Latest news with #RuralTransformationProgramme
Borneo Post
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Borneo Post
Rh Chinda car park construction approved, to begin soon, says Lau
Lau (fifth right) and his team pose with Rumah Chinda residents during a visit to check on the site for the car park. SIBU (May 22): The construction of a car park at Rumah Chinda in Rantau Panjang here is set to commence soon, said councillor Kevin Lau. He said the project is funded by the special Rural Transformation Programme allocation approved by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. 'I hope the project will proceed smoothly. Our team will continue to monitor the progress of the project until its successful completion,' said Lau, who is Sarawak United People's Party Bawang Assan chairman. He also reminded the longhouse's residents to exercise caution when using the area during the construction period. Meanwhile, Lau informed that maintenance works at Jalan Rantau Panjang has also commenced, funded under the Malaysia Road Records Information System (Marris) fund applied for last year by Councillor Johnny Ganing. 'As the road turning point is a bit narrow, we will seek for the culvert to be extended so that the turning can be slightly widened to increase road safety for the community there,' he said. Kevin Lau lead rantau panjang Rumah Chinda SUPP Bawang Assan
Borneo Post
21-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Premier: Miri gets RM123.5 mln in devt projects under 12MP to propel city's growth
Dr Sim (front, centre) receives a memento from Yii (eight left) as Dr Chan (seventh right) Lee (eight right), Ting (sixth left), Rosey (seventh left) and other distinguished guests look on. MIRI (May 21): A total of 14 development projects amounting RM123.5 million have been approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) to further enhance infrastructure and public amenities in Miri, in line with the city's vision of becoming a green, smart and resort city, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Abang Johari stated that these projects reflect the government's commitment to supporting Miri's continued growth and transformation. 'Miri City's vision is to become a green, smart, and the most liveable international resort city. This vision is bold and inspiring and I am confident that it can be achieved,' he said in his speech at the Miri City's 20th anniversary gala dinner last night. Abang Johari's speech was read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Adding on, Abang Johari said with strategic focus, continued innovation and unwavering commitment from all parties, Miri can set a new benchmark for urban development, not only in Sarawak but also across the region. He also revealed that from 2015 to 2025, a total of 548 projects have been implemented under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) across Miri, involving a total allocation of RM96.4 million. Additionally, under the Miri City Council's (MCC) 'Projek Rakyat' initiative, 16 impactful projects have been successfully carried out with a total value of RM110.5 million, he added. On education, Abang Johari said Miri is gradually emerging as a key higher education hub in Sarawak, with the presence of Curtin University Malaysia and the soon-to-be-established Fudan University Institutes of Integrative Medicine. 'These institutions will position Miri as a centre for international learning, research, and innovation. They will attract talent from across the region and contribute to the development of a knowledge-based economy,' he added. He also urged MCC to continue fostering strategic partnerships both domestically and internationally, through cultural exchanges, tourism cooperation, sustainable development and digital innovation. 'Sarawak is committed to accelerating our digital transformation agenda and I am proud to see Miri actively embracing its role as a smart city. 'By integrating technology, smart infrastructure and data-driven solutions, Miri is enhancing public services, improving urban mobility and building a more sustainable future for its people,' he said. In conjunction with the city's 20th anniversary, Abang Johari reflected on Miri's transformation over the past two decades – from a modest oil town to a vibrant urban centre – which he said is a testament to the city's resilience and progressive leadership. 'Today, the resort city stands as a symbol of progress, resilience and innovation. 'This success is due to the leadership and vision of the city's administrators, past and present. I commend the mayor and all former mayors of Miri for their tireless efforts, strategic planning and outstanding execution in transforming Miri into one of Sarawak's most dynamic and liveable cities,' he added. Meanwhile, Miri Mayor and Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang said the expansion of infrastructure, amenities, vibrant commercial zones, strategic public projects and rising tourist numbers are proof of Miri's evolving potential and future. He noted that the city's gross domestic product (GDP) contribution has grown steadily, with increasing confidence shown by both local and international investors. 'As for Smart City initiatives, under the enlightened, visionary and dynamic leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Miri was fortunate to be selected as the pioneer city to roll out the Smart City Proof of Concept initiatives in Sept 2019. 