Latest news with #MohdFaisalAhmad
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Streamlined MyKad procedure a relief for Sarawakians without K-indicator
Fatimah visits the service counters. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (May 31): The process of registering for a MyKad with the K-indicator – signifying Sarawakian status – has now been simplified for newly-registered Malaysian citizens born in Sarawak, thanks to new conditions and streamlined procedures implemented by the National Registration Department (JPN). The improved process has already begun to benefit many Sarawakians, especially those who had previously faced hurdles in confirming their status. 'Now, the procedure is so much easier; they only require us to provide our current identification card (IC) and other supporting documents to prove we were born in Sarawak, and they will immediately replace it,' said Jerremy Chua, 41, who came to the Sarawak National Registration Department (JPN) office here to apply for the K-indicator. Jerremy Chua Chua, who was born in Sarawak but has lived in Johor Bahru for over two decades due to work, explained that his MyKad had been reissued in Johor without the K-indicator – something he hadn't noticed at the time. 'I was not aware of the benefits that come with having a Sarawakian status, so I didn't pay any mind to the missing K-indicator on my IC until the immigration officer questioned me about my nationality status. 'It was difficult to return to my hometown as I would only be granted a visitor's pass,' he said. He added that now, with the streamlined process, he can put his concerns to rest. 'I am married to a non-Sarawakian and we have a son born in Johor Bahru. Now that I am officially recognised as a Sarawakian, with the K-indicator on my MyKad, I can also apply for my son to obtain Sarawakian citizenship,' he said. Fatimah speaks to the visitors at JPN. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad Also at the JPN was Rayani Usman, 38, who expressed her happiness over the new implementation for Sarawakian IC registration. 'I came here to inquire about the procedure to apply for a MyKad with Sarawakian status for my daughter, as my family lives in Peninsular Malaysia. I feel at ease knowing that she is eligible to receive Sarawakian citizenship,' she said. Rayani, an Indonesian citizen, has been married to a Sarawakian for more than 10 years and is currently undergoing the process to apply for permanent residency. 'I am glad knowing that my citizenship won't hinder my child from acquiring Malaysian citizenship and Sarawakian status,' she added. Rayani Usman This initiative reflects the state government's commitment to resolving the issue of registered Malaysian citizens in Sarawak being denied the K-indicator on their MyKads, denoting them as Sarawakians and excluding them from all state initiatives. They were met following State Minister for Women, Children, and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah's official visit to the state JPN office here yesterday. Speaking to the media after her meeting with JPN officials, Fatimah said that following the state Cabinet approval on Sept 26, 2024, JPN Sarawak now has the authority to approve Sarawakian status for individuals born in the state. citizenship JPN K indicator MyKad
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Kuching's iconic white cat statue dons Orang Ulu attire for Gawai Dayak
The iconic white cat statue dressed and ready for the Gawai Dayak celebration this year adorned in traditional attire inspired by the Orang Ulu tribe. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (May 29): Kuching's iconic White Cat statue is now officially dressed for this year's Gawai Dayak celebration, adorned in traditional attire inspired by the Orang Ulu tribe. Adding a festive touch to the city centre, the statue is outfitted in vibrant garments featuring Sarawak's state colours – yellow, red, and black – alongside cultural motifs that pay tribute to the state's rich indigenous heritage. 'This year, I think you can see that the cat is dressed in an Orang Ulu design, and the colours used are our state colours – yellow, red, and black,' said Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng when met by reporters during the lighting up of the cat statue at the Padungan roundabout this evening. He emphasised that the annual Gawai Dayak festival is more than just a harvest celebration – it is a time to reflect on gratitude and unity among Sarawak's diverse communities. He also highlighted the depth and influence of Dayak culture, especially in the evolution of Sarawak's creative identity over the years. 'In actual fact, our Dayak friends have a very rich cultural heritage. That's why we initially came up with all these designs to be printed on clothing, accessories, and so on. That was almost 20 years ago. 'So you have now what we call Sarawak batik. The Sarawak batik, those motifs in actual fact come from our Dayak tribes. 'They have all their weavings, pua kumbu, some of them come from the beads,' said Wee. Dr Sim (fifth left), Wee (sixth left) and others pose in front of the white cat statue. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad Highlighting the significance of Dayak culture in shaping Sarawak's identity, Wee spoke about its long-standing influence on the state's creative expressions. 'So with Sarawak sort of rich with them with such a rich culture and with rich tradition and all that we continue to celebrate. 'It's important to showcase that this land is not only full of excitement because of its diverse people and ethnic groups, but also because of its rich cultural heritage. 'So let's appreciate all of this whether it's past, present or for the future,' he said. Also present during the lighting up ceremony was Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and several MBKS councillors. cat statue Gawai Kuching MBKS Orang Ulu
