Latest news with #Sarawak
Free Malaysia Today
12 hours ago
- Business
- Free Malaysia Today
Ageing farmers threaten food security, productivity, says Fadillah
(From left) Energy transition and water transformation secretary-general Zaidi Karli, deputy agriculture and food security minister Arthur Joseph Kurup, deputy prime minister Fadillah Yusof, economy secretary-general Nor Azmie Diron and chief statistician Uzir Mahidin at the launch of the 2024 Agriculture Census interim report. SERDANG : Malaysia's agriculture sector is facing serious challenges because of an ageing workforce, with nearly half of the country's farmers now aged 60 and above, says deputy prime minister Fadillah Yusof. He said the issue is affecting productivity and the country's ability to sustain domestic food production. 'To ensure the sector's sustainability, we must attract more youths to agriculture. 'Without a skilled and competitive younger generation, our goal of reducing import dependence and ensuring national food security will be difficult to achieve,' he said at the launch of the 2024 Agriculture Census interim report today. The report showed that 45.4% of individual agricultural operators are aged 60 and above, while only 22.2% are aged between 15 and 45. Another 32.3% are aged 46 to 59. Fadillah said better incentives, the use of modern technology, and efforts to improve the image of farming as a career are needed to attract younger talent. Chief statistician Uzir Mahidin said Sabah recorded the highest number of young farmers, totalling 6,180, aged 15 to 30, followed by Perak (5,149) and Sarawak (3,583). For farmers aged 60 and above, Sarawak topped the list with 63,452, followed by Kedah (61,886) and Sabah (57,007). Uzir said agriculture remains a key part of Malaysia's economy, not just for food supply but also for supporting the processing industry, creating jobs and raising household incomes, particularly among farmers. He said the agriculture census will now be conducted every 10 years, with shorter, interim surveys starting in 2026 to provide more timely data. The last agriculture census was carried out 19 years ago. Also launched at the event was the TaniStats portal, which aims to improve access to agriculture-related data for farmers, policymakers and stakeholders. It includes platforms such as TaniFacts, myFoodStats, myAgrochain and the MyAgroPrice dashboard. The dashboard provides monthly price data for 60 selected agricultural products at farm, wholesale and retail levels, according to states, from 2020 to 2024. Fadillah said this would help farmers plan marketing strategies and assist policymakers in tracking price trends and designing targeted interventions. Data from the statistics department showed that Malaysia imported 60% of its food supply in 2022. Only 24 local agricultural items recorded growth in production that year, compared with 28 in 2021.
Malay Mail
13 hours ago
- General
- Malay Mail
One dead, 21 left homeless in two separate Gawai Day fires in Bintulu
MAN DIES, FIVE HOUSES DESTROYED IN BINTULU FIRES KUCHING, June 1 — The atmosphere of the Gawai Day celebration in Sarawak was marred when a man died while five terrace houses were destroyed in two separate fire incidents that occurred in Bintulu early this morning. According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) operations centre (PGO), the first incident on Saturday night left 21 people homeless, while another fire early Sunday morning claimed the life of one victim In the first incident, five single-storey terrace houses of the permanent structure were 100 per cent destroyed in a fire at Kidurong MLNG Housing, Jalan Abang Usop, Bintulu, on Saturday night. The emergency call was received at 11.43 pm on Saturday before 18 JBPM personnel from the Kidurong Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) and Bintulu BBP managed to extinguish the fire at 6.25 am today. In the second incident, a man identified as Wong Jun Din in his 50s was confirmed dead in a fire at a non-permanent house on Jalan Sibiew, near SJK Siong Boon at 2:32 am Sunday. 'The victim is believed to have been trapped but was successfully pulled out by other residents in an unconscious state with burn marks all over his body, before being confirmed dead by the Ministry of Health medical team at the scene,' said a statement on the PGO's official WhatsApp. Three other occupants were reported to have survived the incident. The cause of the fire and the total loss from both incidents are still under investigation. — Bernama MAN DIES, FIVE HOUSES DESTROYED IN BINTULU FIRES KUCHING, June 1 — The atmosphere of the Gawai Day celebration in Sarawak was marred when a man died while five terrace houses were destroyed in two separate fire incidents that occurred in Bintulu early this morning. According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) operations centre (PGO), the first incident on Saturday night left 21 people homeless, while another fire early Sunday morning claimed the life of one victim In the first incident, five single-storey terrace houses of the permanent structure were 100 per cent destroyed in a fire at Kidurong MLNG Housing, Jalan Abang Usop, Bintulu, on Saturday night. The emergency call was received at 11.43 pm on Saturday before 18 JBPM personnel from the Kidurong Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) and Bintulu BBP managed to extinguish the fire at 6.25 am today. In the second incident, a man identified as Wong Jun Din in his 50s was confirmed dead in a fire at a non-permanent house on Jalan Sibiew, near SJK Siong Boon at 2:32 am Sunday. 