Latest news with #RM64
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Abang Johari: Sustainable farming model key to lowering Sarawak's beef prices
Abang Johari (second right) seen participating in meat cutting during the Ibadah Korban Ceremony at the Al-Kawthar Mosque in Gedong today. – Photo by Roystein Emmor GEDONG (June 8): The state government is actively developing a new approach to reduce dependency on imported cattle and feed by introducing a sustainable circular agriculture model, said Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. This initiative aims to address the high cost of beef in the state, which has been reported as among the most expensive in the country, reaching up to RM95 per kilogramme (kg) Abang Johari attributed the current high prices primarily to Sarawak's heavy dependence on imported cattle and feed, particularly from Australia. 'We currently import cattle, including those we rear in Australia under SEDC (Sarawak Economic Development Corporation). 'However, the export tax imposed by Australia is quite high and payments are made in Australian dollars, which drives up the cost,' he told reporters after attending the Ibadah Korban Ceremony at the Al-Kawthar Mosque here today. Abang Johari said the new strategy involves implementing feedlot farming systems instead of traditional open grazing, allowing cattle to be reared using locally-produced feed derived from agricultural waste mixed with napier grass. This, he noted, would enhance cattle health and quality, leading to better yields. 'I have been to Lubok Antu and seen the potential of using plantation waste to produce biomass. This biomass can be converted into animal feed, which means we no longer need to import feed. 'Healthy, well-fed cattle are heavier, which means more value, whereas if the cattle are thin, no one will want to buy them,' he said. He also said that trials under this model are already being conducted through various government agencies. He said by producing animal feed locally and intensifying livestock farming under controlled conditions, the government hopes to eventually increase local beef supply and bring prices down to a more affordable level. 'We have 38 palm oil mills across the state that produce palm kernel waste. This can be used as livestock feed and even to generate bio-gas and bio-feed, contributing to a full circular economy,' he added. Abang Johari emphasised that the initiative is still in its early phase, having started two years ago. He noted that upon becoming Chief Minister six years ago, this was one of the priorities he looked into, but groundwork only began about two years ago. He expressed hope that these efforts would not only make beef more affordable but also improve incomes for local farmers, especially as Sarawak remains highly dependent on Australian beef imports. 'The long-term goal is to make our agriculture sector self-sufficient, ensuring stable supply so that demand can be met and prices controlled,' he said. A national daily had earlier reported that the average price of beef in Sarawak stands at RM64 per kg, significantly higher than in other states where prices range between RM27 and RM48 per kg. In some cases, premium cuts such as fillet can fetch prices as high as RM95 per kg, making Sarawak's beef among the most expensive in the country. abang johari cattle circular agriculture model lead
The Star
19-05-2025
- The Star
Climbers flock to Everest before permit fees hike
Nepal is preparing for an exceptionally high number of climbers on Mount Everest this spring, before fees are set to rise by almost a third to US$15,000 (RM64,455). The number of permits issued to climb the world's highest mountain is already higher than in 2024, ahead of the usual peak demand in early May, officials have announced. So far, more than 430 permits had been issued to applicants from 52 countries, compared to a total of 421 last year, according to figures from the Tourism Department of Nepal's Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation (DoT). 'This is not the final number, as climbers are still coming and applying for permits,' said DoT spokesman Liladhar Awasthi in Kathmandu. The increase is not only due to individual schedules, said Mingma Sherpa of the private tour operator Seven Summit Treks. The planned hike in permit fees also plays a role, he added. Some of his clients are still awaiting approval for the pre-monsoon season. Standing at 8,849m, Mount Everest lies on the border between Nepal and China. Climbers can ascend the mountain from either country. The Nepali government plans to significantly increase climbing permit fees for foreign climbers starting Sept 1. The official fee of US$11,000 (RM47,267) currently charged for ascents via the so-called southern route during the main season will rise to US$15,000. Additionally, a draft law, currently under consideration in Nepal's parliament, would require climbers to prove they have previously climbed a mountain over 7,000m before receiving a permit to climb Everest. Whether the new law will pass remains unclear. Scepticism prevails among experts. 