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Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Celebrating Tok Nan: Gallery preserving former CM's legacy officially launched
(From left) Hang Tuah, Azizul, Abdul Karim, and Maulana engage in a discussion during the tour inside the gallery. — Photo from Sarawak Public Communications Unit BINTULU (Aug 13): The Tok Nan Gallery, which is dedicated to celebrating the life, vision and values of the former chief minister, the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, was officially launched yesterday. Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this marked another step in preserving the legacy of one of Sarawak's most beloved leaders. 'The gallery stands as a reflection of Tok Nan's aspirations for Sarawak, especially his dedication to unity, cultural harmony and inclusivity,' he said in a press conference after the opening ceremony at Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS). Abdul Karim expressed his gratitude, on behalf of the Sarawak government, to UPMS for initiating the idea of the Tok Nan Gallery, which has existed in its current form since 2019. 'From this gallery, we can expand and share the perspectives, interests and hopes that the late Tok Nan held during his lifetime. The state government has channelled RM2.5 million to support programmes, activities and research, including scholarships for students pursuing Master's and PhD studies under the Tok Nan Chair,' he said. He said these efforts were part of continuing Tok Nan's vision, especially his commitment to strengthening racial unity in Sarawak. 'We know Tok Nan had no bias towards any ethnic group and everyone liked him. Even though his tenure as chief minister was only two years and eight months, the impact he left was profound – not only on Sarawak, but also on the leadership that succeeded him in uniting the state's multiracial and multi-religious communities,' he said. Abdul Karim hoped UPMS would continue conducting deeper research into Tok Nan's ideas and vision for Sarawak. 'He wanted to see Sarawak's culture, arts and unity flourish. This is what we must continue,' he stressed. The late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, affectionately known as Tok Nan, served as the fifth chief minister of Sarawak from March 2014 until his passing in January 2017. Despite his short tenure, he was widely admired for his people-oriented policies, straightforward leadership style, and strong advocacy for Sarawak's rights within Malaysia. The Tok Nan Gallery houses exhibits, photographs, and memorabilia chronicling his life, career, and contributions. It serves both as an educational resource and as a symbol of the values he championed, integrity, inclusiveness, and development for all Sarawakians. Also present were UPMS deputy vice-chancellor (industry and community relations) Prof Dr BT Hang Tuah Baharudin, Tanjung Datu assemblyman and Tok Nan's son Azizul Annuar Adenan, and Tok Nan Chair chairman Assoc Prof Dr Mohamad Maulana Magiman.
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Science
- Borneo Post
S'wak eyes blending modern research with traditional wisdom for progressive devt
Abdul Karim performs the launching gimmick for ICOSSH 2025. — Photo by Ambrose Rirang BINTULU (Aug 12): Sarawak is setting its sights on becoming a global centre of excellence where modern scientific research and traditional wisdom advance concurrently to create innovative solutions, said Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts said the state's support for the 4th International Conference on Science, Social Sciences and Humanities (ICOSSH 2025) reflected a long-term vision to bridge the gap between disciplines often seen as 'worlds apart'. 'This sponsorship is not just financial support. It reflects our ambition to make Sarawak a global hub where conventional wisdom meets contemporary research to spark creative energy that drives sustainable development,' he said during the event's opening at Parkcity Everly Hotel Bintulu here today. Abdul Karim said that for too long, the three disciplines were treated as separate, even competing entities. 'Science is often regarded as knowledge based on facts and figures; social sciences as the study of human interactions; and the humanities as the guardian of culture and ethics. 'Such rigid separation and the defence of individual theories alone can hinder our shared mission to build a better future,' he said. The conference, themed 'The Unseen Treasures of the Arts', challenged participants to uncover cultural, intellectual and ecological assets hidden within indigenous communities and Sarawak's biodiversity. Organised by Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS), ICOSSH 2025 brought together scholars nationwide to foster dialogue, forge partnerships and develop research that connects history, culture and science with progressive strategies. Also present were Tanjung Datu assemblyman Azizul Annuar Adenan, UPMS deputy vice-chancellor of industry and community networks Professor IR Dr BT Hang Tuan Baharuddin and Bintulu Resident's representative Jeffrey Jalong. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah political and social sciences scientific research
Borneo Post
11-07-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Bintulu Development Authority launches hydroponic farming initiative to tackle urban food security
Muhamad Yakup (right) and Angellie look at the hydroponic vegetable after launching the programme. BINTULU (July 11): A new hydroponic farming initiative launched in Bintulu aims to tackle food sustainability in urban areas while empowering local communities, said Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) general manager Datu Muhamad Yakup Kari. Undertaken by BDA with key partners, the initiative promotes sustainable agriculture alongside environmental awareness and community engagement. 'We extend our appreciation to PTTEP Malaysia, the main sponsor of this programme, for their strong commitment to corporate sustainability and generous support,' Muhamad Yakup said during the launch of the 'Hydroponic Germination and Greening the Earth, Nurturing the Future 2025' programme at the BDA Kidurong public library today. He also commended the Lions Club of Bintulu for leading the programme and praised Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS) for delivering technical training and ongoing mentorship. 'This effort is part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and inclusive community development. 'It also reflects BDA's broader focus beyond urban planning, by integrating environmental stewardship and social inclusivity,' he said. The launch also featured a tree planting activity and e-waste collection drive, reinforcing BDA's vision for a greener and more resilient Bintulu. Meanwhile, Lions Club of Bintulu Kidurong president Angellie Stephen Raja said the initiative aims to uplift low-income households through practical training and entrepreneurship development. She highlighted the construction of a smart-tech greenhouse beside the Millennium Park Public Library, equipped with app-connected systems to monitor water temperature, humidity, pump performance, cooling systems, and automatic roofing based on weather conditions. 'The system also includes CCTV surveillance and voice command features, allowing real-time monitoring and guidance for participants working inside the greenhouse. 'This project wouldn't have materialised without the dedication, sacrifices, and determination of our team. They are not just team members – they are the heart of this initiative,' she said. Angellie expressed hope that the project would boost local food production, support environmental protection, and nurture a resilient community of agro-entrepreneurs. 'Let us grow together, support one another, and serve together. To our partners and participating community, thank you for believing in this mission, let's keep building a stronger, greener, and more inclusive Bintulu.' Also present were BDA deputy chairman Dato Haidar Khan Asghar Khan, PTTEP Malaysia Country Asset Manager Padsakorn Suwanruji, and UPMS Provost Professor Dr Shahrul Razid Sarbini.
