Latest news with #SarawakMajuMakmur
Borneo Post
18-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak praised as fertile ground for outstanding workers
Gerawat delivers his speech at the event. – Photo by Ukas KUCHING (May 18): Sarawak continues to be a fertile ground for the growth of outstanding workers, supported by strong state government initiatives and strategic human capital investments, said Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala. He said this during the state-level Labour Day 2025 celebration at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here today. In his speech, Gerawat, who is also the event's organising chairman, emphasised the critical role Sarawak's workforce plays in the state's economic and social progress. 'We are proud to say that Sarawak continues to be a fertile ground where outstanding workers grow. Whether in energy, agriculture, services, or digital industries, our people are making their mark both locally and globally. 'The government remains committed to creating an enabling environment—through infrastructure, education, training institutions, upskilling programmes, and strategic investments—that allows every worker to thrive,' he said. Labour Day was officially recognised as a national holiday in Malaysia in 1972, marking a commitment to upholding workers' rights. Gerawat, however, pointed out that in Sarawak, the celebration holds deeper meaning due to the vital role of workers in sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing, which power the state's economy. 'Our workers are innovators, builders, caregivers, educators, and entrepreneurs, with each playing a vital role in driving our economy and shaping Sarawak's future,' he added. This year's Labour Day celebration was historic as it was the first time the event was held at the state level and jointly organised by both state and federal government agencies, along with workers and employers' representatives. Themed 'Pekerja Cemerlang Sarawak Maju Makmur' or 'Outstanding Workers Foster a Progressive and Prosperous Sarawak,' the event highlighted the value and aspirations tied to human capital development in the state. Gerawat noted that the theme reflects the belief that Sarawak's development is rooted in the excellence of its people. 'The term 'Pekerja Cemerlang' or 'Outstanding Workers' is not limited to technical expertise or job performance alone. It refers to individuals across all sectors, whether private or public, who go beyond their duties, demonstrating professionalism, innovation, teamwork, discipline, and an unrelenting commitment to self-improvement. 'These are the individuals who inspire others, lead by example, and strive every day to do better,' he said. In line with this, Gerawat highlighted several amendments to the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (SLO), which came into effect on May 1 this year and marked a significant milestone in the state government's commitment to a fair and forward-looking labour ecosystem. 'These reforms are not just legal updates, as they reflect our values as a state that honours dignity in work, protects workers, and prioritises social justice. 'We believe that a balanced approach, where both employers and employees are supported, will lead to greater stability, motivation, and long-term productivity,' he said, while thanking Abang Johari for his strong support in making the amendments possible, describing it as the best Labour Day present for Sarawak workers. In this regard, he called for continued cooperation among all stakeholders to support the state's long-term development goals. employees gerawat gala Labour Day lead workforce
Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Japan's approach to recycling a model example of S'wak waste management, says Dr Sim
Dr Sim launches the Desa Wira Recycling Centre. — Photo by Jude Toyat KUCHING (May 17): Sarawakians should emulate Japan's disciplined approach to recycling and waste management to support the state's sustainability goals under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. He said Japan offers a model example of environmental consciousness that Sarawak should strive to follow. 'In Japan, public places have no rubbish bins. Don't tell me Japanese have no rubbish. They take the rubbish home to throw because in every house, they have green bins, orange bins, red bins. So they bring their rubbish home to appropriately put in the right bins. 'So, as we journey towards Sarawak Maju Makmur, we want Sarawakians to have the same thinking, but actually do something,' he said during the launch of the Desa Wira Recycling Centre at the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) Nursery in Desa Wira here today. Dr Sim said that effective waste management cannot be shouldered by the government alone, but requires a concerted effort from all layers of society. 'The government is trying its best. It's not just about the government having a lot to do, we need everyone to play their role and do their part. In fact, waste management is very challenging. 'So, we want the public to understand, you need to play your role and do your part. The council needs to do the same, and the government also needs to play its role and do its part. Because we all agree we want to do recycling.' He pointed out that waste management was a significant expenditure for local authorities. For instance, he said MPP allocated RM10 million from its annual budget for waste-related services. 'What's quite funny about waste management is that we spend a lot of money to buy things, and then spend a lot of money to throw away things, and spend a lot more money to get rid of it. So it doesn't make sense,' he added. The event marked the collaboration between MPP and the Tzu Chi Foundation Kuching, a non-governmental organisation actively promoting community recycling efforts. Dr Sim revealed since the centre began operations on March 24 this year, over three tonnes of recyclable materials, including clothing, has been collected. 'If Tzu Chi didn't help us, we would have to pay people to get rid of three tonnes of waste. But now, we're making good use of those three tonnes and helping others in the process. 'This is very much in line with our Premier's PCDS 2030, which is about being environmentally sustainable. We want to sustain it, not just throw away.' Dr Sim also condemned irresponsible practices, such as dumping construction waste at recycling centres to avoid disposal charges. 'Some people want to be rich, but they don't love Sarawak. If you do this, how can Sarawak be maju dan makmur (progressive and prosperous)?' he asked. To prevent such misuse, Dr Sim said the new centre has been integrated with the MPP Nursery, where staff can guide the public on proper recycling practices and monitor the materials being dropped off. 'Not everything is recyclable. A concrete block – how do you recycle that? So this centre is not just to prevent illegal dumping but also to educate the public.' Therefore, he commended Tzu Chi volunteers for their tireless contributions and professional standards. 'This is how important community partnerships are. They are volunteers, but they do a professional job. So, congratulations to them,' he added. Also present were MPP chairman Tan Kai and his deputy Mahmud Dato Sri Ibrahim; MPP acting secretary Goh Thiam Ho; and Tzu Chi Foundation volunteer Voon Mee Lee. Dr Sim Kui Hian Japan recycle