'What is the real difference between climbing a 7,000m peak and an 8,000m peak?' the newspaper The Kathmandu Post quoted the former president of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, Ang Tshring Sherpa, as saying. 'You can die on both.' Climbing fees and other expenses paid by mountaineers are important sources of revenue for the impoverished country. Nepal is home to eight of the world's 14 mountains that rise above 8,000m. DoT figures show climbers from the United Sates hold the highest number of permits at 82, followed by India with 74 and China with 60. Britain has 28 climbers, Russia 23, Brazil 16, Ukraine, Japan and Australia 12 each. Spring, the most popular season for climbing Everest, runs from mid-April through early June, drawing climbers from around the world and sometimes causing traffic jams around the so-called death zone with low oxygen concentration. Operators said that hundreds of climbers have already gathered at the Everest Base Camp for acclimatisation, a ritual preparation phase before summit attempts. Experienced Sherpas known as icefall doctors, have successfully opened the route up to Camp II, establishing a path through the Khumbu glacier with ladders and fixed ropes. As in previous years, new records are expected to be set. Notably, Kami Rita Sherpa, who holds the record for the most Everest ascents, with 30, is leading another expedition and could improve his record if successful. Mount Everest straddles the border between Nepal and the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China, with climbers able to ascend from either side. Since the first successful ascent by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary in 1953, more than 12,000 summits have been recorded, according to the Himalayan Database. – dpa
The Sun
16-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Customer orders via QR code in Japanese eatery, pays RM64 inclusive of service charge and tax
WHEN it comes to service tax and charges in eateries, customers often believe that these fees are a result of the customer service they receive when dining in—such as a waiter taking orders and serving food. However, with orders increasingly being made online or through QR codes at eateries, many are left wondering: are these charges still applicable? A post on Reddit recently highlighted a case where a customer was charged a shocking RM64 for a meal, side dish, and drink at a Japanese eatery located in a shopping complex. Aside from the food, netizens were particularly surprised by the 10% service charge and 6% tax, which amounted to nearly RM9, despite the order allegedly being placed via a QR code. In the post, the customer had ordered a rice dish with curry gravy accompanied by a pork chop and omelette, a pork side dish with garlic sauce, and a lime mint punch. Without the service charge and tax, the total came to RM55.80. While many netizens acknowledged the high price of Japanese cuisine in Malaysia, they were puzzled by the additional service charge and tax — especially since the customer's order was not taken by waitstaff. One user compared the situation to American tipping culture and noted that European Union laws require transparent pricing, with taxes and surcharges included in the displayed prices. 'I have no problem paying RM60 for a meal like this in a shopping mall. But I do have a problem with restaurants not including the service charge and tax in the listed price of the food,' one netizen commented. 'Didn't you see the price before ordering? Usually, restaurants using QR codes will display the prices before you can confirm your order,' another user pointed out. 'Lousy restaurants charge a 10% service fee and still ask us to order via QR code (in some places with poor mobile coverage). Totally unacceptable! Once I'm in a restaurant, I expect a waiter to be available to answer any questions about the menu. That's what the 10% is for,' another user added. Given that the eatery is located in a shopping mall, a few users also noted that food and drink prices are often higher to account for high rental costs that restaurants need to cover.
