Latest news with #Sabahan
Daily Express
21 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Kuala Lumpur's stand against grocery shop licences to foreigners. Enforce it in Sabah: Warisan
Published on: Tuesday, July 29, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jul 29, 2025 Text Size: A foreigner-operated retail shop in Kapayan and Moyog. Kota Kinabalu: The Federal Government's stand against issuing grocery shop licences to foreigners must be fully enforced in Sabah, especially in areas like Kapayan and Moyog, said Warisan Kapayan Branch Chief Pritchard Gumbaris. He said the presence of foreign-operated grocery shops is once again mushrooming in local villages, pushing aside Sabahan traders and threatening small kampung economies. 'I agree with Minister Nga Kor Ming's statement, but this must not just apply to Peninsular Malaysia. In Sabah, the situation is worsening. Just walk through Kapayan or Moyog and you'll see for yourself,' he said in a statement, Monday. Pritchard, who is also political secretary to Warisan Deputy President Datuk Darell Leiking, blamed lack of enforcement by the current elected representatives for the resurgence of the issue. 'This is not a new problem. We had solved this before through strict enforcement during the Warisan Plus Government, in collaboration with the Penampang District Council (MDC) and local authorities. 'Trading licence applications were vetted thoroughly. Village chiefs had to endorse each one, and we personally interviewed applicants, checked photos and conducted on-site visits. 'We rejected applications linked to foreigners using local proxies or fake documents,' he said. He claimed that under the leadership of Penampang MP Datuk Ewon Benedict and Kapayan Assemblywoman Datuk Jannie Lasimbang, the previous system collapsed. 'Enforcement has failed. The process we built was not maintained, and foreign traders have returned. 'Ewon and Jannie looked the other way. The very problem we fixed is now back, worse than before,' he said. Pritchard said this was not about race or hatred, but about upholding the law and protecting local livelihoods. 'This is about Sabahan kampung shopkeepers who are being squeezed out. The law is already in place, the Sabah Trades Licensing Ordinance 1948 (Cap. 144) spells out restrictions on foreign traders. The issue is not the law, but political will,' Pritchard said. He also called on State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Joachim Gunsalam to ensure local councils do not allow foreign operators to abuse loopholes. Pritchard said Warisan would reinstate the previous enforcement model if given the mandate in Kapayan. 'We've also proposed an Ombudsman Committee to receive whistleblower reports on licence corruption. It's time to stop the backdoor approvals and political favours. 'We did it before and with the people's support, we will do it again,' he said. * 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
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Why ‘Sabah for Sabahans' justified
Published on: Sunday, July 27, 2025 Published on: Sun, Jul 27, 2025 By: Datuk John Lo Text Size: NATIONAL Leaders Should Manage Nation, Let Sabah Leaders Manage Sabah. Let us clear this out of the way first. Meaning of Sabah leaders is that they are from Sabah-based parties. Best if federal leaders can concentrate providing economic leadership on nation building. Let Sabah parties to govern Sabah for two reasons: [1] Malaysian Economy is not doing that great. Malaysia's performance is ok but far from best that we are capable of. Malaysia has potential to be at the top if the national leaders can solve racial-based politics, low productivity, lack of direction in innovation and research and poverty. Dragging down Malaysia are two major causes: First is rampant inflation that is plaguing the poor and young families. Second is unprecedented massive corruption. Big corruption, in 10s and 100s of millions of cash stashed in homes and billions overseas. Latest 'handouts' from PMX will not solve fundamental economic problems. They are for temporary 'feel good' or 'shiok Sendiri' only. Very little enhancement of economic capacity. The new appointment of more than 4,000 doctors is very beneficial for all Malaysians. [2] Turbulent Global Economy. Challenges in Multi-polar World. National leaders are providing insufficient leadership, direction, and clarity for Malaysians in these very uncertain times. Excessive domestic politics has blurred their responsibility in this very important aspect of economic management. It is logical to let Sabahan leaders manage Sabah. Federal leaders should not interfere. Focus on solving the national problems. Sabah leaders are capable of managing Sabah. CM Hajiji's economic restructure for Sabah is on course and will, in time, yield the desired results for Sabah. In addition, he has reclaimed some rights in oil and gas. The base of a burgeoning vibrant manufacturing industry has already been established. ECoS will solve Sabah's power problem. By 2030 there shall be no power issue. ECoS has done it within two years of its existence. The Federal government had no plan and failed to do so in 30 years. Sabahans are Malaysians as any Malaysian of other states. 