Latest news with #NikkoFabian
Daily Express
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Skills training for Gaya folks
Published on: Monday, June 02, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 02, 2025 By: Nikko Fabian Text Size: Sim with DAP leaders and participants. Kota Kinabalu: Over 450 women and youths in four villages in Pulau Gaya – Kg Gaya, Kg Lok Urai, Kg Torong Logong and Kg Kesuapan – will receive training in floral arrangement entrepreneurship, digital marketing, drop shipping and motivational sessions for academic success. A statement said it is part of a Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) and Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) human capital development initiative bringing vital skills to one of Sabah's most geographically isolated communities. The 'Sentuhan Kesuma bersama HRD Corp di Bawah Bayu,' programme underscores the government's commitment to equitable access to education and economic empowerment, regardless of location. The event which coincided with National Training Week (NTW) 'Learning Without Borders' theme was officiated by the Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, who emphasised the importance of direct outreach to remote areas. 'We aim to equip every citizen with income-generating skills ... a skilled populace fuels national progress,' he said, adding that next week's NTW 2025 would see a return to Pulau Gaya, with a target of training 5,000 residents. 'Our Sabah target for 2025 is 60,000 participants, a significant increase from last year's 15,000.' Meanwhile, Sabah Industrial Development Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe highlighted the potential for skills training to attract investment and create jobs in Sabah. He said such initiatives not only improve individual livelihoods but also stimulate economic growth for the entire state. The event also marked a strategic partnership between HRD Corp and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) through the Sabah Human Capital Initiatives & Nurturing Excellence (SHiNE) program. Phoong said the initiative would create a lifelong learning hub, focusing on research, skills training, and talent development solutions for Sabah's workforce. HRD Corp's Deputy Chairman, Tuan Ahsim Haji Jamat, anticipates SHiNE becoming a national model for human capital development. Further strengthening local skills, HRD Corp's Training Equipment and Facility Enhancement Scheme (ALAT) provided RM36,000 worth of equipment to the local tourism sector. In addition to skills training, Kesuma demonstrated its commitment to holistic well-being through a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, including 700 life jackets, food baskets for 300 families, and RM20,000 to local schools. * 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
Daily Express
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Express
Embassy chips in for flying doctor service
Published on: Saturday, May 31, 2025 Published on: Sat, May 31, 2025 By: Nikko Fabian Text Size: Johan, Maria and Bryant with the medical equipment. Kota Kinabalu: The US embassy in Kuala Lumpur presented a substatial donation of medical equipment to Sabah Health Departments' Flying Doctor Service (FFS) Thursday. The simple ceremony was held at the Layang-Layang Aerospace hangar located in Tanjung Aru. The generous donation, included portable ultrasound machines, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), oxygen concentrators, and various medical kits. The items were handed over to Sabah Health Director Dr Maria Suleiman who thanked the crucial role FDS plays in providing healthcare to remote and underserved communities across Sabah, often facing significant logistical challenges. She highlighted that the donated equipment will significantly enhance the FDS's capacity to diagnose, treat, and save lives, particularly in areas with limited access to medical facilities. 'This contribution is not merely a collection of machines and tools; it is a lifeline, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the enduring spirit of partnership and compassion between our nations,' the lady director said. Advertisement She further emphasized the donation's impact on the FDS's ability to provide timely and effective care, strengthening their mobile clinics and empowering medical personnel. The donation ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including representatives from the US Army Civil Military Support Element, the US Embassy's Office of Defence Cooperation, and officials from the Sabah State Health Department and Layang-Layang Aerospace personnels. Also present to witness the ceremony was Layang-Layang Aerospace Sdn Bhd Managing Director Hj Johan Poong Abdullah. During the morning function, US Army (Military Support Equipment) Captain Bruant Y. Kim highlighted the donation as a symbol of the enduring partnership between the United States and Malaysia, underscoring a commitment to improving healthcare access for all. Bryant together with his group also expressed the Embassy's interest in future collaborations to monitor the impact of the donated equipment. 'First and foremost, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Layang Layang Aerospace team for allowing us to conduct this ceremony here today. Your support and hospitality have helped make this meaningful event possible… We are here to mark a donation that we hope will have a lasting impact,' Bryant said. He said through the provision of helicopter-related medical equipment, our goal is to strengthen the capabilities of the Sabah State Health Department's Flying Doctor Service in delivering healthcare to those who need it most— especially in remote and underserved areas of the vast and beautiful state of Sabah. The Flying Doctors Service plays an extraordinary role in connecting communities with lifesaving care, often in places where there are no roads and no other means of access. The challenges are many, but so too is the determination and dedication of the Flying Doctors Service team. This effort reflects the enduring partnership between the United States and Malaysia. We believe that when we work together government to government, and people to people—we can achieve great things. He said it ( donation) means helping to bring healthcare to those who might otherwise go without. May this contribution serve as a symbol of our friendship and as a tool to help you reach those in need, he concluded. On his part, Johan said the donated equipment is expected to immediately improve the FDS's operational capabilities, enabling them to provide more efficient and effective medical services to Sabah's most vulnerable populations. He said the event served as a powerful demonstration of international cooperation and a shared commitment to improving healthcare access in Sabah. Johan agreed with the State Health Director that the donation will enhance ability to diagnose, treat, and save lives more effectively. From the most basic diagnostic tools to more advanced life-saving apparatus, each item will be put to immediate and impactful use, strengthening our mobile clinics and enabling our doctors and nurses to perform their critical work with greater efficiency and confidence, Johan qouted Maria as saying. He said the act of generosity underscores the strong bond between the United States and Malaysia, and specifically, the commitment of the US Embassy to supporting the well-being of the people of Sabah. 'It reflects their broader goal of deepening cooperation and mutual respect…This donation is a powerful reminder that when nations come together, driven by shared values of humanity and mutual respect, remarkable things can be achieved,' Johan emphasized. * 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
