罗克强与再迪宣誓续任 巴达旺市议会正副主席

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●罗克强（右）宣誓续任巴达旺市议会主席，任期六个月。

（古晋30日讯）罗克强与再迪续任巴达旺市议会主席及副主席，并於今日正式宣誓就任。

巴达旺市议会主席罗克强与副主席再迪今日在巴达旺市议会正式宣誓就任，任期将于2016年1月至6月。

罗克强在仪式上促请全体市议员，积极为民服务，落力做好本份，同时也应该为巴达旺辖区的发展建设提供积极的意见。

• Thursday, 31 December 2015 10:41 decrease font size increase font size

• Published in 新闻
• intimes.com.my

雪州豁免門牌稅 羅克強：砂若跟隨牽涉大

Sin Chew
雪州豁免門牌稅 羅克強：砂若跟隨牽涉大
2015-12-30 17:59

     
（古晉30日訊）巴達旺市議會主席羅克強認為，廉價屋門牌稅佔市議會總收入20％，若作出豁免，影響很大。

他今日受詢及雪州政府將於2016年1月1日起豁免廉價屋、新村、馬來甘榜、漁村、重組村門牌稅及小販執照費時，如此回應。

羅克強強調，是否豁免相關稅收，屬於州政府的權限，但認為砂拉越無法與可以從酒店、商場及工廠等賺取門牌稅的雪蘭莪州政府作比較。

“雪蘭莪發展良好，廉價屋門牌稅收入對於州政府的總收入而言，或許比例不高，但砂拉越地區則不同。”（星洲日報／砂拉越）


點看全文: http://mykampung.sinchew.com.my/node/397482#ixzz48sTewDJ7 

雪州豁免门牌税 罗克强：砂若跟随牵涉 大

雪州豁免门牌税 罗克强：砂若跟随牵涉 大

（古晋30日讯）巴达旺市议会主席罗克强认为，廉价屋门牌税占市议会总收入20％，若作 出豁免，影响很大。

他今日受询及雪州政府将于2016年1月1日起豁免廉价屋、新村、马来甘榜、渔村、重组 村门牌税及小贩执照费时，如此回应。

罗克强强调，是否豁免相关税收，属于州政府的权限，但认为 拉越无法与可以从酒店、 商场及工厂等赚取门牌税的雪兰莪州政府作比较。

“雪兰莪发展良好，廉价屋门牌税收入对于州政府的总收入而言，或许比例不高，但砂拉越 地区则不同。”

文章来源：

星洲日报／砂拉越．30/12/2015

RM200,000 pipe-laying project proof of MPP’s commitment to ratepayers

Lo (fourth right) and Tan (second right) with local residents at the section of the pipe-laying project site, marked by a fire hydrant.

KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) has assured ratepayers that it would strive to maintain and improve the basic infrastructure across areas under its jurisdiction.

Council chairman Lo Khere Chiang said an example of this would be the RM200,000 pipe-laying project near Jalan Ngee Soon / Off Jalan Batu Kawah.

“KWB (Kuching Water Board), with support from the MPP and SUPP leaders, has completed the project that comprises the laying of 150mm-diameter pipeline spanning 1km along Jalan Ngee Soon.

“The project has benefited more than 10 households there,” he said during a visit to the site here on Sunday, adding that the construction commenced two months ago. According to Lo, KWB is now in the process of installing new water meters and supply connection from the new pipeline to the houses.

“We (MPP) will always be ready to assist our ratepayers in maintaining and improving basic infrastructure the best way that we can,” he said.

Lo was accompanied by SUPP Stampin Parliamentary Liaison Committee chairman Tan Joo Phoi, KWB officials and several local residents during the site visit.

December 29, 2015, Tuesday

Borneo Post

RELA berikrar bantu tingkat keselamatan, keharmonian dan keamanan masyarakat

Halaman Utama (/) » Sarawak (http://www.utusanborneo.com.my/sarawak) » RELA berikrar bantu tingkat keselamatan, keharmonian dan keamanan masyarakat

2015-12-28
KUCHING: Anggota RELA Kawasan Desa Wira berikrar akan terus membantu meningkatkan keselamatan, keharmonian dan keamanan masyarakat khususnya dalam kawasan berkenaan. 
 
Pengerusinya Liew Sik Chai berkata, meskipun pasukan itu baharu ditubuhkan namun anggotanya telah banyak membantu dalam pelbagai aktiviti kemasyarakatan. 

Antaranya menurut Liew, perarakan tanglung Terpanjang di Malaysia dan pertunjukan boneka terbesar tahun ini di mana kedua-duanya telah disenaraikan dalam Malaysia Book of Records. 

“Selain itu anggota RELA Kawasan Desa Wira turut menyertai Kursus Asas Taekwando beberapa bulan lepas bagi memperbaiki kemahiran mempertahankan diri anggota. 

“Di samping itu kami juga telah memperbaiki pengetahuan dan kemahiran menyelamat pada Kursus Kesedaran Keselamatan Air dan Banjir. 

“Kursus ini merupakan anjuran bersama Majlis Perbandaran Padawan (MPP) dan Pusat Penyelamat Kelemasan,” katanya. 

Beliau bekata demikian ketika berucap pada Jamuan Malam Tahunan RELA Kawasan Desa Wira di sebuah restoran di sini, kelmarin. 

Majlis tersebut telah dihadiri Pengerusi MPP Lo Khere Chiang, Kapitan Michael Chia serta yang lain. 

Dalam pada itu, anggota RELA Kawasan Desa Wira turut terlibat dalam aktiviti gotong-royong bagi membantu pertubuhan bukan kerajaan (NGO) dan yang memerlukan di Batu Kawa, Batu Kitang dan kawasan lain. 

“Sebagai agensi sukarelawan kerajaaan, visi kami adalah sentiasa membantu meningkatkan keselamatan, keharmonian dan keamanan masyarakat tanpa mengira masa. 

“Kami akan terus menjalankan tugas kami sebagai anggota sukarelawan dengan komited demi kesejahteraan rakyat, negeri dan negara,” katanya.

