Dr Hii Sui Cheng SIBU: Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s recent announcement that several rural air services in Sarawak will be opened to other airlines besides MASwings starting next year augurs well for Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI). Its president Dr Hii Sui Cheng when commenting on Loke’s statement believed that this move will certainly help boost tourism and businesses in general. Loke had said the matter had been discussed with Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg during a meeting in Kuching on Friday, adding that the Ministry of Transport would study Abang Johari’s request for a flight from Kuching to Jakarta and Australia and also from Sibu to China. On the routes requested, Hii said: “Very good to hear this news. On behalf of SCCCI and Sibu residents, I thank the minister for agreeing to have other airlines in addition to MASwings to fly Sibu-Kota Kinabalu sector as well as planning to have a flight connecting Sibu to a destination in China. “Both these initiatives will be good for tourism and businesses. I hope AirAsia and other airlines will grab the opportunity to do so. “The flight to a destination in China (hopefully in Fujian) will facilitate the growth of trade as Sibu moves towards creating more industrial and agricultural activities on sites already allocated and in the process of being allocated by government,” Hii added. “With the help of the Sarawak government and collaboration with its federal counterpart, the central region of Sarawak should see better days ahead,” he said. On a separate matter, Hii listed out several initiatives carried out by SCCCI namely: setting up an entrepreneur hub to nurture more entrepreneurs to become successful businessmen and industrialists; obtaining approval from Sarawak government through Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Ministry of Industrial and Entrepreneur Development (MIED) for a piece of industrial land for SMEs; and in the process of applying for agriculture land from Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas for cultivation of crops for the export market as well as to meet local demand. “With the fruition of these initiatives, SCCCI and other regional business chambers namely Dewan Usahawan Bumiputera Sarawak (DUBS) and Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), should concentrate on remaining works such as identifying an industrial partner to set up factory to process agricultural crops for export as well as seeking collaboration with local tertiary institutions to conduct industrial research at solving problems. All the above are important parts to a complete zigsaw,” he pointed out.

To provide a platform for Red Cresent Youth members to share knowledge and skills.  It is also to upgrade their abilities and skills as well as to create better awareness on climate change and humanitarian services.   For more info, please call: Malaysia Red Cresent Miri Chapter Datin Judy Wan Morshidi Hp: 019-8854986 Tel: 085-411121 / 428032 Fax: 085-420479 Website: mrcmiri@streamyx.com              @##@Malaysia Red Cresent Miri Chapter@##@MRC Miri Chapter@##@2014-09-14@##@2014-09-16

Fatimah gestures during the press conference. With her are Rosey (right) and Harden (left). – Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi KUCHING: The Health Department will be introducing the ‘Klinik Ikon Mesra Remaja’ in the state as a pilot project to provide health services to teenagers. Welfare, Community Well Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said for a start, the two clinics will be set up at the government health clinics in Bintulu and Kapit where teenagers can come for consultation regarding their health or even talk to a counselor if they are suffering from stress, anxiety or depression. “The ‘Klinik Ikon Mesra Remaja’ will be an avenue for the teenagers to talk to someone about the problems they face,” she told a press conference after chairing the One-Stop Teenage Pregnancy Committee (OSTPC) meeting at a leading hotel here today. According to her, the specialised clinic will consist of a counsellor, doctor and nutritionist among others. “Training has been done with the frontliners and we hope that the clinic can start operating by the end of the year,” she remarked. Also present at the press conference were Assistant Minister of Women, Family and Childhood Development Rosey Yunus and Assistant Minister of Community Well Being Datuk Francis Harden Hollis.

Abang Johari (standing, 10th left), flanked by Juma’ani on his left and Dr Abdul Rahman, joins the aid recipients and members of the mosque committee in a group photo. — Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi       KUCHING: The Darul Hana project will go on as usual despite the change of government at federal level. In making this assurance, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg there should be no problem as far as the running of the project is concerned. The Darul Hana project is being implemented by the state government to establish a comfortable yet modern village area, with orderly living conditions, for residents of Kampung Seberang Hillir. “There should be no problem for the project to go on, even though the federal government has changed, because it (Darul Hana) is funded by the state government,” he spoke prior to ‘iftar’ (break-of-fast) at Masjid Darul Hana here on Wednesday evening. The mosque is a component of the whole Darul Hana project that has reached completion and is now operational. For now, the project enters its first phase of constructing the residential units. On a separate subject, Abang Johari pointed out that although the state and federal governments are now under different coalitions, Sarawak ‘remains special in its own way’. “We will continue our efforts of developing the state with our resources, and we will also work together with the new federal government led by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.” Additionally, Abang Johari said the state government would take over several services that used to be under the administration of the previous federal government. “They include the distribution of allowances to community leaders and village chiefs, to be borne by the state government following the federal government’s decision of temporarily halting the payment of community leaders’ allowances.” Later, Abang Johari also presented Hari Raya contributions to 130 needy individuals. The chief minister attended the event with his wife Datin Patinggi Dato Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, Assistant Minister of Rural Electricity Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi and Sarawak Islamic Council president Datu Misnu Taha.

