Latest news with #Sarawak-based
BusinessToday
19 hours ago
- Business
- BusinessToday
Refuelling Sarawak's Growth
Sarawak is fast positioning itself as Malaysia's clean energy powerhouse with bold plans to quadruple power generation to 15GW by 2035. A recent field trip by CIMB Research to the state revealed that major shifts are underway — not just in energy, but also in infrastructure, digitalisation, and industrial expansion — aligned with Sarawak's Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). CIMB analysts identified key beneficiaries of the state's growth plans ahead of its next election, due by April 2027. Infrastructure giants like Gamuda and IJM, as well as Sarawak-based names Cahya Mata, Ibraco, Solarvest, CCK, and Supreme Consolidated, are all poised to ride the wave of development. A Green Leap Forward Sarawak's clean energy agenda is being driven by a pivot away from mega dams toward cascading hydro, floating solar, pumped hydro, and integrated hydro-solar projects. Its landmark hydrogen programmes, H2ornbill and H2biscus, aim to generate over 240,000 tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2029, with exports targeted at Japan and South Korea. The state's strategic shift includes deprioritising coal and rare earth mining, while doubling down on green cement, silica-based solar glass, and biofuels. Major infrastructure upgrades, including a RM4 billion water grid, are also underway to support these ambitions. Industrial Parks and Transport Mega-Projects Sarawak plans to construct 10 new industrial parks and 6 agro-parks, alongside the expansion of existing industrial hubs such as Samalaju Industrial Park (SIP) and Petchem Industrial Park in Kidurong. With strong demand, only 12% of land at SIP remains available, despite already attracting RM57 billion in investments. Infrastructure development is also intensifying. The state is pursuing transformative projects such as a new airport and deep seaport in Kuching, the Lawas Airport and port complex, and major road, water, and utility upgrades. The Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), featuring hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART), is a headline initiative under Sarawak Metro, expected to begin operations in 2028. Phase 1 of KUTS, valued at over RM6 billion, will span 70km across 28 stations. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will be supported by a purpose-built depot in Rembus, and a RM122 million contract for 55 feeder buses has already been awarded. Strategic Investment and Clean Energy Partnerships Sarawak's investment agency, InvestSarawak, operating under MINTRED, has been actively securing green investments. A notable development was the signing of an MoU with China's CRE International in 2024 to explore USD1.5 billion (RM6.4 billion) worth of solar, wind, and energy storage projects with a capacity target of 2GW. MINTRED has also launched ENBASE, a digital platform to support entrepreneurial development, and is spearheading efforts to attract investments in semiconductors, medical devices, and green hydrogen. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan recently led a trade mission to France, engaging with private equity firm Ardian on high-tech sector opportunities. SCORE and the Corridor Vision Driving long-term industrialisation is the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE), which spans 80% of the state. Managed by RECODA, SCORE has already secured RM127 billion in approved investments across 464 projects, mainly in energy-intensive sectors. RECODA also oversees over 250 infrastructure projects and administers social programmes focused on poverty reduction, workforce upskilling, and rural development. Its regional development arms — URDA, HDA, and NRDA — have tailored master plans to ensure inclusive and area-specific progress. Election-Led Re-Rating Opportunities With the next Sarawak state election expected before April 2027, CIMB foresees a potential re-rating of Sarawak-linked stocks, particularly in infrastructure and consumer sectors. Companies like Gamuda and IJM are favoured for their involvement in road and public transport contracts, while Cahya Mata, Ibraco, Solarvest, CCK, and Supreme stand to benefit from surging state-level economic activity. However, risks remain. These include funding and talent constraints, rising competition from foreign contractors, and the still-limited participation of public-listed players in large hydrogen or hydroelectric ventures. Looking ahead, Sarawak's clear policy direction reinforces the state's vision to become a high-income and developed state by 2030. With a record-high RM15.8 billion budget for 2025 and 70% allocated to development, the transformation is not just aspirational — it's already underway. Related
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Science
- Borneo Post
SOCOE leads industry support for rural STEM drive in Baram
Sagah (seated centre) and other dignitaries join the programme participants for a photo-call. KUCHING (July 20): Sarawak-based technology firm SOCOE Holdings Sdn Bhd shows support for the state's rural Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) movement by serving as the lead industry partner for the 'STEM Catalysts & Jubilee Joy: A Celebration of Innovation and Heritage' programme, held on July 16 at SMK Long Lama in Baram. The event drew over 700 participants from the host and nearby schools, including SMK Tinjar, SJKC Kee Tee, SK Ubong Imang, SK Long Lapok, and SK Sungai Bain. The initiative is part of the broader 'STEM Catalysts Raspberry Pi 2025' programme – a travelling STEM carnival spearheaded by the State Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), targeting more than 6,000 Primary 5 and 6 pupils from over 130 rural schools across Sarawak. It is jointly implemented by Sarawak Skills and the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS). 'Sarawak's future depends on how well we prepare our children today,' said State Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who officiated the event. 'This programme plants the seeds of innovation, creativity, and critical thinking among our young minds, particularly in rural areas.' A highlight of the event was a showcase on digital technologies contributing to Sarawak's hydrogen economy aspirations. Students were introduced to the principles of electrolysis, fuel cell operation, ammonia production, and how sensors, actuators, and robotics are integrated to manage these processes. 