Waspada hadapi kemungkinan banjir awal 2016

Halaman Utama (/) » Sarawak (http://www.utusanborneo.com.my/sarawak) » Waspada hadapi kemungkinan banjir awal 2016

Utusan Borneo Online: 2015-12-27

Kawasan Desa Wira merupakan antara yang berisiko banjir apabila hujan turun berterusan, kata Lo
Oleh Agnes Tugong //

KUCHING: Penduduk terutama di kawasan Desa Wira dekat Batu Kawa di sini dinasihati supaya mengambil langkah berjaga-jaga bagi menghadapi kemungkinan banjir pada awal tahun 2016. 

Pengerusi Majlis Perbandaran Padawan (MPP) Lo Khere Chiang berkata kawasan Desa Wira merupakan antara yang berisiko banjir apabila hujan turun berterusan. 

“Berdasarkan pengalaman sebelum ini, ramai di kalangan mangsa banjir di kawasan ini enggan berpindah keluar dari kediaman mereka apabila dinaiki air. 

“Keengganan penduduk berpindah keluar menyukarkan lagi situasi dan operasi membantu serta menyelamatkan mangsa banjir. 

“Sehubungan itu, saya berharap penduduk akan memberi kerjasama dan mengikut arahan daripada anggota keselamatan termasuk RELA jika berlaku banjir,” katanya. 

Lo berkata demikian ketika berucap pada Jamuan Malam Tahunan RELA Kawasan Desa Wira di sebuah restoran di sini, kelmarin. 

Pada majlis itu, Lo turut mengingatkan anggota RELA terutama dari Kawasan Desa Wira agar sentiasa bersiap sedia menghadapi apa juga kemungkinan bencana atau insiden yang boleh menggugat keselamatan masyarakat. 

Selain tanggungjawab menjaga keselamatan dan keamanan masyarakat, Lo turut mengingatkan peranan anggota RELA pada Pilihan Raya Negeri (PRN) akan datang. 

Sebagai agensi sukarelawan kerajaan, anggota RELA bukan sahaja membantu menjaga keselamatan dan keharmonian masyatakat malah turut menjadi tulang belakang kepada keutuhan sesebuah kerajaan.

MPP chooses to be lenient in the spirit of Christmas — Lo

A banner of Voon’s season greetings is seen within the jurisdiction of MPP. — Photo courtesy of PKR

KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chose to be lenient with lawbreakers this Christmas season instead of applying rigorous standards to spoil the festive moods.

Its chairman Lo Khere Chiang said the council would accept what was perceived as good by the community while taking action against activities that people opposed.

“While MPP expects our people to comply with the council by-laws and regulations, we can make exceptions for as long as the offence is not too serious and people find it acceptable,” he said when contacted here yesterday.

He made these comments when asked whether Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Wanita national vice chief Voon Shiak Ni had applied for permit from MPP before putting up season greetings banners in Kpg Sudat under the council’s jurisdiction.

Lo said MPP encouraged people to be more sensible about their actions even though the council could choose not to be too stringent about law enforcement.

“If it is good for the people, and that people do not oppose, I will not oppose. But if people oppose, I will oppose as well. Christmas is tomorrow (today) and all the people want is to convey their festive greetings.”

He added that MPP could tolerate for as long as those who hung up the banners would remove them at the appropriate time.

To a question, he said PKR did not get permission from MPP for the display of festive banners.
When reminded that a political party also put up similar banners for Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem in Kpg Sudat, Lo said neither did the council received any application from the party.

He was quick to point out: “They did it without a permit, either. I believe they did not get permission from the Chief Minister’s Office.”

Lo stressed that any individuals who wished to display promotional or festive banners in public must apply for a permit from the local council.

This Yuletide, he said MPP would let it slide. But he still hoped that the community would adhere to the council by-laws.

Meanwhile, Voon admitted that she did not obtain the necessary permit to display the banners as she reasoned: “It’s just the season’s greetings.”

According to her, the PKR season greetings banners were put up last week, and two days later, they saw Adenan’s New Year greetings banner next to one of theirs.

Voon said she would be fine with MPP taking down her banners but she hoped that the council would not “spoil the Christmas and New Year moods.”

December 25, 2015, 

reporters@theborneopost.com

Five food premises issued notices to clean up

Lo (second left) in a photocall with the inspection team at a coffeeshop in 3rd Mile Bazaar.03

KUCHING: Five food premises in the vicinity of the 3rd Mile Wet Market were issued notices to improve the condition of the premises by Padawan Municipal Council (PMC) following a spot check recently.

A total of seven premises were inspected that day by the council, council’s health inspectors (from the council and Health Department), councillors and enforcement officers.

PMC chairman Lo Khere Chiang who took part in the inspection exercise said among the places checked were stalls, toilets, kitchens and the overall condition of the premises to ensure they were clean. They also checked the licences of the premises.

“We conduct spot checks of food outlets and premises a few times a year and if the cleanliness and hygiene level drops, the operators will be issued notices to improve the condition of the premises within 30 days.

“They can do so at any time and inform the council so that they can be re-inspected. If they do not comply within the time frame, they will be compounded, but normally they do,” he said.

For very severe cases, a very dirty premises will be ordered to close immediately and is given seven days to improve.

Once they have improved, they can call the council’s health department at any time for re-inspection to lift the order.

The council has issued many notices this year to improve the cleanliness level, and Lo is happy to note that no immediate closure order were issued this year.

Lo also had a walkabout at the 3rd Mile Wet Market to listen to any grouses from the traders.
He said there was only one complaint, leaking roof, which would be dealt with soon.

“They are quite happy with the facilities provided by the council. We have listened to their request to extend the roof and build an awning to protect the traders from the sun and rain. The council has done things that can be done and improve it when we can,” said Lo.

He also took the opportunity to do some shopping of fish and vegetables for his household.

December 18, 2015, Friday  

Borneo Post

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Abang Johari brings relief to buyers of abandoned houses

A banner put up by the house buyers to express their gratitude at one of the incomplete houses during Abang Johari’s visit.

Abang Johari (right) and Lo (second right) speaking with some of the house buyers during their visit to the site.

