31 May 2016

罗克强建议办国际赛会 通过观摩提高篮运水准


●巴达旺市议会主席罗克强(后排左五)在众人的陪同下,颁奖予四哩半篮球俱乐部第八届公开篮球竞标赛冠军队伍“四哩半篮球俱乐部”时摄。
(古晋30日讯)巴达旺市议会主席兼巴都吉当州议员罗克强指出,以前四哩半地区只有露天篮球场,篮球运动员进行训练或比赛时,经常受到下雨的影响,相当不便。
如今,四哩半篮球俱乐部拥有雨盖篮球场之后,四哩半地区篮球运动更为蓬勃的发展。
罗克强是昨晚为2016年巴达旺市议会及四哩半篮球俱乐部联办的第八届男子公开、男子180公开、少男17岁暨中男14岁篮球锦标赛主持闭幕礼上致词时,如是表示。
他说,四哩半篮球俱乐部数十年如一日,不遗余力推动地方上的篮球运动,积极栽培优秀的篮球运动员,并且常年举办各级篮球赛,让老中青少年儿童都有机会参加篮球赛。
“不仅在四哩半篮球俱乐部克服困难,努力推动篮球运动,并且取得卓越成绩之下,备受了各地篮球协会的肯定。”
他希望,该俱乐部今后继续举办更多的篮球赛,特别是国际篮球邀请赛,让本地球迷有机会欣赏更高水平的篮球赛,通过观摩而提高本地篮运水平。
“经过一个多月,数十场龙争虎斗,四哩半篮球俱乐部举办的第8届篮球赛,今晚进行决赛后,宣告圆满落幕。”
他也不忘在致词中,恭贺获得冠军杯的球队,并表示球员的团结精神和杰出的表现成就一切。
他希望各球队继续努力,加强训练,不断提升球技,再接再厉,参加更多篮球赛,争取最佳成绩.


30 May 2016

砂拉越人要什么?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFa8FEO218Q

Manyin hopes to see Bidayuhs not divided by dialect



Manyin (fifth right) seen leading the toast during the Rami Gawia Semeba 2016 at Kampung Semeba village hall on Saturday. Also seen are Lo (fourth right), Ik Pahon (third right), Wes (sixth right) and other officials.
Manyin (fifth right) seen leading the toast during the Rami Gawia Semeba 2016 at Kampung Semeba village hall on Saturday. Also seen are Lo Khere Chiang (fourth right), Ik Pahon (third right), Wes (sixth right) and other officials.

KUCHING: Minister of Youth and Sports and Solidarity Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong hopes that one day Bidayuh Dayaks will be ‘dialect-blind’, saying it would go a long way in integrating the community.

He lamented that as of now, most Bidayuh Dayaks in the state were still differentiating themselves mainly based on the four main dialects they spoke; namely Jagoi-Singai (Bau District), Bukar-Sadong (Serian Division), Biatah (Padawan area and its vicinity) and Selako-Lara (Lundu District).

Speaking during an event known as ‘Rami Gawia Semeba 2016’ at Kampung Semeba here on Saturday, Manyin noted that Bidayuhs also differentiated each other by the area they came from and their religion.

Hence, he spoke about getting the Bidayuh community united so that they could be on par with other races in terms of progress.

“A Bidayuh will always be a Bidayuh no matter where or what background they are from. We need to put all our differences aside and see the bigger picture by first calling ourselves Bidayuh, then which Bidayuh
sub-tribe we are from if we must,” he advised.

Coming from Serian and of Bukar-Sadong sub-ethnicity, he said he felt obliged to remind his own people as he was also speaking as a minister handling solidarity matters for the state.

On another matter, Manyin hoped the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) would help to widen the main road to Kampung Semeba.

“This village experiences massive traffic congestion during events such as the one held today (Saturday). For the sake of the people living in Kampung Semeba, I hope MPP will pay attention to their needs,” he said.