Borneo Post
11-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
UPM Sarawak empowers Marudi pineapple farmers through community agri-business programme
The UPMS team seen during their visit to one of the pineapple farms in Marudi. BINTULU (July 11): Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS), through its 'Agriculture for the People' initiative, continues to strengthen its role in rural community development. As part of its ongoing effort, a community engagement programme was recently held with pineapple farmers in Marudi under the Knowledge Transfer Grant Scheme – Industry and Community Network (KTGS-JINM). The programme, led by project leader Dr Shairil Izwan Taasim, focused on farm financial planning and agri-business management strategies. The initiative aimed to transfer academic expertise and empower local communities to become more competitive within the agricultural sector. Local pineapple farm operators, led by Isaac Kui, also took part in the programme. Through this approach, participating farmers were equipped with a strong foundation in systemic planning and management of agricultural yields. According to Shairil, the programme aligns with the university's aspiration to share academic knowledge and expertise with the public, ultimately contributing to the improvement of community livelihoods. 'The shared knowledge covered not only agriculture but also management, marketing, and area development potential,' he said. 'Beyond improving farm efficiency and crop record-keeping, the programme also introduced the community to the potential of developing their area as an agro-tourism destination, leveraging the size of the pineapple farms and the uniqueness of local crops.' Also participating in the programme were Dr Steward Giman Stephen and Ainul Fikri Mohamad Pauzi, who played key roles in field activities and knowledge sharing with the participants. UPMS' presence among smallholder farmers in Marudi reflects the university's capability to drive socio-economic transformation through a needs-based and community-centric approach. lead marudi pineapple UPMS
New Straits Times
01-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
UPM Bintulu campus rebranded as UPMS
KLANG: Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has rebranded its Bintulu campus as Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS) in a move aimed at strengthening the university's role in East Malaysia's agricultural and research development. The renaming was formalised during a proclamation ceremony at Istana Alam Shah here on Monday, which was officiated by UPM Chancellor and Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah. The event also marked UPM's 50-year presence in Sarawak. Present were Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, UPM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah and UPMS director Professor Dr Shahrul Razid Sarbini. In a statement, UPM said the name change reflected the university's strategic vision to solidify its leadership in agriculture, food security, sustainable development and community empowerment in Borneo. UPMS, which has its roots in the Natural Resources Training Centre established in Semenggok, Kuching in 1974, has become the oldest public university operating in Sarawak. It moved to its permanent campus in Bintulu in 1987 and now offers nine diploma programmes, five bachelor degrees and 51 postgraduate research fields. Among its most notable initiatives is the AgriHub@Gedong project, in partnership with the Sarawak government. The initiative aims to transform padi cultivation in Lubok Punggor, Gedong and positioning Sarawak as a high-impact rice production hub. The university is also home to several strategic academic chairs, including the PUSAKA Chair, which focuses on tropical forest management and renewable energy, and the Tok Nan Chair — named after the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem — which promotes research in Sarawak's ethnic diversity and anthropological studies. To strengthen regional collaboration, UPMS leads the Konsortium Universiti Universitas Borneo (KUUB), a cross-border initiative involving 16 institutions across Borneo. The platform enables cooperation in research, teaching and academic mobility. UPM said the rebranding aligned with its Strategic Plan 2021-2025, particularly in boosting access to quality education in East Malaysia and reinforcing national food security priorities. In support of these goals, UPMS is also planning the establishment of a School of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in Kuching. The school is expected to be the first of its kind to be developed through a collaboration between a public university and a state government. It aims to produce local veterinary professionals and enhance livestock sustainability in Sarawak. UPM said the Higher Education Ministry played a key role in enabling the campus' elevation, and that continued federal-state cooperation would be essential in advancing education equity across Malaysia, especially in Borneo. As one of the country's premier research universities, UPM is currently ranked 134th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and is recognised as one of Malaysia's top institutions with over 28,000 students enrolled across its campuses.
