Latest News from Borneo Post
Borneo Post
2 hours ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Gawai Dayak: A celebration of unity, hope and cultural pride
Ang expresses pride in the Dayak community's achievements and their significant contributions to Malaysia's development and prosperity. — Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (May 31): 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.' culture Gawai Dayak pride unity
Borneo Post
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Tamparuli's Atitih Yatie Robert 2025 Sabah State Level Unduk Ngadau
Atitih (centre) flanked by Elka (left) and Celarin. PENAMPANG (May 31): Tamparuli Unduk Ngadau Atitih Yatie Robert is the 2025 Sabah State Level Unduk Ngadau. She beat 50 other aspiring contestants for the title at the Penampang Hongkod Koisaan on Saturday night. As the newly crowned queen, she brings home RM17,500 in cash prize, the 2025 Sabah State Level Unduk Ngadau crown, a trophy, a specially handcrafted beaded sash, a North Borneo University College (NBUC) scholaship worth RM35,000, ATI scholarship, skincare, haircare, a year supply of rice from Sazarice, return air ticket to South Korea sponsored by Trippo and others. During the first session of the question and answer session, Atitih was asked about making chocolate and she replied in fluent Dusun that she visited the Cocoa Fair at the Sabah International Convention Centre a few days ago and participated in chocolate making. She joked that her chocolate did not win anything but everyone ate it until there was none left, which left all those in the hall bursting our laughing. During the top-seven general knowledge question and answer which carried 20 points, she was asked about the significance of the 'Magavau' ceremony to the KDMR (Kadazan Dusun Murut Rungus) people and she replied that the ceremony was conducted to ensure all proceeded well during a ceremony such as the Kaamatan. Tambunan Unduk Ngadau Elka Alika Pijeh is first runner-up. She brings home a cash prize of RM13,000 and a trophy, a NBUC scholarship worth RM30,000, and one year of rice supply from Sazarice, skincare and haircare, and sponsored items. The second runner-up title went to Kiulu Unduk Ngadau, Celarin Jenny. She wins RM10,500 in cash, a NBUC scholaship worth RM20,000, one year supply of rice from Sazarice, and three-day and two-night stay at Taman Badukan Riverside Resort and others. Meanwhile, Beluran Unduk Ngadau Rini Aswanda Jukilin won the fourth placing which came with a RM8,000 cash prize, scholarship and others. Fifth place went to Unduk Ngadau Beaufort, Steavaynie Ginadus who won RM6,000 cash, a scholarship and other sponsored items. Ranau Unduk Ngadau Jenylin Janis came sixth and won RM5,000, scholarship and other sponsored items. Bandaraya Unduk Ngadau, Evanatie Sannie wins seventh place and brings home RM4,000 cash, a scholarship and other sponsored items. Meanwhile, the Miss Popular Vote Video C. A. N. went to KDCA Klang Valley, Norasnih Madjalan with 2,247 likes, winning her RM1,000 cash. The Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah, Tun Musa Aman, officiated the closing of the State-level Kaamatan Festival 2025 at Hongkod Koisaan KDCA on Saturday. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had earlier officiated the opening at the same venue on Friday. Kinabatangan was the only Sabah district that did not take part in the contest this year.