Also present were MPP chairman and Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang, Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) president Datu Ik Pahon Joyik and Rami Gawia Semeba 2016 chairperson Wes Mirid.

The main event during that night was the ‘Dari Ngigap’ and ‘Dayung Sangon’ contest to select the most handsome Bidayuh man and prettiest Bidayuh woman among the contestants.

Seven male and 13 female contestants dressed in traditional Bidayuh attires participated in the contest.

Manyin pledged RM10,000 for the event, much to the delight of the organisers and villagers present.
May 30, 2016, Monday



Set up state-level flash flood taskforce, urges Lo Khere Chiang



KUCHING: Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang will propose the setting up of a state-level committee or taskforce in the coming State Legislative Assembly (DUN) to address flash flood problems, particularly in Batu Kitang.

Lo believed he could contribute much to such a body based on his expertise as a civil engineer.

He said the proposed committee or taskforce should include personnel from the relevant departments and agencies.

“I will also be requesting for myself to be included so that I can contribute as the elected representative of Batu Kitang, not just as MPP (Padawan Municipal Council) chairman,” he said when contacted yesterday.
Lo said he would also be raising questions concerning flash floods during the DUN’s question-and-answer and debate sessions.

“I submitted my questions on May 20.”

Flash floods have been a big headache for Batu Kitang folk, particularly those living in Kampung Batu Kitang Lama and Kampung Batu Kitang Jaya, for the last 20 years.

While residents have proposed that the river near their villages be deepen, Lo proposed last February that those affected be relocated.

Borneo Post

29 May 2016

罗克强吁续监督 阻网赌中心兴起


2016年5月28日


(本报古晋27日讯)砂人联党峇都吉当区候任州议员兼巴达旺市议会主席罗克强希望警方继续展开监督及执法行动,以杜绝非法网络赌博中心的兴起。


据他所观察,在州选前,巴达旺辖区内大部分的非法赌博中心已关闭,因此,他希望当局继续展开监督,阻止这些赌博中心死灰复燃。

“尽管市议会有权力取缔非法赌博中心,不过仍希望能与警携手合作,以确保执法行动,不会发生伤人事件。”

罗克强今日随同砂地方政府部长拿督沈桂贤出席与巴达旺警区的交流,受邀发言时,如是表示。

他赞扬巴达旺警方过去以来皆严厉打击赌博中心,导致一些中心在州选之前纷纷关闭,如今州选已过去了,希望警方继续采取行动监督它们的情况,以免它们重新开业。

设通讯群组拼治安

另一方面,罗克强也建议警方,安排一名警官参与由各社区人民所设立的治安情报WhatsApp或微信的群组,以便警方能即时掌握地方上的治安情况,与居民联手打击罪犯。

Plan to amend Municipal Council (MPP) laws

unnamed The Ministry of Local Government Senator Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian has proposed to amend the laws of   Municipal Council (MPP) to enable it to employ traffic wardens in the future.

Dr Som said the ministry is concerned about traffic congestion in the council’s area of jurisdiction, especially Batu Kawa.

The amendment,he said would enable the council to put traffic wardens in congested areas to assist traffic police.

Padawan police chief Superintendent Choo Yin Kok, welcomed the good news as he is short of manpower.

Also present was MPP chairman cum Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang and Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Batu Kawa chairman.

Crime, traffic jams are major issues in Batu Kawah



  
Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian (second left), accompanied by Lo Khere Chiang (second right) and Tan Joo Phoi (right), meets with Padawan district police chief Supt Choo Yin Kok (left) during his working visit to Padawan district police headquarters.
 
PADAWAN: Crime and traffic congestion are the major issues raised by the public in Padawan municipality, particularly in Batu Kawah areas.

These issues were raised by Minister of Local Government, Senator Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian during his working visit to Padawan district police headquarters here, yesterday.

He said these were the issues raised by the people during the election campaigning period.

He advised the police to go down to the ground and work with the various agencies to learn and understand issues as well as to raise public confidence in the police.