New Straits Times
10-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Selangor lays the groundwork for nation's future
ALIZA SHAH speaks to an economist, urban sociologist and planner to unpack the ideas, ambitions and ripple effects of the city's urban reinvention SELANGOR is playing a key role in shaping Malaysia's development with its initiatives and strong focus on innovation and sustainability. The Selangor Smart State Agenda, for instance, will transform the state into a leading urban centre in Southeast Asia. Selangor was recognised by the World Bank last year as a high-income state after it surpassed the per capita income threshold of US$14,000 (RM64,491). Bold strategies are focusing not only on developing the state and improving the livelihoods of the people, but also on preserving the environment. A future of global competitiveness and sustainable growth is very much on the agenda. ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE Selangor is one of the richest states, accounting for 25.9 per cent or RM406.1 billion of the nation's gross domestic product in 2023. The Petaling district, anchored by Shah Alam and encompassing Petaling Jaya and Subang Jaya, drives over half of the state's economy. Economist Dr Yeah Kim Leng said this underscores the district's role as a growth pole. He said the development of Shah Alam, Selangor's capital, would have a significant impact on the country's growth trajectory. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia urban sociology professor Dr Novel Lyndon said without Selangor, Malaysia's economy would suffer significant setbacks. He said this is due to its strengths in various sectors, which make it an attractive destination for both foreign and domestic investments. "Its strategic position and strengths make it indispensable to Malaysia's present and future development," he said. Novel said Selangor is the economic and logistical hub of the country. "It hosts the country's main port, Port Klang, Malaysia's largest international airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport and key industrial zones such as Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya and Subang. "With well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce and a strong digital economy, Selangor contributes significantly to the nation's GDP and foreign investment," he said. The state's diverse economy — ranging from manufacturing and services to technology and logistics — also makes it a vital player in national development. "Selangor is home to many multinational corporations, industrial parks and economic zones, like Port Klang Free Zone and Selangor Hub. "The state also has excellent support sectors from aerospace to agrotech, tourism and e-commerce," he said. Shah Alam, he added, holds immense growth potential, driven by smart urban planning, infrastructure investment, economic diversification and sustainability initiatives. He said the city's strategic position enhances its potential to attract residents, businesses and investors. SELANGOR'S ROLE IN THE NATION'S GROWTH Selangor is charting an ambitious course to solidify its position as Malaysia's economic engine. Among the strategic initiatives are Selangor Smart State Agenda, the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor and Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0. Novel said the plans aim to enhance Selangor's position as a sustainable and globally competitive state. "They include expanding digital infrastructure, promoting green technology and building new townships and industrial parts," he said. The Selangor Aerospace and Aviation sector and Digital Free Trade Zone near KLIA are also expected to draw high-tech investments and boost international trade. "Selangor plays a critical role in Malaysia's growth in various dimensions such as infrastructure and demographics," he said. Rapid urbanisation is also fuelling growth in education, housing and services. SELANGOR'S ROLE BEYOND THE GDP The state is leading the way in education, health, culture and innovation. "It is home to top institutions like Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Universiti Putra Malaysia, International Islamic University Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, research bodies and hospitals that support human capital development," Novel said. As a cultural melting pot and centre for the creative industry, Selangor also fosters national unity and cultural expression. Novel said the state leads in environmental efforts through initiatives such as river rehabilitation and green urban planning. He added that Selangor's governance innovations and digital public services provide a blueprint for a citizen-centric administration in Malaysia. FUTURE-READY CITIES Recognising the rapid technological advancements, shifting climate patterns and growing urban populations, Selangor is taking a proactive approach to future-proof its cities, with Shah Alam at the heart of this transformation. Universiti Malaya Urban and Regional Planning Department senior lecturer Dr Nikmatul Adha Nordin said cities now must be more adaptable, resilient and inclusive. Future-proofing means building with flexibility in mind so we are prepared for what is ahead, she explained. Echoing her sentiments, Novel said cities must accommodate a growing population and ensure sustainability. "This involves efficient resource management, reducing environmental