FRIDAY-15TH FEBRUARY 2008- WE'LL CONTINUE WITH BN SEATS FORMULA

We’ll continue with BN seats formula: CM


KOTA KINABALU:

Almost everybody looked tense when Sabah Barisan Nasional Chairman, Datuk Seri Musa Aman, announced the dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly yesterday. Sitting in the waiting room of his official residence at Sri Gaya here, Musa who was attired in a dark suit and wearing a songkok, with Parti Bersatu Sabah President Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan seated on his right and other incumbent assemblymen standing behind, made the most-awaited announcement at around 3pm. “I received the dissolution document signed by the Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah at 2.3Opm today (yesterday) ... I now announce the Sabah Assembly dissolved,” said Musa to start the ball rolling at the half-an- hour press conference. Earlier, BN Chairman Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced the dissolution of Parliament which was telecast live on television at 12.3Opm. Musa who was in a relaxed mood, however, stole a few smiles as he responded to questions from the floor. He repeatedly stressed the need for all BN coalition party members to “work together closely and be sincere in their struggle” to repeat the success of the 2004 general election. The priority, he said, is to work for BN and not for individual interest. “We will continue the seats formula for BN, but will discuss further on seats swapping, if there is any, after our return from a meeting at the national level in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow (today),” he said. According to Musa, there are no worries when talking about elections as they had gone through similar processes before. “If there is any problem, it would be looked into and we will find the best approach to overcome it. “Our manifesto remains. It is the BN culture, we all work as a team and our mission is to ensure all BN candidates fielded in the coming elections win big. We need to ensure the continuity of all development projects planned for the good of the people,” he said. Asked on the list of candidates who would be contesting in the polls, he said they had yet to decide pending proposed names from the other coalition party members. On another issue, he said it is not impossible for them to sweep clean all the seats, adding that all the coalition party members would help one another during the election period. Asked whether the BN would be fielding new faces in the elections, he responded with a smile: “Maybe there will (be) ... I will let you know when the time comes.” On whether he sees the opposition as a threat, Muss said: “It is not important what the opposition do, I am more concerned with BN.” He also expressed confidence of support from Sabahans, adding that the people are smart and know which party to choose to govern them

THURSDAY-14TH FEBRUARY 2008- ARRIVALS SURPASS TARGET AS SABAH TOURISM ON RIGHT TRACK

Arrivals surpass target as Sabah tourism on right track, says CM

KOTA KINABALU:

Sabah tourism sector is on the right track towards stronger growth as the Government’s commitment to position the State in the international tourism map is being matched by the industry players’ proactive efforts. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said the Government’s efforts to boost the industry by allocating huge funds for improving supporting infrastructures such as the expansion of the Kota Kinabalu International Airport are matched by the private sector through the investment in new and innovative products. Musa, who said this when officiating at the opening of 90 additional luxurious rooms at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort in Tuaran yesterday, urged tourism operators in the State to continue developing and introducing new marketable products to attract more foreign tourists. He said one way to do this is by further incorporating local traditions and customs, especially those which are rare, into tourism products. “New areas in tourism need to be explored. For example by offering special packages to foreign tourists which intimately introduce them to the unique culture of the local people or by opening special outlets dedicated to provides guests with traditional food,” he said. He said the richly diversified culture of the local people in Sabah offers a lot of unexplored opportunities for further expanding the tourism sector and urged tourism players to creatively create new and innovative products to make Sabah a more competitive international destinations. At the same time, the industry must keep abreast with the current global trend and anticipate the future while maintaining the best quality in their services, he added. For a sustainable growth, it is important that locals are trained with new skills such as foreign languages to enable them to play important and meaningful parts in the development of the industry. Musa said Sabah has been enjoying tremendous growth in the tourism industry with hoteliers recording more than encouraging occupancy rates, especially during peak seasons such as school holidays where it is almost impossible to get rooms. He noted that for the first half of last year, the average occupancy rate for three to five star hotels in Sabah were more than 72 percent, way above the national occupancy rate of 62 percent. While the figure indicates Sabah increasing popularity as tourist destination, it also shows that the State is facing shortage of hotel rooms, he said. To meet the rising demand Sabah has created additional 402 rooms during the same period last year to cater for increasing number of both domestic and international tourists coming to Sabah. The private sector is investing in building more hotels, especially in Kota Kinabalu which is the gateway to Sabah’s wonders. New hotels are also coming up in other parts of the State, including in Sandakan, Tawau and Semporna, he said. A total of 2.47 million tourists visited Sabah last year, surpassing the 2.3 million target set by the State. The figure is an increase of 18.5 per cent compared to the 2.0 million tourists arrivals in 2006. The tourist arrivals to Malaysia is projected to reach over 24 million by 2010 and create more than 520 jobs with generated receipts of more than RM59 billion. Meanwhile, a separate event later yesterday saw the launch of a newly completed RM1O million CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort. CHI, The Spa which started operation since Dec 28 offers luxurious spa treatment with emphasizes on privacy and use of traditional herbs and medicine. It draws inspiration from the origin of the Shangri-La’s legend, high in the mystical Himalayan mountains, offering a range of therapies based on the ancient healing traditions, philosophies and rituals of China and Himalayas. CHI, The Spa in Tanjung Aru is the latest addition to the ShangriLa’s existing 12 spas throughout its chain hotels and resorts worldwide carrying the CHI concept. The spa in Tanjung Aru offers exclusive therapies that celebrate local culture and healing traditions including for example indigenous ingredients from Borneo volcanic mud to Sabah pearls and cocoa. The spa also incorporated some local products which are inspired by the Bobohizan practices such as nutmegs, red ginger, and betel leaf believed to remove negative energy. The launching was officiated by Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun.