'SOCOE is proud to support the STEM Catalysts Raspberry Pi 2025 programme through our corporate social responsibility arm, SOCOE Kasih,' said a SOCOE spokesperson. 'Empowering young talents in Sarawak communities, whether urban or rural, through science and technology is crucial for the region's long-term sustainable growth.' SOCOE aims to nurture local talents, build critical future-ready skills, and support a generation of innovators, noting that when rural youth are equipped with the right tools, they not only adapt to the future but also help shape it. Also present at the event were Sagah's deputy minister Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau, Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, and Baram MP Dato Anyi Ngau. Baram lead Roland Sagah SOCOE STEM
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Borneo Post
Sharing child sexual abuse material online a heinous crime, says activist
While technology has brought countless benefits, it has also become a breeding ground for exploitation. — AI Image KUALA LUMPUR (July 18): In today's hyperconnected world, where a single click can spread content across continents in seconds, a dark reality lurks behind the screens: the rampant and often overlooked crime of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). While society debates technology regulation and social media responsibility, the real victims are the children who remain shrouded in silence and pain. 'The act of sharing and resharing CSAM is a heinous crime. The trauma and abuse felt by child victims can last a lifetime,' says Sarawak-based social activist Voon Shiak Ni. CSAM is not merely digital content; it is evidence of real abuse. Each time such material circulates, the children involved are re-victimized, far beyond the original act. Through the Kempen Internet Selamat (KIS), there is a growing push to educate the public about the true nature of CSAM, not just to be seen as illegal content, but as ongoing harm to real children. KIS urges the public to understand that every click, share, or view retraumatises victims and deepens their suffering. True internet safety must centre the needs of survivors, and that begins with breaking the silence and building a culture of empathy, responsibility, and protection. 'The victims continue to be traumatised and re-traumatised when their abuse materials are reshared all over social media. Being helpless and having no control over this aggravates their fear and shame,' Voon stresses. Voon Shiak Ni Despite this horrifying reality, discussions often centre more on technology and platform accountability than on the children caught in this cycle of abuse. Survivors of child sexual abuse often battle lifelong psychological consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Many struggle with trust, relationships, and employment. According to the global Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente, survivors are at higher risk of substance abuse and self-harm later in life. 'We all know that crimes like this inflict lifelong psychological scars,' Voon laments, 'Yet, the suffering of victims is often not given enough attention. Most retreat into silence, but their quietness does not mean they are alright.' This raises a crucial question: How many of these children get the help they need? Is there even a national registry of CSAM survivors in Malaysia? The answer remains unclear. While technology has brought countless benefits, it has also become a breeding ground for exploitation. Encrypted messaging platforms, dark web forums, and even mainstream social media are misused for distributing CSAM. Although the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) works with international agencies to detect and remove such content, technological advances often outpace enforcement efforts. 'Cases of child pornography distribution are expected to worsen as technology facilitates these crimes,' Voon warns. She emphasizes that those who view or share CSAM are complicit in harming the children behind the screens. 'There must be strong reminders that resharing or viewing this content is a serious crime.' Preventing this crime and supporting victims is not just the job of authorities. The responsibility lies with all of us, specifically parents, teachers, and communities alike. Parents, as the first line of defense, must actively guide their children's digital activities. Open conversations about personal boundaries, body autonomy, and online safety are critical. Children need to learn to recognise inappropriate behavior and feel safe speaking up. Incorporating digital safety into daily routines including from age-appropriate restrictions to regular check-ins can be life-changing. Parents also need to stay informed about online grooming and the platforms their children use. Teachers, who spend significant time with children, play a vital role in detecting early warning signs of abuse. Sudden behavioral changes like withdrawal, aggression, or poor academic performance may signal deeper issues. With proper training, educators can identify red flags and act as crucial protectors within the school system. Communities, too, have an essential part to play. Neighbours, friends, and even casual observers can intervene when something feels off. Signs such as a child appearing overly anxious around certain adults or displaying inappropriate sexual behavior should never be ignored. Voon underscores the need for trauma support systems to be accessible and safe for all victims and their families. Strengthening community-based child protection programs, neighborhood watch groups, and local support centers is vital to ensure vulnerable children do not slip through the cracks. Although Malaysia has laws under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, the Penal Code, and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, enforcement and public awareness remain major challenges. While there have been stronger collaborations with international agencies like Interpol, gaps in victim support and legal processes persist. 'Is the present law in Malaysia enough to combat child pornography?' Voon asks pointedly. 