'The victim is believed to have been trapped but was successfully pulled out by other residents in an unconscious state with burn marks all over his body, before being confirmed dead by the Ministry of Health medical team at the scene,' said a statement on the PGO's official WhatsApp. Three other occupants were reported to have survived the incident. The cause of the fire and the total loss from both incidents are still under investigation. — Bernama MAN DIES, FIVE HOUSES DESTROYED IN BINTULU FIRES KUCHING, June 1 — The atmosphere of the Gawai Day celebration in Sarawak was marred when a man died while five terrace houses were destroyed in two separate fire incidents that occurred in Bintulu early this morning. According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) operations centre (PGO), the first incident on Saturday night left 21 people homeless, while another fire early Sunday morning claimed the life of one victim In the first incident, five single-storey terrace houses of the permanent structure were 100 per cent destroyed in a fire at Kidurong MLNG Housing, Jalan Abang Usop, Bintulu, on Saturday night. The emergency call was received at 11.43 pm on Saturday before 18 JBPM personnel from the Kidurong Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) and Bintulu BBP managed to extinguish the fire at 6.25 am today. In the second incident, a man identified as Wong Jun Din in his 50s was confirmed dead in a fire at a non-permanent house on Jalan Sibiew, near SJK Siong Boon at 2:32 am Sunday. 'The victim is believed to have been trapped but was successfully pulled out by other residents in an unconscious state with burn marks all over his body, before being confirmed dead by the Ministry of Health medical team at the scene,' said a statement on the PGO's official WhatsApp. Three other occupants were reported to have survived the incident. The cause of the fire and the total loss from both incidents are still under investigation. — Bernama MAN DIES, FIVE HOUSES DESTROYED IN BINTULU FIRES KUCHING, June 1 — The atmosphere of the Gawai Day celebration in Sarawak was marred when a man died while five terrace houses were destroyed in two separate fire incidents that occurred in Bintulu early this morning. According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) operations centre (PGO), the first incident on Saturday night left 21 people homeless, while another fire early Sunday morning claimed the life of one victim In the first incident, five single-storey terrace houses of the permanent structure were 100 per cent destroyed in a fire at Kidurong MLNG Housing, Jalan Abang Usop, Bintulu, on Saturday night. The emergency call was received at 11.43 pm on Saturday before 18 JBPM personnel from the Kidurong Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) and Bintulu BBP managed to extinguish the fire at 6.25 am today. In the second incident, a man identified as Wong Jun Din in his 50s was confirmed dead in a fire at a non-permanent house on Jalan Sibiew, near SJK Siong Boon at 2:32 am Sunday. 'The victim is believed to have been trapped but was successfully pulled out by other residents in an unconscious state with burn marks all over his body, before being confirmed dead by the Ministry of Health medical team at the scene,' said a statement on the PGO's official WhatsApp. Three other occupants were reported to have survived the incident. KUCHING, June 1 — The atmosphere of the Gawai Day celebration in Sarawak was marred when a man died while five terrace houses were destroyed in two separate fire incidents that occurred in Bintulu early this morning. According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) operations centre (PGO), the first incident on Saturday night left 21 people homeless, while another fire early Sunday morning claimed the life of one victim In the first incident, five single-storey terrace houses of the permanent structure were 100 per cent destroyed in a fire at Kidurong MLNG Housing, Jalan Abang Usop, Bintulu, on Saturday night. The emergency call was received at 11.43 pm on Saturday before 18 JBPM personnel from the Kidurong Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) and Bintulu BBP managed to extinguish the fire at 6.25 am today. In the second incident, a man identified as Wong Jun Din in his 50s was confirmed dead in a fire at a non-permanent house on Jalan Sibiew, near SJK Siong Boon at 2:32 am Sunday. 'The victim is believed to have been trapped but was successfully pulled out by other residents in an unconscious state with burn marks all over his body, before being confirmed dead by the Ministry of Health medical team at the scene,' said a statement on the PGO's official WhatsApp. Three other occupants were reported to have survived the incident. The cause of the fire and the total loss from both incidents are still under investigation. — Bernama
