MONDAY-18TH FEBRUARY 2008- MASIDI LAUNCHES WINNING WALAI TOKOU HOMESTAY

Masidi launches winning Walai Tokou Homestay

RANAU:

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun yesterday launched the Walai Tokou Homestay at Kampung Sinisian in Kundasang which won the national-level homestay program competition called “Kejuaraan Jiham Desa”. Masidi who represented Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Hj Aman, was welcomed by hundreds of villagers who turned up for the occasion despite the incessant rains over the past few days in the district. The Walai Tokou Homestay at the village was established in 2001, and has become a role model for other operators in the country. Masidi said he was very proud of the people from the district for their achievement and added that Walai Tokou should encourage the setting up of other homestays in Sabah. “The main thing out of this success is that it opens your mind that you can do it. You too, can compete on a national level,” he said. Masidi also reckoned that being successful in managing a homestay is a promising sign that one can manage a hotel someday. “The homestay program is a stepping stone to a bigger lodging management one day”. Also present at the event was Tuan Hj Shariman bin Hamdan, president of the Homestay Malaysia who appealed to Masidi to continue supporting the homestay program. Masidi wholeheartedly responded that homestay will be his most important agenda and the “homestay program not only mirrors Sabahans’ unique culture and warm hospitality, but it is a form of income to the people.” He assured that he will help as many people in the rural areas so that they can also enjoy the tourism boom that Sabah is experiencing. “I want people from rural areas to taste the wealth of Sabah from the tourism industry first hand,” said Masidi.

MONDAY-18TH FEBRUARY 2008- WAH MIE GROUP TO HAVE OWN CORPORATE BUILDING

Wah Mie Group to have own corporate building

SANDAKAN:

Leading developer Wah Mie Group will soon have its own corporate building in Taman Indah Jaya located opposite the Indah Jaya Clubhouse. “Construction of the corporate building will commence and god willing, we will be able to move into the new premises by 2009,” Managing Director Kong Kwok Wah said in his address during the Wah Mie Group annual dinner at Yu Yuan Secondary School hall on Saturday. Apart from bigger and spacious office and conference facilities, we would have our own exhibition hall to display our company’s products. This is in line with the company’s policy to excel in providing better quality houses, he added. Meanwhile, Kong said the Wah Mie Group had completed and delivered a total of 449 houses last year, of which 329 units were in Sandakan and another 115 in Kota Kinabalu which was an improvement over 2006. “Currently, we have three ongoing projects in Sandakan namely Taman Airport, Taman Sejati Ujana and Taman Mawar Phase 7. We have just launched a big scale condominium project in Luyang, Kota Kinabalu,” he said. The total number of units to be built over a period of three to five years is 55 units. The take-up rate is very encouraging. There are altogether three blocks and upon launching, we have secured more than 70 percent booking for the two blocks, Kong said. “We also have our ongoing projects at Sepanggar, Kota Kinabalu comprising semi-detached houses selling at more than RM500,000 per unit, detached houses at RM780,000 to RM800,000 per unit and limited number of terrace houses selling at RM280,000 per unit,” he said. Kong added that the company’s development at Sepanggar has become one of the most prominent housing estates with good appreciation potentials. With the development of the Kota Kinabalu Container Port, proposed free trade zone, submarine base, the KKIP and the many education institutions, all along Sepanggar, this investment will definitely give buyers a good and positive return in due course. Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Raymond Tan who also attended the dinner, urged the Land and Survey Department to expedite the process in the issuance of land title status to housing developers. Touching on the complaints by some house buyers of Taman Indah Jaya on the delay in obtaining land titles, Tan said the department had issued letters of offer to them two days ago.

MONDAY-18TH FEBRUARY 2008- OVER 200 FAMILIES STILL AT EVACUATION CENTRE FLOOD WATER SUBSIDES BUT VICTIMS ADVISED TO STAY PUT

Over 200 families still at evacuation centre Flood water subsides but victims advised to stay put

KOTA MARUDU:

The flood water which hit the district and forced the evacuation of over 200 families on Saturday had subsided. However, the affected victims have been advised to remain at the evacuation centre until the situation has recovered fully. District Officer Luvita Koisun stated this yesterday when asked to comment on the flood situation at the area. “Even though the water level of both rivers here is decreasing, the families at the relief centre were advised to stay there until the situation is safe for them,” she said. At press time yesterday, the number of families evacuated to the relief centre increased to 226 from 13 villages compared 110 families from nine villages on Saturday. However, no incident was reported. Luvita, who is also chairman of the District Natural Disaster Committee, advised all the affected villages to be alert for any unexpected situation. “The Meteorological Department has forecast that there will be heavy rain in Kota Marudu, Kudat and the West Coast areas for the next two days until Feb 18 night. So we advise families at the relief centre not to return to their homes yet,” she said. Sabah is experiencing the late stage of the northeast monsoon season which blows from November to March. The current wet spell experienced by the State is due to the strengthening of the northeast winds coupled with the presence of a low pressure system over the Sulu Sea. Villages that were badly affected were Kampung Marudu Laut, Kampung Kantawayon Darat, Kampung Tambun, Kampung Sungoi, Kampung Taginambur, Kampung Pancur (Langkon Lama), Kampung Marudu Darat, Kampung Lotong, Kampung Pancur Lama, Kampung Balagatan, Kampung Parong, Kampung Tandek and Kampung Tagin.