June 1, 2020 The annual Irau Aco Lun Bawang enters its 33nd year in 2020. Irau Aco Lun Bawang Festival is traditionally a celebration of the rice harvest but now it showcases a variety of Lun Bawang’s culture including traditional music and dances as well as traditional handicrafts and traditional Lun Bawang’s cuisine. This festival is the largest gathering of the Lun Bawang community at any one place in Sarawak. This event takes place at the end of May every year.  Their counterparts; the Lun Dayeh from Sabah are also invited to the festival. You will be entertained with the the community’s cultural dances, ‘nguip suling’ (bamboo flute band), ‘angklung’ performance, and also modern day band performance. There are handicrafts and traditional Lun Bawang cuisines for sale and telematches; traditional and modern.    @##@Lun Bawang Association@##@Dataran Bandar Lawas Lawas Damit Road Lawas, Sarawak Malaysia@##@2020-06-01@##@2020-06-01

Dr Sim (centre) officiating at the symposium together with Wee (seventh right), Wong (sixth right) and Ko (fourth left). KUCHING: Culture is the root that holds Sarawakian Chinese together and we must remain united under one roof, said Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian here yesterday. Speaking at the opening ceremony of The Chinese Cultural Symposium at Sarawak Club, he said that Sarawak is grateful to the China government for its willingness to foster bilateral relationship. “We are thankful, especially for giving us the opportunity to be part of the One Belt One Road initiative implemented by China,” he said, adding that we need to continue this relationship and expand it to other industries. Dr Sim was representing Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at the symposium organised by The Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions in conjunction with the 7th Sarawak Cultural Symposium. Also present were its president Dato Richard Wee, vice presidents Wong Tiong Hook and Pemanca Ko Wai Neng, who is also organising chairman. In his speech, Wee said that the symposium will collect views and opinions on Chinese culture from both academicians as well as the general public. Resolutions and memorandums prepared from this will be handed over to Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg during the closing ceremony of the Sarawak cultural symposium on Oct 11. “As we all know, cultural heritage and language are the soul and root of a particular race, and it is important for all the different races to protect and propagate its values for our future generations,” Wee emphasised. “We should always understand our culture, master our own language and at the same time, appreciate the different cultures and traditions of our fellow Sarawakians,” he added. Consul General of People’s Republic of China in Kuching Cheng Guan Zhong spoke on The Belt and Road Initiative in relation to the evolution of the Chinese people and their culture in Sarawak. The opening ceremony yesterday saw four speakers took to the stage. Professor Dr Wang Yin Chai from Unimas Faculty of Computer Science and IT discussed ‘The Influence and Challenges of Digitisation of our Culture’ while Dr Elena Gregoria Chai Chin Fern, from Unimas Faculty of Social Science and Humanities talked about the ‘Belief of Thai Pak Kung in Borneo’. Meanwhile, UNIMAS Institute of Borneo Studies Research Fellow Dr Lam Chee-Kheung gave a talk on ‘The Sarawak Chinese: National Identity Attainment and Community Advancement.’