Free Malaysia Today
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Free Malaysia Today
When a Melanau-inspired songket dress shimmered at Cannes
Nisha Thayananthan turned heads at Cannes on May 22 when she walked the red carpet in this striking black-and-gold ballgown. (Nisha Thayananthan pic) PETALING JAYA : On May 22, Malaysia's iconic songket made its appearance on the red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival for the very first time, draped elegantly on former Miss Earth Malaysia Dr On May 22, Malaysia's iconic songket made its appearance on the red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival for the very first time, draped elegantly on former Miss Earth Malaysia Dr Nisha Thayananthan Under the dazzling lights of the French Riviera, she stepped out in a black-and-gold ensemble adorned with 999 Swarovski crystals, turning heads while proudly showcasing the heritage of Sarawak's Melanau community. Nisha, a plastic-surgery resident based in Dublin, Ireland, was making her third appearance at the annual French film festival. 'The opportunity to attend Cannes was a dream come true,' she told FMT Lifestyle. 'This wasn't my first experience there, but it was my first time walking the red carpet wearing a Malaysian design.' Named Mystical Jerunai, the gown draws inspiration from the jerunai: traditional burial poles used hundreds of years ago by Melanau aristocrats. These towering ironwood structures, some reaching up to 15m, were carved with intricate motifs – from dragons and snakes to flora and fauna for female aristocrats – reflecting the rank of the deceased. While this was Nisha's third red-carpet appearance at Cannes, it was her first time wearing a Malaysian design. (Bernama pic) Rozie Khan, a Sarawak native and seasoned designer since 2000, has made a name for herself by fusing cultural and modern elements in her creations. This latest one, too, was a tribute to her roots. 'I feel extremely proud to have showcased my work at such a prestigious event, while also being able to promote Malaysian culture on the international stage,' she told FMT Lifestyle. 'This was the first time my design was showcased at Cannes. Previously, most of my creations were featured in beauty pageants,' she added – Miss World, Miss International, and Miss Planet, to name just three. Rozie Khan. Asked about the concept behind Mystical Jerunai, Khan explained: 'The checkered pattern was inspired by the jerunai pillar, incorporating flora and fauna carvings as the main decorative elements.' The bodice was designed using her signature draping technique, which gives the bustier a regal silhouette. 'The design itself was inspired by the look of the Melanau 'terendak', the traditional headgear that resembles the shape of a ballgown skirt,' Khan highlighted. Its black base represents the official colour of Melanau ceremonial attire, traditionally paired with gold 'dokoh' (ornamental accessories) – hence, the black-and-gold theme. It took her about two months to complete the gown, and the process came with its share of challenges. Among them? 'Songket is a high-risk fabric that tends to shrink from the intended measurements.' The stunning ballgown, designed by Rozie Khan, pays tribute to her cultural roots. (Nisha Thayananthan pic) As for Nisha, the medical graduate from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak said preparing for the ballgown's big red-carpet debut involved months of research, design conceptualisation, and collaboration with skilled artisans. All in all, it took them close to a year – but the payoff was instantaneous when she saw herself in the end product. 'I was overwhelmed!' she said. 'The songket patterns shimmered in the light, and the gown's silhouette was breathtaking. 'I was proud to represent Malaysian craftsmanship and culture on the global stage. Wearing it was surreal – I felt like a princess.' On the red carpet, she channelled exactly that: the style, sophistication and poise of royalty. 'My mind was focused on soaking in the moment, and conveying confidence and pride with every pose.' Follow Nisha Thayananthan and Rozie Khan on Instagram.