Borneo Post
2 hours ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Eurasian Otter rediscovered in Sabah
Map showing location of Tangkulap Forest Reserve (dark green) in central Sabah. Tangkulap Forest Reserve becomes Malaysia's first habitat for all four native otter species Malaysia is a haven to wildlife, including four of the world's 14 species of otters. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, these include the Smooth-coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata), the Asian Small-clawed Otter (Aonyx cinereus), and the rare, elusive, and Endangered Hairy-nosed Otter (Lutra sumatrana). For years, the existence of the Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) in Malaysia had remained uncertain, with the last confirmed sighting reported in 2014 near the Danum Valley Field Centre in Sabah. Panthera's recent work within the Deramakot-Tangkulap Landscape has provided definitive evidence, dispelling any lingering doubts. This discovery marks a significant leap forward in understanding Malaysia's rich wildlife and underscores the necessity of continued conservation efforts in this region. Who is Panthera? The Panthera logo. Panthera, established in 2006, is a global conservation organization committed to the survival of all 40 wild cat species and the diverse ecosystems we inhabit. Panthera's team of biologists, data scientists, law enforcement specialists, and advocates works tirelessly to study and protect the seven big cat species: cheetahs, jaguars, leopards, lions, pumas, snow leopards, and tigers. The team also prioritizes conserving overlooked small cat species through tailored strategies. Immersed in the murky waters of a freshwater swamp, strategically set up the camera trap to study wildlife. Panthera Malaysia was established as a subsidiary in 2020. In Sabah, with the crucial support of the Sabah Forestry Department and the Sabah Wildlife Department, the efforts focus on combating poaching and protecting critical habitats for the region's diverse small cat populations. These include the Sunda clouded leopard (Neofelis diardi), Borneo Bay cat (Catopuma badia), flat-headed cat (Prionailurus planiceps), marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata). Panthera's office in Sabah is based at the Forest Research Centre in Sepilok. How did the presence of Eurasian otters was discovered? An elusive and endangered flat-headed cat (Prionailurus planiceps) holds its prey, a striped snakehead (Channa striata), commonly known as 'ikan haruan' in Malay. As part of Panthera's efforts to understand the elusive Flat-headed cat, a survey targeting the freshwater-aquatic habitat within the Tangkulap Forest Reserve, Sabah, was conducted. During this survey, an unexpected discovery was encountered: the first photographic evidence of the Eurasian otter in Malaysia was captured since 2014. This discovery was made possible using remote-sensing cameras, commonly known as camera traps. These cameras, placed strategically within the forest, are autonomously triggered by motion, capturing images or videos when an animal passes by, acting as silent, watchful eyes. Why is the discovery of Eurasian otters important? The Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan. The Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan, pointed out that this discovery is particularly significant because Tangkulap Forest Reserve now holds the unique distinction of being the only location in Malaysia where all four of the country's otter species coexist. This information will enhance the protection of Tangkulap as a Class I forest reserve. This 27,258 ha forest is managed by the Deramakot District Forestry Officer, Johnny Kissing. The Eurasian otter is the most widely distributed otter of the 14 species in the world, ranging from Europe to Asia. However, its presence in the Southeast Asia region is largely unknown and extremely rare. Therefore, its local status in this region is highly endangered. Director of the Sabah Wildlife Department, Mohd Soffian bin Abu Bakar. This significant finding highlights the dedication to biodiversity conservation in Sabah. Mohd Soffian bin Abu Bakar, Director of the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD), affirms this commitment, stating, 'The SWD, in collaboration with the Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) and Panthera, is dedicated to the conservation of otter species in Sabah. Through joint monitoring efforts at the Tangkulap Forest Reserve, we aim to better understand otter populations and address their priority conservation needs. This work is essential to ensure the long-term protection of otters within our protected areas and to support broader biodiversity conservation goals in Sabah.' Panthera Malaysia project coordinator, Tee Thye Lim. 'The challenges of studying aquatic habitats like freshwater swamps are immense, yet essential for understanding the ecological roles of wildlife communities,' remarked Thye Lim, project coordinator for Panthera Malaysia. 