KUCHING: Buyers of properties in an abandoned housing project of about 15 years – Stapok Avenue located at Jalan Stapok Utama here, can now breathe a sigh of relief following assistance from the Housing Ministry for the project to be revived.

Housing Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said a developer, who is a Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developer’s Association (Sheda) member, has volunteered to complete the stalled project comprising 13 abandoned houses – eight units of double storey terraced houses, four units of semi-detached houses and one unit of detached lot – which have deteriorated over the years.

The Housing Ministry will allocate funds to Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) to build a road network leading to the residential area so that buyers can get the required Road Certification to enable the issuance of land titles by the Land and Survey Department.

“The contractor has gone missing, nowhere to be found and these properties have been placed under liquidation.

“In view of the fact that the project was done about 15 years ago, before the establishment of our housing tribunal, we have to find ways and means of helping the purchasers.

“MPP has decided to make good the public utilities, particularly the road leading to the residential area.

“Once the road has been built, buyers can discuss with the bank and liquidator on the commencement of this housing project, whereby the purchasers will be subjected to a new purchasing agreement,” he told reporters after visiting the site and meeting with the house buyers yesterday.

MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang and Housing Ministry permanent secretary Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar were at the meeting.

Abang Johari said the road project, expected to be completed within three months, would commence immediately.

“I regret this example of irresponsible developers. That is why I introduced a new law under the Housing Ordinance to ensure there are stringent rules that developers have to observe in order to avoid this kind of abuse,” he continued.

Citing some of the issues which relate to the abandoned housing project at Stapok, Abang Johari explained: “Certain developers, after getting ‘Project A’ together with bank financing, they would use deposits paid by purchasers of that project to fund ‘Project B’.

“There is no proper management of their cash flow. When they become overburdened and cannot pay the bank, they will disappear and leave their buyers.”

To combat this particular problem, Abang Johari has introduced a new law which states that a developer must have a Housing Developer’s Account (HDA). The ruling stipulates that for every project, funding is strictly used for that particular development. This would be monitored by the housing controllers together with the bank.

A reform to the state’s Housing Ordinance will help to combat issues regarding abandoned housing projects while ensuring future house buyers are spared from similar problems.

November 17, 2015, Tuesday  

Borneo Post

218 water supply projects approved under 11MP

A TOTAL of 218 water supply projects have been approved with an initial provision of RM3.54 billion ceiling under the 11th Malaysia Plan (11MP).

Minister of Public Utilities Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan said these 218 projects were from the 795 proposed under the 11MP. They are set to benefit an additional 79,130 households in the state.

“My ministry will strive to implement all the approved projects successfully and pursue with the application of more funds in the mid-term review of the 11MP,” he said in his winding-up speech yesterday.

Awang Tengah told the august House that the state had increased the coverage of treated water supply to 80 per cent from 68 per cent at the start of the 10th Malaysia Plan (10MP).

He conceded the cost to extend water supply deeper into the rural areas had increased tremendously because some areas were so remote they could not be connected to any major regional supply networks.

Alternative systems had been implemented for some remote areas and such efforts would continue in order to benefit more rural folks.

On specific issues, Awang Tengah said water supply projects would be implemented in several areas, including Daro, Jemoreng, Bawang Tian, Engkilili, Kidurong, Selangau, Tatau and Tamin, Bukit Kota, Krian, Lingga, Pantai Damai and Semop.

Among the works was constructing water pipes in these areas to connect villagers to the respective water supply networks, he added.

To immediately resolve the water supply problem at SMK Senibong in Opar, he said Kuching Water Board and Rural Water Supply Department were working closely to ensure sufficient water from Matang Treatment Plant feed the Sempadi Booster Station.

He added that several projects would be carried out to ensure a more reliable water supply from Batu Kitang Treatment Plant to Bau-Lundu-Sematan areas, including SMK Senibong.

“We will have a dedicated 8km pipeline from Reservoir No.2 to Siburan junction, a 5.5km pipeline from Stenggang Reservoir to the starting point of the Batang Kayan project to supply Lundu-Sematan-Biawak areas, and implement non-Revenue Water Management in Bau area.”

To address interconnection between Kuching and Sebangan, Sebuyau and other coastal settlements, Awang Tengah said the work scope had been included in the proposed Samarahan Coastal Regional Water Supply Project.

“This will be implemented in the 11MP, with an estimated cost of RM200 million.”

December 15, 2015, Tuesday
Borneo Post 

Lo Khere Chiang will officiate Christmas Carnival at Boulevard Shopping Mall

KUCHING: Boulevard Shopping Mall here will start its 14-day Christmas Carnival today.

The Chirstmas Carnival, to end on 27 December, will be held at its New Wing phase 2 area where 20 booths will be set up to retail a variety of products ranging from sausage buns, ice-creams and chocolates to non-food products.

Shoppers can also find presents including hampers for their love ones at the Christmas Carnival booths or Christmas Bazaar. And shoppers with a minimum spending will stand a chance to win free gifts at the Carnival game booths.

Many other exciting activities will also be lined up for shoppers at the Main Stage of the Shopping Mall.

Padawan Municipal Council chairman Lo Khere Chiang is expected to officiate at the official launching of the carnival on 17 December at 3.00pm.

 A Gingerbread House Workshop will be held at 2.00pm on 19 December. It is especially designed for parents, and their children to enhance family ties.

Uncle John and Santa Bunny will bring more excitements and funs for the children.

There will be Magic Show at 1.00pm on 18 December and clown appearance at 1.00pm on 19 December. Meanwhile, Christmas Carolling sessions will be held at 7.00pm on 16, 19 and 23 December, at 12noon on 24 December and at 7.00pm on 25 December. Meeting Santa sessions will be held at 5.00pm, 6.00pm and 7.00pm on 18 and 19 December, at 2.00pm and 7.30pm on 20 December, at 7.30pm on 23 and 24 December and at 11.00am on 25 December. Meeting Star Wars Mascots sessions will be held at 7.30pm on 18, 19, 23 and 24 December, at 2.00pm and 7.30pm on 20 December, and at 2.00pm on 25 and 26 December, said the shopping mall yesterday.