Malay Mail
17 hours ago
- Health
- Malay Mail
As Dayaks mark Gawai, Sarawak St John Ambulance founder calls for peace in ‘uncertain and unpredictable world'
KUCHING, June 1 — Gawai Dayak has grown to become a powerful symbol of unity, hope, and aspiration for the Dayak community – the majority ethnic group in Sarawak. Datuk Seri Ang Lai Soon, founder of St John Ambulance Sarawak, noted that Gawai was originally celebrated at different times across various longhouses and villages, marking the end of a successful harvest. 'The ethnic Dayak community then decided to celebrate the event on one day; thus, it's celebrated by all as the most important day by all different Dayak groups. 'It is now one of Sarawak's important gazetted holidays,' he said in his Gawai Dayak message. Ang expressed pride in the Dayak community's achievements and their significant contributions to Malaysia's development and prosperity. However, he also reminded the public that the Covid-19 pandemic is 'still far from over.' 'Some global communities have decided 'to live with the virus' after the majority of the people have been fully vaccinated. 'Still, while we are reopening, I am sure that we will still continue to be careful and vigilant,' he said. Ang went on to lament the continued existence of wars, conflicts, and unrest in many parts of what he described as 'an uncertain and unpredictable world'. 'The people suffer untold miseries and sufferings, especially the most vulnerable: the poor, the sick, the children, the seniors and underprivileged. 'All countries should ideally consider devoting their funds, time and energy to make life safer, happier and more bearable for everyone in this rather difficult, troubled and tumultuous world, instead of production of lethal weapons, especially nuclear weapons with the capacity to destroy the human kind,' he said. He added that universal peace and happiness could be achieved if all nations committed to total disarmament. Trillions of dollars currently spent on arms could instead be used to improve living standards across the globe, he added. 'That will be the day to celebrate.' The universal day of peace Ang also highlighted global inflation and threatening famine caused by geopolitical tensions should be addressed immediately. The much feared climate change and its ill effects on humankind, flora and fauna and the environment is a monumental issue, he said. 'We see such ill-effects already even within our own country as torrential rains and serious floods seem to be occurring with greater frequency,' he said. Intense forest fires caused by prolonged droughts are affecting nations like the United States, Canada, Japan, and Australia, and in the Philippines, typhoons continue to grow in intensity year after year, he said. 'As we celebrate another Gawai festival, let us be reminded again to celebrate in moderation. 'Both humans and Planet Earth must stay healthy for their own sake and that of future generations. 'God bless our people, God bless our country. 'Selamat Ari Gawai, Gayu Guru, Gerai Nyamai! Selamat hari Kaamatan.' — The Borneo Post
Free Malaysia Today
17 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Free Malaysia Today
5 must-try Gawai and Kaamatan dishes you can enjoy in KL