Use Natural Resources To Spur Growth — CM Kadim (third left) is seen discussing the content of some books with Manyin (right) during a tour around the mini exhibition area. — Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg wants the rich natural resources in Sarawak, be they oil and gas, forest or fisheries, to be utilised more optimally, as the state moves forward towards achieving a high income status. He reminded that this is crucial to ensure that these valuable natural assets could continue to generate streams of revenue as an impetus to long-term economic growth or even economic development of the state. “On the other hand, we want to ensure that all ethnic groups in Sarawak will continue to enjoy the fruit of development in a peaceful and harmonious manner without jeopardising the quality of the environment and its natural resources,” he said. “With respect to this, all state agencies are playing important roles to ensure sustainable development goals encompass all environmental, social and economic elements,” he added. Thus, he reminded that the Sarawak Planning Unit; Natural Resources and Environment Board; Ministry of Urban Development and Natural Resources; Ministry of Modernisation of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development; and Ministry of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development have greater responsibilities to strive for sustainable and more inclusive development goal. Abang Johari highlighted this in his text of speech read by Minister of Education, Science and Technological Research Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong at the opening ceremony of International Conference on Development, Environment and Society (Icdes 2017) at Riverside Majestic Hotel here yesterday. The Icdes was organised by the Faculty of Social Sciences of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) in conjunction with Unimas Silver Jubilee celebration. Themed ‘Towards an Inclusive and Sustainable Future’, the two-day conference gathered 100 participants consisting of academicians, postgraduates, policymakers, industry players and representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to have scholarly discussion and exchange of ideas. Sarawak, Abang Johari continued, remained committed to ensuring all policies devised and implemented in the state were in place to create a healthy, equitable, inclusive and sustainable ecosystem. “In order to achieve the high income national goal, a few strategic thrusts have been pursued including creating an environment suitable for unleashing economic growth, moving towards inclusive socio-economic development and building an environment that enhances the quality of life of all people in the nation,” he said. “In line with this, we, as policymakers in Sarawak, have greater responsibility to ensure that this largest state in Malaysia is not lagging behind compared to other states in Malaysia,” he added. The Sarawak government, he elaborated, together with the federal government, has allocated a substantial amount of funds for infrastructure development in the state. “Such development is part of the strategy to transform Sarawak’s traditional economy into digital economy,” he said. “The Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) is one of the five economic development corridors created by the federal government as part of an ambitious plan to stimulate investment-led growth in traditionally rural areas,” he added. Abang Johari pointed out that this was indeed a living example of strategising a more balanced regional development by creating economic and job opportunities in initially less-developed regions in the state. The challenge for policymakers today, he said, was on how to propel the economy to greater heights, and with more direct positive impact channelled to its local communities. “The theme of this conference thus acts as an important reminder. It is timely held for researchers and participants to share knowledge and ideas in discussing significant issues relating to development, environment and society,” he added. “I really hope that all forms of debate and discussion would ultimately bring benefits to the development of the nation as a whole and Sarawak in particular,” he concluded. Earlier on, Unimas Vice Chancellor Datuk Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi highlighted that it was important to put emphasis on sustainability as one of the development agendas in the process of nation building, apart from preservation of environment. “The development approach adopted over the last few decades may not be appropriate for today’s use as the consideration is not just about physical development alone anymore,” he said in his address. “Therefore, Unimas has made sustainable social transformation as an important part of research related to development,” he added. Kadim shared that, according to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development 2030 Agenda, sustainable development is commonly defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generation to meet their own needs. “Indeed, it calls for concerted efforts towards building an inclusive, sustainable and resilient future for the society and the world,” he said. For sustainable development to be achieved, he emphasised that it is crucial to balance the three core elements: economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection. “These elements are interconnected and all are crucial for the wellbeing of individuals and societies. Eradicating poverty in all forms and dimensions is an indispensable requirement for sustainable development,” he elaborated. To achieve this noble goal, Kadim said there must be promotion of sustainable, inclusive and equitable economic growth which will create greater opportunities for all, reduce inequalities, raise basic standards of living, foster equitable social development and inclusion, and promote integrated and sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems. Unimas Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof Mohd Fadzil Abd Rahman, Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences Assoc Prof Dr Neilson Ilan Mersat and Icdes 2017 chairperson Dr Wong Swee Kong were present.

  Abdul Karim (seated third right) addresses the press conference after the meeting. Also seen seated from left are Abang Abdul Wahap, Abdul Wahab,Hii,and Snowdan. — Photo by: Muhd Rais Sanusi.   KUCHING: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports is looking at temporary tour guides with Mandarin proficiency to accommodate the growing number of visitors from China. Its minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this was brought about by the about 20,000 air passengers, mostly from China, who came here in the first three months since the inaugural Kuching-Shenzhen flight at end of December last year. “The ministry is seriously looking into this issue and is hoping to address it with contingency plan or else it would have an impact on our Chinese guests,” he told a press conference after chairing the Sarawak Tourism Steering Committee meeting here yesterday. “Currently, we have about 200 licensed tour guides but only a few can speak Mandarin. So, maybe we can train some temporary Mandarin-speaking tour guides,” he said. He added that Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) and Forest Department, which manage national parks in Sarawak, would make arrangement to have Mandarin-speaking park guides or rangers in the frontline as well. On issuing of Visa on Arrival (VoA) at the borders, Abdul Karim said they would be holding a dialogue with the state Immigration Department today (March 21) in the hope that procedural issues could be ironed out to make it easier for visitors who have entered Brunei in particular, to access Sarawak. “We note that many foreigners who are visiting Brunei are also interested to continue their journey to Mulu and Niah caves, and we want to tap into this market. “There are problems with procedures which need to be sorted out in order to facilitate the issuance of VoAs for these visitors to go in and out of Sarawak. The problem is minor, and can be resolved,” he added. Abdul Karim also said more efforts would be put in to ensure that the state’s tourism industry remain competitive and continue to contribute to the economy. “This year, Sarawak is targeting 5.25 million tourist arrivals. With enhanced air connectivity, especially by having more direct flights to international and domestic destinations, it will help to increase the number of visitors to Sarawak,” he said. There are also a number of key events that help the tourism sector including Borneo Jazz Festival, Rainforest World Music Festival, Borneo Cultural Festival, Kuching Marathon, Kuching Food Festival, Borneo International Kite Festival, What About Kuching, Sarawak International Dragon Boat Race, Sarawak Regatta and also various sports tournaments. Tourist arrivals into Sarawak in 2017 totalled 4.85 million, an increase of 4.2 per cent over 4.66 million in 2016. Tourism receipts in 2017 totalled RM8.59 billion compared to RM8.37 billion in 2016. The top three markets were Brunei (1.73 million), Indonesia (513,442) and the Philippines (68,380). Sarawak, Abdul Karim, added also received half of the total amount of tourism tax collected from September to December 2017. “We collected RM879,058 tourism tax during the period. And, as agreed by the Ministry of Finance, for every RM10 collected, RM5 goes back to the state. So Sarawak will receive RM439,529,” he added. Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports Datuk Snowdan Lawan, the ministry’s permanent secretary Hii Chang Kee, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chairman Abdul Wahab Aziz and Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Datuk Bandar Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai were among those present at the meeting.