THURSDAY-14TH FEBRUARY 2008- SAPP ASSURES LIEW OF SUPPORT IN MEROTAI

SAPP assures Liew of support in Merotai

TAWAU:

Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Seri Panglima Yong Teck Lee has assured that his party will support and assist Datuk Liew Yun Fah in retaining the Merotai seat during the impending general election. Yong said if Barisan National (BN) renominates Liew as its Merotai candidate, it will not be a problem for SAPP to assist Liew, as the party has a division in the constituency. He was commenting on the statement by Kalabakan Umno chief Datuk Seri Panglima Abdul Ghapur Salleh that Merotai should be returned to Umno, “SAPP understands that Liew is carrying out his duties very well in Merotai and he has a good performance record in serving the residents there after he was appointed as a minister. Hence, I hope Umno Kalabakan would not forget Liew’s services,” he said. “I feel that the ways used by Ghapur to regain Merotai for Umno are not proper; his harsh words in directly criticizing the BN assemblyman. Besides, Ghapur should not hang up the banner at a public place which states Umno wants Merotai back, especially during the Chinese New Year celebration,” Yong said. According to him, there is no need to hang up the banner, but he was not surprised by Ghapur’s action because the latter will argue and fight to gain seats especially during every election. “Our party understands the feelings of Liew in facing the treatment,” he said.

THURSDAY-14TH FEBRUARY 2008- MEROTAI TO STAY WITH LDP

Merotai to stay with LDP: Liew

KOTA KINABALU:

N58 Merotai seat will remain with Liberal Democratic Party. This is at least what its President Datuk V K Liew said yesterday while voicing his confidence on the decision that the Barisan Nasional leadership will make regarding the seat. The seat, which is currently held by LDP’s Liew Yun Fah, has been at the centre of a controversy as it is also being sought by Kalabakan Umno Chief Datuk Ghapur Salleh, who has insisted the constituency belongs to Umno. “We have every confidence in the BN leadership and that the Merotai seat will be given back to LDP, which we have won handsomely for the coalition in the last election. “Demands can always be made but we are confident the ruling coalition would allow LDP to represent BN in Merotai... I have absolutely no doubt on that,” he said speaking to reporters during LDP’s Chinese New Year celebration at the State Prisons Department in Kepayan near here, Liew also stressed that they also believe BN would return the Sandakan seat to LDP, and in fact, they have made their request known to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi during the party’s congress in November last year. Asked about the PM’s reaction to the request, Liew answered: “Just believe that BN will maintain its status quo.” He said Ghapur’s demand for the seat was not a threat, adding: “It is just a ripple in the teacup by certain quarters, just a ripple and I do not see it as a rift at all. We (LDP) always have a very cordial working relationship with Umno, and we have every confidence that the seats will be returned to us.” Asked about his next action if Umno refused to help LDP during the election, Liew said it has yet to happen and he prefers not to speculate further. On another development, Liew described as a vocal party tells nothing but the truth. He was responding to Democratic Action Party Kota Kinabalu chairman Dr Hiew King Cheu’s statement last week requesting former Chief Minster and LDP President Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat to leave the BN, stressing that the latter had caused a stir in the coalition over certain issues. “We are just living up to the PM’s call to be truthful. LDP may be a bit vocal lately but we believe in telling the truth,” Liew said. “It may be a bit hurtful to some people but at least we let the truth out. It does not mean we do not subscribe to the cause and struggle of BN and we do not submit to malice. We want to win handsomely for the coalition in the next election and help the ruling coalition remain in power,” he said. He stressed that being vocal is good as it would help improve and overcome the existing weaknesses. At the event, Liew also shared some news of the outside world with the prison inmates. “We are all waiting for the big announcement from the Prime Minister.. it is the election date. I believe it will be made known soon,” he said.

MONDAY-11 FEBRUARY 2008- CALL FOR VIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO TRUST FUND

Call for viable alternative to Trust Fund


KOTA KINABALU:

The State Government has been urged to consider a more viable or acceptable alternative like setting up a dedicated Sabah Development Corridor Task Force to implement infrastructure projects for tourism potential areas, instead of the proposed Tourism Property Development Trust. The call came from tourism player, who is confident the private sector will provide the initiatives and funding once the plan is made public, to develop the hotel industry expeditiously in the context of the Sabah Development Corridor as envisaged by the Prime Minister. “I like to request sincerely to our Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman and Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun to consider this urgently,” he said in response to a recent news report about the proposed development trust. He said the report raised concerns as his family owns land along the Tuaran beach, which they had hoped to develop for many years but could not do so as there is no infrastructure like water, electricity and road there. “With the greatest respect to those making the proposal, I have grave reservations that the long- term interest of the land owners will be sufficiently protected by the said development trust or that it will enhance the growth of the hotel industry in Sabah,” he said. In the news report it was stated that development will exclude zones which have been alienated for conservation, such as mangrove swamps. The first development will be the 3,000-acre Sepanggar Resort and the beaches along Tuaran to Kota Belud, which will be developed like the Gold Coast in Australia. And that the entire stretch of coastal land for the Sepangar-Tuaran-Kota Belud development will be placed under a Development Trust Fund, with the Trust Fund ensuring that affected rural landowners can enjoy receiving a recurring income from development of their land. “(But) Sabah’s history is littered with failures of similar government trusts or bodies that have been set to look after the people’s interest,” said Lo. To mention a few, he cited the Rural Development Corporation (KPD) and its subsidiaries, Sabah Marketing Authorities (Sama), Permodalan Bumiputera Sabah and Amanah Saham Sabah (SAS). Pointing out that the Gold Coast of Australia has not been developed by a trust set up by the government, he said the Australian government like all sensible and pragmatic governments provided the necessary infrastructures, incentives and encouraged the private sector to drive or develop the industry. Lo claimed the proposers have also incorrectly presumed that the land owners are rural people and, therefore, incapable of looking after their own interest, as well as that the land owners are incapable of developing or if necessary looking for JV (joint venture) partners to develop their properties. “They (proposers) should conduct an in-depth research into the profile of landowners (concerned),” he said, adding the ‘Nusa Dua’ is also no a good example. He said the proposers have used Nusa Dua as an example of a successful tourism development by a trust, but this is an out-of- date and isolated model. “Nusa Dua was set up when private sector in Bali was weak more than 20 years ago. Great majority of the top world tourism destinations have been driven or developed by private sector initiatives, for example, Cancun, Singapore, Acapulco and even our own Malaysia,” he said. Without a doubt, Sabah is not Bali 20 years ago, he said, adding the private sector in Sabah has been the engine of growth for the development of the tourism or hotel industry from the beginning to now. “Why change this successful formula to a trust which is untested?” On land to be parcelled out and leased to private sector investors who own or have partnerships with international hotel brands, Lo said again the pro- posers have presumed the inability of the landowners to initiate or undertake their own investment or to attract international hotel brands. “May Task which trust has been responsible for the big names to come to Malaysia and Sabah? In parcelling out the land, how will the interest of the landowners be looked after? Who is going to be responsible if there are losses, or when the land, due to one reason or another, is to be auctioned?” he asked. On the Trust Fund being a corporative entity with the Sabah State Government as the major shareholder and supported by the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry, Lo said: “The Government has no business to be in business when the private sector has been doing so well in the tourism or hotel industry. There is a great danger that the proposed Trust Fund which, in essence, is a ‘Big Brother’ or ‘We Know Better’ approach, will kill off Sabahan private sector initiatives in the tourism or hotel industry,” he said. Under the proposed Trust Fund, he said Sabahans would eventually have little stake in the hotel industry, like the oil palm industry. “At best, Sabahan landowners will become inactive ‘landlords’ waiting for handouts, if any, from the proposed Tourism Property Development Trust,” he said. He said the proposers have not consulted the landowners before drawing up their proposal. “There is no safeguard for abuse. The principle of the proposed Trust Fund is in direct contradiction to Federal and State government policies of encouraging the private sector or how the interest of the landowners will be safeguarded,” he said.

MONDAY-11 FEBRUARY 2008- BIG TURNOUT SURPRISE ORGANISERS

Big turnout surprises organisers


KOTA KINABALU:

Sheer human jam was the response to the 8th KK City Anniversary Cultural Extravaganza. First, KK folks packed Promenade Boulevard to see the Anniversary Street Parade. A terrific turnout that heartened and surprised the organisers. Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman —both Guests of Honour of City Mayor Datuk iliyas Ibrahim - witnessed the throngs who were ultimately treated to some spectacular fireworks. But what really surprised the organisers was when the 5,000-capacity Dewan Canslor at Universiti Malaysia Sabah was packed by paying spectators, especially the last night on Tuesday, to see the Anniversary Cultural Extravaganza which featured exotic Brazilian, Ukranian Cossacks, Spanish, Maori, Kenyan, Polish, Scottish and Irish dance troupes. No free tickets were handed out to help fill gaps, except for a smattering of invited guests, assured Wan Maria Othman Lee, DBKK Deputy Director General-cum-organising chairperson. Tun Ahmadshah was there again to witness it, so was Datuk Masidi Manjun, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment. But it was a tribute to a top rate show and high quality presentation which deserved that sort of response. Not forgetting, of course, Daily Express as the event’s official media which gave prime front page space and colour pages to orchestrate the publicity for a vision and mission as crucial as promoting respect and appreciation for cultural diversity and tolerance. We are happy it worked out with a resounding success. True, there was a hitch on the first night on Feb. 3, which stretched the show up to midnight. But an urgent 9am meeting next morning called by Wan Maria quickly turned the show around into a praiseworthy, time-disciplined endeavour over the next two nights. A judicious portfolio of the best of exotic and local dances got the crowd hooked. instead of a quick exit after the finale, hundreds of spectators rushed up to their idol dance troupes for lingering photographic opportunities — a phenomenal local affection which many dance troupe members said just made them feel so significant in Sabah. “It was a very good quality show. I hope we can see something like this every year,” remarked La Salle teacher Veronica Somasundran.

MONDAY-11 FEBRUARY 2008- CM SUGGESTS CHIEF FOR ALL TAWAU PTAs

CM suggests chief for all Tawau PTAs


TAWAU:

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman suggested that all parent- teacher associations in the Tawau district be headed by a Chairman or President, towards achieving common goals. This would undoubtedly encourage discussions of common issues that could benefit the students and schools concerned, other than fostering mutual understanding and cooperation, he said, while opening a one-day seminar on Parent-Teacher Associations towards Educational Excellence for the Kalabakan parliamentary constituency. at the SK Bandar hall, here, Sunday. Also present were local leaders Datuk Tawfiq Abu Bakar Titingan, Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh, Datuk Dr Patawari Patawe, Haji Mohd Karnil Kasim and Samson Chin. The function also saw 49 pupils receiving excellence awards for their 2007 UPSR achievements. Musa also presented tuition assistance for learning the English language to five rural primary schools — SK Mentadak Baru (Pulau Sebatik), SK Bergosong (Pulau Sebatik), Sk Berantian, SK Desa Subur and SK Sungai Imam. The Chief Minister also pointed out that it could not be denied that the PTAs have the responsibility to promote progress of students and schools, considering that they have good management system, including financial management. At the same time, PTAs could help ensure a healthy school environment arid disciplined students free from social ills, he said. Later, Musa, accompanied by his wife Datin Hajah Faridah Haji Tusin, attended a Chinese New Year open house hosted by Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) here. SAPP President Datuk Yong Teck Lee was also in attendance.