The management and staff of Boulevard Shopping Mall Kuching wish everyone a ‘Merry Christmas’.

Monday 14-Dec-2015
New Sarawak Tribune.

Selfish trader causes traffic havoc at bazaar

The chaotic scene at Sg. Maong Bazaar yesterday.

KUCHING: Folk at Sg Maong Bazaar or 3rd Mile Market are upset with an inconsiderate trader who has erected huge tents over at least five parking bays in the already congested market.
The situation is made worse by the fact that the coming festive and seasonal fruit seasons had lured more people to the community market lately.

Picture a bustling and congested area teeming with old-fashioned shophouses selling kolok mee and coffee and hawkers selling desserts, durians, rambutans, dabai, imported fruits, cakes, breads, and others.

Eventually, impatient drivers will start honking as traffic comes to a standstill.
Despite parking being a nightmare due to narrow roads and limited parking bays, the wet market and grocery shops in Sg. Maong Bazaar remains a favourite place for nearby residents.

A regular visitor to the bazaar, who wished to be identified only as Mr Yang, described as ‘selfish’ the businessman who erected the huge canopies and filled up the area underneath them with tables for his wares.

“He (businessman) set them up about a week ago. It looks like he intends to stay put through Christmas to Chinese New Year,” he told The Borneo Post yesterday.

“Last year, he was here selling mandarin oranges during Chinese New Year.”

He lamented the authorities lacked the will to enforce the laws.

The huge tents that occupy five parking bays at Sg. Maong Bazaar.

When The Borneo Post asked the man manning the makeshift ‘store’ what he intended to sell as the tables were all empty, he replied, “Durians. Not yet delivered.”

The man, apparently a hired worker, had been there as early as 6am to `reserve’ the parking lots before the crowd came.

When contacted yesterday, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Lo Khere Chiang replied in a Whatsapp: “We will enforce (the law) accordingly.”

Lo, however, did not reply when MPP would be taking appropriate action.

During the last Chinese New Year, the same trader also occupied five parking lots. Lo, when asked to comment then, told The Borneo Post the trader had rented three parking lots from MPP, but his tents occupied five lots and “the tents were a little too big”.

Lo said: “When we give a little flexibility, it doesn’t mean I’m weak or letting the public to climb over my head. The decision was purely on consideration to allow hardworking individuals do business in conjunction with Chinese New Year.”

Lo was also quoted to have also said that MPP would send warning letters to errant traders and to remind them not to repeat the offence.

“If they fail to comply, MPP will not allow them to trade at Sg. Maong Bazaar in the future,” he assured.

December 14, 2015, 

 reporters@theborneopost.com

PM tables motion in Dewan Rakyat to increase Sarawak state constituencies to 82

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak today tabled in the Dewan Rakyat a motion that recommends increasing by 11 to 82 the number of state constituencies in Sarawak.
The motion on the Report on the Redelineation of Sarawak Electoral Boundaries says the recommendations were gazetted on Dec 5 last year.

“The new constituencies are Batu Kitang, Stakan, Serembu, Bukit Semuja, Gedong, Kabong, Tellian, Bukit Goram, Murum, Samalaju and Mulu,” Najib said when tabling the motion.

The prime minister said these additional constituencies would help to enhance the services elected representatives delivered to the people. -Bernama

December 2, 2015, Wednesday

Borneo Post

Vandals target Taman Li Hua

Lo (second left) shows where the park’s signboard should be.

A streetlight which was likely damaged by a slingshot.

Vandalised lighting in the hut.

KUCHING: Taman Li Hua, off Jalan Arang, is a frequent target of vandals with the highest number of complaints from residents to the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) this year.

Vandals often damage the roofing and lighting of a hut used by residents for exercise, steal the signboard, damage the streetlights and leave behind a trail of broken glass bottles, as the park is a favourite drinking spot. During a visit to the park yesterday, MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang called on the public to be the eyes and ears of the police and council to help prevent vandalism and crime.

“If these neighbourhood watch or crime watch groups can help to be on the lookout and inform the police, the police can act more effectively,” he said.

“Vandalised parks are costly to repair and the people will lose out on the opportunity to use it for healthy activities.” Lo said MPP has 72 recreational parks under its jurisdiction, which each cost around RM10,000 to maintain annually.

“Alone we (council and police) are handicapped, but together with the community, we can become effective and an efficient force in combating this menace,” he added.

December 11, 2015, Friday

Borneo Post

Sesi pandu uji Formula Renault bakal gegar MJC pada 12-13 Disember ini

Halaman Utama (/) » Sukan (http://www.utusanborneo.com.my/sukan) » Sesi pandu uji Formula Renault bakal gegar MJC pada 12-13 Disember ini

Utusan Borneo Online: 2015-12-10 

KUCHING: Peminat sukan permotoran tidak harus melepaskan peluang menyaksikan sesi pandu uji Formula Renault yang akan diadakan di MJC, Batu Kawa pada 12 dan 13 Disember ini. 

Sesi pandu uji atau ‘simulation test’ itu julung kali dianjur menerusi kerjasama Majlis Perbandaran Padawan (MPP) dan Pengurusan MJC Batu Kawa. 

Ia akan diadakan di atas litar jalan raya yang dibina khas sejauh 3.2 kilometer. 

Menurut Setiausaha Persatuan Sukan Lumba Otomotif Sarawak (SARSA), Lucas Tan yang diberi tanggungjawab mengendalikan program berkenaan, litar tersebut bakal menjanjikan cabaran teknikal kepada pelumba berpengalaman yang terlibat nanti. 

“Terdapat 32 sudut dalam litar ini yang direka khas oleh penganjur untuk menjadikan sesi pandu uji ini lebih menarik dan mencabar,” ujar Lucas. 

“Justeru, kita menyeru orang ramai datang menyaksikan sendiri aksi hebat pelumba-pelumba profesional semasa sesi pandu uji ini nanti.” 

