-Sri Aman earlier today. According to a statement from the Sarawak Operations Centre of the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (Bomba), the accident involved a Perodua Axia compact car. The victims included a 15-year-old female teenager, three adult males aged 21, 32, and 60, and two adult females aged 30 and 56. All victims only sustained minor injuries and were not trapped in the vehicle following the accident. They managed to exit the car unaided, without the use of any rescue equipment. 'Upon the rescue team's arrival at the scene, it was confirmed that a single-vehicle accident had occurred involving a compact vehicle (Perodua Axia),' the statement read. JBPM further reported that three of the injured were transported to Hospital Sri Aman via Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS), while one adult male and one female were conveyed by Ministry of Health (KKM) ambulances. The emergency call was received at 7.16am, and the operation was concluded at 7.50am. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) also responded to the incident. — The Borneo Post
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- General
- Malay Mail
Kuching police confirm Lamborghini driver reported fatal Jalan Airport accident, not hit-and-run
KUCHING, May 30 — Police have ruled out a hit-and-run in the fatal accident involving a Lamborghini and a pedestrian at Jalan Airport here on Tuesday evening. Kuching district police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu confirmed yesterday that the 54-year-old businessman driving the Lamborghini came forward to lodge a police report within the required 24-hour timeframe. 'The Lamborghini driver lodged the police report an hour after the accident. He did not run but reported the incident,' he told The Borneo Post. He added that the driver was subsequently arrested to facilitate investigation and is now a suspect in the case. According to Alexson, the driver stated that he was travelling from Jalan Airport to Padungan when the incident occurred. Meanwhile, the police have identified the deceased pedestrian as Chinese national Bi Guang Dong, 52, a general worker involved in the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) lane construction. Alexson said Bi was crossing the road when he was struck by the Lamborghini. He was subsequently declared dead at the scene by medical personnel from the Sarawak General Hospital. 'In the meantime, the body of the deceased is still at the Sarawak General Hospital, awaiting claims from family members in China,' said Alexson. Police have classified the case as dangerous or reckless driving that results in death, an offence under Section 41 (1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. The Section provides for five to 10 years in jail and a fine of between RM20,000 and RM50,000 upon conviction. Alexson urged witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact investigating officer ASP Lucas Apin on 013-8246881 or 082-259900, or to visit the nearest police station. — The Borneo Post