Sim was informed by the police that Batu Kawah had the highest crime rate and yet no police were assigned to the area.

“We need to understand about this mismatch so that we can address it. I also understand that the police are facing manpower issue to address traffic congestions, so we can look to changing the laws of the local councils so that the traffic wardens can help police to resolve the matter.

“For Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), we need to change its by-law to empower it to employ traffic wardens,” he added.

Dr Sim said there was no need to point fingers, but all concerned should put in effort to find the best solution to the traffic congestion.

“Solve the issue through cooperation to find the solution so that at least, we can make the municipality, especially in Batu Kawah, a better place to live in.

“Find the solution so that the opposition will not keep on highlighting the issue,” he said.

Batu Kitang State Assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang, who is also MPP chairman, and Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Batu Kawa chairman Tan Joo Phoi accompanied Dr Sim in his working visit.

Sarawak Tribune
Date Posted : Saturday 28-May-2016


沈桂贤于巴达旺警区工作访问


unnamed 

 砂地方政府部长拿督沈桂贤希望,巴达旺市议会可以拥有属于自己的交通指挥员,以在繁忙时段指挥交通,舒缓塞车问题。


他指出,由于这涉及修改地方议会法令,他指示地方议会官员作出研究。

目前,巴达旺市议会辖区的石角地区等,都在繁忙时段面对塞车问题,驾驶人士苦不堪言。与古晋南北市政局不同的是,巴达旺市议会并没有指挥交通的权限。

因此,沈桂贤期望,通过修改相关条例,可以让巴达旺市议会可以派出人手指挥交通。

也是砂人联党主席的沈桂贤是于27日前往巴达旺警区警察总部进行工作访问时,这么表示。

根据民众向他反映,石角地区的塞车黑区是石角路、杨国斯路和三哩交通岛处。

巴达旺警区主任朱显国指出,基于警方面对人手不足问题,因此倘若巴达旺市议会可以协助指挥交通,那可以帮助到警方舒缓塞车问题。

随同沈桂贤到巴达旺警区警察总部进行工作访问者是巴都吉当区州议员兼巴达旺市议会主席罗克强,及人联党石角支部主席陈如飞。

Plan to amend Municipal Council (MPP) laws

unnamed The Ministry of Local Government Senator Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian has proposed to amend the laws of   Municipal Council (MPP) to enable it to employ traffic wardens in the future.

Dr Som said the ministry is concerned about traffic congestion in the council’s area of jurisdiction, especially Batu Kawa.

The amendment,he said would enable the council to put traffic wardens in congested areas to assist traffic police.

Padawan police chief Superintendent Choo Yin Kok, welcomed the good news as he is short of manpower.

Also present was MPP chairman cum Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang and Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Batu Kawa chairman.


Ministry proposes to amend MPP by-laws


(From left) Choo, Dr Sim, Lo and Tan at Padawan IPD in Siburan yesterday. — Photo by Chimon Upon
(From left) Choo, Dr Sim, Lo and Tan at Padawan IPD in Siburan yesterday. — Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING: The Ministry of Local Government has proposed to amend the laws of Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) to enable it to employ traffic wardens in the future.

This was since the ministry is concerned about traffic congestion in the council’s area of jurisdiction, especially Batu Kawa. Unlike Kuching City North Commission (DBKU) and Kuching City South Council (MBKS), MPP currently does not have traffic wardens to help traffic police during peak hours.

According to Local Government Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, the amendment would enable the council to put traffic wardens in congested areas to assist traffic police.

“We need to amend the by-laws to empower local councils to appoint traffic wardens. My ministry sees this as one of the ways to solve the traffic problem in MPP areas,” he added.

He said the most congested route during peak hours in Batu Kawa was from Jalan Datuk Stephen Yong and encircling Sunny Hill.

According to Padawan police chief Superintendent Choo Yin Kok, personnel constraint made it difficult for Padawan IPD to regulate traffic during peak areas in MPP areas.