Menurutnya, objektif utama sesi pandu uji tersebut untuk membuktikan keupayaan Sarawak sebagai venue penganjuran perlumbaan bertaraf antarabangsa. 

Lebih menarik apabila kereta Formula Renault 1.6 (tektronik) dengan kuasa enam kelajuan itu akan dipandu oleh pelumba-pelumba profesional tempatan. 

Sebanyak enam kereta Formula Renault dan enam kereta sokongan akan terlibat sepanjang sesi pandu uji selama dua hari berkenaan.

PMC all geared up for monsoon season

Lo (front row, fourth right) together with trainers and participants of the first Flood Safety and Awareness course.

KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (PMC) is on a mission to reduce deaths through drowning as it braces for the monsoon season.

At the opening ceremony of the council’s first ever Flood and Water Safety Awareness course yesterday, its chairman Lo Khere Chiang said numerous rivers and streams in Kuching meant there were many opportunities for accidents.

“There are many drowning cases reported throughout Malaysia. What we are doing here with this course is very important,” he said.

Among the participants of the course were Rela members, Malaysian Red Crescent members and the local community.

Conducted by Sarawak Life Saving Training Centre, the course expects a total of 120 participants divided over two days. They can expect to learn protective measure, rescue methods and procedures. They will also learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Lo said that if this session received good response, they would conduct more sessions for the community, especially those in flood-prone areas.

Also present was event was the organising chairman Lucas Lee.

On the same event, the council also honoured eight people who have saved others from drowning.

December 10, 2015, Thursday

Borneo Post

Semariang and Padawan ready for floods, teams on standby. Confimed by Lo Khere Chiang

KUCHING: Semariang and Padawan are ready for the flood during this monsoon season.

Semariang assemblywoman Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said the Semariang Flood Operations Committee Operations Room has been on standby since last month and is ready for any eventuality, adding the team is always ready during every Landas season.

“There is not much to worry about at the moment as the rains are not continuously heavy and so far in my kawasan (area), no reports of flooding, but as I said, should the need arise, we will be in our full gear,” she said when contacted yesterday.

Her advice to the public is to ensure children do not play near drains or places that are deemed dangerous to prevent any untoward incident from happening.

The committee’s hotline is 082-443566.

Meanwhile, Padawan Municipal Council chairman Lo Khere Chiang said their Emergency Team has been activated and is working closely with the Resident’s Office, which is the main flood operations room.

“So far in Padawan, we’ve only gotten reports of flash flooding but not flooding like what we usually get at the end of the year,” said Lo when contacted yesterday.

He advised those living in low-lying areas to save the council’s hotline number 013-8025566 so that they can inform the council if their area gets flooded.

 December 8, 2015, Tuesday
Borneo Post

SUPP remains firm with its stand after meeting with CM

Dr Sim (fifth right, front row) with Riot (fourth right) and other SUPP leaders pose for the camera before the meeting. Lo Khere Chiang, MPP chairman at back

KUCHING: Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) remained adamant about its party stand even after a second meeting with Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem yesterday.

Met by reporters after the meeting, SUPP president Senator Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said “our stand is very clear” when asked whether there was any compromise.

Even though he did not clearly state the party’s stand, during SUPP’s annual delegates’ conference held last month the party resolved not to give away any state seat in the coming election.

Prior to stressing the party’s stand, Dr Sim said Adenan had instructed all leaders to keep mum about what transpired at the over two-hour meeting.
 
“Chief minister says it is closed door, so we cannot talk.”

Asked whether the meeting went well, he said: “Of course, otherwise we won’t be so happy, all smiling.”

As Dr Sim refused to comment further and seemed to be in a hurry, a reporter then asked if any good news could be expected in the near future, to which he said: “You wait lah.”

On the outcome of the meeting, he described it as positive, adding that “otherwise it won’t be so long.”

Asked if this would be the last meeting with Adenan, he said: “I don’t know when the next meeting is.”

Leaders of SUPP were seen entering Wisma Bapa Malaysia from 2pm. Dr Sim arrived at the building at about 2.30pm.

While the meeting was said to have begun at 3pm, Dr Sim and some 20 other SUPP leaders gathered at the lobby only at 5.40pm.

At about 5.20pm, SUPP deputy president Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem, who is also Human Resource Minister, was the first to be seen at the lobby.

However, he declined to offer any comment, asserting that the president should be the one speaking to the press.

When pressed, Riot, who is Serian MP, only said it was a “long meeting”, “marathon meeting” which lasted over two hours.

December 18, 2015, Friday

Borneo Post

15 car repair firms offered industrial lots

Awang Tengah (third right) presenting the letter of offer to a representative of Kim Shin Auto Spraying Sdn Bhd while Julaihi (second right), Lee (third left) and others look on.

KUCHING: Industrial Development Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan yesterday presented letters of offer for industrial lots to 15 car repair companies in Kuching Division at Wisma Sumber Alam here.

According to a press statement, the 15 companies were from the Kuching Division Car Repairer Association that had been offered lots measuring 0.57 acres to 0.6 acres at Kota Samarahan Extension Industrial Area, Phase 1 whereas applications from 23 more companies were still under consideration.

Prior to this, the car repair operators established their workshops on lands that were not of industrial status such as commercial land (5), agriculture land (5), industry (3) and housing development (2).

In view of this, the government is encouraging workshop operators to relocate their businesses to ideal industrial lands to avoid interference with neighbours and industrial areas.

Presently, 63 companies had lands approved for Kota Samarahan Extension Industrial Area which involved 88 plots totalling 155.46 acres.

Also present during the ceremony were Assistant Minister of Industrial Development (Investment and Promotion) Datuk Julaihi Narawi, Assistant Minister of Industrial Estate Development Datuk Peter Nansian Ngusie, Assistant Minister of Communications Datuk Lee Kim Shin, Assistant Minister of Resource Planning Datuk Mohd Naroden Majais, Ministry of Industrial Development permanent secretary Datu Liaw Soon Eng and Kuching Division Car Repairers Association chairman Bong Jiew Kit.