MONDAY-11 FEBRUARY 2008- EXCHANGE STUDENTS FORM ALUMNI TO PRESERVE CULTURE

Exchange students form alumni to preserve culture


KOTA KINABALU:

Native youths have been looking at their peers abroad to understand how to hold on to their culture in the ever- changing world. The Kadazandusun Cultural Association-International Student Cultural Exchange Programme (KDCA-ISCEP) aims to learn youths from other countries ways to preserve age-old traditions while not being left out from mainstream development. In 2005, eleven students from SM St Peter, Telipok became the first batch of the KDCA-ISCEP programme to set out to South Korea to learn from the counterparts there not only to see for themselves how Korean youths preserve their traditions but to build stronger relationships and promote global peace. Since then, a total of 49 students aged between 16 and 19 have had the opportunity to do so and determine to make good use the exposure gained from the programme. The KDCA-ISCEP Alumni was formed by these youths to ensure the continuance of the programme and to contribute constructively towards the development of Kadazandusun youths in particular. The Alumni, among others aims to help preserve the Kadazandusun culture among the youths as well as to promote understanding between youths of other countries. Its advisor, Athanasia Nointin said the Alumni, within a short period of time has devised whole-year plans that include cultural activities, fundraisers, teambuilding activities as well as jointly organising activities with other youth bodies or organisations. “This group of very passionate, highly motivated and committed young Kadazandusuns youths are set to learn, be groomed and be shaped in the manner that could bring them to their vision of being knowledgeable, respected and professional,” Nointin said. “In KDCA-ISCEP, we are blessed for these young individuals who though are living in a globalise world as well as with growing modernisation are seeking to hold on their own cultures.” she added. However, much of the future successes of the Alumni will depend on support-from the elders, she conceded and for that she urges Kadazandusun leaders to set aside political affiliations for the sake of the Kadazandusun youths and help towards the preservation of the culture. While thanking KDCA President Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan who she said has done much to assist the its cause, Nointin said more should step up to assist. Another goal for the Alumni is to provide more students, especially those in the rural areas to have the opportunity to participate in such programme, she said, but lack of funds is hampering efforts to do so. For this year, KDCA-ISCEP is sending another 22 students to South Korea for which participants will have to fork out close to RM2,000, an amount in which many rural students simply do not have. Although another half of the funding will be borne by KDCAISCEP and its affiliate, the Gyeonggi Cultural Foundation, Korea, these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for rural students will no doubt have a big impact on how they view the world and Nointin expressed her confidence that it would also show them to appreciate their culture. For Mohd Hazli Ali Zapar, .19, the Alumni’s President, in the context of culture and indigenous identity, the changes that threatens traditional cultures are often blamed on globalisation. “However, it is important to realise that globalisation is just a process, manipulated by mankind and with that it is transparent that we (the youths) hold the power to change things we see necessary and at the same time preserve our heritage.” he said. “The Alumni believes that if there should be any changes ushered in to ensure a better future, it should therefore be done by the young generation of today. Life is like a baton, it is passed on from one generation to the next. “We strive be the ‘wheel of change, in order to usher in the paradigm shift among youths, especially to incubate a realisation of self-identity and the right set of mind.., we hold the power to determine what tomorrow will look like as we are the future leaders,” he said. “

MONDAY-11 FEBRUARY 2008- MANTANANI FOLKS AGAIN TOLD NOT TO CARRY OUT FISHBOMBING

MANTANANI FOLKS AGAIN TOLD NOT TO CARRY OUT FISHBOMBING


KOTA KINABALU:

The fishing community in Pulau Mantanani about 40 nautical miles from Kota Belud have been told to stop their destructive habit of fish- bombing. Shell Malaysia Exploration & Production (SM-EP) joined forces with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), Fisheries Department Sabah, Malaysian Fisheries Development Board and Kota Belud District Office to conduct the awareness session recently. This engagement marked the third such session in two years as part of an ongoing dialogue with the villagers, who are predominantly fishermen, as this illegal activity poses a huge danger to the Shell offshore facilities near the island as well as corals on the seabed. MMEA’s Regional Commander for Sabah and Labuan, First Admiral Ahmad Puzi AB Kahar urged the villagers to observe the laws whenever they go out to earn their livelihood. Ahmad Puzi was pleased to note that the previous engagements had achieved good results, as there has been a reduction in fish bombing reports in the Mantanani area. He appealed for the cooperation of the villagers to become the eyes and ears of MMEA and the other enforcement agencies in the fight against fish bombing. “Fish bombing is a danger to the oil and gas infrastructure in the area and the workers on these infrastructure. Secondly, it flattens corals on the seabed, destroying the natural habitat of the fishing resources that you and your future generation depend for livelihood,” Ahmad Puzi told the villagers. Shell Malaysia EP’s Head of Security, Mohd Kassim Abdul Kadi, advised villagers to observe their personal safety at sea and to refrain from encroaching into the 500m off-limit restricted zone around the Shell offshore platforms. In practising what it preaches about safety at sea, Shell also donated 50 radar reflectors to the villagers for their fishing boats. These 3’ x 2’ reflectors when fixed on boats, will enable the boats to be spotted even in bad weather, hence making them visible by other mariners, particularly large vessels plying in the area. Mohd Kassim also handed out 300 coloured T-shirts and 50 posters carrying the day’s key messages emblazoned on them. As with many fishing communities, the culture of some 400-odd families in Kampung Pulau Mantanani, is that the youngsters invariably will take over from their fathers to go out and continue the fishing tradition in the family. SM-EP’s Sabah Shell Petroleum Company Limitied Managing Director, George Ling, said the dialogue in part focused on spreading the message among the younger generation in the village. “While we continue to engage with the older folk against fish bombing and the like, this time we also involve the younger generation because they will be the ones who inherit the future from their parents,” Ling added. According to Ling, the future for the younger generation will depend on what’s done presently to conserve the environment around the island — and this means doing away with fish bombing! Ling hoped the fishermen would cooperate in making the sea around Pulau Mantanani free from fish bombing so that there is a sustainable livelihood for the younger generation in the area. He also disclosed that Shell and the enforcement agencies would focus the other nearby fishing communities in the Tuaran district as well as continuing to catch the young with the message. In a concerted effort of reaching out to the young in Pulau Mantanani, Ahmad Puzi followed the Shell focus by donating exercise books and stationery to pupils of SK Pulau Mantanani. “I hope that this small gesture from MMEA will spur on the pupils to do better in their public exam results,” he added. Kota Belud District Officer Mohd Najib Muntok congratulated Shell Malaysia and the other agencies for coming together in organising the dialogue for the benefit of the folk in Kg Pulau Mantanani, an administrative area which falls under his purview. Mohd Najib said the District Office is aware of the issue and is equally concerned. Shell for example has offshore facilities in the area where fish bombing can pose a real danger. “I call on all fishermen to observe the 500m off-limits from any offshore platforms out at sea because you can be charged for encroachment if you continue to defy the ruling,” he urged. Kg Pulau Mantanani headman Albi Alad pledged to assist in keeping a vigil on the issues and spreading the safety and environmental conservation message among his fellow villagers and their young ones.

TUESDAY-05TH FEBRUARY 2008- PULAU MANTANANI A SCUBA HAVEN

PULAU MANTANANI A SCUBA HAVEN


PULAU MANTANANI (Kota Belud):

Surrounded by crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches, Pulau Mantanani is undoubtedly a strong tourism attraction for the upper west coast of Sabah. With underwater visibility as far as 20 metres deep and a huge variety of marine life, it is no wonder Pulau Mantanani is holding its own as a scuba diving haven in Sabah after Pulau Sipadan in the east coast. Made up of three islands, Pulau Mantanani is about 40 minutes boat ride from Kuala Abai in Kota Belud and has about 800 villagers who are all fishermen who sell their catch in Kota Belud either for local consumption or to exporters to be shipped to other countries. The island which is under the Kota Belud parliamentary constituency, has a resort to cater to visitors, especially foreigners who go there for scuba diving. A visit to the island recently revealed that while the standard of living there has improved as many of them now have new houses, there is still much more lacking, especially in terms of basic facilities and infrastructure. The Government has constructed a mosque, a kindergarten and a primary school on the island. Children continue their secondary education on the main land, especially in Kota Belud. Although fishing is their source of income, the villagers also rear poultry and plant vegetables to supplement their diet. What the villagers really want now is a steady electricity supply as they now depend solely on power supplied by a generator which is only operational from evening to dawn daily. Kota Belud Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Salleh Tun Said admits that Pulau Mantanani has much potential economically and it is up to the villagers to make full use of it. “The villagers must find the initiative to profit from the island’s popularity and potential so that they can improve their family’s economy,” said the former Sabah Chief Minister. He said one of the ways they can improve is through education and he urged parents on the island to ensure that their children receive the best education. “Without edudation, we will be left behind,” he said, adding that an education will ensure that their children can gain employment in the tourism sector or in hotels such as the resort on the island.

TUESDAY-05TH FEBRUARY 2008- LOCALS SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO OWN LAND

Locals should be allowed to own land: Kurup

KENINGAU:

Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) president Tan Sri Joseph Kurup said local residents in Bingkor should be given priority to own land gazetted under the Bingkor Native Reserve (BNR). “Many people from this area are landless and they should given priority to apply for the land,” he said after receiving new PBRS memberships at Kampung Monggitom here recently. More than 300 PBRS members, including Bingkor divisional chief Jailin Lian and State PBRS Youth chief Vincent Lee attended the function. Kurup has received reports from local community leaders in Bingkor who claimed that local outsiders were applying for the BNR land. “I believe this matter can be settled by the Government by cancelling the applications of those who have no connection with the area (BNR),” he said. Kurup who is also the Sook Assemblyman, also said that the late processing of the land applications had caused many applications to be duplicated in Sook. “I also found that many Bingkor people are landless and they have the right to be given priority to apply for the land,” he added. At the function, Kurup received 54 PBRS new membership forms from Kampung Monggitom Ulu PBRS branch coordinator chief Jinuin Dunggis.