“It will be good news for us here at Padawan IPD if MPP engages traffic wardens to help us regulate traffic during peak hours. We need all the help we can get to deal with the congested traffic in Batu Kawa,” he said.
Both Dr Sim and Choo were speaking to reporters after a visit to Padawan IPD in Siburan yesterday. Sim was briefed by police officers from Padawan IPD on issues such as the crime rate in Batu Kawa, said to be the highest in Padawan area. Dr Sim said one of the solutions was to station more police officers at Batu Kawa.

“My ministry is looking into many other solutions which we can’t reveal,” he said.

On his visit to Padawan IPD, he said his ministry had a policy to go to the ground to forge a working relation with relevant agencies apart from gathering information on issues faced by the people.

Also present was MPP chairman cum Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang and Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Batu Kawa chairman Datuk Tan Joo Phoi.

28 May 2016

Pinda undang-undang atasi kesesakan tra/k


Halaman Utama (/) » Sarawak (http://www.utusanborneo.com.my/sarawak) » Pinda undang-undang atasi kesesakan trafik

% 2016-05-28
Oleh Jessica Jawing//


KUCHING: Kementerian Kerajaan Tempatan bercadang meminda undang-undang pihak berkuasa tempatan (PBT) termasuk di kawasan Majlis Perbandaran Padawan (MPP) terutama berkaitan masalah kesesakan di Batu Kawa. 

Menterinya Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian berkata, pindaan itu bagi membolehkan pihak PBT menempatkan warden trafik dalam membantu polis trafik ketika bertugas di kawasan tertentu yang mengalami kesesakan paling tinggi. 

“Kita perlu meminda undang-undang kecil untuk memperkasakan pihak berkuasa tempatan dengan hak untuk melantik warden trafik. 

“Kita tidak mahu asyik menyalahkan semua orang sebaliknya menyelesaikan isu menerusi kerjasama dengan mencari penyelesaian supaya sekurang-kurangnya menjadikan Batu Kawa tempat lebih baik,” katanya. 

Beliau berkata demikian ketika ditemui pemberita selepas mengadakan kunjungan terhadap Ketua Polis Daerah (KPD) Padawan Superintenden Choo Yin Kok yang turut dihadiri Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Batu Kitang merangkap Pengerusi MPP Lo Khere Chiang di Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah Padawan di sini, semalam. 

Selain itu Dr Sim yang juga ADUN Batu Kawa berkata, antara isu yang mungkin diteliti beliau adalah meletakkan pegawai polis di Balai Polis Batu Kawa berbanding sedia ada hanya anggota sahaja. 

“Kita dimaklumkan tadi, Batu Kawa mempunyai kadar jenayah tertinggi di bawah kawasan Padawan tetapi tidak ada pegawai di balainya dan perkara ini harus kita fahami supaya kita dapat menanganinya,” tegasnya. 

Mengenai lawatan dan kunjungan itu, Dr Sim berkata, ia sebahagian daripada dasar turun padang dan bekerja dengan pelbagai agensi bagi memahami isu-isu selain membangkitkan kebimbangan orang ramai di kawasan Batu Kawa kepada agensi relevan. 
 
Sementara itu pada pertemuan berkenaan semalam, dimaklumkan antara laluan paling sesak pada waktu kemuncak di Batu Kawa adalah dari Jalan Datuk Stephen Yong hingga ke bulatan Sunny Hill. 

Sehingga kini MPP, antara majlis yang tidak mempunyai warden trafik dan meletakkan anggota polis bagi membantu tugasan terbabit, yang juga turut mengalami kekangan dari segi tenaga anggota.

Kampung Betong villagers to have new hall and improved church buildings


Jong (second, left) receiving the cheque from Abang Johari (centre) at Wisma Sultan Tengah yesterday. Also seen is Lo (second, right).
Jong (second, left) receiving the cheque from Abang Johari (centre) at Wisma Sultan Tengah yesterday. Also seen is Lo (second, right).

