Latest news with #Mara
Edmonton Journal
a day ago
- Business
- Edmonton Journal
Air Canada flight attendants defy back-to-work order, continue strike
Article content Oci Mara and her husband were supposed to fly home to Montreal at around 1 a.m. Monday, but their flights were cancelled due to the strike. Unable to get through by phone, they went to the airport to speak with Air Canada agents in person. Article content 'It's a terrible situation. It's so frustrating,' Mara said, adding that her husband needs to be back in Montreal for work on Monday. Article content Mara said they were told that if they booked seats with another airline, Air Canada would only refund the cost of their original tickets. Article content 'We have no idea what we're going to do,' she said. Article content While she sympathizes with flight attendants fighting for fair pay, Mara said the strike has left passengers struggling to make alternate travel arrangements. Article content 'I understand people have to fight for their rights to get paid,' she said. 'Unfortunately, there's a lot of problems for us (as a result).' Article content Article content Air Canada said it will provide travellers with cancelled flights options such as full refunds or credit for future travel. 'The carrier will also offer to rebook customers on other carriers, although capacity is currently limited due to the peak summer travel season,' the airline said in a statement. Article content Article content Flight attendants spent Saturday picketing at the Calgary International Airport, where travellers continued their efforts to salvage travel plans disrupted by the work stoppage. Article content Air Canada, which locked out its flight attendants shortly after their strike began, had planned for flights to resume Sunday evening with a gradual ramp-up over the coming days, the Montreal-based airline said in a statement. Whenever service restarts, it will take several days before operations return to normal. Article content Article content The airline previously said the walkout would disrupt some 130,000 passengers a day during the summer holiday season. Article content The Canada Industrial Relations Board directed Air Canada to resume airline operations and for all Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flight attendants to return to work by 2 p.m. ET, according to the airline's statement early Sunday. Article content The move came after Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu directed the independent CIRB to order a resumption of operations and to impose binding arbitration to resolve a standoff over contract negotiations. Article content The Liberal government's back-to-work order was criticized by the government's political opponents on Saturday. Article content Federal Conservative Labour critic Kyle Seeback called the move an attack on flight attendants. Article content 'No worker — federally regulated or otherwise — should be forced, especially by the government, to work without being paid. Yet, that is exactly what flight attendants are being ordered to do,' he said in a written statement, while urging the federal Liberals to pass a Conservative-sponsored bill that would ensure flight attendants are paid for all hours worked. Article content Meanwhile, Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi said the Air Canada labour dispute should be resolved at the negotiating table.
Daily Express
2 days ago
- Science
- Daily Express
Why now also restrain MRSM students on DLP?
Published on: Sunday, August 17, 2025 Published on: Sun, Aug 17, 2025 By: Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim Text Size: THE Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia (PAGE) wishes to warmly congratulate all 355,933, or 94pc of students, who succeeded in obtaining their SPM certificates on April 24, when results were released. For the 14,179 who scored straight As, the world is your oyster. While there will be scholarships galore, some will be disappointed as there may not be enough to go around since there are so many high achievers. Even students of wealthy parents may want their fair share of the offers so it is important that every applicant is given a fair chance. For the 1,789 who failed all subjects, and most of you had personal challenges that you were unable to overcome, remember that there are many who did not conform to the criteria set by mainstream education but still succeeded later in life, but not without a struggle. But the 'Star of the Show' appears to be MRSM or Mara (Majlis Amanah Rakyat) Junior Science Colleges. Mara chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has taken social media by storm to celebrate the colleges' successes under his leadership. Of 57 such colleges, an extraordinary 31 in number, including 10 offering the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), achieved a Gred Purata Sekolah (GPS), or Average School Grade, of under 2.0. MRSM Kuala Kubu Bharu (IGCSE) took the lead, while MRSM Ulul-Albab Kepala Batas (Tahfiz al-Quran) was in second place, followed closely by MRSM Johor Bahru (IGCSE). While all MRSM focus primarily on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), not all colleges are the same. There are five types of programmes that these colleges offer, with their respective areas of emphasis. That is, for the Form 1 intake, 12 offer the IGCSE and 36 the Premier programme. Eight of the colleges offer the UlulAlbab/Tahfizal-Quran and two offer Technical/Engineering Science such as robotics and Internet of Things. At the Form 4 level, the options available at three colleges are only the Premier and Bitara/Gifted and Talented. For the enrolment in 2025, there were an astounding 93,635 students who sat for the Ujian Kecenderungan Kemasukan MRSM (UKKM), of which a mere 8,909 secured places. But after the recent bullying incident when seven boys were expelled, there is some apprehension among folk; unless and until they are convinced that bullying has been eliminated, they will be treading cautiously. Being able to attract such an overwhelming number of applicants gives Mara the luxury of picking only the cream of the crop, a practice that began from the first-ever MRSM that opened in Seremban in 1972, followed by the ones in Pengkalan Chepa and Kuantan. Science and mathematics were still being taught in English then, before it went gradually and then completely into Malay, back to wholly in English in 2003 and subsequently as an option under the Dual Language Programme (DLP) in 2016. Thus, when MRSM abruptly abolished DLP in late 2022, affecting literally overnight not only the incoming Form 1 students but also those in Forms 2, 3 and 4 who had been enjoying being taught these two core subjects in English, it was a big blow to the teachers, students and parents alike. Parents were advised to not protest, or they would face repercussions. Only the 12 IGCSE colleges were spared. My first encounter with Mara scholars was in 1978, when we pursued A-levels at Coleg Aston, Wrexham, Clwyd, Wales. I found them to be warm, smart, confident and unassuming young men and women who seemed to effortlessly ace examinations in physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics, and yet had a sense of humour, adventure and expression. We were all taught science and mathematics in English in schools then before they turned Malay-medium. All of them, who have come from humble beginnings, now hold their heads high in their respective esteemed professions and specialisations. Subsequently, Mara, too, would fund my professional examinations and remains close to my heart. MRSM has always prided itself as a specialist institution for STEM. Therefore, to limit its students to science and mathematics in Malay, knowing that the language of STEM is English, is relegating, underestimating and undermining the endless potential of these bright sparks. All MRSM and boarding schools should admit 100pc of their students into STEM English courses if the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development desires to address the declining national interest in this field, in order to compete globally, while top performing Orang Asli should not be limited to Mara educational institutions but be offered opportunities well beyond their walls. What was the rationale behind abolishing DLP? Was it to elevate the GPS? Or was it solely to uphold the sovereignty of the Malay language? There are enough subjects in Malay without having to sacrifice the opportunity of being taught science and mathematics in English. Eventually, when students pursue higher education overseas such as in the UK, Australia, the US, Canada, Europe, Japan, South Korea, Russia, or Egypt at Al-Azhar University for medicine, or even in Malaysia, STEM is most likely to be conducted in English with a smattering of the respective national language. Even Master's and PhD programmes in China are conducted in English. It is easier to master STEM in English as early as possible rather than at the tertiary level when terms become complex and complicated. The risk of failure is higher the longer the delay to master STEM in English, not to mention the toll it takes on the mental health and well-being of undergraduates. MRSM students want to be challenged. And they can overcome any challenge thrown at them. It is ironic that while day school students opt into and excel in DLP, MRSM students are being restrained. With leadership and support, they can do even better. Challenge them. Return 100pc DLP to all MRSMs as it was done in 2003. Do what Sarawak has endeavoured to do with DLP. Sow the seeds, and with patience and perseverance, reap the benefits when the time is ripe. Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim is Chairperson of the Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia, an educational lobby group that serves as a channel between concerned parents, the Ministry of Education and other educational stakeholders. The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: [email protected]