The Women and Family Department of Sarawak will hold a Sarawak State Women's 2017 State Level Celebration. The following: Date: 26 August 2017 Venue: Borneo Convention Center Kuching, BCCK Time: 8.00 am to 2.00 pm For more information, please contact the HW17 Secretariat at 082 446178@##@Women and Family Department of Sarawak@##@BORNEO CONVENTION CENTRE, KUCHING@##@2017-08-26@##@2017-08-26

Seated from fourth left: Dr Abdul Rahman, Asfia, Paulus, Sufian (standing second left) in a photo call with PKL committees members. LIMBANG: The Sarawak government always takes into account the voices and aspirations of Sarawakians to ensure that their living standard is further improved. In stating this, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar said every leader and elected state representative has a responsibility to take care of the people’s needs as they were in their position because of people’s support. “Thus, the government will always provide assistance to the people and try to fulfil their aspirations so that their quality of life could be further improved,” he said at the appreciation dinner for the recent ‘Makan Malam Perdana’ organised by the Limbang Kedayan Association (PKL) at Dewan Patiambun here on Monday night. Among those attending the dinner were Assistant Minister of Agriculture Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, Batu Danau assemblyman Paulus Palu Gumbang, Limbang District Council (MDL) walikota and PKL deputy chairman Cr Sufian Mohat, Penghulu Abu Tinggal, Patiambun village chief Ahmad @ Naim Mail and PKL exco members. Asfia pointed out that the people in Sarawak are very fortunate as the state has reserves and resources to bring about sustainable development. At the function, Asfia announced a government grant of RM10,000 and donated a buffalo for the forthcoming Hari Raya Aidil Adha. Earlier, Dr Abdul Rahman said the Makan Tahun Perdana was a good programme to promote and nurture the Kedayan culture besides showcasing harmony in the community. He disclosed that Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg had approved a two-acre plot of land for the construction of PKL office. “The site and location have been identified near the Limbang Division New Mosque, and once built and completed it will provide convenience to PKL members,” he said. Dr Abdul Rahman also advised the Kedayan community to nurture cordial relations and solidarity in their quest to achieve greater success in the future.