Borneo Post
24-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Five Sarawak startups win big at Shell LiveWire 2025 state finals
Len Talif (standing, seventh left) with the winners and guests in a photocall after the Shell LiveWIRE Malaysia 2025 Sarawak award ceremony here today. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (May 24): Five Sarawak-based enterprises have been named state winners of the Shell LiveWire Malaysia 2025 Sarawak Challenge, following the state finals today at Tegas Digital Village here. The winning startups – Desa Inspirasi Resources, Earthlings Coffee Workshop Sdn Bhd, Lariss Quna Enterprise, Lettuboost, and Maxeon Technologies Sdn Bhd – were selected from over 60 participants who took part in the programme. These enterprises advanced through an intensive bootcamp, with 10 finalists making it to the final pitching round. Each winner received a RM10,000 startup fund from Shell, along with an additional RM5,000 grant from Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (Tegas). Beyond funding, the winners will benefit from one year of business coaching and access to Tegas' resources and networking opportunities. They will also gain the opportunity to engage with the global LiveWire network, and may be selected to compete in the prestigious Shell Global Top Ten Innovators Awards. The event was officiated by Sarawak Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment and Tegas chairman, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, who was accompanied by Tegas CEO Udin Bujang. 'We at Tegas are proud to partner with Shell Malaysia for the Shell LiveWire programme, a collaboration that underscores our commitment to nurturing local start-ups and social enterprises,' he said. 'This initiative highlights the vital role of entrepreneurship in driving economic development, generating employment, and fostering resilient communities,' he added. Shell Malaysia Upstream's General Manager of Sarawak Gas, Choong Yen Li, said Shell LiveWire offers a meaningful platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into impactful ventures. 'Through this initiative, individuals not only gain the opportunity to build their own businesses but also contribute towards job creation and community development,' she said. The judging panel for the finals included Tegas Manager Afida Zaidi, The Borneo Post Business Executive Editor and Kuching Division Journalists Association President Ronnie Teo, and Shell Malaysia Senior Manager (Mobility Sales and Operations) Dr Alex Pega Mahda. Shell LiveWire, the company's flagship enterprise development programme, was launched in Sabah in 2015, Sarawak in 2016, and Peninsular Malaysia in 2022. It aims to foster local entrepreneurship and promote innovative business solutions aligned with socio-economic development. Sarawak Challenge Shell LiveWire Malaysia 2025 tegas
Borneo Post
24-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Innovative entrepreneurship key to future-ready Sarawak, says Len Talif
Len Talif visits one of the booths set up at the event. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (May 24): Innovative entrepreneurship is key to realising Sarawak's vision of becoming a resilient and future-ready state, said State Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh. Speaking at the Shell LiveWIRE Sarawak 2025 award ceremony at Tegas Digital Village today, the Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (Tegas) chairman emphasised that while strategic government initiatives are in place, real transformation must be driven by entrepreneurs on the ground. 'Sarawak is undergoing a bold transformation, driven by strategic state initiatives in areas such as digital economy, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and social inclusivity. 'But the success of these efforts depends not just on policy. It needs the catalytic force of innovation from entrepreneurs like you. Your ideas, agility, and problem-solving mindset are essential to bridging gaps, accelerating change, and bringing these initiatives to life on the ground,' he said. He underscored the importance of tech-driven solutions, community-focused enterprises, and innovative business models in building a stronger, future-ready Sarawak. Len Talif also commended Shell for its continued support of the LiveWIRE programme. 'Shell has long been a valued partner in supporting entrepreneurship in Sarawak, and we are truly grateful for the continued commitment. 'The support has been instrumental to the success of Shell LiveWIRE Sarawak 2025, providing the resources, expertise, and encouragement that have helped budding entrepreneurs grow and thrive. 