'Sabah for Sabahans' does not dilute our Malaysianess. It must be stated here and now that Sabah is part of Malaysia, Sabahans are Malaysians just like any Malaysians of other states. Don't be distracted by any leader trying to steer us away from pursuing 'Sabah for Sabahans'. Such leaders have dubious ulterior motives. These following facts must be remembered always by all Sabahans and Malayans: Sabah is a direct signatory of MA63, 1/3 of Malaysia. Sabah is not 1/13 or 1/16 if the 3 federal territories are included, of Malaysia. These facts have become inconvenient truths and are often forgotten by many federal and some Sabah leaders. Many of them, for bizarre reasons, want Sabahans to forget Sabah's special role/position in the formation of Malaysia. 'Malaysia for Sabahans' more relevant slogan, says Ahmad Maslan. What is the meaning of 'Malaysia for Sabahans'? The ideal situation would be that Malaysia, of which Sabah is 1/3, would give Sabah a fair deal in all matters, especially in economic development and investment promotion. Sabah should have been looked after and assisted with extra help in development funding for Sabah to catch up with other states. Sabah's resources like oil and gas should have been used for the development of Sabah's economy from the very beginning. What does history tell us? Unfortunately, it has been a very sad story. The hard facts are that Sabah today is the 2nd poorest state, most of Sabah's resources have been siphoned off or controlled by non-Sabahans. Sabah has become well-known for poverty and bad infrastructures. To summarise, it has been a very bad nightmare. No one can blame Sabahans' scepticism on slogans like 'Malaysia for Sabah' from Malayan leaders. Should Sabahans want 'Malaysia for Sabah'? No one can blame Sabahans' heightened scepticism of this slogan which has been sold to us in various versions for many years. With due respect, this slogan seems to have come as an after-thought, an off-the-cuff remark. Better and easier for Sabahans to swallow if there is a properly prepared presentation of what 'Malaysia for Sabah' means to Sabahans in real term in this coming election. Sabahans, especially young better educated Sabahans, are no longer naïve. They aren't afraid to vent their frustrations. 'Malaysia for Sabahans' vs 'Sabah for Sabahans' These 2 slogans can be the best complements for nation building if only the federal government has lived up to the letter and spirit of MA63. Experience is telling us otherwise. History should have also taught Sabahans a lesson of self-discipline, the pitfalls, and dire consequences of political disunity. In view of numerous past unpleasant experiences [remember the 47 years old procrastination of 40% share of revenue?], it is better for Sabahans to have 'Sabah for Sabahans' so that we can build up and strengthen Sabah first. It is also time for Sabahans to grow up, not dependent on others, to exert our equitable rights and not to wait for charity and manna to fall from heaven. Sabahans must adopt 'Sabah for Sabahans' to regain self-respect. [1] 'Sabah for Sabahans' is a natural desire for all Sabahans, no difference from 'Selangor for Selangoreans' or 'Bangsa Johor'. Any Sabah leader not subscripting to this ought to have their heads examined. [2] Time for Sabahans to mature, to take charge and be responsible for our own destiny and future within Malaysia. Sabahans cannot continue to rely on others to make decisions for Sabahans. [3] Time to have our legitimate voice in major decisions that affect the nations like financial and budgetary policies and their implementations. Sabah is almost voiceless now. [4] As 1/3 partner of Malaysia, Sabah should and must have 1/3 representation in all federal agencies like Khazanah, all GLCs and GLIC. They don't give any attention for or implement any meaningful projects in Sabah. [5] Time for Sabahans to secure all our legitimate rights under MA63, our equitable rights for economic funding to develop our own state. [6] Time for Sabahans to have priority of our resources for the benefit of Sabahans. Like present siphoning off CPO must stop or impose higher sales tax of 15%. The CPO must be used for Sabah's downstream. [7] Sabah must be included in foreign trips by PM for investment promotions. [8] Federal government must give Sabah approval authority of RM2.5 billion on investment in manufacturing. Present RM2.5m is a joke. This amount cannot buy a semi-D now. 'Sabah for Sabahans' must be Encouraged by all Sabah leaders. Sabahans do not crave for what is not ours. Sabah is very far from getting what is rightfully ours, what Sabah is entitled to as 1/3 partner. 'Sabah for Sabahans LAST' is no longer acceptable by Sabah's young generation. They are deeply aware of and abhor the economic deprivations inflicted on Sabahans since MA63. 'Sabah for Sabahans' has room for a junior role for Malayan parties. As a trade-off, Sabah parties can support Malayan parties at federal level. Fair is fair. Priority is for all Sabah parties to unite for the sake of Sabahans, present and future generations. Good for Malaysia when 'Sabah for Sabahans' has made Sabah strong economically. 'Sabah for Sabahans' can Succeed only with Political Unity in Sabah. A strong Sabah will strengthen Malaysia economically and enhance its international prestige. 'Sabah for Sabahans' is a national asset. Sabah, now the 6th direct contributor to the national GDP will be able to contribute much more. Sabah's indirect contribution is much bigger cos most of our oil and gas and CPO are being shipped out to fuel industrial growth in Malaya. Malayan national leaders should let Sabahan leaders manage our state. For the future of all Sabahans, Sabah parties must fight for 'Sabah for Sabahans'. The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: [email protected]