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Kapit's first woman-owned laundry, homestay opens thanks to Mara
Rubiah (left), accompanied by Lucy (second from left), touring the newly opened Bunggas Laundry, while Zahari looks on. KAPIT (Aug 17): The soft opening of Bunggas Laundry and Bunggas Homestay here yesterday marked a significant milestone for women entrepreneurs in the region, with the business hailed as a shining example of local enterprise success backed by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara). Officiated by Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development, Datuk Rubiah Wang, the event celebrated the achievements of Bumiputera entrepreneur Lucy Jah Iba, who owns and manages the establishment. 'Women like Lucy are living proof that with proper support and determination, rural-based businesses can thrive and even lead in markets often dominated by others,' said Rubiah in her speech earlier. She praised Mara's role in enabling women entrepreneurs to move forward through financial assistance, training, and development programmes under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development. Lucy, who began her entrepreneurial journey in the early 1990s, now runs multiple ventures under Syarikat Bunggas, including a cafe, construction and supply business, controlled goods distribution, and now, the latest additions of a laundry and homestay in Kapit town. 'Opening Bunggas Laundry and Bunggas Homestay has been a dream come true. 'This isn't just a business, it's about creating jobs, empowering locals, and showing that Bumiputera women can be pioneers in any industry,' said Lucy when met after the ceremony. According to Mara, Bunggas is the first Bumiputera woman-owned laundry and homestay in Kapit, a space typically dominated by non-Bumiputera entrepreneurs. Her business now employs over 30 staff and records annual sales exceeding RM1 million. With eyes set on future expansions, Lucy plans to open a 'Mini Mart' and even franchise a Petros petrol station, with the aim of offering more Rahmah Sales outlets and increasing Bumiputera participation in retail and service sectors in Kapit. 'Mara's financial support and training really helped shape our business journey,' Lucy added, citing the RM350,000 business loan, halal certification grants, and digitalisation assistance, including a Point Of Sales (POS) system for Bunggas Cafe and a booking system for the homestay. As of July 2025, 1,298 entrepreneurs in Sarawak have benefitted from Mara's support, with 56 per cent being women, underscoring the agency's role in promoting gender-inclusive economic development. The soft launch event was attended by over 50 guests, including Mara officials, local entrepreneurs, and community members. It ended with hopes of inspiring more women to pursue entrepreneurship and contribute to the rural economy. Bunggas Homestay Bunggas Laundry Kapit lead Lucy Jah Iba mara
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Mara empowers Sarawak women entrepreneurs with RM33 mln boost
Rubiah strikes the gong to officiate the Kapit Division Women Empowerment Programme, as others look on. KAPIT (Aug 17): Women entrepreneurs in Sarawak continue to receive strong support from the government through various entrepreneurship programmes spearheaded by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara), which has allocated RM33 million to benefit 1,156 entrepreneurs in the state as of this year. Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Hajah Rubiah Wang, who officiated the Kapit Division Women Empowerment Programme 2025 at Dewan Suarah here yesterday, said that of the total allocation, RM955,000 was channelled specifically through the Women's Business Fund (DANAnita) scheme, benefitting 26 women entrepreneurs as of July 2025. 'As of July, Mara has disbursed RM30.1 million in financing to 243 entrepreneurs statewide, including RM6.8 million to 92 women,' she said. 'Today alone, nine women entrepreneurs from Kapit received a total of RM377,700 through various Mara financing schemes,' she said. Rubiah also highlighted Mara's efforts in improving access to business spaces across Sarawak. 'A total of 383 business premises have been made available, with a 96 per cent occupancy rate, involving 158 women entrepreneurs. These businesses have collectively recorded RM53.4 million in sales and created over 1,045 job opportunities.' She noted that Mara is also driving business digitalisation through the Mara Entrepreneur Readiness and Improvement Training (MERIT), Bumiputera Entrepreneur Startup Scheme (BEST), Business Digitalisation Programme (DIGITALBIZ), and Advances Development Programme (ADAPT), which have supported 398 entrepreneurs so far, with RM875,000 in matching grants disbursed. Rubiah also announced a major infrastructure initiative in Kapit: the construction of a new Mara Professional College campus, a RM90 million project that commenced in June. Once completed, it will accommodate 350 diploma students who have completed Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM). 