KUCHING: Bidayuhs from Kampung Betong, Jalan Landeh here are a happy lot after they received financial allocations from Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg yesterday.

During a courtesy call by the villagers to his office at Wisma Sultan Tengah, Abang Johari presented two cheques worth RM300,000 and RM100,000 respectively to the village officials.

According to him, the grants were for the villagers to build a new village community hall and carry out renovation works of the village’s Catholic church, St Margaret.

“This money does not come from me personally but from the state government.

“I have pledged to help the villagers before the recent state election,” he added.

Speaking to reporters after the courtesy call, village chief Jong Likan Semboi, on behalf of the villagers, thanked the state government for the donations and help in building new facilities for the village.

Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang who was also present during the visit revealed that not only did Abang Johari helped the villagers who were also his constituents, the Deputy Chief Minister had also pledged to improve the street lightings along Jalan Landeh which is also located in his constituency.

“I would like to thank Abang Johari for his kind attention to my area.

“For your information, he promised all this (pledging to help the villagers and improve street lightings along Jalan Landeh) while campaigning for the Barisan Nasional in my area during the recent state election,” Lo commented during the courtesy call.

The improvement to street lightings along Jalan Landeh will be implemented by the Public Works Department (JKR).

May 27, 2016, Friday
Borneo Post

Dr Sim: SUPP will never support Hudud


KUCHING: President of SUPP, Senator Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian was one of the first from east Malaysian states to oppose the Hudud Bill which was nearly tabled in Parliament yesterday.

Dr Sim said SUPP would never stand for the Bill when Sarawak agreed to form Malaysia as part of a “secular Government” with “secular laws”.

“All signatories to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 agreed that this Federation shall be secular,” Dr Sim said in a statement yesterday evening.

SUPP, as a member of Barisan Nasional (BN), would insist that “fundamental spirit and principles” be safeguarded.

“Although the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 was never extended to Sarawak, we as a BN component party in this state reckon any attempt to enhance Syariah Courts’ criminal jurisdiction would shatter the trust and confidence of Sarawakians in this Federation.”

He added that any possible tabling of the Bill would only motivate the “people of Sarawak in moving towards parting of ways with Malaysia as they will see that this Federation is going to be far from the secular Federation our forefathers agreed to in 1963.”

Dr Sim, whose father was one of the most senior and earlier Chinese deputy chief ministers of Sarawak, urged the Federal Government to take “all actions necessary to prevent such a bill from being tabled”.

Sarawak Tribune
Date Posted : Friday 27-May-2016



RM400,000 MRP grant to rebuild church, build hall

Johari (centre) and Lo (second right) presenting the grant to the chief of Kampung Betong, Jalan Landeh, Jong Likan Simboi (second left). Looking on are the committee members of the village.

KUCHING: The state government has approved a RM400,000 Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant for the purpose of rebuilding St. Margaret Church at Kampung Betong, Jalan Landeh and building a multipurpose hall in the village.

 Deputy Chief Minister 3, Datuk Amar Abang Haji Johari Tun Openg yesterday presented  a cheque for the amount to the chief of Kampung Betong, Jalan Landeh, Jong Likan Simboi at his office at Wisma Sultan Tengah here.

 “We are giving the government grant of RM100,000 to rebuild the St. Margarete Church in Kampung Betong, Jalan Landeh and  another RM300,000 as an additional fund for the multipurpose hall in the same kampung,” he told reporters after the presentation of the cheque.

 Johari also revealed that the government would be installing street lights along Jalan Landeh to reduce vandalism.

Batu Kitang State Assemblyman, Lo Khere Chiang, who was also present, thanked Johari,  who is also the Minister of Housing and Urbanisation, for the grant.

“This afternoon, I am very thankful to Datuk Amar because during the election, he also came to support me in the Batu Kitang Constituency,”said Lo.

Lo pointed out that Johari had also helped to  get the special grant to light up Jalan Landeh. He revealed that the street lighting issue in Jalan Landeh was a big headache for Padawan Municipal Council (PMC). 

