Latest news with #Sabahans
The Star
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Kadazan-Dusun deaf artist promotes Sabah's rich heritage through art
Deaf painter Rosemary Yvonne Marcus, 44, is proud of her Sabahan heritage, and she wants to celebrate its rich culture through art. 'What I love most about Sabah is how everything comes together - the rich culture, the warmth of the people and the strong unity spirit despite our differences. In Sabah, people from various ethnic and religious backgrounds live side by side in peace. Rosemary's painting of the Dusun Liwan costume captures its elegance - a black velvet ensemble adorned with gold trimmings and intricate beadwork. 'We celebrate each other's traditions, hence there's a deep sense of respect and harmony. This makes Sabah truly special,' says Rosemary in an email interview from her hometown, Telupid, a four-hour drive from the state capital, Kota Kinabalu. As an artist, the Kadazan-Dusun woman finds endless inspiration in the colours of Sabahan festivals, the stories of their ancestors and the everyday kindness of Sabahans. Most of her artwork highlights traditional Sabahan costumes from communities such as the Kadazan, Kadazan-Dusun, Dusun-Tindal, Rungus and Orang Sungai. 'Traditional Sabahan costumes are not just beautiful, they carry deep meanings, stories and identity. I choose to focus on them because they represent who we are as a people. Each costume tells a unique story about a community's heritage, values and creativity. 'By painting them, I hope to share these stories with others and inspire younger generations to appreciate and continue our legacy.' Besides traditional costumes, some of the key themes in her artwork include Sabah's natural beauty, village life, childhood memories and the journey of people with disabilities. 'I love to paint meaningful moments, children playing or running around, a quiet morning in the village or someone chasing their dreams despite challenges. These themes are close to my heart and reflect my own experiences growing up in Telupid. Through my art, I want to tell stories that are often overlooked but deep and powerful. 'Growing up in Telupid gave me a deep appreciation for the beauty of my surroundings. The forests, rivers and the simplicity of village life shaped how I see the world. I often draw inspiration from nature, local culture and the strong community spirit around me. 'Because I cannot hear or speak, painting has always been my way of connecting with the world. I express emotions and stories through colours and details,' says Rosemary, the second of six siblings. Artistic touch Rosemary was born normal but lost her ability to hear after being scalded with hot water at 18 months old. From what she understands, she was playing in the kitchen with her older brother when the accident happened. He had tripped over the kettle's wire, causing boiling water to spill onto her body. She suffered from 70% burns. Her hearing and speech impairments were due to wrong medication during her treatment. Through art, she also wants communities to know that persons with disabilities are just as capable of dreaming, creating and achieving as anyone else. A big fan of Japanese manga and anime, Rosemary blends pop culture influences with local themes in her artwork. 'We don't need pity, we need understanding, opportunity and support. Every person has unique strengths and disabilities should never define our worth or limit our potential. I hope through my work, people see beyond my disability and into the soul of who I truly am, a proud Sabahan artist with dreams like everyone else.' Though she never attended formal art classes beyond school, Rosemary's passion for drawing began with basic lessons in primary and secondary school that grew into a serious hobby at 13, fuelled by hours of self-learning through YouTube, Facebook and online tutorials. 'When I was 20, my younger sister Anna submitted my artwork to Kreko, a Bahasa Malaysia news magazine on Japanese comics. It was an unforgettable moment when I saw my art published for the first time. That gave me confidence to keep going and improving.' Rosemary works with various mediums including acrylic, watercolour, oil paint, crayons, coloured pencils and fountain pens. Rosemary is a big fan of anime, and its influence is evident in her artwork. She admires how anime uses colour, emotion and scenery to tell powerful stories. 'Some of my favourites include Sailor Moo n, Rurouni Kenshin , Neon Genesis Evangelion , Inuyasha , Oh My Goddess! and Cardcaptor Sakura . I'm especially drawn to how anime expresses feelings without relying on many words - something I connect with as someone with hearing and speech disabilities.' Anime nurtured her sense of visual storytelling, showing her that art can speak louder than words, and that every detail - from the sky to the landscape - matters. Painting a path Rosemary wishes that more people can understand that living with hearing and speech impairments doesn't mean being disconnected from the world. Rosemary's artwork, Tawai, captures the awe and wonder of the majestic Tawai Waterfalls in Kinabatangan, Sabah. 'We still feel, think and express, just in different ways. Sometimes, people assume we don't understand or can't communicate, but that's not true. With patience, empathy and inclusivity, we can all connect meaningfully. 