'Since then, Miri City Council (MCC) has been implementing various smart initiatives, including moving all council transactions, payments and notices online, as well as digitising documents to be as paperless as possible,' he explained. Yii added that MCC remains the only council in Sarawak to offer a mobile phone parking app, providing convenience to users. He said the latest project is the completion of the Miri Smart City Command Centre (MSCCC), located on the third floor of the new MCC building. 'At the MSCCC, all closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage and other data from our Safe Parks, Safe City, Smart Trucks, Smart Drains and Smart Buses are streamed for monitoring and analysis,' he said. On Miri's aspiration to become a resort city since its inception, Yii said the city has, for the past 10 years, worked tirelessly to establish ties with other cities, regions, and countries through Friendship City agreements. Currently, he said MCC has Friendship City relations with La Trinidad in the Philippines; Weihai City and Guangning County in China; Gochang County in Korea; Hualien in Taiwan; Singkawang and Tangerang Selatan in Indonesia. 'Miri Resort City wishes to establish more Friendship Cities in the future. We hope that when our very own Sarawak-based airline, AirBorneo, becomes operational and provides greater connectivity, we will be well-positioned to further develop our tourism sector for the benefit of Miri,' he said. Among those present at the event were former Sarawak deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam, Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Miri Resident Galong Luang who was representing state secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Development Datuk Rosey Yunus, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Datuk Sebastian Ting, Mayor of Baguio city Philippines Benjamin B Magalong, Mayor of Itogon municipality Philippines Bernard Waclin, Mayor of Iskandar Puteri City Council Johor Ahmad Nazir Mohd Nasir and consul general of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching Musa Syahril. abang johari adam yii lead Miri City's 20th anniversary gala dinner
Borneo Post
09-05-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Rep delivers nearly RM1 mln in RTP projects to boost health services in Kota Sentosa
Yap (left) with JKR officers at Kota Sentosa Health Clinic discussing the construction of new medical lab. KUCHING (May 10): Kota Sentosa is set to see significant improvements in healthcare services with nearly RM1 million in Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) projects being rolled out by its assemblyman, Wilfred Yap. The upgrades include the construction of a new medical laboratory at the Kota Sentosa Health Clinic and infrastructure enhancements at the nearby Sentosa Psychiatric Hospital. Yap confirmed that RM500,000 has been allocated for the new medical lab, which will bolster diagnostic capabilities and help deliver faster, more efficient services to the local community. 'The new medical lab will significantly improve diagnostic capabilities, ensuring faster and more efficient medical services for the community,' he said in a statement following a site discussion with officers from the Public Works Department (JKR) yesterday. He also visited the Sentosa Psychiatric Hospital to monitor the progress of ongoing upgrades funded under a separate RM400,000 RTP allocation. The works include improved parking, renovations to the occupational therapy unit, and a refurbished multipurpose hall. 'These enhancements are expected to provide better facilities for both mental health patients and healthcare providers, fostering a more conducive environment for rehabilitation and therapy,' Yap added. He thanked the Sarawak Health Department, JKR, the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), and healthcare personnel for their support and cooperation in implementing the projects. 'I would like to express my gratitude to the Sarawak Health Department, JKR, MPP, and healthcare staff of both Kota Sentosa Health Clinic and Sentosa Psychiatric Hospital for their cooperation in implementing these crucial RTP projects,' he said. health services infrastructure Kota Sentosa lead RTP Wilfred Yap
The Star
07-05-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Sibu pushes pickleball to the fore
Chieng (fifth from left) presenting the SMK Sacred Heart pickleball club flag to the school's senior assistant for co-curricular activities, Lau Tiew Kiong (fifth from right). Sibu Pickleball Association (SPA) is promoting the sport by building a pickleball stadium and holding its first inter-secondary school competition. These steps are part of a mission to nurture local talent and grassroots development. Association president Joseph Chieng announced RM3.05mil had been allocated under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) for phase one of the stadium project – Bukit Lima Sports Arena. This will feature 10 indoor pickleball courts. An additional RM2mil has been set aside for phase two that is slated to start in 2026. 'Sibu Municipal Council, as the implementing agency, is in the process of appointing consultants. 