Daily Express
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Ex-Senator: GRS can score a decisive win
Published on: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 Published on: Tue, May 13, 2025 By: Nikko Fabian Text Size: John (left) commends Hajiji's (right) inclusive approach, welcoming local parties into the GRS coalition regardless of electoral success. Kota Kinabalu: Former Senator Datuk John Ambrose predicts a decisive victory for the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition in the coming State election, citing strong popular support, effective local leadership and a unified front. He highlights GRS' broad-based support, encompassing local allies, party leaders, and the general public, emphasising their readiness to contest independently if necessary. A key factor in GRS's strength, John asserts, is its commitment to local leadership. He commends Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor's inclusive approach, welcoming local parties into the GRS coalition regardless of electoral success. This approach, prioritising consultation and providing equal opportunities to all elected officials, fosters significant public support, John argues. Subscribe or LOG IN to access this article. Support Independant Journalism Subscribe to Daily Express Malaysia Access to DE E-Paper Access to DE E-Paper Exclusive News Exclusive News Invites to special events Invites to special events Giveaways & Rewards 1-Year Most Popular (Income Tax Deductible) Explore Plans Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
05-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Banggi holds biogas potential
Published on: Monday, May 05, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 05, 2025 By: Nikko Fabian Text Size: Preliminary assessments indicate Banggi Island's potential to generate over 1.5 GWh of renewable electricity annually by converting palm oil mill effluent and other biomass by-products into biogas. Kota Kinabalu: BIMP-EAGA Business Council (BEBC-Sabah) Chairman Dr. Raymond Alfred revealed its unwavering support for developing biogas energy infrastructure on Banggi Island. He said this strategic initiative aims to bolster sustainable energy security and foster inclusive economic growth in the region. 'Banggi Island, including Kudat and Kota Marudu, boasts a burgeoning oil palm industry, generating substantial biomass waste like POME and EFB…This presents a unique opportunity to transform Banggi into a model for rural renewable energy and agro-industrial development. I am eager to collaborate with Dato Verdon Bahanda, the Member of Parliament for Kudat, on this project,' he added. Preliminary assessments indicate Banggi Island's potential to generate over 1.5 GWh of renewable electricity annually by converting palm oil mill effluent and other biomass by-products into biogas. The clean energy source could power hundreds of rural homes and businesses, significantly reducing reliance on expensive diesel-generated electricity. Raymond further emphasized, 'This initiative aligns perfectly with the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025, promoting green infrastructure, robust local value chains, and sustainable livelihoods. It's also crucial for Banggi's long-term goal of achieving full district status, with energy self-sufficiency forming a cornerstone of its local governance and development.' The Business Council advocates for: A comprehensive feasibility study involving state agencies, palm oil stakeholders, and renewable energy experts. Strategic public-private partnerships to expedite infrastructure investment. Robust support from national bodies such as SEDA, MPOB, and the Sabah Energy Commission. Raymond highlighted that biogas development transcends mere technological advancement; it represents a transformative opportunity to create green jobs, enhance energy access, and empower local communities in one of Sabah's most remote yet resource-rich areas. 'With the support of the BIMP-EAGA Special Envoy Tan Sri Pandikar Amin, we are committed to establishing Banggi as a pioneering example of rural energy transition—benefiting not only Sabah, but the entire BIMP-EAGA region,' quipped. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * 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
Daily Express
03-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Blue carbon initiative to fight poverty
Published on: Saturday, May 03, 2025 Published on: Sat, May 03, 2025 By: Nikko Fabian Text Size: Raymond sharply criticized the ineffectiveness of current government cash handout programmes, arguing they fail to address root causes and create dependency rather than empowerment. Kota Kinabalu: A groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by the Bimp-Eaga Business Council (Sabah) aims to tackle poverty and environmental degradation in northern Sabah's Kota Marudu and Pitas districts. BEBC chairman Dr Raymond Alfred unveiled a comprehensive blue carbon programme designed to integrate mangrove conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and solar energy deployment, creating a climate-smart model for economic development. He highlighted the critical need for collaboration between large-scale plantation companies and local communities, emphasizing that the current economic situation, with households earning only RM500-RM700 monthly, constitutes a structural crisis demanding systemic solutions. Raymond sharply criticized the ineffectiveness of current government cash handout programmes, arguing they fail to address root causes and create dependency rather than empowerment. Subscribe or LOG IN to access this article. Support Independant Journalism Subscribe to Daily Express Malaysia Access to DE E-Paper Access to DE E-Paper Exclusive News Exclusive News Invites to special events Invites to special events Giveaways & Rewards 1-Year Most Popular (Income Tax Deductible) Explore Plans Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