'A little effort to use sign language or write things down can make a big difference. What we need most is respect and a chance to be seen, heard and included,' says Rosemary, who received a consolation prize in the 2022 Setia Karya Hotel Art Competition organised by SP Setia. In 2023, Rosemary secured the fifth spot at the 10th International Abilympics in Metz, France. The Abilympics, derived from the term Olympics of Abilities, is an international skill-based competition for Persons with Disabilities. Like the Olympics, the Abilympics is held once every four years. The Malaysian Council for Rehabilitation (MCR) coordinates the Abilympics competition in Malaysia, selecting qualified participants with disabilities to represent the country in international competitions. Rosemary also made headlines in 2023 when she presented a wedding portrait to Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah during their Kembara Kenali Borneo visit to her hometown, Telupid. Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah receiving their wedding portrait from Rosemary (front row, left) in 2023. — Bernama She also painted the royal couple against the backdrop of Imbak Waterfalls, one of Telupid's most iconic natural landmarks located in the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area. 'I felt overwhelmed and happy after presenting the portraits to Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah,' Rosemary says. 'Out of the many beautiful sceneries in Telupid, I chose to highlight Imbak Waterfalls because of its striking cascading water flow.' It is her hope to create more artwork that inspire young artists, especially those with disabilities, to be confident and proud of what they can do. 'I want to travel, learn new techniques and connect with other artists around the world. Most of all, I dream of using my art as a voice, to speak not only for myself but for others who may not be heard and to show that disability is not a limitation but a different way of seeing the world,' says Rosemary, who dreams of owning an art gallery to showcase her artworks and share stories about Sabah's culture, nature and people.
Borneo Post
a day ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Kota Belud MP urges unbiased action on Sabah corruption revelations
Isnaraissah KOTA KINABALU (July 29): Kota Belud Member of Parliament Isnaraissah Munirah Majilis has called for impartial and immediate investigations into all allegations of corruption, regardless of the individuals involved. Speaking on Tuesday, Isnaraissah emphasised that any case, exposure, or allegation should be met with swift action from the authorities. 'Whoever it is, investigate immediately,' she urged. She expressed her full support for the government's anti-corruption efforts, stressing that such action must be taken against offenders at all levels regardless of rank, race, religion or political affiliation. 'Investigations and prosecutions must be carried out promptly and, most importantly, without bias or favouritism,' she said. While debating the Whistleblower Protection Bill last week, Isnaraissah highlighted four critical points: 1. All whistleblowers must be protected. 2. All individuals involved in corruption must be investigated. 3. Investigations must be swift and non-discriminatory. 4. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should be placed under Parliament for independent oversight. Referring to past cases involving Sabah State Assembly members, Isnaraissah expressed concern over the manner in which the MACC and Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) handled the investigations. 'Whether we like it or not, the way these cases have been managed has tarnished the image of a government that claims to prioritise anti-corruption and good governance,' she said. She noted that eight months after Malaysiakini first exposed a corruption scandal involving video evidence, only two state assembly members and a businessman had been charged in court. 'This raises a serious question — why only these three? Why is there silence on the others shown in the video? If there's insufficient evidence, just say so. Or is this issue being used as a tool to pressure or threaten the state leadership?' she asked. Isnaraissah also referred to a second wave of exposes by Malaysiakini — dubbed 'Series 2' — that implicate several political leaders in Sabah, potentially affecting nearly the entire state government. 'True or not, this is humiliating for us Sabahans. It makes it look like Sabah is a haven for corrupt individuals. If proven true, it suggests the entire current state leadership is compromised,' she said. Rather than allowing Sabah's name to be repeatedly tarnished in the media, Isnaraissah urged those implicated to take legal action. 'Don't just deny it. Take action against Malaysiakini if the claims are defamatory. Your dignity is on the line — why remain silent?' she challenged. She also questioned the MACC's inaction regarding the new revelations. 'Has the MACC launched an investigation into this new expose? Why hasn't there been a single official statement? What more are you waiting for?' she said. Touching on another controversy involving Sabah's mineral resources, Isnaraissah alleged that top state leaders and a powerful Peninsular Malaysia figure were involved. 'People are asking — who is this person that seems immune from investigation? Initially, he denied involvement, but after evidence surfaced, he avoided the media,' she claimed. 'From every direction — land, sea, left, right — Sabah's resources are being plundered. And what do the people of Sabah get in return?' she asked. Next Article Joniston applauds formation of Tawau Tourism Working Group
