Latest news with #MeritzHotel
Borneo Post
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Gawai Dayak celebration in Miri highlights legacy, global identity
Penguang strikes the gong to mark the start of the Gawai Dayak 2025 event in Miri. MIRI (May 25): The Gawai Dayak celebration should serve as a platform to promote Dayak culture and identity to the global stage, said Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil. He also urged the Dayak community to take pride in their heritage and to uphold the Gawai celebration as a symbol of strength, continuity, and collective identity, and not merely as a festive occasion. 'Gawai holds a profound meaning. It is about more than celebration – it is about honouring the legacy of pioneers and leaders who paved the way. 'As your leader, and more importantly as someone who speaks for our community, I must remind this – if we do not speak for ourselves, who else will?' said the Marudi assemblyman his speech at the division-level Gawai Dayak celebration dinner in Meritz Hotel here on Saturday. He represented National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang at the event. Adding on, Penguang also emphasised the importance of recognising the Dayak community as part of a global society that valued diversity and mutual respect. 'What we preserve today will not only be remembered by us, but by the future generations and other communities around the world. 'You, the Dayak people, must be proud ambassadors of the rich legacy we carry as a community.' Penguang also stressed the need for cultural preservation, encouraging the Dayaks to celebrate their traditions with pride – without fear of judgment. 'Do not feel ashamed. Gawai is the time to showcase who we are – our identity, our food, our dances, and our values. 'It is not merely about drinking or feasting, but about unity, dignity, and cultural pride.' He addressed the criticisms againts of cultural showcases like the 'Kumang' and 'Keling' (Princess and Warrior) pageants, stating that these traditions were not superficial displays, but important expressions of heritage and identity. 'Some say that the 'Kumang and Keling' competitions are merely about appearance and showcasing traditional clothing, but I disagree with that view. 'It's not about showing off. It's about respecting our traditions and giving them the dignity they deserve. 'We must fulfil our responsibilities as citizens and as part of a united, multiracial Sarawak. We must stand firm, united, and unshaken,' he stressed. Organised by the Miri Division Gawai Celebration Committee and hosted by the Miri Dayak Association (DAM), the event also had Penguang announcing allocations totalling RM105,000, with contributions from various leaders including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas who pledged RM30,000, and himself with RM15,000; Minister of Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin (RM15,000); Aaron (RM10,000); Deputy Minister in Sarawak Premier's Department Datuk Gerawat Gala (RM10,000), Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting (RM10,000); Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau (RM10,000); and Datuk Dr Nuing Jeluing (RM5,000). The evening featured cultural performances from the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu communities, with highlights including the Kumang, Dayung Sagon and Keligit Orang Ulu contests, as well as Keling and Belawan competitions for Gawai 2025. community Gawai Dayak lead Penguang Manggil
Borneo Post
08-05-2025
- Science
- Borneo Post
Borneo robot tournament a launchpad for global youth innovation, says S'wak minister
Dr Annuar tries his hand at using a blowpipe to burst a balloon and release the tournament banner to mark the launching of the event. MIRI (May 9): The Borneo International Robot Tournament 2025 serves not only as a competition, but a vibrant launch pad for new ideas and a global bridge connecting young minds, said Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn. 'This event is a celebration of knowledge, creativity, and global unity, in which bright minds from across the globe come together to shape the future through creativity, technology, and collaboration,' he said in a speech delivered by his deputy, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa'ee, at the event's launching at the Meritz Hotel here yesterday. Organised by SMK Chung Hua (CF) Miri, with support from the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), the tournament reflects Sarawak's push to nurture local talent and drive innovation. 'Your hard work and dedication have brought us all here today and we are truly grateful for your vision in driving this extraordinary event forward,' said Sagah, lauding the host school's commitment in supporting the ministry's mission to build a future-ready Sarawak. In his message to the participants, he reminded them that the tournament was not just about winning trophies, but about embracing challenges with resilience and passion. 'Let's be reminded of the true spirit of Borneo International Robot Tournament 2025 – to dare to imagine, create, and contribute to a better future,' he said, reminding them that what they gain – skills, friendship, and inspiration – will outlast the competition itself. He also encouraged the participants to carry the spirit of 'Agi Idup Agi Ngelaban' – a call to persevere against all odds. Also in attendance were Sarawak Education Department (Student Education Sector) deputy director Zamzaitul Akmal Hisham Ahmad, Miri Education Officer Mariam Monek, and SMK Chung Hua (CF) Miri principal Lai Jia Ling. Running from May 7 to 10, the event brought together 220 teams, including 167 from Malaysia and 53 from China, Chinese Taipei, Macau, Vietnam, and Thailand. The international scope of the tournament is expected to bolster its standing on the global stage, further positioning Sarawak as a hub for youth innovation and technological excellence.
Borneo Post
08-05-2025
- Science
- Borneo Post
Borneo International Robotics Tournament draws 220 teams to Miri
SMK Chung Hua (CF) Miri robotic team poses for a group photo at the event. MIRI (May 8): The 2025 Borneo International Robotics Tournament has attracted 220 teams, including 167 from across Malaysia and 53 from international teams from countries such as China, Chinese Taipei, Macau, Vietnam, and Thailand. The event, held at the Meritz Hotel from May 7 to 10, is organised by SMK Chung Hua (CF) Miri, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak and Sasbadi Learning Solutions. Participants are competing in various categories, including Robomission Battle Elementary Category (ages 9-12), Lower Category (13-15), Upper (16-18), RoboSports (Double Tennis, ages 11-18), and an Open Category for those aged 19 and above. The tournament aims to promote technological exchange and global recognition in robotics, while enhancing students' knowledge, creativity, and international collaboration. Miri Education Officer Mariam Monek commended the initiative, noting that students will receive co-curricular activity points (PAJSK) for their participation. 'The competition fosters technological growth, international cooperation, and broadens students' global perspectives,' she lauded. Principal Lai Jia Ling, meanwhile, emphasised the school's commitment to nurturing students' talents in science and technology. 'As the school with the highest number of science-stream classes in Miri, SMK Chung Hua (CF) Miri continuously encourages students to develop innovative ideas and creative solutions while providing them with the freedom and experimental space necessary to explore their interests and talents. 'The school sees this event as key to preparing future leaders for a world shaped by artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics innovation,' she added. Borneo International Robotics Tournament lead miri students