KUCHING, the Capital City of Sarawak, Malaysia, has the reputation of being the Hub and Gateway to the Crafts of the Indigenous Peoples of Sarawak, and Borneo. With the wealth and diversity of the various forms of Crafts of over thirty communities expressed in textile, fiber, ceramic, wood etc, Kuching has recently joined the ranks of other Crafts Cities around the World such as Jaipur (India), Jogjakarta ( Indonesia), Dongyang ( China), Dehua (China), Sakon Nakhon ( Thailand), Isfahan ( Iran), and twenty other cities around the World that has been accredited as Craft Cities by the World Crafts Council, a UNESCO Category A Affiliate Organization. In celebration of Kuching as World crafts Council- City for Crafts, and in fulfillment of the obligation to host the Biennale for Craffts, it is now proposed that Kuching will host the World Crafts Cities Network Forum on 8th and 9th November in conjunction with the AHPADA/WEFT Symposium event being held concurrently. DRESS AND CULTURAL IDENTITY The 9th Biennial WEFT Forum, Exhibition and Fashion Show In conjunction with the World Crafts Cities Network Forum DAILY PROGRAM Friday 8 November 9.00- 10.00 am: Opening Ceremony by Y.A.B. Datuk Patinggi Abang Hj. Abd Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abg Hj Openg, Chief Minister of Sarawak. Tour of International Exhibition Booths 10.00-10.30 am: Tea/Coffee Break SYMPOSIUM (Facilitator: YM Raja Datin Paduka Fuziah b. Raja Tun Uda ) Session 1 Chaired by YM Raja Datin Paduka Fuziah b. Raja Tun Uda 11.00-11.30 am: HRH Gusti Kanjeng Ratu Bendoro:Yogyakarta Palace dress code, Indonesia 11.30-12.00 pm: John Ang-Royal Attire of the Nusantara 12.00-12.30 pm: Filomena Reiss- The Baduy Code of Dress, Indonesia 12.30- 1.00 pm: Dr Siti Norkhalbi Wahsalfelah- Brunei Costume 1.00-1.30 pm: Ahmed Alfarsi-Omani Costumes 1.30-2.30 pm: Lunch Break 2.30-3.30 pm: WORLD CRAFTS CITIES NETWORK FORUM Session 1 WORKSHOPS: A. Feather and Floral Lei by Herman Kekoa Ka’oiwinani Mossman Tachera B. Sarong Style by Meechai Taesurijaya, Apip Jogjakarta, Asif Shaikh C. Natural Dyes by Warlami Indonesia, Nest Kokonest 3.30-4.00 pm: Tea/Coffee Break 4.00-5.00 pm: WORLD CRAFTS CITIES NETWORK FORUM Session 2 7.00 pm: Official Opening of Exhibition Saturday 2 Dec Session 2 Chaired by Dr Surapee Rojanavongse 9.00- 9.30 am: Savitri Suwansathit- Thai Dress through the ages, Thailand 9.30-10.00 am: Keo Siri Everingham: Laos Costume 10.00-10.30 am: Dr Nguyen Thi Ngan- The Ao Dai, Vietnam 10.30-11.00 am: Dinara Chochunbaeva- Kyrgyz traditional hats Ak-kalpak and Elechek (Tea/Coffee Break) Session 3 Chaired by Mdm Manjari Nirula 11.00-11.30 am: Laila Tyabji—Saree of India 11.30-12.00 am: Monisha Ahmed- Ladakh identity in dress, India Session 4 Chaired by Prof. Shaikh Azahar Bin Shaikh Hussain 12.00-12.30 am: Mai Ni Ni Aung- Myanmar Dress 12.30-1.00 pm: Joseph Lo- Indigenous Chinese minority style 1.00- 1.30 pm: Victorino Manalo- Terno Dress of Philippines 1.30-2.30 pm: Lunch Break 2.30-3.30 pm: WORLD CRAFTS CITIES NETWORK FORUM Session 3 WORKSHOPS: A. Feather and Floral Lei by Herman Kekoa Ka’oiwinani Mossman Tachera B. Sarong Style by Meechai Taesurijaya, Apip Jogjakarta, Asif Shaikh C. Natural Dyes by Warlami Indonesia, Nest Kokonest 3.30-4.00 pm: Tea/Coffee Break 4.00-5.00 pm: WORLD CRAFTS CITIES NETWORK FORUM Session 4 Workshops continue 7.00 pm: Gala Dinner/International Fashion Show Sunday 3 Dec Session 5 Chaired by Dr Sitthichai Smanchat 9.00- 9.30 am: Naoko Matsuyama : Kimono Culture of Japan 9.30-10.00 am: Suknam Yang: Korean Style 10.00-10.30 am: Yuan Guo Xiang- Chinese Cultural Dress 10.30-11.00 am: Prof Zhang Hui- Smart Dress- new directions in Chinese dress design (Tea/Coffee Break) Session 6 Chaired by Datin Dayang Mariani 11.00 -11.30 am: Herman Kekoa Ka’oiwinani Mossman Tachera: Lei style of Hawaii USA 11.30-12.00 am: Prof YY Wan- Paiwan of Taiwan 12.00- 12.30 pm: Roxanna Amarillo:The Poncho traditional handmade clothing of Argentina 12.30-1.30 pm: Sarawak Costumes Round Table: Dayak Cultural Foundation-Iban Dress DBNA-Bidayuh Costumes Persatuan Melayu Sarawak-Malay Dress of Sarawak OUNA-Orang Ulu of Sarawak Persatuan Melanau Sarawak 1.30- 2.30 pm: Lunch Break 2.30-3.30 pm: AHPADA (ASEAN HANDICRAFT PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION) BOARD MEETING OR Workshops on: A. Feather and Floral Lei by Herman Kekoa Ka’oiwinani Mossman Tachera B. Sarong Style by Meechai Taesurijaya, Apip Jogjakarta, Asif Shaikh C. Natural Dyes by Warlami Indonesia, Nest Kokonest 3.30-4.00 pm: Tea/Coffee Break. 4.30-5.00 pm: Workshops continue 7.00 pm: Farewell Dinner (Mad Hatters Theme Party), Dewan Sri Bunga Rampai. The W.E.F.T. FORUM was first started in September, 1999 in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Since then, the WEFT Forum has been a biennial event. 2001 (20-22 Sept): ‘BASKETRY’ and Natural Dye Workshop. 2003 (19-21 Sept): ‘Hand Painted, Printed and Decorated Textiles’. 2006 (5-7 May): ‘Textile Traditions Today’. 2008 (12-14 Sept): “Textiles and Fibers- The Untold Stories” 2010( 24-26 Sept): “ Nature’s Color Code” 2012 (27 Sept- 1 Oct)“ISEND/WEFT- Waste To Wealth” 2014 (Event held in Taiwan) 2017 (1st-3rd December): World Ikat Textiles..Ties that Bind” WEFT Forum Objectives: To promote, share and acquire knowledge on the use of natural fibers and dyes. To conserve and encourage the use of natural, sustainable material in the creation of arts and crafts. To network amongst natural-material producers and the craftspeople through the establishment of an information database. To develop a marketing network e.g. trade in raw materials, dye stuff etc. To encourage and coordinate research and study into the traditional use of natural fiber and dyes in all forms of textile weaving, basketry, mat-weaving, plaiting etc. To promote the development of World-Eco Fiber and Textile Art. To foster cultural exchange through exhibitions, conferences, international visits by the craftspeople for the purpose of study, lectures and workshops. The ASEAN Handicraft Promotion and Development Association (AHPADA), an affiliated Member of ASEAN, acts as a regional forum of ASEAN Member states to address issues concerning the revitalization, promotion and development of crafts. As a regional body, it has linkages with international agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations in order to create an awareness of Southeast Asian craft products. AHPADA’s activities include the organization of seminars and workshops addressing issues such as product development, financing of craft enterprises, and market promotion. AHPADA was established as a result of the International Workshop on Handicraft for Export held in conjunction with CONEX ’81 in Bangkok in February 1981 by ASEAN representatives from both the Government and Private Sectors. The founding members were Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. Singapore and Brunei Darussalam joined in little later. Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam joined in September 1999. International Exhibition Costumes and in particular the Headdresses from the 10 ASEAN members countries namely Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos and Brunei will be exhibited together with the ASEAN Plus countries such as India, China, Japan and Korea. From Sarawak, the variety of head-dress and costumes of the 30 races will be the attraction such as the Iban silver ‘sugu tinggi’ ( female), ‘topi tunjang’ (male); Bidayuh beaded tall hats, conical rattan hats and embroidered caps; Orang Ulu beaded sun-hats ‘sa-ong’; Lun Bawang and Kelabit beaded ‘pata’ skull caps; Melanau palm ‘terendak’ hats; Malay ‘keringkam’ head-covering and ‘songkok’, Penan plaited rattan ‘head-bands etc. The Kadazan/Dusun hats from Sabah and the various “tengkolok’ folded ‘kain songket’ formal head-dress of the other states of Peninsular Malaysia will complete the collection of Malaysia. Of special interest will be the ‘gourd’ hats from the Philippines; palm hats from Rote, Indonesia, the intricate gilded ceremonial dance head-dress from Thailand and Cambodia; the distinctive Vietnamese hat; Chinese opera ‘head-dress’, Indian Maharajah’s turbans and Japanese samurai hats. (organized by Society Atielier Sarawak & AHPADA) CONTACT: Society of Atilier Sarawak (Organizer) Mr.Edric Ong Advisor of WCC-APR Email: edric.ong@gmail.com Ms.Francsika Lembong VP of South East Asia Subregion Email: franciskalembong@gmail.com Ms.Hesti Kresnarini Representative of VP of South East Asia Subregion Email: hestikresnarini@gmail.com Dr.Sitthichai Smanchat VP of South East Asia Subregion Email: wcc.thaitextile.chai@gmail.com @##@Society of Atilier Sarawak@##@Kuching@##@2019-11-08@##@2019-11-10