Daily Express
2 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Express
Over 100,000 voting first time
Published on: Tuesday, July 29, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jul 29, 2025 By: Jonathan Nicholas Text Size: Armizan urged youths to understand real issues like the Malaysia Agreement (MA63) struggle, which he said has often been oversimplified by political parties, and reminded them not to be quick to blame others, as Sabah's future is also their responsibility. Kota Kinabalu: With more than 100,000 first-time voters set to cast their ballots, the coming Sabah election will mark a historic milestone as the first to include Undi18. Domestic Trade and Costs of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Ali reminded Sabah's youths not to only exercise their democratic right but study the 'report cards' of those they would be voting for. He said this during the 'Tamu 360: Aspirasi Anak Muda' town hall, organised by the State Ministry of Youth and Sports and Sabah Youth Council, at SICC. A total of 972,851 Sabahans or 59 per cent of the State's population are registered voters as of May 2025. 'Among them, 103,316 are first-time voters, a significant demographic that could tip the balance in many seats. 'This will be the first state election with Undi18 in effect. It's more than just a number, it's a responsibility,' he said. Armizan urged youths to understand real issues like the Malaysia Agreement (MA63) struggle, which he said has often been oversimplified by political parties, and reminded them not to be quick to blame others, as Sabah's future is also their responsibility. During the dialogue, youth leaders presented policy suggestions and voiced concerns on issues ranging from home ownership to education and constitutional rights. A Youth Council representative for Bandau, Kota Marudu, proposed a youth-targeted housing scheme with subsidies for first-time buyers earning between RM3,000 and RM5,000. The idea includes leveraging Sabah Credit Corporation as a mandatory financier. 'Our proof of living in Sabah is a home. Let's make homeownership a reality for young Sabahans, especially those from the rural areas,' he said. A Star representative re-ignited discussion around the moratorium on higher learning institutions offering degrees. He said since 2017, the moratorium has posed a challenge for Sabahan law students in particular, forcing many to study abroad. 'With the lifting, one day, we hope to be on par with Selangor,' he said. On the financial front, a Gagasan Rakyat representative asked if the State Government could ever collect Sabah's 40pc revenue. Armizan then delivered a sharp breakdown of Article 112 of the Malaysian Federal Constitution which stipulates Sabah's financial entitlement. He urged youths to understand the legal levers behind the struggle, saying there are many different schools of thought. 'There are some that argue the federal coffers could never be enough, while others warn that even reviewing 112B could nullify 112C. 'But we must be bold. Even the Sabah Law Society has questioned the inaction with a judicial review, a move which I support. If we want to challenge this in court, then we must be ready. 'Until then, old strategies in place will likely result in interim and insufficient arrangements. We need to move beyond political rhetoric. Sabahans need results,' he said, signalling for youths to press on the fight. * 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
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Sabah-based parties must unite to revive 1984 Labuan's original vision – Jeffrey
Jeffrey with Walther, Linggu, Stephen, Peter Mak and Harun Pudin. LABUAN (July 28): Political parties from Sabah operating in Labuan must work together to achieve the shared goal of realizing the vision for Labuan that was hoped for when the island was handed over to become a Federal Territory in 1984. President of Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) Sabah and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan, said the current situation in Labuan is far from the original expectations. In fact, Labuan, once a duty-free island, no longer enjoys the same duty-free status as it once did. 'This concern is based on fact. even former Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Harris Salleh, who was the architect behind Labuan's handover as a Federal Territory, has acknowledged that his original objective for Labuan has failed,' he said. Jeffrey emphasized that since 1984, the hope was for Labuan to be developed economically, creating ample job opportunities and increasing income levels for its people. 