'Once finalised, the design and site application will commence soon after,' said Chieng who is also Bukit Assek assemblyman. He shared this update during the setting up of pickleball clubs in 11 schools in the Sibu district. The schools are SMK Methodist, SMK Sacred Heart, SMK Bukit Assek, SMK St Elizabeth, SMK Tung Hua, SMK Deshon, SMK Sungai Merah, SMK Bandar Sibu, Catholic High School, SM Wong Nai Siong, and Woodlands International School. Chieng said the initiative was part of the association's two-pronged mission. They aim to set up pickleball clubs as part of co-curricular programmes in schools, and to build more courts to support the sport's long-term growth. Students participating in these clubs will be awarded co-curricular activity points. 'SPA is working towards this mission step by step, with commitment and collaboration from all stakeholders,' said Chieng. He said SPA was set to host the Sibu Inter-Secondary School Pickleball Competition in early September, in collabora- tion with the Sibu Division Education Office. The tournament is expected to become an annual event to cultivate camaraderie, sportsmanship and a talent pipeline. 'Through the competition, we can select potential Sibu and Sarawak junior players respectively for the future Sukan Sarawak and Sukan Malaysia,' he added. Chieng also highlighted growing support from local community organisations. Catholic High School Alumni Association has already built three courts in the school's premises. Meanwhile, Sibu Methodist Schools Alumni Association also plans to build three courts at SMK Methodist. 'At the same time, I would like to urge more school boards and alumni associations to assist in the building of pickleball courts at their respective schools,' Chieng said. This support, he said, was crucial in creating an environment where students could actively train and excel in pickleball. Sibu Education officer Ahli Chikba called on those involved in the sport to work together to promote the sport. 'We are working together with teachers and students to make Sibu the champion in the game,' he said.
Borneo Post
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
New council chairman pledges responsive leadership for Serian District
Sagah (centre) congratulates Minos with a handshake upon his appointment as MDS chairman. Looking on at left is Loh. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (April 23): Dato Peter Minos has officially been sworn in as the new chairman of the Serian District Council (MDS), succeeding his previous role as Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman. Minos was joined by eight newly appointed councillors, including Felix Kunyau Kuna who will serve as MDS deputy chairman, and 24 reappointed councillors – bringing the council's total membership to 32. The new councillors are Andrew Sabat, Rojeck Layau, Jamuri Ali, Koring Dadoi, Eric Richard Dampeng and Cindrawella Thomas Porton. The reappointed councillors are Jifudin Abdullah, Diye Nyanggun, Georgy Lampaah, John David Nyauh, Robin Augustine Kiek, Emmanuel Henry Bujang, Kathlene/Duri Limin, Saidin Abdul Rahman, John Gerep Misang, Andi Gangak, Britten Osup, Pansin Bajah, Chai Kim Sin, Michaelina Richard Riot, Lai Chau Liong, Limko@B'Latok Ales, Denis Ahkow, Micky Bagan, Glenn Ross Ranger@Michael, Kalas Inchap, Collin Raman Nyandang, Rita Inu, Miguel Durim Namu and Alvin Jeromeo Duncan. Speaking at the ceremony, Minos shared that he initially declined the role but later accepted it after receiving encouragement from local community members. He pledged to lead with openness and responsiveness, ensuring the council listens to the needs of the people to drive development in Serian. He expressed his intention to elevate MDS to municipal status, similar to MPKS, pending approval from both the state and federal governments and also proposed the construction of a new headquarters to accommodate the council's growing staff. 'It is high time for MDS to have a new headquarters as the current building is too small and crowded with over 100 staff,' he said. He also urged councillors to collaborate closely with the District Office and relevant agencies to avoid delays caused by misunderstandings and mistrust. 'Delays result in procrastination, and when that happens, the people on the ground begin to feel that our work is being neglected. That's why collaboration is essential. Whether you like each other or not is secondary, we must work together,' he stressed. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn and permanent secretary to the state Public Health, Housing and Local Government Ministry Datu Elizabeth Loh. Sagah, in his speech, reminded councillors of their key role in implementing Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) projects and other initiatives under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA). He noted that although GKCDA was established over a year ago, little progress has been made. 'It has been a year and a half since GKCDA was established, and yet no funds have been spent. If we don't begin utilising the allocated funds, we risk losing them,' he stressed. 'With the new leadership and experience brought in from Samarahan by Dato Peter Minos, I trust he will help us accelerate the rollout of these projects,' he said. He added that councillors must act as the 'eyes and ears' of the community, ensuring issues raised by the public are brought to the attention of the right authorities. Also present were deputy minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, deputy minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Martin Ben, Serian MP Dato Richard Riot, and other dignitaries. Peter Minos Serian District Council