December 18, 2015, Friday

Borneo Post

Sarawak economy to grow at four per cent in 2016

SARAWAK’S economic growth is expected to sustain at four per cent for 2016 with the continued uncertainties in the global market, particularly with the slowdown in emerging markets and weaker commodity prices.

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem said the gross domestic product (GDP) growth in 2016 is expected to remain broad based and continue to be driven by the services sector, supported by private consumption and tourism-related activities.

“The services sector is projected to grow by 5.9 per cent, with continued expansion in all sub-sectors,” he said when tabling the Supply 2016 Bill, (2015) in the August House yesterday.

Adenan said the manufacturing sector was expected to grow by 3.7 per cent for 2016, with the growth anticipated to be driven by higher demand for resource-based products.

“In addition, the roll out of infrastructure projects under the 11th Malaysia Plan (11MP) is envisaged to increase the demand for building materials.

“The construction sector is projected to grow by 6.4 per cent for 2016, benefiting from the implementation of 11MP projects,” he pointed out.

Some of the major projects included the on-going construction of the Pan-Borneo Highway, the new Mukah Airport, Kuching Waste Water Management System Package 2 and upgrading of Batu Kitang Water Treatment Plant.

In 2016, he said the agriculture sector was anticipated to remain resilient with a projected growth at four per cent to be supported by higher output of palm oil, rubber, food, livestock and fisheries sub-sectors.

“For 2016, growth in the mining sector is expected at 2.3 per cent, driven by the expected higher output of natural gas and crude oil.”

On the demand side, Adenan said public investment was expected to register a growth of 3.3 per cent next year as more rural projects approved under 11MP would be rolled out for implementation.

Private investment, he said, was anticipated to grow by 6.8 per cent and continue to be driven by investment in export-oriented industries.

“Growth in public consumption is expected to grow by 3.1 per cent next year while private consumption is projected to grow by 6.3 per cent, benefiting from stable employment condition and wage growth. The increment of minimum wage for workers in the private sector and the salary revision of the civil service and BR1M (Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia) are expected to increase household purchasing power.”

He remarked that external trade was expected to rebound in tandem with better regional growth prospects and firm domestic economic growth next year.

In the first half of 2015, the balance of trade continued to record a surplus of RM28.6 billion despite contraction in both gross exports and imports, he said.

“The gross exports contracted by 22.7 per cent due to the weaker commodity prices, particularly oil and gas as well as palm oil. Export receipts from mining, timber and other commodities dropped by 26.6 per cent. However, exports for other manufactured goods rose by 9.6 per cent.

“Gross imports declined by 15.3 per cent for the first half of 2015 due to the lower importation of intermediate and capital goods. However, imports of consumption goods, particularly food increased by 3.4 per cent.”

With continued government efforts to cushion inflation, Adenan said inflation was expected to remain below three per cent next year.

“Consumer price rose at a slower pace of 1.2 per cent in the first nine months of 2015. Of the Consumer Price Index components, price increases in food and non-alcoholic beverages category was the main contributor, accounting for one per cent of the overall inflation rate in 2015.”

December 8, 2015, Tuesday  

reporters@theborneopost.com

MPP aims to be most ‘happening’ council

Lo (second, right) and Yap (second, left) speaking to reporters yesterday at Papillon, MJC Batu Kawah township. Also seen are MJC manager Dato Sri Wong King Seng (left) and MPP deputy chairman Dr Zaiedi Suhaili.

KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) wants to be the most ‘happening’ council in the country by vigorously organising events for the people from now on.

According to MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang and councillor Wilfred Yap, the council are looking for all kinds of ways possible to organise all sorts of activities and events to achieve their goals.
Both Lo and Yap revealed that they are looking to organise as many first time events as possible to increase the council’s profile.

One of the first time events which the MPP will organise this year is the Formula Renault test drive which is scheduled to be held at MJC Batu Kawah township next week.

MPP officials (together with Lo and Yap) and the representatives of the organisers for the event were at Papillon, MJC Batu Kawah township to inspect the test circuit yesterday.

“Last year we organised the first ever Padawan International 4×4 Off-roaders Extreme Challenge in Bengoh and this year the Formula Renault test drive. These events are held for the first time in the state and MPP is looking forward to organising more first time events next year,” added Yap.

MJC Management will also jointly organise the Formula Renault test drive event with the support of Sarawak Automotive Racing Sports Association (SARSA) and other automotive clubs and association.

What matters most for MPP is that the people in their area will always benefit from the events organised by the council as they are always meant for the people.

Apart from that Yap too commented that MPP was always pro-active in carrying out their duties and responsibilities to the people.

“We believe in taking action first and being active in carrying out our duty as a council. We will always plan ahead and think about what’s best for the people,” he said.

Lo concurred adding that councillors played a vital role for MPP in making it a more happening council as they would be actively involved in organising those events.

“MPP currently has 32 councillors. Together when working as a team, I believe that MPP can achieve its goal of becoming a very happening council in the country,” he commented.

Established in 1996, MPP administers the Padawan municipality in Kuching division and their meeting place/ headquarters is located at Kota Padawan.

December 6, 2015, Sunday

Borneo Post

MPP was one of the 30 agencies in Sarawak which received the five-star rating this year.

Lo Khere Chiang MPP Chairman (seated second left) and MPP deputy chairman Dr Zaiedi Suhaili show the five-star rating award for the council’s website. MPP secretary Andrew Joris is seated left.


KUCHING: The two-year term of all 32 councillors in Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), which will expire this Dec 31, will be extended by another six months.

MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang, who announced this yesterday, did not discount the possibility that the next state election had something to do with the extension of services of the councillors.

He said MPP was recently informed on the extension by the Local Government and Community Development Ministry’s permanent secretary Datu Dr Pengguang Manggil, following a cabinet meeting.

“The extension of services will be effective January 2016 until June. Although this matter was informed to us by the ministry’s permanent secretary, we will wait for official confirmation from the state government,” he told reporters after chairing the MPP full council meeting yesterday.

He said although the councillors were from different Barisan Nasional (BN) components, they worked well together as a team and this contributed to greater efficiency and performance from MPP.