“There  used to be street lights there, and for some reasons, they were  removed. With the special grant, that road will be bright again,” added Lo, who is also PMC Chairman.

Sarawak Tribune
Date Posted : Friday 27-May-2016


27 May 2016

Kpg Semeba to host Gawai Dayak gathering May





Dayung Sangon contestants use leaves (`atap’) to make roofs as part of the requirement to join the contest.
Dayung Sangon contestants use leaves (`atap’) to make roofs as part of the requirement to join the contest.

KUCHING: With Gawai Dayak mood in the air, Kampung Semeba is ready to play host to a special gathering on May 28 to celebrate the occasion.

Organising committee spokesperson Emil Hamlyn said this was the second time the village was organising such an event, and among the activities planned is the `Dayung Sangon’ and `Dari Ngigap’ pageant.

Emil said booths selling traditional items and foods as well as an exhibition would start tomorrow. Besides the beauty pageant, there will also be a fashion preview by Emil and a mini traditional Bidayuh longhouse at the community hall.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Solidarity Datuk Michael Manyin Jawong, Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang and Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture permanent secretary Datu Ik Pahon Joyik are expected to be present.

Single BN party is the way to go – Dr Sim


Dr Sim (second, left) speaking at Padawan IPD today.

Dr Sim (second, left) speaking at Padawan IPD, YB Lo Khere Chiang,

KUCHING: Local Government Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian is open to the idea of Sarawak having a single Barisan Nasional (BN).

According to Dr Sim, who is also Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) president, a single BN for the state will spell better unity among the BN elected representatives.

Speaking during his visit to the Padawan IPD in Siburan today (May 27), Dr Sim said that Sarawak should lead the way in making a move to create a single BN party as its representative.

This is the best solution to help solve the current issues going on within the state BN setup, he said.

“With a single BN party there won’t be any fight for seats among the various BN component parties in the state or fighting over who has more elected representatives. It should be called (something like) Barisan Sarawak,” he added.

This was because Sarawak could exist in a “one nation two systems” within Malaysia and the single BN party will have no problem in handling political matters for the state.

Dr Sim was answering a question by a reporter who asked him to comment on direct BN candidates fielded in the recent state election who won and applied to join Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB).

More than one direct BN candidate who won during the previous state election are believed to be interested in joining PBB.

Nine direct BN candidates won during the previous state election and should all nine join PBB, the party will get 49 out of 82 state assembly seats – meaning that PBB could form a government of its own.


Pay assessment rate promptly, people told



    LO Khere Chiang (centre) poses for a photo session together with some of his councillors during the Full Council Meeting yesterday.

KUCHING: Rate payers are urged by the council to pay their yearly assessment rate in order for the council to continue providing good services to the people.

According to Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) Chairman, Lo Khere Chiang, the rate payers should pay up their rates and consider the council too.

“The council depends on this rate to provide good services as without the money, no body would want to work.

“Apart from that, they should consider the government too. Help one another and be considerate,” said Lo in a press conference after the Full Council Meeting held at MPP meeting room, here yesterday.

“It does not mean that we are having a loss, because the deficit will be supplemented by the government under the rate deficiency grant,” the MPP chief said.

Lo noted that they encouraged everybody to pay up their assessment rate fully this year, as MPP thus far always managed to collect a total of 83 per cent of assessment rates every year.

“The assessment also depends on the efficiency of the MPP collecting department.

“I am glad to say the we have very capable and efficient staff among us, which is why we managed to collect 83 per cent of assessment every year.

“Of course there is still the 17 per cent who refuse to pay, and when we threaten to take legal actions, they will pay up, but of course, there is also a group of people who cannot afford to pay as they are really poor, and we will accommodate them by waiving the assessment,” said Lo, adding it did not mean they were having a loss, because the deficit would be supplemented by the government under the Rate Deficiency Grant.

Starting this year onwards, it is free and there is no need to collect from those who are really poor because the government is very considerate and helpful under the leadership of our Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem, Lo pointed out.