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Masidi: ‘Sabah Tanah Airku' embodies spirit of Sabah's political struggle
Masidi, Gagasan Rakyat leaders, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) component members leaders and the delegates after the opening ceremony today. KOTA KINABALU (July 26): Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) deputy president Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun has called on Sabahans to take inspiration from the state anthem 'Sabah Tanah Airku,' describing it as the soul of Sabah's political identity and the guiding force for its future. Speaking at the opening of Gagasan Rakyat's Women, Youth, and Beliawanis joint annual convention here today, Masidi pushed back against persistent accusations of betrayal directed at Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) leaders, saying that the final judgment belongs to the people. 'I will never betray the people of Sabah. I understand the hopes and aspirations of our people. What matters most is not what others say about us, but whether the rakyat believe we deserve to carry forward Sabah's mandate. And I believe we do,' he stressed. Masidi pointed out that the message behind Sabah Tanah Airku, sung at every official function, encapsulates the very values GRS upholds: unity, pride, and relentless commitment to progress. 'The entire spirit of our political life, our love for Sabah, our dream for development, our hope for unity, is captured in that one song. When we say 'Sabah First,' it is not merely a slogan. It is the essence of who we are, and it comes directly from the mandate embedded in our anthem,' Masidi said. He stressed that 'Sabah Maju Jaya' slogan frequently criticized by political opponents, is not a partisan catchphrase but a continuation of the aspirations laid out in the state anthem. 'When someone mocks or belittles 'Sabah Maju Jaya', what they are really doing is belittling their own state. They are mocking their own state anthem. Sabah Maju Jaya was not created by GRS. It is actually a part of our inherited history, and we must uphold it as the foundation of our effort and struggle. 'We want to always be independent, not just physically free, but mentally free. Free to think and determine what is best for Sabah. We do not want our thinking to be influenced by outside elements that make us lose our Sabahan identity. We want to remain Sabahans, with thoughts that are our own. 'And that is why we focus on local parties, because we want Sabah to develop based on its own model of progress. Not because someone else wants us to do this or that. Yes, we want to be friends with others, but we will make friends on our own terms, not on terms dictated by others. This is our struggle,' he stressed. He also took aim at detractors who offer constant criticism without solutions, pointing out, 'People can talk, people can criticize. But there are those who are good at criticizing yet say very little about what their plans are to solve problems. 'I understand there is criticism every day, in the newspapers, in the State Assembly. That is true. But for me, it has reached a point where: 'What you say is your problem, not my problem.' 'Let's focus on what truly matters. We have a track record. What do the critics have to show for themselves? We are not here to silence criticism—we are here to deliver results. Let our work speak for us.' With the state gearing up for the next election, he warned of the consequences of losing local control and GRS' achievements must be defended. 'That is why we must win this election. Because we want Sabah to progress, because we love Sabah, and we want these achievements to be multiplied in the future. We are not merely defending GRS' achievement, we are defending the future of our people, especially the younger generation. 'If we lose this government, others will take over. And if that happens, what will become of Sabah in 10 years? Will our youth still have a place? Will Sabahans still be in charge of Sabah?' he questioned. 'We are not just defending GRS' track record. We are defending the future of our people—especially our young ones. Sabah's future is too important to be handed away,' he said. In a passionate conclusion, Masidi urged unity and focus. 'Let go of petty quarrels. Don't let small conflicts become walls that block big dreams. This is not about individual ambition. This is about ensuring Sabahans remain masters in their own homeland,' he said. 'You are the master. You own Sabah. Not someone else. We, the people of Sabah, must determine our future. No one else,' said Masidi. Gagasan Rakyat lead masidi manjun Sabah state election Sabah Tanah Airku