He pointed to the fact that MPP had spent almost all of the RM21million allocated to it, comprising RM13 million from Malaysian Roads Records Information System (Maris) for maintenance of roads; and RM6 million and RM2 million from the federal government and state government, respectively, for various purposes.

He added the council also spent RM1 million from MPP Reserve Fund on street lighting works in areas under its jurisdiction.

“The allocations were distributed evenly in all areas under MPP’s jurisdiction. All 32 councillors work well together; there is no quarrel because I have been very fair.

“But there are some voices in MPP areas including Matang zone who say they are neglected. They have to understand that with MPP covering 1,400 square kilometres — a big area half the size of Singapore, — even the RM20 million allocation is not enough (to provide the best to their expectations). Therefore, I hope the elected representative in those areas would look after the area better,” he said.

Despite such shortcoming, he said he was pleased to announce MPP’s website had been awarded a five-star rating in an assessment of the Malaysian Government Portals and Websites Assessment (MGPWA) by Multimedia Development Corporation (MDEC).

He said this feat was the first achieved by MPP, after a four-star rating last year and three-star rating the previous year, adding he was also proud to inform that MPP was one of the 30 agencies in Sarawak which received the five-star rating this year.

On another matter, he announced MPP and Life Saving Training Centre will jointly hold Flood and Water Safety Awareness Course in view of the rainy season.

The course, to take place at MPP conference room in Kota Padawan, will be held on Dec 9 and 10. Entrance is free and more information on registration can be obtained by calling organising chairman Lucas Lim at 019-8787778.

“In MPP, we have our own Emergency Response Team comprising our own staff. We also plan to use this course as further training for them,” he said.


Borneo Post:December 1, 2015, Tuesday

MPP councillors’ term extended by six months

Lo (seated second left) and MPP deputy chairman Dr Zaiedi Suhaili show the five-star rating award for the council’s website. MPP secretary Andrew Joris is seated left.

KUCHING: The two-year term of all 32 councillors in Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), which will expire this Dec 31, will be extended by another six months.

MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang, who announced this yesterday, did not discount the possibility that the next state election had something to do with the extension of services of the councillors.

He said MPP was recently informed on the extension by the Local Government and Community Development Ministry’s permanent secretary Datu Dr Pengguang Manggil, following a cabinet meeting.

“The extension of services will be effective January 2016 until June. Although this matter was informed to us by the ministry’s permanent secretary, we will wait for official confirmation from the state government,” he told reporters after chairing the MPP full council meeting yesterday.

He said although the councillors were from different Barisan Nasional (BN) components, they worked well together as a team and this contributed to greater efficiency and performance from MPP.

He pointed to the fact that MPP had spent almost all of the RM21million allocated to it, comprising RM13 million from Malaysian Roads Records Information System (Maris) for maintenance of roads; and RM6 million and RM2 million from the federal government and state government, respectively, for various purposes.

He added the council also spent RM1 million from MPP Reserve Fund on street lighting works in areas under its jurisdiction.

“The allocations were distributed evenly in all areas under MPP’s jurisdiction. All 32 councillors work well together; there is no quarrel because I have been very fair.

“But there are some voices in MPP areas including Matang zone who say they are neglected. They have to understand that with MPP covering 1,400 square kilometres — a big area half the size of Singapore, — even the RM20 million allocation is not enough (to provide the best to their expectations). Therefore, I hope the elected representative in those areas would look after the area better,” he said.

Despite such shortcoming, he said he was pleased to announce MPP’s website had been awarded a five-star rating in an assessment of the Malaysian Government Portals and Websites Assessment (MGPWA) by Multimedia Development Corporation (MDEC).

He said this feat was the first achieved by MPP, after a four-star rating last year and three-star rating the previous year, adding he was also proud to inform that MPP was one of the 30 agencies in Sarawak which received the five-star rating this year.

On another matter, he announced MPP and Life Saving Training Centre will jointly hold Flood and Water Safety Awareness Course in view of the rainy season.

The course, to take place at MPP conference room in Kota Padawan, will be held on Dec 9 and 10. Entrance is free and more information on registration can be obtained by calling organising chairman Lucas Lim at 019-8787778.

“In MPP, we have our own Emergency Response Team comprising our own staff. We also plan to use this course as further training for them,” he said.

December 1, 2015, Tuesday  

Borneo Post

Lo Khere Chiang MPP Chairman says " Money allocated to MPP spent prudently"

KOTA PADAWAN : All the money allocated to Padawan Municipal  Council (MPP) has been spent efficiently and prudently.

This was disclosed by MPP Chairman, Councillor Lo Khere Chiang at a press conference  held  after the MPP Full Council Meeting here yesterday.

“Now we are coming to the end of the year. I am very pleased with the council’s development.

Lo said from Malaysian Road Record Information System (MARISS)  fund alone MPP  had RM13 million, from the federal government another RM 6 million in terms of projects (BB1, BB2 and  BOS projects) and other sources of funds from the federal government.

“From the state government another RM2 million, and from our Council’s own resources and fund, we spent RM 1 million on street lightings.

“So it is  RM22 million  altogether this year. I am very pleased because we have spent all our money. We have been very efficient and very prudent in our spending.

“We spent  the money very fairly among all the communities  within the Padawan  Municipal  Council, and that is something  that I am  very  proud of.”

Lo added: “In my Full Council Meeting, I have 32 Councillors, all of us work very well together.

“We are all working as a team – myself, my Deputy Chairman, my 30 Councillors and our Council Secretary, Andrew Joris.

“We  have been looking after all our areas very fairly, including the Padawan  Zone  and the Matang Zone.

“I am very proud that we did so many things, and that is why we get the 5-star rating this year,” he said.

Lo added that Padawan Municipal Council covered a big area.

“Even  RM20 million is not enough.So we also required a lot of help from the Members of Parliament. The areas with Members of Parliament are better looked after somehow,” he added.

The whole MPP area is 1,400 square kilometres, which is two times the size of Singapore. 

TheStar :01-Dec-2015

Lo Khere Chiang : A horn to alert neighbours to crime

Lo Khere Chiang MPP chairman (right) holding a vuvuzela horn, with policemen and actors (as bad hats) seen during the simulation of a theft at the community crime prevention drill.