TUESDAY-05TH FEBRUARY 2008- CNY CARNIVAL NOT POLITICALLY MOTIVATED

CNY CARNIVAL NOT POLITICALLY MOTIVATED
It is an event for the people, says Yee


KOTA KINABALU:

The Chinese New Year Carnival 2008 is an event for the people and is not politically or racially motivated, said Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai. He said the event is catered to all communities in Sabah and especially in Kota Kinabalu, which is home to people of various races, cultures and religious beliefs. Yee said this in his speech when officially closing the six-day carnival held at Lintasan Deasoka here last night. Also present were Mayor Datuk Iliyas Ibrahim, political and community leaders. Iliyas meanwhile said that the carnival breathed new energy into Gaya Street’s night life, presenting numerous entertainment performances and a wide variety of goods on sale at the street market for six days. He said the carnival also embodied the unique Malaysian spirit where the people celebrate every major celebration regardless of ethnicity, race and religion. “This is the uniqueness of our country Malaysia, whose people are of various races and religions but are able to live in peace and harmony and have mutual respect for one another,” he said in his welcoming address. Prior to the official closing of the carnival, there were several performances by talented youths from the city, including traditional Chinese dances, singing and a marching band performance. There was also a 10-minute fireworks show and the grand finals of a singing competition.

MONDAY-04TH FEBRUARY 2008- LAND APPLICANTS OUTSIDERS

Land applicants outsiders:



Villagers Residents from 16 villages protest against application


KENINGAU:

The residents of 16 villages in Bingkor have sternly protested against the application for 2,500 acres of Bingkor Native Reserve and water catchment area by 50 people whom they claim are outsiders. In a decision made by the 16 villages’ action committee at a meeting held at the Bandukan Park in Bingkor on Saturday, they called on the Government to cancel the application immediately. Chairman of the action committee, Robert Tawik, said the villagers had appealed to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman to intervene. “Protesting petition has been prepared by the committee and will be sent to the Chief Minister this week,” he said. According to him, the people from the 16 villages had applied for the land but was rejected by the Government department concerned in Keningau. He said the villagers had planted part of the land with rubber, oil palm and fruit trees. Robert claimed that the applicants had given wrong information to the highest authority in Kuala Lumpur to support their application. “The area applied for was included in the Bingkor Nativ Reserve and water catchment area and according to the customary rights, only the Dusun Gana and Kujau people have the right to apply for the land,” he said. Meanwhile, two village headmen from Bingkor have denied the applicants were from their villages. Kampung Bingkor Baru headman George Richard said the applicants were not from his village and they intentionally used the village name to suppo1t their application. “My villagers have protested against the application from outsiders for the land. We have applied for the land and part of it was developed with rubber and oil palm trees,” he said. Kampung Bandukan Lama headman Aviu Lumau said the applicants also used the village name to get approval for the application from the Government department concerned here. “They are not the residents from this village and we don’t know who are these people,” he said. According to Aviu, the application for the land by the people from Kampung Bandukan Lama, Bunsit and Bingkor Baru was rejected by the department concerned here on the ground that it is not suitable for agriculture and was proposed for water catchment. “But the people from the three villages are confident the land is not included in the water catchment area,” he said.

MONDAY-04TH FEBRUARY 2008- EARLY CNY FOR WELFARE HOMES IN TAMBUNAN, SANDAKAN

Early CNY for welfare homes in Tambunan, Sandakan


KOTA KINABALU:

For 70 children living at Bondulu Toboh Centre in. Tambunan, Chinese New Year came early when a group from Diriwan Corporation Sdn Bhd visited them last week. Leading the group was Assistant General Manager Yu Yet Shan who presented foodstuff and red packets to the underprivileged children at the centre. The foodstuff was handed over to Sister Rose Ginibun, the hostel administrator. Yu said the project is part of the company’s community project to help the unfortunate people. Also present at the event were the company’s commercial manager, Donny Kong, and Diriwan ambassador Miss Emily Ng. Apart from visiting the children’s home in Tambunan, the group also visited the Cheshire’s Home in Sandakan. The foodstuff was handed over to Miss Jennifer Liew, the officer-in-charge. There are 23 residents at the centre.

MONDAY-04TH FEBRUARY 2008- CHARGE SHOPPERS FOR PLASTIC BAGS

Charge shoppers for plastic bags:



CASH One way to reduce use of plastic bags, says Nordin


KOTA KINABALU:

Supermarkets should come up with innovative ideas to reduce the use of plastic bags, said the Consumer Association of Sabah and Labuan (CASH). Its deputy president, Nordin Thani, said shoppers could be charged a small fee for plastic or paper bags and they would be reimbursed when the bags were returned or reused. “This would perhaps be one of the ways to change the people’s behaviour and get the maximum use out of ‘throw away’ bags,” he said yesterday. “It is also an incentive for people to pick up any discarded bags off the streets, as they can then claim back the deposit for themselves. With the introduction of this scheme, it would reduce the use of plastic and paper bags and at the same time increase the reuse of these bags.” The CASH deputy president was commenting on the cleanliness problem caused by plastic bags in the State. “Plastic or paper bags are considered a big environmental issue in some developing countries and they are choking our planet. “Some countries ban the usage of these free plastic bags given by supermarkets. They even implement a levy or make the supermarkets charge their customers for such bags. This will encourage the consumers to bring their own bags,” said Nordin. He said a latest research or study from the Scottish Executive in the United Kingdom discovered that in many aspects, paper bags have even caused more damaging effects to the environment than plastic ones. “According to the study too, this is due to the effects of forestry and paper production. “The study indicated that the production process for paper bags expels three times higher levels of climate change gases than the process for plastic bags, and has 14 times more damaging effects on fresh water due to the form of pollution called ‘eutrophication’. “Actually the plastic bags the consumers use here are a symbol of the ‘throw-away’ culture permeating through our society: It is difficult and hard to change if the Government one day tries to ban or reduce the use of plastic or paper bags. “The ‘throw-away’ culture would cause millions of bags to end up as ugly litter and finally break down into tiny toxic bits polluting our soil, river, sea and lakes,” said Nordin.