  Azman (right) and a colleague check on the water level in Sungai Pandaruan area.   LIMBANG: Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Limbang and Lawas continued monitoring the flood situation in several areas in the two districts yesterday in view of the prevailing inclement weather. Limbang Zone Fire Chief Edmund Dmahai Emboh said monitoring was conducted at Sungai Pandaruan, Sungai Bakuak, Tabohan and Sembiling. Leading the monitoring team was Bomba Assistant Superintendent Azman Ibrahim accompanied by Fire Officer Alwi Abang. “The flood water in all the rivers is receding except at Sungai Pandaruan where the water level remains the same,” he said. However, the water level is rising in areas of ​​Kampung Medait and Batu Danau as flood water in the upper reaches of Limbang had gone downstream. “Residents in the affected areas are advised to evacuate to higher ground should the need arise,” he said. In Lawas, some 32 children and four babies were among 68 residents around Trusan area moved to the Evacuation Centre at Trusan Community Hall, which entered the second day yesterday. They comprised 38 men and 30 women from Kampung Gelapas, Kampung Seberang Kedai and Kampung Tengah Trusan. Lawas Bomba Chief, Zaki Husin when contacted said the water began to recede as of noon yesterday. “Even though the flood water is receding, we advise flood victims evacuated not to return home yet as the rainy weather persists. “Based on the weather forecasts, there is likely to be high tide tonight. Thus they should stay put at the evacuation centre until the weather improves,” he said. As for Sundar area, the water level is generally receding although in some areas rising, but no one has been evacuated so far.