MPP has implemented the reduction in assessment rates pursuant to the approval by the Sarawak State Cabinet to reduce the 2016 assessment rates for residential properties paying annual assessment rates of RM700 or below.

Residential property owners paying an annual assessment rates of RM50 and below are waived from paying the assessment rates.

Rates payers who have not received or mislaid their assessment rate bills are requested to call at the Rating and Valuation Division of MPP for copy bill without delay. Further inquiries can be made to 082-615566.

On another matter, Lo who is also people’s representative for Batu Kitang constituency also thanked all of his voters who supported him and gave him the chance to serve the people and Batu Kitang constituency.

“With this new portfolio, I am in a better position to bring up the demand of the people to the State Legislative Assembly (DUN), and also have access to Minor Rural Project (MRP) fund, and I believe that I can do a lot more for the people,” he said.

He also appealed to the people to give him time because he had not been sworn in yet into any portfolio.

“Give me time because I have not been sworn in yet; once I am sworn in and learn the trick of the trade, so to speak, I will be able to help the people even more, better than the last six years as MPP Chairman,” said Lo.

Also present were Deputy Chairman Dr Zaiedi Suhaili and others councillors.

Sarawak Tribune
Date Posted : Thursday 26-May-2016



26 May 2016

罗克强:门牌税已调低 冀市民配合付还



(新文网马来古晋25日讯)巴达旺市议会主席罗克强表示,既然政府体恤人民调低门牌税,因此,希望市民也能够给予配合,付还门牌税。
他是于今日在主持巴达旺市议会常月会议后召开新闻发布会上,如是指出。
他也直言,希望市民能够配合,毕竟市议会也是靠市民所还的门牌税去执行各项服务。
他透露,该议会往年门牌税收到的巴仙率为83%,仅有17%的门牌税没收到。这归功于执行人员有效率的办事能力以及市民的配合。
他说,17%没还门牌税的人当中,除一小部分是不要还之外,也包括一些贫穷无力还的市民。惟,他强调,在门牌税调低措施实行后,这问题就获得解决,因他们的门牌税都豁免了。
他进一步指出,门牌税调低措施实行后,市民的反应都很不错及踊跃,有些更主动前来议会询问新的账单什么时候会出。
他称,若一些已在年头就还了门牌税的市民,议会也会回扣给他们。
他透露,虽然门牌税调低,不过,市议会并不会因此蒙受损失,因不敷的部分州政府会给予补助。
他还表示,上半年门牌税将截至,为方便市民,该议会将在本月28及29日周末特此开放,提供市民前往付还,时间是早上8时至下午3时30分。

Lo pledged to do his best

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Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang urged voters to place their confidence and trust in him in order. for him to do his job as a YB.

Speaking at the 4S Neighbourhood Watch (KRT) appreciation dinner , Lo said he will make good what he has assured the voters in his pledge.

He said his win in Batu Kitang gave him the encouragement to look forward and do his best to work for the people.

Lo said he also need to settle down as their elected representative and will go through what he felt are the priorities to be done.

Lo: look into welfare of kindergarten teachers

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 Batu Kitang State Assemblyman, Lo Khere Chiang called on the  Board of Directors to look into the kindergarten school teachers’ salary as despite being in the low income group, they have a lot in term of taking care of school children at a tender age.

Lo who was also the Padawan Municipal Council Chairman, celebrating Gawai and Teacher’s Day with the Tadika Dewan Perniagaan Batu 7, said a reasonable allowance would help to take care of the welfare of the kindergarten school children.

The school board, teachers and parents join in the celebration of the Gawai.

Pointing out that it was a good way to promote racial harmony among all the races, Lo praised the school for such celebration and urged them to allow children to learn the three languages of English, Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia for them to be able to communicate and mingle more with each other.