'Women are no longer confined to the kitchen. Today, they play a pivotal role in driving the nation's economy,' she said. 'Through the Mara Women Community Empowerment Action Plan 2025-2030, we aim to uplift more Bumiputera women through 17 strategic initiatives, including skills training, financing, and digital marketing.' Rubiah added that Mara's commitment to empowering women aligns with the government's broader rural economic development agenda. 'A woman who rocks the cradle can shake the world. I hope this programme will serve as a catalyst to bring Mara closer to the people and help more women in Sarawak thrive as successful entrepreneurs.' Also present at the event were Mara Council member Siti Ajar Yasin, Mara deputy director-general (Entrepreneurship) Zahari Aziz, Mara Sarawak director Razu Abdul Razak, and representative of the Kapit Resident's Office Caroline John Sikie. lead mara women entrepreneurs
The Star
2 days ago
- The Star
Teachers can't do it all
PETALING JAYA: The employment of former military and police personnel as wardens at boarding schools will ensure effective response against bullying, but must be done with caution, say experts. Gerakan Gubal Akta Anti Buli (GAB) chairperson Wan Azliana Wan Adnan said that the recent move by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) to appoint retired army and police personnel as hostel wardens at two Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) should be expanded to cover all boarding schools. 'Currently, wardens are appointed from among teachers, who already carry full teaching responsibilities during the day. 'This dual role overburdens them and limits their ability to focus on student safety,' she said when contacted. Wan Azliana: Notes that retired military and police personnel possess a strong background in discipline, leadership and situational awareness. Wan Azliana, a lawyer and anti-bullying advocate, noted that a Federal Court case last year had shown the serious consequences when a warden fails in his duty of care. 'In that case, the warden did not perform his night rounds and failed to inspect the head prefect's room, where the bullying took place. 'This highlights the urgent need for dedicated wardens whose sole responsibility is student welfare and safety, rather than overburdened teachers who already have full teaching duties during the day.' She said that retired military and police personnel possess a strong background in discipline, leadership and situational awareness. 'Their background and experience would enhance student safety, deter bullying and ensure swift intervention when such incidents occur,' she said. Last month, Mara chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki announced a pilot project involving the appointment of not more than 10 retired army and police personnel as wardens in MRSM Besut in Terengganu and MRSM Balik Pulau in Penang. Under the project, the wardens would begin service this month and would be monitored during a six-month trial period to evaluate the pros and cons of the initiative. The pilot project was implemented following the video recording of a bullying incident involving a group of students from MRSM in Seberang Perai Selatan which occurred mid-last year but went viral in April this year. Meanwhile, National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) secretary-general Fouzi Singon hopes that the government would prioritise appointing full-time wardens at boarding schools, noting that teachers currently serving in the role are burdened with dual responsibilities. 'This can be very exhausting, and it has become increasingly difficult to find teachers willing to take up warden duties voluntarily,' he said when contacted yesterday. Farah Nini: Calls for candidates to undergo the Tajma psychology test to ensure their compatibility with working with children. Human Rights Commission of Malaysia children's commissioner Dr Farah Nini Dusuki said that candidates hired as wardens for residential schools must be carefully screened prior to their appointment. 'While we do not have a complete screening mechanism akin to Children Check in Australia, we do have an electronic register established under Section 118 of the Child Act 2001. 'This allows for the relevant authorities or even individuals to screen people for purposes of employment,' she said. She said the register currently contains the list of convicted offenders of sexual abuse against children, and hopefully in the future, will also include other categories of offences against children as well. She added that candidates should also be made to undergo the Tajma psychology test to ensure their compatibility with working with children. The Tajma psychology test is named after its creator Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Tajudin Md Ninggal as an online psychological assessment tool developed locally for profiling personality traits and career interests.