Daily Express
4 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Conference draws attendees from 12 nations
Published on: Saturday, July 26, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jul 26, 2025 Text Size: Wong said the centre's vision had always been to create a dedicated platform in Borneo that facilitates not just dispute resolution but also dialogue, education and partnerships across borders. Kota Kinabalu: On the conference, Tan Sri Wong said the three-day Bicam Global ADR Horizons 2025 attracted participants from 12 countries including the United Kingdom, China, France, Germany, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines and Australia. 'Your presence is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing alternative dispute resolution and building a more just, efficient and collaborative global dispute resolution landscape,' he said. He reflected on Bicam's journey from its official launch two years ago, the introduction of its Arbitration and Mediation Rules in October 2023 and the recent launch of the Expert Determination Rules 2025, the first of its kind in Malaysia. Wong said the centre's vision had always been to create a dedicated platform in Borneo that facilitates not just dispute resolution but also dialogue, education and partnerships across borders. 'Bicam bridges worlds. We are rooted in Borneo, but our reach is global. We are a Sabahan initiative that speaks the language of international law,' he said. 'We connect East and West, law and industry, and emerging economies with established jurisdictions. Our strength lies in this ability to act as a conduit.' He also recounted the success of the inaugural Bicam ADR Summit in September 2024, where a modest target of 100 participants turned into 176 registrations from 14 countries, including India, Austria, Japan and Brunei. 'That event showed the world what Sabah could offer. It gave us momentum and confidence that Bicam could become a major voice in the global ADR community.' * 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
The Star
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Ten-year-old dances her way to history
Ivana became the first Malaysian to win a silver medal in the DWC finals in Burgos, Spain. KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia made ballet history when a Sabahan ballerina won silver in the ballet solo category at Dance World Cup (DWC) 2025 finals in Spain earlier this month. Ivana Iman Mohammad Ezral became the first Malaysian to break into the top three when the 10-year-old stunned judges with her fun, fresh and graceful moves during the finals held in Burgos, Spain. She competed against elite dancers from ballet powerhouses such as Russia, Germany, Romania, Bulgaria, China and the United Kingdom. Her mother Dr Natassia Sarah Mohd Danny said Ivana Iman is the first Malaysian to win the second highest prize in the ballet solo category in the DWC finals. She added that according to a judge, Ivana Iman's triumph was not just a personal win but a national milestone. Little winner: Ivana with her father Mohammad Ezral and mother Dr Natassia Sarah. Her silver medal and score of 89.3% was just 0.7% shy of the gold winner from England. 'To see such poise, technical excellence and storytelling at her age, from a country not historically known for classical ballet, is nothing short of extraordinary,' Dr Natassia Sarah recalled the judge as saying. The DWC, often referred to as the Olympics of youth dance, sees over 120,000 dancers from more than 70 countries competing through rigorous qualifiers, with only the top dancers advancing to the finals. The classical ballet solo is one of the most competitive categories, judged by former principal dancers and internationally renowned choreographers. Ivana Iman's achievement represents a breakthrough for Malaysia in global performing arts and positions her as a rising figure in the international ballet scene, her mother said. Prior to this, the eldest of four siblings had joined her first international competition at the Dance World Cup 2024 grand finals in Prague, the Czech Republic. Ivana Iman finished seventh in the soloist (any style ballet) category with a score of 89.4% against competitors from 52 other countries. Dr Natassia Sarah also paid tribute to her husband and Ivana Iman's father, Mohammad Ezral Ansari, for being the support system behind their daughter's victory. 'He is the superhero who juggles all her training and needs,' she added. She also thanked all the sponsors, including Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and the Sabah government, Kota Kinabalu MP Datuk Chan Fong Hin and Papar MP Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali for supporting and assisting Ivana Iman's journey. "All these sponsors greatly helped with tickets and accommodation to compete in Spain,' she said.