'Despite losing over 30 camera traps to flash floods while pursuing the elusive flat-headed cat, we have made significant progress. Not only did we successfully detect the cat, but we also confirmed the presence of the Eurasian otter after an 11-year absence from documented sightings outside of Danum Valley. This discovery highlights the diverse species that depend on these critical freshwater ecosystems, and our team is eager to further explore their intricate relationships.' 'It is exciting to hear about this recent discovery of the Eurasian otter in Sabah as studying otters are challenging and always goes underrepresented in many natural history-related research in Malaysia,' said Professor Dr. Mohd Azlan Jayasilan bin Abdul Gulam Azad, from the Institute Of Biodiversity And Environmental Conservation, UNIMAS, Chairman of the Malaysia Otter Network (MON) and a member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Otter Specialist Group. He highlighted the need to confirm the presence of the Eurasian otter in other parts of Malaysia by conducting more surveys and research. 'There is a need to focus on understanding the habitat requirement and niche overlap of these species, particularly the Eurasian otter.' The mysterious Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) was detected in Tangkulap Forest Reserve, with the last confirmed sighting reported in 2014 near the Danum Valley Field Centre in Sabah. A group of small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus). The presence of all four otter species within this landscape is a crucial indicator of the health of the aquatic ecosystem. In ecological terms, otters are apex predators within this environment, and their well-being is intrinsically linked to the overall health of their surroundings. For example, the recent return of otters to the Klang River, following The Ocean Cleanup initiative's removal of over 3.2 million kilograms of trash, demonstrates how improved water quality directly benefits these species. Otters are known for their sensitivity to environmental changes. Pollution, habitat fragmentation, and overfishing pose significant threats to their survival. Therefore, their confirmed presence in the Tangkulap Forest Reserve, as captured by the vigilant camera traps, is a positive sign, suggesting that the reserve's aquatic system remains relatively healthy. The rare and endangered hairy-nosed otter (Lutra sumatrana) deposits its spraint on the tree. The recent discovery serves as a crucial reminder of the need to safeguard our precious water resources, as the health of our aquatic ecosystem directly impacts community well-being. To ensure this, we must prioritize the protection and enhancement of otter habitats by identifying critical areas and restoring degraded swamp forests with native vegetation. Implementing buffer zone management around the Tangkulap Forest Reserve is also essential to mitigate external impacts through sustainable land-use practices and controlling harmful human activities. Finally, establishing a long-term monitoring and research program will be vital to assess these habitats, understand their ecological needs, and evaluate the effectiveness of our conservation efforts. Smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata). 'Otters are semi-aquatic mammals that play a huge role in the freshwater ecosystem. Not only do they indicate the health of the ecosystem, but they are also the top predator in the food chain. The discovery of the fourth species of otter in the Tangkulap Forest Reserve indicates that the habitat is abundant in prey species and serves as a safe refuge for four species of otters, potentially for many other wildlife species as well. Hence, it is essential to conserve these species because of habitat fragmentation. Malaysia Otter Network (MON) was established to bring together a group of agencies, researchers, and conservationists to conserve Malaysian otters through multidisciplinary and holistic approaches,' said Chee Yoong from the MON and the IUCN SSC Otter Specialist Group. What are next steps for the Eurasian otter in Malaysia? Otter Species Manager at Sabah Wildlife Department, Siti Nur'ain Ampuan Acheh. The Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD), as a member and in collaboration with MON, will take a significant step towards otter conservation by planning a Human-Otter Conflict Workshop and developing the National Otter Action Plan this year in Sabah. This initiative aims to address the growing challenges of human-otter conflicts by finding practical solutions that balance conservation efforts with human needs. Setting up a remote-sensing camera trap in Tangkulap Forest Reserve by Panthera Malaysia staff. The workshop will also serve as a crucial platform for experts, stakeholders, and policymakers to discuss key issues, close critical information gaps, and develop actionable strategies for otter conservation in Malaysia. Siti Nur'ain Ampuan Acheh, Otter Species Manager at SWD and a member of the MON and IUCN SSC Otter Specialist Group stated, 'Through this effort, MON and SWD are reinforcing their commitment to otter protection while fostering coexistence between people and otters, especially with Sabah being home to four otter species in a single site — a rare and significant conservation opportunity'. Article contributed by Panthera Malaysia, Sabah Forestry Department and Sabah Wildlife Department
Borneo Post
