Latest news with #PostCovid-19DevelopmentStrategy
Borneo Post
a day ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Sikie: Use safety-conscious, uniform approach for longhouse construction
Sikie joins residents in a traditional ritual during the Mangkung Tiang ceremony at Rumah Rawing Manja, Ulu Mejau. – Ukas photo TATAU (July 28): The construction of longhouses, which are a symbol of unity and resilience among rural communities, must use a more uniform and safety-conscious approach, said Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai. The Minister in the Premier's Department said this when officiating at the Mangkung Tiang (foundation pole) ceremony for Rumah Rawing Manja in Ulu Mejau on Saturday. 'Uniformity in the ruai enhances the aesthetic appeal of longhouses while symbolising unity and cooperation among residents,' he said. He stressed the critical need for fire prevention and electrical safety, urging longhouse folk to install brick partition walls extending to the roof and to ensure all electrical wiring complies with Sarawak Energy Berhad standards. The Kakus assemblyman urged village security and development committees (JKKKs) and their security bureaus to take a more proactive role in addressing social issues, particularly drug abuse, which remains a concern in some rural areas. Sikie also outlined key development projects under the Mid Rajang Regional Development Agency (MiRRDA), reinforcing the government's commitment to transforming rural infrastructure. These include RM60 million to upgrade the road from Nanga Kelebu to Rumah Ado, Kakus; RM10 million for road upgrades to Ulu Mejau; and RM10 million for the road to Entajum. 'These projects are not just about connectivity, they are investments in the future of rural Sarawakians,' he said. Reaffirming Sarawak's Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030), he said the state is on track to achieve an RM15,000 household income target by 2030. Among the flagship initiatives is the Free Tertiary Education Scheme at state-owned institutions, aimed at equipping Sarawakians for better-paying jobs. As part of his visit, Sikie also presented an RM18,000 Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant to the Rumah Rawing JKKK for local development efforts. The ceremony was attended by some 500 residents. John Sikie Tayai lead longhouse construction
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
MCC launches eco-initiatives at Bario's Pesta Nukenen 2025
Yii (second right) takes part in the opening gimmick of Pesta Nukenen 2025. MIRI (July 26): Miri City Council (MCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development in the Kelabit Highlands, unveiling a range of initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, waste management and eco-tourism across the region. Speaking at the opening ceremony of Pesta Nukenen 2025 in Bario, Miri mayor Adam Yii highlighted the council's commitment to development that harmonizes with cultural values and environmental preservation. 'These principles are deeply woven into your way of life, and they fit perfectly with MCC's vision of building sustainable villages and resilient communities,' Yii said. A major project introduced was the Plasma Pyrolysis system, also known as the Asher machine, which uses solar energy to convert waste into ash, providing an eco-friendly solution to waste disposal. Yii, who is also the Pujut assemblyman, emphasised the project's alignment with Sarawak's Post Covid-19 Development Strategy, particularly in promoting renewable energy and responsible rural development. In addition to embracing green technology, MCC is collaborating with the Bario community on beautification and tourism-related efforts. Projects include the development of Bario Community Park and Memorial Park to enhance the area's appeal for locals and visitors alike. Another initiative, Ngeribed Bawang, aims to cultivate native flowers, trees and traditional plants across villages, supported by MCC's plan to establish a dedicated nursery to conserve rare and endangered species. 'We see Bario as a potential model village for eco-tourism, supported by public cleanliness, maintenance and expanded infrastructure,' Yii stressed. In preparation for Pesta Nukenen, MCC allocated RM80,000 for local enhancement works, including grass-cutting, road and drain maintenance, and repainting shop lots. Beyond Bario, infrastructure upgrades continue across the highlands under the Inisiatif Kemudahan Rakyat (IKR) through 2025. 'These projects are essential to improving rural connectivity, strengthening local infrastructure and supporting long-term community needs,' Yii said. He added that six acres of land have been allocated for the development of new shop lots, creating opportunities for local entrepreneurship and economic growth. To ensure that local voices guide development efforts, a Bario Sub-District Task Force has also been established. Yii credited the community leaders, volunteers and residents for their continued efforts in preserving Bario's unique traditions. 'I am confident Bario will continue to flourish, remaining a beacon of tradition, resilience, and natural beauty,' he said. Bario Miri City Council Pesta Nukenen
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Bintulu's new transit centre for homeless set to open in October
Fatimah (third right) seen with the other officials during the site visit to Bintulu TTG. — Photo by Sarawak Public Communications Unit BINTULU (July 25): The newly-completed Homeless Transit Centre (TTG) here should be operational this October. According to Sarawak Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah in a Sarawak Public Communications unit (Ukas) report, the centre provides a safer, more dignified and inclusive temporary refuge to the homeless community here. 'We are grateful to the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) for allowing the transformation of this site, previously an extremely dilapidated house, into a proper transit centre,' she said during a working visit to the site recently. The building will also house a Community Social Support Centre (CSSC), meant to serve as a venue for non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community leaders, and government agencies to conduct social welfare programmes. Equipped with basic amenities including sleeping quarters, dining areas, and bathing facilities, the TTG is designed as an integrated intervention hub offering health screenings, profiling, counselling, motivation sessions, and skills training to help the homeless transition to independent living. 'Our goal is for individuals leaving this centre to do so with renewed confidence and skills that enable them to earn a living and reintegrate into society,' said Fatimah, who was accompanied by her deputy minister Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam, the ministry's permanent secretary Datu Felicia Tan, Sarawak Social Development Council (MPS) executive secretary Riziandy Nawawi, and Bintulu Resident Office administrative officer Sharpini Daud. The Sarawak government has approved RM1.8 million to operate four TTGs across the state — each in Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri. The Bintulu TTG is the third facility having reached completion, following those in Kuching and Sibu. The TTG Miri, which has also been completed, is expected to become operational next month. The establishment of TTGs is part of Sarawak's Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, aligning with five key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): poverty eradication, zero hunger, good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth, and reduced inequalities. Citing data from the Welfare DepartmentSarawak , Ukas reported 133 recorded homeless cases statewide last year — an increase of 13.68 from 117 cases in 2023, with Sibu recording the highest number of cases. The TTGs are designed as a strategic initiative to address this issue by offering a humane and structured approach to helping displaced individuals rebuild their lives. Bintulu fatimah abdullah homeless transit centre