MONDAY-4TH FEBRUARY 2008- SHOWCASE OF CULTURES FOR 3.000 AT UMS

Showcase of cultures for 3,000 at UMS

KOTA KINABALU:

The colours and sounds of international cultures spanning eight countries filled the Chancellor’s Hall at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) last night as the City Day celebrations continued with the launch of the City Cultural Extravaganza. The event stayed true to its name, as the 3,000-odd spectators were given their money’s worth for the tickets with a near overwhelming four-hour showcase of cultures from Europe, Africa and the Pacific. Although there was a slight delay at the beginning of the night, things progressed smoothly enough with dancers from the Scottish Highland Dance Academy the first to take to the stage in the first set. After completing their performance, the dance troupe representing Poland went up next to perform two traditional dances followed by the troupe representing Ireland, who put on an energetic display of Irish tradition. Irish tap-dancing finesse was later replaced with Spanish passion, as the Spanish Castanuelas took over the stage performing five different dances, one after the other. From Spain, the spectators were then brought on a “journey through the South Pacific”, tagging along with the Maori New Zealand troupe who presented the various dances of the South Pacific nations. Also presenting a wide variety of dances were The Safari Cats from Kenya, whose dances aimed to present the over 40 different tribes found in their country. The Safari Cats’ departure from the stage marked the end of the first set, after which the crowd was entertained during the intermission by nationally- renowned composer and singer Ajai, Akademi Fantasia (AF) stars Adam and Marsha and a modern dance performance by local dancers. The second set followed soon after, with performances by the troupes from Scotland, Poland, Ireland, Kenya, Viva Brazil, New Zealand and Ukraine. The City Cultural Extravaganza continues today and tomorrow, when Head of State Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman are expected to attend the finale.

MONDAY-04TH FEBRUARY 2008- VILLAGERS RENEW CALL FOR RELOCATION OF SHOOTING RANGE

Villagers renew call for relocation of shooting range


KOTA BELUD:

The residents here have proposed that the related authority should consider relocating the army shooting range at Camp Paradise away from the villages following the death of another local man who was killed while dismantling an old mortar he collected from the shooting range last week. Kampung Bangkahak Sum-Sum Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) secretary Jackson Adam. said the camp posed a danger to the local people, especially. those from low-income group who made extra income by - collecting and selling leftover bombs as scrap metals. He urged the military to consider the fact that their shooting range is not just located too close to the village but not fenced as well, inviting villagers to trespass and collect scrap metals which sometimes could be live mortars. The absence of fencing to separate the training zone from the nearby villages also causes live stocks to often wander and graze at the open field, he said. According to Jackson, the shooting range located just about a kilometer from their village, is actually situated on a piece of land that belongs to villagers which have yet to be compensated. He said the army expanded its camp in 1979 to develop the shooting range for training purposes. Jackson said the village, with some 1,000 population who mostly earn their living through farming, had appealed several times to the authorities to relocate the training ground but the request was never answered. In the latest incident last week, a 70-year-old man was blown into pieces after a mortar he was trying to dismantle exploded. The victim, identified as Sangkor Birang, had allegedly brought home several active bombs, which. police believed were taken from the Camp Paradise shooting range the same day. Acting District Police Chief DSP Mohan Nadasen said the victim was last seen taking a sack, believed containing the bomb, plus two others, into a bathroom; which is located outside the house, before it exploded. His remains, from the abdomen to right leg, were found on the house roof, about 40 metres from the bathroom. The explosion also damaged Sangkor’s house. His 24-year-old daughter and four-month-old grandson who were inside the house when the mortar detonated, escaped unhurt. Mohan said they had conducted numerous talks with the villagers to stop them from trespassing into the camp area. A similar incident occurred on March 14 two years ago, killing a man and his son and seriously injuring two other children.

THURSDAY-31 JANUARY 2008- US HOPES CONCLUDE FTA WITH MALAYSIA BEFORE AUGUST

US hopes to conclude FTA with Malaysia before August


KOTA KINABALU:

The United States Government is hoping to conclude the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Malaysia before August, ahead of the formation of the new US administration to replace Bush’s administration currently at the final year of its term. US Ambassador to Malaysia, James Keith, said yesterday that teams from both countries had completed another round of negotiations two weeks ago in Kuala Lumpur where they achieved some significant improvement but more works needed to be done as the Americans were trying their best to complete negotiation by summer. “We hope that Malaysia, in between its election, will find time to complete the FTA by this summer, if possible,” Keith said at a Malaysia-US Relations Talk at Universiti Malaysia Sabah yesterday. “It is an ambitious goal but we are trying very hard. As a new administration is coming in, new objectives, standards, new agendas would be set in place and we would not know whether the FTA with Malaysia will be higher in priority with the new administration or not. So we hope to complete it now, so as not to let this opportunity slip away.” The negotiation is seeking to bring down barrier, expand trade and increase investment in Malaysia, said Keith, adding the US-Malaysia FTA negotiation, which among others, is also aiming to seek ways to add value to the Malaysian economy could be the answer to the Malaysia’s government which is currently pushing hard in global discussion on trade such as the Doha Round to try to open up and expand the country’s trade potential, he said. US engagement in Asia is very much driven by market oriented engagement, with important market being not only in Asia but also Malaysia. With a population of 300,000, US is an important trading partner as reflected by the large export from Malaysia to US in recent years. In 2006, Malaysia exported USD36.5 billion to US and imported USD12.6 billion worth of goods and services from the country, one of its top trading partners since 1999. “US is likely to be Malaysia’s number one market as Americans are looking forward to buy high- end and value-added, products it produces such as computers,” said Keith who was on his first official visit to Sabah since he was sworn in as the Ambassador to Malaysia on July 24 last year. “Ninety-five percent of computer notebooks produced by American computer giant, Dell Computer, that are sold in America are built in Malaysia.” Expressing his hope for positive outcome on the negotiation, Keith recalled the successful FTA between US, Mexico and Canada and assured that such a free trade understanding helps solve even the most difficult problems facing the trading partners. He also said the agreement had been instrumental, for example, in overcoming immigration and illegal immigrants problems between the three countries. “This, for some people, is controversial. Some people may don’t like it. But in my quarter century experience, I am absolutely convinced and determined that free trade is good for both parties. “Through times it uplifts the standard of living in all three countries, creates jobs and values, opportunities, choices for workers and consumers,” he said. From the American perspective, at least, the economical ties between the two countries is inseparable from every other aspect of their bilateral relationships, said Keith. “If you put it most simply, it would be along the line that we are in it together whether it is economic environmental, or security perspective. The issues cut across all lines now,” he said. Apart from economic perspective, the goal of negotiation is to include environmental objectives, promoting sustainable development, particularly with states in Malaysia as Sabah has a world heritage rainforest right at the centre of its vast and richly diversified terrain and located close to the Sulu-Sulawesi coral triangle, the richest marine ecosystem in the world. Keith at a press conference later, said his visit to Sabah was mostly due to some serious profound interests America has towards East Malaysia. The ambassador said he would like to come back to seek ways to encourage collaboration between Sabah and US to have more local students from the State studying in US universities. He said the US Government would look forward to further strengthen relation with Malaysia regardless of the outcome of the AFT negotiation as there are still many unrealized bilateral potentials between the two countries. The next round of the US-Malaysia AFT talk is not scheduled yet.

THURSDAY-31 JANUARY 2008- COMPENSATION PROPOSAL WILL DETER KATAK CULTURE: DAP

Compensation proposal will deter katak culture: DAP


TAWAU:

Making elected representatives pay compensation if they change parties will deter the unhealthy political culture of party hopping, DAP divisional chairman Jimmy Wong said. This move is especially necessary for Sabah which is famous for the ‘katak’ party hopping culture, Wong said in support of the proposal by DAP Secretary General Lim Guan Eng. Lim had suggested that elected representatives be obliged to compensate RM5 million to their party if they decide to switch allegiance. This is a necessary move to prohibit the unhealthy political culture of party hopping, especially in Sabah, and is important for a potential candidate to show its commitment and loyalty to the people and party. Wong said potential or selected candidates must sign a contractual agreement consenting to pay the RM5 million compensation should they change party. “They must also agree to relinquish their parliamentary or state seat if that happens,” he said and assured the voters in the parliamentary constituency here and the state constituency of Sri Tanjung that the DAP candidates, if elected, will not betray the mandate given and will do their best to fight for justice and equality. Wong also disclosed that DAP does not have any hidden agenda as it has the people’s interest at heart before adding that the people are always wary about the consequences they face if they elect an opposition party. “Rest assured that DAP will continue to give the people the best. We hope that Sabahans will give DAP their fullest support and the opportunity to serve the public. If we are given the opportunity, we will do our best for the rakyat,” he said.

THURSDAY-31JANUARY 2008- SEBATIK FAMILY ROBBED BY SIX ARMED MEN FARMER LOSES RM8,800 WORTH OF PROPERTY

Sebatik family robbed by six armed men
Farmer loses RM8,800 worth of property


TAWAU:

A 54-year-old farmer and his family were robbed by six men at Kampung Sungai Pisa-Pisa, Begosong in Sebatik Tuesday morning. District police chief ACP Jaafar Yusof said the robbers aged between 20 and 30 years old, entered from the back of the house and armed with a Samurai sword, a gun and an airgun. The victim was in the toilet while his wife was folding clothes in the living room. The couple’s son was refilling a boat engine with fuel outside the house. Jaafar said the suspects hit the victim’s head twice and pointed the Samurai sword on the neck of his son. “The victims were relieved of RM780 in cash, important personal documents, a shotgun and jewellery worth RM2,000, five sets of chain worth RM5,000 as well as CD and VCD players worth RM500. The estimated losses was about RM8,800,” he said yesterday. “The six suspects escaped to the border of Indonesia which is about 20 minutes away from the victim’s house. We will contact the Indonesian police and ask them to track down the suspects,” he added. Jaafar also said the police had received a report from a 39 year woman who found her house at Taman Semarak here was burgled on Monday evening after she came back from her mother’s house. She lost a computer, a watch and jewellery worth a total of RM12,000. The burglar entered the house through the main door and fled from the back door of the house. The victim is staying alone at the house. Commenting on the coming Chinese New Year, Jaafar advised the public to be careful when withdrawing money from the banks. He urged them to contact the police if they see any suspicious characters. He disclosed that the police are keeping an eye at banks and financial institutions. Jaafar also said that the police were carrying out Ops Limau and Union Operation now while Ops Sikap would begin from January 31 until February 14. “Motorists should be careful when going back to their home town for this coming festival season. There will be no discount for any compounds issued during the Ops Sikap period,” he said.