3 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
SCCC elects new committee, Frankie Liew retains presidency
The newly elected SCCC committee members for 2025-2028. Frankie Liew is seated fifth from left. KOTA KINABALU (May 31): The Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) held its annual general meeting on Thursday at the Sabah Golf & Country Club, Bukit Padang, with 78 members in attendance, highlighting strong member engagement and support. A total of 29 candidates were nominated and elected unopposed to serve on the new committee for the 2025–2027 term. This unanimous outcome reflects unity and confidence among SCCC members. The newly elected committee is expected to convene a re-election meeting within two weeks to confirm leadership roles, in accordance with the Chamber's constitution. Datuk Frankie Liew was re-elected as president for a third term, in recognition of his visionary leadership and tireless service to the Chamber. 'I am humbled by the continued trust of our members. Together, we will build on our achievements and expand Sabah's economic ties regionally and internationally,' said Frankie. The full list of 29 committee members: Datuk Frankie Liew, Brett Chua, Datuk Jonathan Koh JP, Ir. Ts. Tan KJ JP, Chiew Heng Hock, Tan Siew Ling, Jeremy Ho Soon Teck, Chea Hoong Tak, Lo Mei Hwa, Chung Zheng Uyee, Douglas Fong, Lucas Kwan, Datuk Simon Teoh, Anthony Leong, Joanis Yee, Leo Liew, Ling Hang Tze, Max Chan, Chin Hui Zhi, Hong Jia Hao, Chan Jun Git, Kapitan Foo, Kenneth Tan, Darius Hee, Desmond Hsiu, Ong Kian Tee, Wong Chung Ming, Cheong Siau Ling and Datuk Peter Chia. A major announcement made during the AGM was the confirmation of SCCC's upcoming business delegation to Zhengzhou, China, from 24 to 28 September 2025, to participate in the International Business & Trade Expo. This strategic mission aims to: • Promote Sabah's strengths in agriculture, tourism, logistics, halal products and green technology; • Facilitate business-matching and investment networking sessions; • Sign MoUs with key Chinese trade organizations; • Involve young entrepreneurs in cross-border collaboration initiatives.
Borneo Post
3 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Malaysia to tap into Middle East market with ‘Brunei +' tourism model
Tiong says to support promotional efforts, Tourism Malaysia would offer 30 familiarisation trip slots to Royal Brunei Airlines, allowing their representatives to explore new attractions across various Malaysian states. – Bernama photo PUTRAJAYA (May 31): Malaysia is poised to strengthen its tourism connections with Middle Eastern countries by adopting a successful model pioneered by Royal Brunei Airlines, says Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. According to him, Royal Brunei Airlines' well-established 'Brunei + Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu' model, which offers travellers a complimentary overnight stay in Brunei before continuing to destinations like Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu, has received encouraging market response and was recently extended to include Kuching. 'After seeing the success of this initiative, we plan to replicate it for the Middle Eastern and Indian markets, in partnership with Royal Brunei Airlines, to attract more international visitors,' he said in a statement. Tiong said that during the 2025 Arabian Travel Market, he and Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy held discussions with Royal Brunei Airlines' United Arab Emirates (UAE) regional manager, Jalal Sanour Rahman, which resulted in an initial agreement to adapt the 'Brunei +' model for the UAE market. The package would target the 4.5 million Indian expatriates living in the UAE and offer a seven-day, six-night tour covering Brunei and Malaysia, with Tourism Malaysia sponsoring a free one-night stay in Kota Kinabalu or Kuching. 'Our goal is to attract at least one million Indian expatriates from the UAE to visit both countries. 'I aim to finalise this package by the end of the year in support of our vision to welcome 45 million international tourists for Visit Malaysia 2026,' said Tiong. The minister said to support promotional efforts, Tourism Malaysia would offer 30 familiarisation trip slots to Royal Brunei Airlines, allowing their representatives to explore new attractions across various Malaysian states. 'The familiarisation trip is tentatively scheduled for September or October, with the itinerary expected to be finalised by the end of August.' Tiong also proposed for Royal Brunei Airlines to consider opening more connecting routes, such as direct flights from Dubai to Brunei with connections to destinations in Peninsular Malaysia like Melaka, Johor, Pahang and Perak. He said such routes could be implemented through codeshare agreements or chartered flights, helping to position Malaysia and Brunei as key gateways for regional travel. 'This strategy, where visitors enter via Brunei and depart from Malaysia, also aligns with efforts to grow the Muslim-friendly tourism segment between both countries,' said Tiong, adding that the ministry would work closely with the Transport Ministry to expedite any necessary approvals for new routes. — Bernama brunei Tiong King Sing tourism