MONDAY-18TH FEBRUARY 2008- CELCOM HOLDS CNY OPEN HOUSE IN LUYANG

Celcom holds CNY open house in Luyang

KOTA KINABALU:

Celcom Mobile Sdn Bhd, Damai branch here organized a Chinese New Year (CNY) open house in Luyang yesterday. Thirty orphans from Beringgis Welfare House in Papar were invited, apart from the public who came with their children. Red packets were given to the children by the head of regional customer service, Abdul Rahman Hj Mahat. There were also lion dance performance and 3-on-3 street basketball competition during the event which started at 9am. According to its branch manager, Sylvia Pius, the programs were organized in conjunction with the Celcom’s nationwide sales. According to branch manager Sylvia Pius, the programmes were organized in conjunction with Celcom’s nationwide sales. “This campaign is the first of its kind for a telecommunications service provider and the nationwide sale will run for two months starting February 1 and ending on March 31,” she said. Although the main feature will be on postpaid products or services, almost all of Celcom’s entire catalogue of products and services will be made available for sale. Other items such as mobile phones and USB modems will also be sold during the event. “Sales booths will also be set up at all the Celcom branches statewide during the campaign period from 9am to 7pm daily,” she added. Meanwhile, a blood donation drive will be held at the same place on Feb 24. “I invite all the people to come and donate their blood to increase the supply for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s blood bank,” Sylvia said.

MONDAY-18TH FEBRUARY 2008- POLICE ASSURE PULAU GAYA RESIDENTS OF THEIR SAFETY

Police assure Pulau Gaya residents of their safety

KOTA KINABALU:

The police have assured the safety of Pulau Gaya residents by conducting regular patrol at the island. OCPD Sofi Haji Zakaria told the residents during a dialogue session on Saturday that the police were patrolling the island, either in uniforms or plainclothes. “What is important is for you and others here to know that the security of this island and any vice activities are under control,” he said. The residents have voiced out their concern for their safety and requested for a police station to Putatan Member of Parliament Datuk Dr Marcus Makin Mojigoh during the dialogue session at the village’s community hail. Sofi urged the residents to take care of their children and not to let them get involved in drug, crime and vice activities. “It is every parent’s responsibility to watch or take care of their children so that they would not land themselves in any criminal activities. “However, should any youngsters get involved in any criminal activities, it is our duty to take action,” he said when responding to a village committee member’s concern over the safety of their children and youngsters on the island. “However, anyone who knows of any criminal activities on the island or in the communities and wish to report the cases confidentially could see me in my office,” he added. On the request for a police station, Sofi said he would raise the matter to the authority concerned. “The marine police are active here and you need to co-operate with them to track down any criminal activities,” he pointed out. Fisheries Development Board of Malaysia board of director member Arsit Haji Sedi, who was also present at the dialogue, said fishermen in Pulau Gaya are given various opportunities to increase their socio-economy. He urged the residents of the island to take advantage of the opportunities to improve on their economic development and be more competitive in their approach to upgrade their economy. Arsit added that an aquaculture venture with financial assistance was one of the opportunities that they could take advantage of. “The organization also provides financial assistance to purchase boat engines,” he said, adding the fishermen also enjoy diesel subsidy. Arsit added that the board would also discuss with a bank to relax certain loan requirements specially for fishermen. Several village leaders, including the committee members of the Village Development and Security Committee of the island, attended the dialogue.

MONDAY-18TH FEBRUARY 2008- SETIA, BERSEKUTU AND PASOK FORM APPOSITION PACT

SETIA, Bersekutu and Pasok form opposition pact

KOTA KINABALU:

The new president of Parti SETIA, Datuk Pg Othman Rauf, said the party has formed an opposition front with other Sabah-based opposition parties, namely Bersekutu and Pasok, in facing the Barisan Nasional (BN) in the March 8 general election. Pg Othman said the party’s supreme council had unanimously appointed him as the new president after the incumbent, Suhaidin Langkap, stepped down and proposed him to assume the post during a meeting here on Feb 12, this year. Parti Setia, Bersekutu and Pasok met on Feb 14 and reached an agreement to form a pact in facing the general election, he said yesterday. Pg Othman, who chaired the meeting, added the three parties had reached a consensus to contest in all the 60 state seats and in as many of the 25 parliamentary seats. “We have agreed to field one candidate from the opposition front in each of the state constituencies to represent the parties in the election,” he said. The former Federal and State minister, added during the meeting they also determined the direction and objective of their struggle in championing the rights of Sabahans, uphold justice and work closely together with the rest of the nation should the people elect them to power during the election. He lamented Sabahans are still lagging behind in various aspects than their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia with the highest rate of poverty although the State’s administration has come under the Barisan Nasional (BN) for many years now. “Even the perennial illegal immigrant problem has not been overcome yet,” said Pg Othman who reckoned that Sabah should be governed by Sabah-based parties. In this regard, he urged that Peninsular-based parties not to contest for the state seats n the election as they have more than adequate state seats to contest in Peninsular Malaysia. “The Peninsular-based parties should respect the feelings of Malaysian citizens in Sabah and they should not be too greedy although they can contest anywhere they wish to. “As such, I would like to urge the voters here to support and give their votes to Sabah-based parties for the state seats in order to uphold political dignity,” Pg Othman added.

FRIDAY-15TH FEBRUARY 2008- CITY WON'T BE TURNED INTO 'CONCRETE JUNGLE'

City won’t be turned into ‘concrete jungle’
Govt waiting for revised KK waterfront plan, says minister

KOTA KINABALU:

The appeal by Sabah Environment Protection Association (SEPA) not to turn Kota Kinabalu into a ‘concrete jungle’ is in fact in line with the State Government’s development philosophy, said Resources Development and IT Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai, Tuesday. The Kota Kinabalu Member of Parliament, in responding to SEPA’s recent comment on the plan to develop hotels and a two kilometer boardwalk along the City’s waterfront, said the State Government has always been thoughtful in planning for development and promotes environmental friendly approaches. He said the State Government is fully aware of the issues brought up by the people in regards to the development project at the esplanade and always take everyone’s opinion very seriously. Furthermore, the Government, just like everyone else, is equally concerned about the end result of the development project and wants to make sure that it is in line with the State’s policy which emphasizes on protecting the environment while promoting sustainable development. “We are always mindful to make sure whatever plan being put forward to the State Government is carefully reviewed. We will make sure that Kota Kinabalu is not going to be turned into that (concrete jungle). “It is important to have development but that must be done according to the mindset and philosophy of the State Government, in line with the effort to preserve the uniqueness richness of the environment,” said Yee. He explained that the State Government had directed the developer to revise the initial plan to better suit this policy and is currently waiting for the City Hall to submit the revised plan to be reviewed by the Cabinet. The proposed RM500 million Waterfront project announced by City Hall early December last year sparked numerous protests as many expressed their worries that the project may hurt the sensitive environment along the City’s shoreline and jeopardize the Kota Kinabalu’s image as a tropical City. SEPA President Datuk Sue Jayasuria earlier this month said the Waterfront project should not be done at the expense of the beauty and tranquility of the city and suggested that the Government should give City Hall the money to construct the boardwalk without having to ask the private sector to do it, only to be hidden by concrete buildings. “There are a few issues there. The water front development project generated different opinions and the Government is fully aware of it,” said Yee, stressing the Government look into any complaint and not just from a particular group of people. Asked whether the State Government is concerned if the controversial project would cause negative effect in the election, he said: “Of course we do. Any government which is not concerned about the sentiment brought up by the people would have a lot of problem. “And that is why the Government always take into consideration any matter being voiced by the people. We are taking everyone’s opinion very seriously. This is how the government has been approaching matters that concern the people. After all what affect the people will affect us.” On when the revised plan is expected to be completed he said it is fair to give City Hall some time to submit the plan.

FRIDAY-15TH FEBRUARY 2008- LDP'S CHIN SAD OVER PROTRACTED MAZU ISSUE

LDP’s Chin sad over protracted Mazu issue

KOTA KINABALU:

LDP Deputy President Datuk Chin Su Phin said yesterday expressed sadness that the protracted issue over the controversial Goddess of the Sea or Mazu statue project in Kudat has forced Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat to bring the matter to the court. In fact, he said, the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi himself has disagreed that the location of the Mazu statue project was against the Fatwa. The issue of Mazu is not a matter of not supporting the project and its location, but the most important is that there must be a strong reason acceptable to the people as to why the project has to be relocated elsewhere; and why the Kudat District Council withdrew its approval earlier on the project when the project was already halfway through completion, said Chin. According to him, Chong Kah Kiat, who is a senior lawyer himself, must have ensured that the application for building the Mazu statue was done properly and commenced the project after it was approved by the district council. Chin said that it is illogical for the State Government not to recognise the building plan submitted by the Mazu Foundation headed by Chong after the project was half-completed with the excuse that the project was started without going through the proper procedure..“If the building plan was merely about technical problem, then it would have not forced the foundation to go to the court. It must be the so-called authority behind the matter that led the Kudat District Council to withdraw its initial approval that halted the project,” he stressed. As such, Chin urged leaders from the Chinese community to make their own assessment to determine as to who are correct and who are wrong in handling the project. He strongly believed that the majority from the Chinese community, including the Chinese Cabinet Ministers, know about the whole thing very clearly by now. “But I feel sad that certain Chinese leaders have to bow down to the so-called authority and dare not stand up and speak up for the truth. They must bear in mind that as the elected Wakil Rakyat, they must not protect their own agenda only and forget about the interest of the people,” said Chin. After the Kudat Mazu statue issue, there is another Chinese organization which applied to build a Mazu Temple, said Chin, adding that no matter what, the Kudat Mazu project is already regarded as part of the Chinese community history, a fact no body could deny.Chin also agreed with former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who had made a call recently that the people should vote out the elected representatives who did not carried out their responsibility in serving the people. He expressed the hope that in the coming general election, those picked as the Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates are trustworthy and not corrupt and are fully supported by the people to ensure a big victory for the BN. As for the LDP, Chin noted that party has been firmly loyal to the BN since it was formed 18 years ago and today the LDP remains with the BN in facing the coming election. Nevertheless, he said this does not mean that if the Government has a weakness, the LPD would not speak up and criticize and offer suggestions to correct the Government policies. “The LDP has been doing this all this while since Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat time as President up till now under the leadership of Datuk VK Liew as we feel that it is for the good and betterment of the BN and the people,” said Chin, who conveyed his Chinese New Year greetings to the people.

FRIDAY-15TH FEBRUARY 2008- CHONG TO DEFEND SANDAKAN SEAT

Chong to defend Sandakan seat

SANDAKAN:

Incumbent independent Member of Parliament Chong Hon Min said he would defend the Sandakan seat that he won during the 2004 general election. “Yes, I will be contesting in the coming general election but will only announce which banner I am going to contest under at an appropriate time,”. Chong disclosed when contacted on Wednesday. Chong, a former banker, created an upset in the last general election when he defeated the then Barisan Nasional incumbent and LDP deputy president Datuk Lau Ngan Siew by 1,330 votes in a three-cornered fight for the predominantly Chinese seat. Chong polled 9,538 votes while two-term parliamentarian Lau managed to secure 8,208 votes. Pasok’s Liaw Teck Khin obtained only 543 votes. Touching on the four years as an elected representative of the Sandakan people, Chong said he was satisfied with his performance and believed he had served the Sandakan constituents to the best of his ability. “During this period, many local folks came tome with their problems and I had given priority in helping to resolve them. I raised the complaints with the relevant authorities, seeking their assistance for a solution. I highlighted important issues affecting the people of Sandakan in parliament,” Chong said. Despite being an Independent member of parliament, Chong said he supported the Barisan Nasional’s development programmes, adding that he had even applied to join Barisan Nasional component party, SAPP. He added that when his application was put on hold, he left the matter as where it was and continued with his duty of serving the Sandakan constituents. Meanwhile, to a question whether this east coast town has seen improvement and development over the last four years, this is what Chong has to say: “Sandakan has experienced changes and progress over the past few years. “We have better infrastructures, improved basic amenities. Electricity has been gradually improved and we have seen lesser power outages nowadays. “The water problem is set to be overcome with the completion of the new treatment plant this September.” “With a strong economy and continuous growth, I believe Sandakan is in for more successes in the years to come,” he said.

FRIDAY-15TH FEBRUARY 2008- SABAH BN WILL TROUNCE OPPOSITION

Sabah BN will trounce opposition, says Mohd Lan

KOTA KINABALU:

The Barisan Nasional would handily defeat the opposition in the coming general election and continue with its work of developing the state, said Sabah Backbenchers Club Chairman Datuk Mohd Lan Allani. He said that feedback gathered over the past one year indicates that despite occasional rumblings of discontent and criticism against the Government over isolated issues, the general population is overwhelming supportive of the BN government’s performance. Of late the opposition has been trying hard to sow discord between BN parties by harping on old issues that are already being addressed by the BN, said Lan in a statement yesterday. “The issues of illegal immigrants, rights of Sabahans, alleged cronyism and corruption are nothing new. These issues have been raised before,” he said. Mohd Lan said the opposition know that the BN has been dealing quietly with issues which take time to resolve, yet they continue to exploit them for political mileage by hurling unfounded allegations against the government. He said the BN would let the people to judge it on its track record and focus on explaining its programs and policies clearly so the people would be able to make the right decision at the polls. “I know the people are capable of distinguishing between the truth and lies. I am confident they will return the BN to power with an overwhelming majority,” he said, adding that the opposition will fail again in Sabah.

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.