'Back then in 1984, the entire Borneo region hoped Labuan would become a catalyst for development in Sabah and Sarawak,' he added. Jeffrey made these remarks at the launching ceremony of STAR's Labuan Division on Saturday, which was attended by Secretary-General Senator Datuk Edward Linggu, Labuan STAR coordinator Datuk Kapitan Stephen Teo, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Labuan Division chief Datuk Peter Mak, and Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) deputy division chief Dr Harun Hj Pudin. During the event, which drew around 500 attendees, STAR Labuan Division chief Walther Philip Michael expressed that the administration in the Federal Territory of Labuan does not fully represent the interests of all ethnic groups, particularly the native Sabahans whose customs are protected under traditional ordinances. Jeffrey noted that the changes in Labuan have strayed far from the original 1984 aspirations. Instead, the culture and traditions of some Labuan residents — who were once part of Sabah — have been 'Malay-ised.' 'Today, some Labuan residents feel sidelined in the Federal Territory's administration. They want to be involved in policy-making and implementation,' he said. According to Jeffrey, the concerns being raised are not out of anger or resentment but are simply calls for positive changes that would make Labuan a source of pride for all. He added that this is precisely why STAR established its division in Labuan. Through cooperation with fellow component parties under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, the aim is for Labuan's politics to one day be led and managed by Sabah-based parties. 'This issue has also been raised in Parliament. I myself have repeatedly called for the restoration of Labuan's duty-free status, but unfortunately, our pleas have yet to be heard,' he stated. Jeffrey concluded that Sabahans in Labuan have urged STAR to act as a voice for their concerns and to propose ideas that would lead to a more developed and inclusive Labuan.
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Stop foreign trader invasion in Sabah like in Peninsula - Warisan
A foreigner operating a grocery stall in Sabah. KOTA KINABALU (July 28): The Local Government and Housing Ministry should stop issuing small kampung grocery retail shop licences to foreigners like in the Peninsular Malaysia, said a local politician. Warisan Kg Kapayan Branch leader Pritchard Gumbaris concurs with Federal Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, who made it clear that these licences must not be issued to foreigners. 'I strongly agree — and I believe this must not just be an announcement for the Peninsula, but fully enforced here in Sabah as well,' he said. 'Kapayan and Moyog are flooded with foreign traders. Walk through our kampungs and you will see it yourself — local shopkeepers being pushed aside, and outsiders taking over spaces meant for Sabahans. And this is not just a Penampang issue — this same situation is happening across every district in Sabah, with rural and urban communities alike feeling the pressure of uncontrolled foreign retail operations,' he said in a statement on Monday. Pritchard who is also the Political Secretary to Parti Warisan deputy president Datuk Darell Leiking, said the problem was solved before through a strict and disciplined process during the Warisan Plus government, when they worked hand-in-hand with the Penampang Municipal Council and the district local authorities to curb the mushrooming of foreign-operated shops. 'Every trading licence application in the villages required the village chief's endorsement, and the village chief had to be strict when approving each application — no rubber stamps, no shortcuts. Our office personally vetted every case through interviews, photo checks, and site inspections. I chaired joint meetings with village leaders to scrutinise applications and we were never afraid to reject those found to involve foreigners using local proxies or falsified documents. 'It worked. Foreign-operated small kampung grocery retail shops dropped sharply, and our local entrepreneurs finally had breathing space. 'But today, that hard work has been undone as enforcement has collapsed. The process we built was not maintained, and now foreign traders are mushrooming again,' said Pritchard. He said this is the very reason Warisan has proposed an Ombudsman Committee — an independent body to receive complaints from any whistleblower on corrupt practices, so that accountability starts at the local community level. 'The Sabah Trades Licensing Ordinance 1948 (Sabah Cap. 144), specifically Section 5 and the First Schedule, already outlines the conditions for trading licences — including clear restrictions on foreigners operating businesses in kampungs. The problem is not the absence of law. The problem is the absence of political will to enforce it,' he stressed. Pritchard urged Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Joachim Gunsalam to take this issue seriously. 'It is his ministry's duty to ensure that the state's local councils enforce these rules without fear or favour, and that no loopholes are allowed for foreign operators to abuse. 'If Warisan is given the mandate in Kapayan, we will restore this enforcement system immediately. We will bring back the same tough, proven process — because it worked before, and it will work again. 'Nga Kor Ming has drawn the line. Now it is time for Sabah to follow through — with real action, not empty talk,' he said.