Borneo Post
18-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
SELC 2025: Boosting English literacy to power Sarawak's future workforce
Rentap (third left) says SELC 2025 brings in internationally-renowned speakers to share with the participants valuable methodologies and global best practices. KUCHING (July 18): English literacy plays a pivotal role in strengthening Sarawak's human capital development and also in preparing the younger generation for the demands of an increasingly globalised and technology-driven world. In highlighting this, State Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu also stressed about the language's importance in ensuring Sarawak would reach its high-income economy status by 2030. 'English is not just a language; it is a tool for access,' he said in a statement to promote the Sarawak English Literary Conference (SELC) 2025, scheduled to be taking place at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here this Sept 17 to 19. SELC 2025 is meant to be a strategic platform to support the Sarawak government's ongoing efforts in elevating the English language proficiency across all levels of education – from early childhood to tertiary stage. Adding on, Rentap, also advisor to SELC 2025, said Sarawak would require a highly-skilled workforce especially in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in line with the state's Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, focusing on economic growth, environmental sustainability and social inclusivity. 'STEM must be accompanied by strong English literacy, beginning from early childhood. 'Introducing synthetic phonics at an early age has proven effective in building strong language foundations that can later support science and technological learning.' On SELC 2025, Rentap said it would bring in internationally-renowned speakers in phonics, education and STEM — all of whom would share with the participants valuable methodologies and global best practices. 'With support from international experts, from Jolly Learning and STEM Learning UK, we want our educators, not just in Sarawak but from across Malaysia and beyond, to benefit from this knowledge-sharing opportunity.' Rentap also spoke about the strategic importance of investing in educators themselves, underlining a strong education system would depend not only on the curriculum, but also on the capacity and commitment of its teachers. 'If we are to prepare our youths for tomorrow's challenges, from hydrogen energy to aerospace, from carbon management to AI (artificial intelligence), then our teachers must be equipped with the tools and vision to guide them.' Describing SELC 2025 as a 'homegrown conference with international ambition', Rentap said the initiative meant to align strongly with Sarawak's broader aspirations. 'This is not just an event, as it is part of a long-term vision. 'We are grateful to the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development and the Ministry of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, as well as the Sarawak Education Department and Business Events Sarawak, for their support in making this a reality. 'With the introduction of free tertiary education in Sarawak beginning from next year, the emphasis on literacy and technical knowledge is crucial than ever. 'We want our youths to have every opportunity to succeed, not only here in Sarawak but on the global stage. 'If they are equipped with strong English skills and a solid foundation in science and technology, they can go anywhere,' said Rentap. For more information and registration details, go to or call Emierson on +6082-555 189, or access [email protected]. Gerald Rentap Jabu Kuching lead Sarawak English Literary Conference SELC
Borneo Post
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
St Francis Samarahan to host Sarawak Day 2025 prayer service for unity, blessings
Pastor Cliff says the event is themed 'Seeking Peace through God's Grace', and will highlight the spiritual values of unity, hope, and social responsibility in building a peaceful, prosperous, and blessed Sarawak. KUCHING (July 18): The Sarawak Day Ecumenical Prayer Service 2025, organised by the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) Samarahan Branch, will take place this Monday, July 21, at 8pm at St Francis Church in Kota Samarahan. In a statement, organising chairman Pastor Cliff Bidi said the event is themed 'Seeking Peace through God's Grace', and will highlight the spiritual values of unity, hope, and social responsibility in building a peaceful, prosperous, and blessed Sarawak. This year's service is hosted by the Seventh-Day Adventist Church of Kota Samarahan in collaboration with the ACS Samarahan branch. The programme will feature prayers, scripture readings, and spiritual reflections by representatives from various churches under the ACS Samarahan umbrella. Additionally, the event will celebrate Sarawak's rich cultural and linguistic diversity, with prayers and readings delivered in multiple languages. 'The prayers, among others, are for Christian unity so that we may continue to live and work harmoniously in upholding religious freedom, justice, liberty, political stability, unity, and social inclusivity,' said Cliff. He added that prayers will also be offered for Sarawak's leadership to be guided by wisdom, courage, and justice, and for continued economic progress, particularly under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. 'It is a prayer for reconciliation – to strengthen cooperation between church and community – in bringing the voice of hope and healing to all and; prayer for children of Sarawak and the future of Sarawak – that the Lord will bless, guide, empower and equipped the children of Sarawak with wisdom and strong faith for the future of Sarawak,' the statement read. The pastor further noted that the prayer service is open to all church members, families, friends, students and the wider community. 'We warmly encourage everyone to join us in this moment of prayer and thanksgiving.' 'We believe that prayers like this not only strengthen faith, but also unite the hearts of all Christians to be light and salt to the people of Sarawak,' he added. ACS lead prayer sarawak day St Francis Samarahan