Nawawi (third right) listening to Giant hypermarket representative explaining about their price tags system during an operation.     KUCHING: The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism (KPDNKK) Sarawak deputy director Md Nawawi Abdul Rahman was satisfied with the zero-rated Goods and Services Tax (GST) compliance by retailers which came into effect today. Nawawi led an operation in collaboration with the Customs Department to inspect and monitor the implementation of zero GST on business premises at Giant Hypermarket in Tabuan Jaya here today. “Our operation is conducted to make sure all traders comply and meet the requirements with the implementation of zero GST so to avoid any manipulation of prices,” he told a press conference held at the hypermarket after a walkabout to check price tags on goods and discussions with Giant representatives present. Other objectives were to ensure businesses do not take advantage by increasing the prices of goods and charges for services to make unreasonable high profit and that the net profit margin for a product or service was set in accordance with the law. “We are happy that this hypermarket meets the new requirements for zero GST including (cash registers) system and price tagging,” he said. Emphasising that attention will be given to daily essentials, basic household products as well as services, Nawawi revealed that up until yesterday (Thursday), 543 premises have been inspected throughout Sarawak involving 16,290 types of products. “A total of nine complaints have been received from consumers with three reports on anti-profiteering and GST while six were on pricing. “KPDNKK together with Customs will follow up with the reports and conducting operations from now until we are satisfied with the compliance so to ensure that the zero-rated GST can be fully enjoyed by the people,” he added. The enforcement team has also inspected food outlets nearby the hypermarket as well as other goods such as electrical, furniture and many others. “We also discovered that the price of certain products are way lower than the zero-rate, meaning to say that such businesses are able to lower the prices providing a favourable condition,” said Nawawi.

File photo of Bakun HEP. KUCHING: The State Government today signed a historical deal with the Ministry of Finance (MoF) to acquire Bakun hydroelectric power (HEP) from the Federal Government. According to Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) chief executive officer Sharbini Suhaili, the deal was signed in Kuala Lumpur today between SEB and Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani who represented MoF. “Yes, we have signed the final deal with MoF and Bakun HEP is now is ours,” Sharbini told The Borneo Post. Sarawak Hidro’s Chief Executive Officer cum Managing Director Zulkifle Osman had earlier today revealed that both parties were finalising the technical details of the sale and purchase agreement. He had also told The Borneo Post end of July that the mammoth Bakun HEP Dam project was on final phase of Sale and Purchase Agreement (S&P) between MoF and the Sarawak Government after the Sukuk owners of Bakun (HEP) Dam agreed during its Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held in Putrajaya for the change of ownership from MoF to the State Government. The strategic move by the State Government to acquire the 2,400 MW HEP Dam ‘lock, stock and barrel’ at a cost of RM2.5 billion from the Federal Government was announced by Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg on March 8, this year. Abang Johari had said, the acquisition of Bakun HEP, it will spur Sarawak to become a powerhouse that will enable it to lower the tariffs for local consumers as well as exporting the power surplus to neighbouring countries. He said the strategic agreement was achieved between him and the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak last February and that the balance of the RM6 billion will be serviced by SEB. The Chief Minister had said that the remaining RM6 billion loan will be managed by SEB, as part of its cash flow but assured that the income from Bakun would be substantial enough even to earn profit from the sale of its power to its consumers.

Fatimah (standing front, sixth right) and Rosey on her right join teachers and pupils of Tadika SeDidik Mutiara Dalat in a photo-call. Nor Ashikin stands on back row, second left. DALAT: The Ministry of Welfare, Community Well Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development (KWKPK) strives to ensure the success of a pilot programme that focuses on nurturing good hygiene habits in young school-children. According to Welfare, Community Well Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, the ‘Bersih Awal, Bersih Akhir’ (BaBa) programme is now being implemented in 14 children’s early education institutions (IPAKK) across four ‘regions’– Kuching, Sri Aman, Dalat and Bekenu. BaBa is a collaboration between the KWKPK and governmental bodies like the Education Department, Welfare Department, Community Development Department (Kemas), district and resident’s offices, statutory units like SeDidik Sdn Bhd, as well as a number of non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The IPAKKs involved in this pilot project include the preschools run by Kemas and SeDidik. “Each of these IPAKKs is given start-up allocation of RM1,000 to kick-start the BaBa programme,” she said in her opening remarks during a recent visit to Tadika SeDidik Mutiara Dalat here, which is among the 14 IPAKKs running the pilot project. Assistant Minister of Women, Family and Childhood Development Rosey Yunus and SeDidik SEDC general manager Nor Ashikin Abdul Rahman were also present. The BaBa programme was launched by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg during the ‘KWKPK Open Day’ on Feb 3 this year. Fatimah, who is Dalat assemblywoman, believed that the BaBa principles could help groom the children into becoming disciplined, responsible, independent and well-mannered individuals. “The pilot project is beyond instilling in children a strong sense of hygiene-consciousness. It may start out as a set of instructions, but as they progress, the children would feel that it is their obligation to keep their place clean;this would extend to their houses, their playgrounds – wherever they are at. “Once they have this self-awareness, they would not only continue it, but also advocate it to others,” she said. Describing BaBa further, Fatimah said it was adopted from the ‘O-Soji’ (mass cleaning) programme– a tradition in the Japanese education system. “Schools in Japan,including the pre-schools, practise ‘O-Soji’ – the children do the cleaning works, not the janitors. “This programme is considered as an element of teaching and learning – a part of the education system in Japan. This is what BaBa is based upon,” she said.