This is such a great idea. A horn to alert neighbours to crime !

KUCHING: Community policing has reached a high note, with the adoption of an ‘alert signal’ during a full crime prevention drill carried out yesterday afternoon at Jalan Arang and Everbright Estate neighbourhood area, where neighbours literally sound the alarm in chain reaction when a crime is in progress.

The exercise, crafted to create greater public awareness on crime prevention, was said to be the first ever community driven Crime Prevention Drill, was held there with the purpose to find a common understanding among the neighbours on how to respond or to react when a crime occurs in the neighbourhood, explained PKR Women vice chairman Voon Shiak Ni.

The drill was successfully held with full support of the police force from Padawan and about 10 houses at Lrg 15 Jalan Arang participating in the exercise where a crime was simulated to gauge the effectiveness of the ‘neighbourhood crime alert’.

“The leaders and coordinators of the crime prevention drill planned the drill with the purpose to introduce a way or practice to send alerts via an identified sound which signifies danger as a common perception for the neighbourhood,” she said.

The community is urged to adopt the use of a standard ‘alert signal’ by trumpeting the vuvuzela (an African horn popularised by sport fans) and also by hitting an empty tin to raise a recognisable din.

“This afternoon, the drill staged a scene whereby a burglar on a motorbike with an accomplice was spotted climbing the fence of one of the houses and upon sighting the thief, the house owner started trumpeting the vuvuzela and the alert was supposedly to be picked up by other neighbours who also follow suit to trumpet the vuvuzela or hitting an empty tin,” she said.

“The drill ended with a successful arrest of the two burglars by police,” Voon added.

The participants of the drill included all the leaders from Jln Arang Neigbourhood Watch and Everbright Estate Neighbourhood Watch, namely Datu William Lee, Dr Kho Boon Chong, Christopher Lee, Gabriel Lai, CM Ong, Jeffery Mok and also MPP chairman Lo khere Chiang.

Borneo Post: November 30, 2015

Community policing hits high note: A horn to alert neighbours to crime

Lo (right) holding a vuvuzela horn, with policemen and actors (as bad hats) seen during the simulation of a theft at the community crime prevention drill.

KUCHING: Community policing has reached a high note, with the adoption of an ‘alert signal’ during a full crime prevention drill carried out yesterday afternoon at Jalan Arang and Everbright Estate neighbourhood area, where neighbours literally sound the alarm in chain reaction when a crime is in progress.
The exercise, crafted to create greater public awareness on crime prevention, was said to be the first ever community driven Crime Prevention Drill, was held there with the purpose to find a common understanding among the neighbours on how to respond or to react when a crime occurs in the neighbourhood, explained PKR Women vice chairman Voon Shiak Ni.
The drill was successfully held with full support of the police force from Padawan and about 10 houses at Lrg 15 Jalan Arang participating in the exercise where a crime was simulated to gauge the effectiveness of the ‘neighbourhood crime alert’.
“The leaders and coordinators of the crime prevention drill planned the drill with the purpose to introduce a way or practice to send alerts via an identified sound which signifies danger as a common perception for the neighbourhood,” she said.
The community is urged to adopt the use of a standard ‘alert signal’ by trumpeting the vuvuzela (an African horn popularised by sport fans) and also by hitting an empty tin to raise a recognisable din.
“This afternoon, the drill staged a scene whereby a burglar on a motorbike with an accomplice was spotted climbing the fence of one of the houses and upon sighting the thief, the house owner started trumpeting the vuvuzela and the alert was supposedly to be picked up by other neighbours who also follow suit to trumpet the vuvuzela or hitting an empty tin,” she said.
“The drill ended with a successful arrest of the two burglars by police,” Voon added.
The participants of the drill included all the leaders from Jln Arang Neigbourhood Watch and Everbright Estate Neighbourhood Watch, namely Datu William Lee, Dr Kho Boon Chong, Christopher Lee, Gabriel Lai, CM Ong, Jeffery Mok and also MPP chairman Lo khere Chiang.

November 30, 2015, Monday

Borneo Post

Guess who popped in to the ‘Pitcher-perfect Garden’?

Pitcher-perfect as Lo Khere Chiang, MPP Chairman (fourth left) accepts tickets from members of K-Pop group Red-L. The girl group is here ahead of the Dec 14 concert to make promotional rounds.


KUCHING: The freshly-revamped Pitcher Plant Garden is hoping to take its rightful claim as a must-see tourist stop with its strategic location in Kota Padawan.

During its official launch yesterday, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Lo Khere Chiang said that there are now 35 species of pitcher plants in the garden, ranging from the tiny Nepenthes Gracilis to the Nepenthes Rafflesianna which could hold a litre of liquid.

“The Pitcher Plant Garden is 3km from Semenggoh Nature Reserve, 4km away from Sarawak Biodiversity Centre and is the gateway to villages in Padawan,” he said in his speech.

Lo said visitors to the garden will gain free admission from Dec 1 to 5. Normal entry fee is RM6 for non-Malaysians and RM3 for Malaysians. Tour guides and taxi drivers enjoy free entry.

“In line with our conservation efforts, visitors will be notified that pitchers plants are a protected species in Sarawak. Any person caught damaging, stealing or involved in any action to cause damage to the plants in the garden, will be fined.”

There are also plans to exhibit pitcher plants from other regions in the future, Lo added.

Also present were MPP councillors, council staff and tour operators.

Organising chairman Cr Edward Kurik disclosed that the Pitcher Plant Garden opened in 2004 but did not take off as well as they hoped.

“This year, we changed the concept into something more attractive, adding wild orchids and an English Garden,” he said.

Pulling off a coup of sorts for the garden was Korean girl group ‘Red-L’ whose members made a ‘Pitcher perfect’ appearance to hand over concert tickets to MPP. No teeny-bopper fans were waved on to mob them yesterday, ahead of the Dec 14th K-Pop (Korean Pop) concert featuring Nolza.

Borneo Post: November 29, 2015, Sunday