Have an authentic Sabahan and Sarawakian feast during this year's Hari Kaamatan and Hari Gawai. (Theevya Ragu @ FMT Lifestyle) PETALING JAYA : As May draws to a close, two of Malaysia's most vibrant cultural festivals take centre stage – As May draws to a close, two of Malaysia's most vibrant cultural festivals take centre stage – Kaamatan in Sabah (May 30–31) and Hari Gawai in Sarawak (June 1–2). These harvest celebrations aren't just about rituals, music, and merrymaking – they're also a time for feasting on traditional dishes that are rarely found outside of East Malaysia. But don't worry if you're stuck in KL! You don't have to book a flight to Kota Kinabalu or Kuching to enjoy the earthy, bold, and soulful flavours of Borneo. From zesty raw fish salads to bamboo-cooked meats, here's your cheat sheet to five must-try Gawai and Kaamatan dishes – plus exactly where you can get your hands on them without leaving the Klang Valley. 1. Hinava Hinava is Sabah's bright and bold raw fish salad. (Unilever Food Solutions pic) Think of hinava as Sabah's answer to ceviche – but with a spicy kick and a whole lot of character. This Kadazan-Dusun classic features raw mackerel (or sometimes tenggiri) marinated in fresh lime juice, finely sliced shallots, bird's eye chillies, and sliced ginger. Some versions also toss in grated bambangan seed (from a wild mango) for extra punch. Hinava is tangy, fiery, and refreshing – perfect as an appetiser or a palate cleanser between richer dishes. Try it at D'Tungkus Takanon Sabahan Cafe in Kota Kemuning. 2. Kolo Mee (NON-HALAL) Kolo Mee consists of springy egg noodles tossed in a savoury sauce and topped with minced meat and char siu. (Ikan Mas pic) You can't say you have experienced the full Sarawakian culinary experience until you have tasted the kolo mee, the quintessential comfort food of Sarawak. Indeed, Sarawakians will tell you that no matter how fancy the feast, there's always room for kolo mee. These springy egg noodles are tossed in a light, savoury sauce (no soy!), topped with minced meat, char siu, and sometimes spring onions or pickled vegetables. It's quick, it's tasty, and it's pure nostalgia in a bowl for anyone from Kuching. It's also non-halal. Mama Ting Sarawak Noodle in SS2, PJ is a firm favourite among East Malaysians living in KL. 3. Ayam Pansuh The ayam pansuh is a Sarawakian delicacy infused with the aroma of bamboo. (Ikan Mas pic) Hailing from the Iban and Bidayuh communities of Sarawak, ayam pansuh is chicken slow-cooked inside bamboo stalks, sealed with tapioca leaves and seasoned with lemongrass, torch ginger, and tapioca shoots. The bamboo traps all the moisture and aroma, infusing the meat with an earthy, smoky fragrance you can't replicate in a pot. Rich, aromatic, and incredibly tender. Kafe Sarawak in Ampang serves a lovely version of ayam pansuh alongside other Iban and Sarawakian specialties. 4. Sarawak Laksa The richly-flavoured Sarawak Laksa is one of the highlights at Slurrp. (Muhaimin Marwan@FMT Lifestyle) This isn't your typical laksa. Sarawak laksa is made with a special spice paste that includes sambal belacan, galangal, and lemongrass, blended with coconut milk for a rich yet balanced broth. Served with rice vermicelli, shredded chicken, prawns, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime – it's a bowl that warms the soul. It's such a beloved dish that the late celebrity chef and author Anthony Bourdain once called it 'breakfast of the gods'. Slurrp in PJ has built a loyal following for its authentic Sarawak laksa. 5. Tuaran Mee (NON-HALAL) Tuaran Mee is tossed with local Chinese rice wine, vegetables, and slices of barbecued pork or sausage. (Taste Atlas pic) Hailing from the town of Tuaran near Kota Kinabalu, this dish features yellow egg noodles that are pan-fried until they're both chewy and crispy. Tuaran Mee is often tossed with local Chinese rice wine, vegetables, and slices of barbecued pork or sausage. It's smoky, eggy, and addictive – perfect for anyone who loves wok hei. SugarBun Borneo Asian Food at Menara Hup Seng brings this Sabahan specialty to life with great authenticity.