impact and ensuring that infrastructure can handle future demands without depleting natural resources. "Emphasising infrastructure and services will allow cities to attract businesses and investments," said the chairman of the UKM Centre for Research in Development, Social and Environment. Novel said a future-proof city will be able to better withstand economic fluctuations and promote long-term growth. "Being proactive in technology adoption will help cities stay competitive and efficient. "At the same time, it will make cities more attractive and liveable, encouraging population growth and retention." Novel also believes that investing in educational institutions and research centres will turn Shah Alam into an innovation hub that attracts talent. "Collaborations with UiTM, for example, to promote research and development, and entrepreneurship will play a vital role (in the city's growth)." Novel said improving tourism infrastructure, such as parks, cultural sites and entertainment venues, will support the local economy by bringing in more visitors. Yeah said the synergy between economic growth, modernisation, urbanisation and city centre development underscores the importance of future-proofing cities. "Future-proofing Shah Alam and other city centres is important to strengthen their role as an economic core for driving growth and a social core that focuses on liveability and social activities." Shah Alam is also the state's centre of power as it hosts religious and state administrative buildings. INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENTS RESHAPING CITIES Nikmatul said the people of Shah Alam are in for exciting years ahead as several development projects transform the city. "Projects like SA Sentral, river revitalisation in Seksyen 24 and the Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA) development are turning Shah Alam into a more vibrant and attractive urban hub. "These plans are being carried out alongside the city's Low Carbon City 2035 vision — so it's not just about development, but also sustainable and responsible growth," she said. Nikmatul added that integrated developments and smart city strategies are key to long-term sustainability. "When planning is data-driven, connected and inclusive, it makes cities more resilient. "Shah Alam's emphasis on transit-oriented development and smarter infrastructure is laying the foundation for a more competitive, liveable city in the years to come," she said. Novel said that building integrated developments, where residential, commercial, industrial and recreational spaces coexist, helps prevent a city from relying too heavily on a single economic sector. This, he added, creates a diverse and balanced economy that is more stable and resilient. Adopting smart city technologies, he said, will also strengthen industries like green energy, digital services and high-value manufacturing. "It boosts local entrepreneurship and innovation as well as improves public services and governance. "Smart systems also allow quick detection of and response to natural disasters, cyberthreats and health emergencies." Yeah said modern, integrated infrastructure and facilities, the hallmarks of smart and green cities, serve as powerful magnets not only for investors but also for businesses. "They attract domestic and foreign investors, workers, businesspeople and entrepreneurs, providing a myriad of goods and services for high living standards." "Rising income and living standards create a virtuous cycle of abundant business and investment opportunities of various scales and scopes," he added.
Hype Malaysia
21-04-2025
- Hype Malaysia
AirAsia's 'All Seats, All Flights' Sale Is Back, Offering 25%* Discounted Fares!
Get ready for your next vacay, because AirAsia's 'All Seats, All Flights' sale is back! A windfall for travellers, the sale allows you to enjoy 25%* discounted fares across more than 130 destinations within AirAsia's vast network. Take your pick from AirAsia Malaysia's (AK) featured destinations: Miri, Kuching, Darwin**, Kaohsiung, Jaipur, Lucknow, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Da Lat, Guilin, Quanzhou and more. All-in*** one way fares: Domestic: from as low as RM64*** International: from as low as RM136*** AirAsia X Malaysia (D7) featured destinations: Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, Chongqing, Beijing, Almaty, New Delhi, Sydney and more. Just take your pick! Enjoy all-in*** one way fares: from as low as RM295*** or elevate your in-flight comfort with AAX's award winning Premium Flatbed with an additional 25% off, from RM782*** Booking period: Now – 27th April 2025 Travel period: 28th April – 30th November 2025 Darwin: 27th June – 25th October 2025 Additional Perks****: Pick a seat to enjoy an additional 25% off on seat selection Enjoy 10% off on purchase of checked baggage between 20kg-60kg Log on to or the AirAsia MOVE app to book your next getaway at lower fares! *25% discounted base fare is applicable for all seats for all domestic and international flights. **AirAsia Malaysia (AK) will commence operations for Kuala Lumpur-Darwin from 27th June 2025 onwards. ***All-in fare is applicable for one way travel only, including passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. T&Cs apply. ****Pick-A-Seat and checked baggage promo are only valid during initial flight booking. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply.