'We deeply appreciate your role in strengthening this vibrant ecosystem and the enduring synergy between Tegas and Shell in building a more innovative and inclusive future for Sarawak,' he said. This year's programme concluded with the announcement of five top Sarawakian entrepreneurs who will go on to represent the state at the national level. Len Talif reminded the winners that they now carry a greater responsibility not only for themselves, but for the entire entrepreneurial community in Sarawak. To further support their journey, each winner received an additional RM5,000 seed grant from Tegas. Len Talif also announced a special incentive: any Sarawakian who wins at the national level will receive an additional RM20,000 from Tegas, on top of the RM30,000 national prize. He described Tegas as 'the home of impact-driven innovation in Sarawak – a dynamic platform where ideas meet purpose, and entrepreneurs are empowered to create lasting impact', and reaffirmed the organisation's long-term commitment to nurturing startups beyond initial bootcamps. 'It is a long-term investment in the future of our state. We remain dedicated to building a thriving, inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that empowers local talent to succeed,' he said. Len Talif also encouraged young entrepreneurs to stay humble and resilient, stating that these values are crucial to long-term success. 'Failure isn't the end. It is often the beginning of deeper understanding and better decisions. The most resilient founders are those who stay curious, keep learning, and have the courage to start again when needed. 'Keep that mindset with you. I promise you, it will take you further than any shortcut ever could,' he advised. He concluded by congratulating the winners and thanking all participants for their passion and perseverance. 'This may be the end of the programme, but it is just the beginning of your journey as entrepreneurs. Keep building, keep learning, and most importantly, stay true to the purpose that brought you here. 'The road ahead will have its challenges, but you are not walking it alone. Tegas and the wider community are here to support you,' he said. Also present were Tegas chief executive officer Udin Bujang and Shell Malaysia social performance manager Iris Soh.
Borneo Post
22-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Dr Hazland: Robust foundation for Sarawak's future based on hydrogen economy, substantial long-term benefits
Dr Hazland said as the hydrogen economy is a relatively new energy source, it faces challenges in creating immediate economic benefits. – File photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (May 22): The hydrogen economy will lay a robust foundation for Sarawak's future and is expected to yield substantial long-term benefits as global demand for clean hydrogen rises despite the challenges it faces now, said Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni. The Energy and Environmental Sustainability Deputy Minister said as the hydrogen economy is a relatively new energy source, it faces challenges in creating immediate economic benefits. He explained that Sarawak's economy is still heavily reliant on oil and gas, making it challenging for hydrogen to gain traction. 'Investors may prefer established industries with quicker returns rather than the emerging hydrogen market,' he said during the question-and-answer session at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) here today. He pointed out that building hydrogen infrastructure encompassing production, storage, and transport, requires significant upfront investment, unlike existing infrastructures, which create quicker returns. 'Lastly, hydrogen production, especially clean hydrogen, requires specialised technical skills that Sarawak is still developing. 'Establishing a workforce with these skills will require substantial investment in training programmes and education initiatives, which will take time to produce results. 'More mature sectors, by comparison, have lower workforce entry barriers,' he said. He was responding to a question from Miro Simuh (GPS-Serembu), who had asked the ministry about barriers faced by the hydrogen economy. 'Although immediate economic returns may be modest, these strategic investments are expected to yield substantial long-term benefits as global demand for clean hydrogen rises, reinforcing Sarawak's commitment to environmental sustainability and clean energy leadership, aligning with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030,' Dr Hazland said. When answering supplementary questions regarding Sarawak leveraging its abundant hydropower resources to produce cost-effective green hydrogen, the deputy minister said Sarawak has the potential to do so and could utilise strategic initiatives that build on its natural strengths. 'Sarawak's unique topography gives it a comparative advantage in hydroelectricity production, resulting in lower industrial electricity tariffs. 'By harnessing this renewable hydropower to drive the electrolysis process, Sarawak can produce clean hydrogen efficiently and sustainably, converting water into hydrogen without carbon emissions and furthering its commitment to clean energy,' he said. Furthermore, he said Sarawak's flagship projects, such as H2biscus and H2ornbill initiatives, reflect Sarawak's proactive efforts in hydrogen production. As for plans to reduce dependency on conventional energy such as coal and gas, he said it is still important to maintain grid security and stability despite the greater emphasis and investment in renewable energies. 'To support the load growth in Sarawak, Sarawak Energy is working closely with Petros to maintain an equitable level of gas-powered generation under the Sarawak Gas Roadmap. 'On the other hand, the state has decided that the Balingian Coal Fired Power Plant, which was commissioned in 2019, would be the last coal power project in the foreseeable future while making plans to decommission the other ageing coal plants,' he added. Dr Hazland Abang Hipni hydrogen economy lead