Sarawak Syariah Judiciary Department

916 Malaysia Day Countdown Street Party 2012 has been held for the 4thconsecutive year.  The Street Party displays the passion of Mirians towards our love to the Country through participating in various outdoor sport events and the highlight is the street party complete with varied entertainment which runs beyond midnight. This annual event has attracted participation from locals and the visitors and the Party is an upcoming tourism attraction.   For more info, please call: Miri City Council Tel: 085-424111 Fax: 085-435602 Email: mirimc@miricouncil.gov.my    @##@Miri City Council@##@Miri Tourism Corridor, North Yu Seng Road@##@2014-09-15@##@2014-09-15

  Hasbi Habibollah LIMBANG: Limbang MP Hasbi Habibollah urged the Transport Ministry to intervene and view seriously summonses imposed by Brunei authorities on Malaysian vehicles with tinted glass, especially in Sarawak and Sabah. He said the issue became a dilemma, especially for the people in Limbang and Lawas who had been travelling to and from Miri. “I have voiced this problem in the last Parliamentary debate session to the Transport Ministry so Malaysian cars crossing neighbouring Brunei are not subjected to their law,” he told the media yesterday. Hasbi said tinted glass for vehicle is allowed in Malaysia as long as it is within the specified visible light transmission (VLT) rate of 70 percent for the windshield, 50 percent for front left and right windows, and 30 percent for rear windows “However these rules are not allowed in Brunei and we respect their laws. We want relaxation of regulations that should only apply to Brunei registered vehicles as Malaysia has her laws on the matter,” he stressed. He also called on the Ministry of Transport, Malaysia to include the matters in the bilateral negotiations as a topic of discussion. According to Hasbi, Sarawakians, especially in northern Sarawak travelling in their vehicles when passing the neighbouring country, had to pay a summons of RM180 to law enforcement authorities for an offence concerning tinted glasses.

Abang Johari does his part during the World Clean-up Day campaign. KUCHING: Residents here have been called on to have a spirit of accountability and responsibility for the city’s cleanliness. Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) declaration of Kuching as a healthy city must be preserved. “The question is how are you going to sustain it? That is the problem. When we have been declared as a healthy city, can we sustain that status? “It all depends on the Kuching citizens, whether we can sustain that standard or not,” he said when launching World Clean-up Day yesterday. Abang Johari said he is generally happy with residents of traditional Malay villages in the heart of the city for helping to keep Kuching clean and healthy. “That is why we see the water in the Sarawak River is clean. If they have continued with the culture of throwing rubbish into the river, we would not be able to see a clean Sarawak River like this. “To maintain the city’s standard, we have to transform the urban villages, not only the way of life but also the facilities. So far, it has been good,” he said. The Chief Minister said cleanliness should not be confined to the physical but also include being spiritually clean. “If we have spiritual cleanliness then we can understand the people we talk to; there is no feeling of vengeance and hatred. “If everyone has no feeling of vengeance against each other, we will be able to create not only physical cleanliness but also spiritual cleanliness,” he said. Abang Johari added Sarawakians generally have a high level of understanding of each other’s cultures and beliefs, and hopes this would always be preserved. “I think the future is great for the future generation because we are working for tomorrow not for us now. What we are doing today is for the future generation,” he said. Among those present were Petra Jaya member of parliament Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and State Secretary Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani.

Abang Johari stressed a constitutional point by referring to his smartphone.     MIRI: Sarawak has never consented in legislation to the amendment of its border of state territorial waters in Parliament, therefore it still has the right to the established boundary of 12 nautical miles. Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, in pointing this out, said the amendment could only be valid in law if this was carried out. He said he stands by the Federal Constitution as the supreme law in asserting that the boundary of Sarawak’s territorial waters was 12 nautical miles, as laws passed by Parliament that affect and alter the ownership of the territory with all its rights herein can have no constitutional or legal effect without the consent of the Sarawak DUN. “Sarawak has the right to the established boundaries of water of 12 nautical miles. Nobody can changed that as in Article 2 of the State List,  that you can’t change the boundary unless the State consents in legislation. “I stand by the Federal Constitution as the supreme law. If I am wrong, sue me but if I am right, support me,”  he said at the Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Miri region luncheon dialogue attended by a crowd of 400 from the business community in Miri. Abang Johari said the current Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been supportive of this stand and listens to Sarawak’s voice on her state rights.   He reminded that the formation of Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) and the exercising of the constitutional rights under Item 2(c) of the State List and 8(j) of the Federal List as provided in the Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution was aimed at greater participation of Sarawakian players in the oil and gas industry apart from exploiting her resources according to the state rights. Ownership of territorial seas and waters means it is within Sarawak’s right to take control of her marine wealth and to exercise the power to grant licences for prospecting, exploration, granting of oil mining leases, and to issue deep-sea fishing licences. Article 2(b) empowers the Parliament to alter the boundaries of any state but a law altering the boundaries of a state shall not be passed without the consent of that state.