'I call on the government to increase efforts to support victims, help them overcome trauma, and most importantly, give them a chance to live again.' Stronger legislation, dedicated task forces, and better victim protection mechanisms are critical. Furthermore, national data tracking systems must be improved to monitor prevalence, identify trends, and track survivor outcomes. Society has often turned a blind eye to the shadowy corners of the internet, reluctant to confront the ugly truths within. But that passivity allows predators to continue their actions unchecked. The answer should no longer be yes. Society must confront this issue with urgency and compassion. This means parents staying involved, teachers staying alert, communities staying supportive, and governments staying accountable. Behind every shared video or image of abuse is a child who was hurt. A child who may still be suffering. A child who needs us to see them not as digital data but as a human being worth protecting. child pornography CSAM lead Voon Shiak Ni
The Star
6 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Umno is now a local party in Sabah, says Ahmad Maslan
KOTA KINABALU: Umno should no longer be seen as a peninsula-based party as it has long-established local roots in Sabah, says Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan ( pic ). Ahmad, who is Umno's war room secretariat chief and a supreme council member, said the party has been present in Sabah for more than three decades and its leadership today is made up entirely of local Sabahans. "Umno in Sabah is no longer a Malayan party. When a party has existed for 34 to 35 years in the state, it is no longer accurate to call it a 'Parti Malaya'. "It is now both a local and a national party – that is the most appropriate way to describe Umno and Barisan Nasional in Sabah," he said during a dinner with Lahad Datu Umno division leaders on Tuesday (July 15) night. His comments come amid growing sentiment in Sabah's political landscape that the state needs to empower local-based parties – similar to Sarawak – to gain stronger bargaining power with Putrajaya. He also expressed confidence that Umno could reclaim all state seats under the Lahad Datu parliamentary constituency, as it had during its peak in Sabah. In 2018, following its defeat in the 14th General Election, Umno announced that its Sabah chapter would be granted greater autonomy to independently manage its own affairs – including leadership appointments, candidate selection and political strategy – as part of efforts to rebuild support in the state. The move, later formalised in Umno's constitution, aimed to strengthen the party's position in Sabah by aligning more closely with local sentiments and addressing growing calls for greater self-determination, similar to the approach taken by Sarawak-based parties. On May 12, 2025, Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin reaffirmed that Sabah Umno continues to hold this autonomy, particularly in candidate selection and state election strategy, despite the Barisan Nasional central leadership managing alliance negotiations at the national level. On July 6, Ahmad said Umno is eyeing between 25 and 30 seats out of total 73 seats in the upcoming Sabah state election, emphasising that the party would focus on constituencies where it has a strong chance of winning rather than contesting widely without impact.
Focus Malaysia
11-07-2025
- Health
- Focus Malaysia
NGO: Enforce smoking control act to protect underage Sarawakians from dangers of vaping
PERTUBUHAN Transformasi Dayak (TRADA), an advocacy group for Sarawak's youth, has expressed concern with recent news highlighting that Sarawak recorded the highest number of underage vape users based on the 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS). This has prompted TRADA president Joseph Janting to regard the issue as requiring immediate and focused attention by all relevant authorities. Concurring with the Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development' Ministry's commitment to find a solution on the matter, he pointed to existing legal framework, namely the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) which came into effect on Oct 1 last year. 'It is critical to recognise that in 2022 when the NHMS data was collected, there were no laws in place to regulate the vape industry,' recalled Janting. 'The difference today is that we now have Act 852, a dedicated regulatory framework for vape products which we must fully leverage to address the issue through firm and consistent enforcement.' Janting further warned of recent reports which revealed the open sale of drug-laced vape products on social media and e-commerce platforms. 'Often disguised as flavoured vape and marketed to younger users, these illegal products highlight the urgent need for targeted enforcement rather than blanket bans,' he stressed. 'We're encouraged that the Ministry is taking proactive steps to address this issue, hence hoping to see strong enforcement against those who continue to sell to the underage. 'As a Sarawak-based NGO, TRADA stands ready to support efforts that safeguard our underaged from harm while ensuring regulations are fairly and effectively implemented.' In a related development, TRADA also stressed the importance of directing enforcement efforts at irresponsible and illegal sellers who are knowingly violating the law by selling to the underage. 'Legal players are now subject to strict licensing, registration and compliance requirements under Act 852 but it's illegal, unregulated sellers who pose the real risk to underage individuals,' observed Janting. 'These bad actors must be dealt with seriously, with tough penalties to deter future violations.' As long-term solution, TRADA is of the opinion that banning legal vape sales will only escalate the growth of underaged vape uses in Sarawak. 'The real danger lies in unregulated online platforms where illegal, drug-laced products are being sold with little oversight. Enforcement, not prohibition, is what will protect the underage,' insisted Janting. 'We urge all relevant agencies at both federal and state levels to work together to enforce Act 852 decisively to ensure that Sarawak's next generation is protected from harm through smart, targeted action.' – July 11, 2025