罗克强承诺尽心尽力服务


image1

 砂人联党巴都吉当区州议员罗克强承诺,他将会尽心尽力为选区的人民服务,以回报他们的支持与信任。

他说,在选举期间许下的承诺,他将会逐一落实。

他表示,在这次选举中胜出,让他具有更大的信心,为人民服务,关注民漠。

“我将会协助人民解决各项民生问题,希望大家可以给我时间。”

罗克强是于日前出席巴都吉当睦邻委员会的晚宴上致词时,这么表示。

在第11届砂拉越选举,巴都吉当甘榜地区的80至90巴仙选民,都倾向于支持国阵。

24 May 2016

罗克强:大门敞开 遇难题尽管来


2016年5月23日


巴达旺市议会主席兼峇都吉当候任州议员罗克强(左3)在众人的陪同下,主持切欢庆蛋糕仪式。
(本报古晋23日讯)

巴达旺市议会主席兼峇都吉当候任州议员罗克强表示,人民的力量造就国阵在州选举中获得巨大的胜利,尤其是在峇都吉当地区,土著和甘榜选民纷纷给予国阵整体上高达80%的支持,也让在国阵旗帜下出战的他成功中选为民选代议士。


赢九成乡区票

他说,开票当天,峇都吉当选区部分投票站的开票成绩,国阵得票率高达90%,这也显示了当地人民对于首长阿迪南的政策相当受落,以压倒性的选票继续支持国阵为地方上带来发展。

罗克强是于昨晚出席峇都吉当4S睦邻委员会举办的州选庆功、教师节及母亲节,三节庆晚宴上致词时,如是表示。

他说道,本身担任巴达旺市议会主席已有6年,多年来为巴达旺地区上的发展尽心尽力的服务,如今有幸获得选民的委托中选成代议士,将后必定更加努力为峇都吉当区的发展尽力。

兑现选举承诺

他表示将会兑现在州选中向选民许下的承诺,为地方上争取更多发展,不辜负选民的支持和信任。


罗克强也表示,虽然这是他首次中选成为州议员,不过他会在最短的时间内掌握州议员的服务范围,尽快为选民们提供援助和服务。

他希望地区上的社区领袖一旦面对任何问题,都能向他要求援助,他的服务大门将为所有选民敞开。

罗克强也提醒社区领袖和干部必须持续打起精神,随时应付即将在未来两年内举行的全国大选,努力展开各项基层工作和为民服务,确保国阵能在国选中再次获胜。

罗克强: 慰问火灾灾黎


image2 砂人联党巴都吉当区州议员兼巴达旺市议会主席罗克强于今早前往7哩老港下,慰问日前遭遇火灾的一户华裔灾黎。

他现场向灾黎送上一些干粮,并且会设法协助他们解决安顿之所。目前,灾黎是寄住在附近朋友的家里。
image1 


Helping out fire victims at Jalan Stakan in Kota Sentosa


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 Batu kitang state assemblyman, Lo Khere Chiang paid a visit to the burnt house victims with some basic food necessities at Jalan Stakan in Kota Sentosa.

He will render assistance and help the 2 families affected who are homeless now. They are currently staying with friends nearby.
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23 May 2016

“哪不好直接找我” 罗克强誓为民请命


2016年5月22日


(本报古晋21日讯)人联党峇都吉当候任州议员罗克强感谢人民赋予他胜选的机会,而他亦将会把人民的声音带入州议会,为人民带来好的改变,让社会及行政方面可以做得更好。


他是于今早出席古晋卫理公会蒙恩堂及富莱银达园睦邻原则委员会假煤炭路美华花园室内体育馆联办“病从口入,话‘饮食健康’”讲座会上受邀致词时,希望人民能持续与他配合,若他作为领袖,有做得不好地方,可直接与他联络,让他可以做得更好。

他亦希望透过与大家的配搭,峇都吉当居民可以获得更好的生活,甚至砂州这块土地可以变得更好也更完善。

较早前,他感谢大家在州选中的支持,当然,也直言还是有人是不支持(政府)的。

他透露,根据统计,超过50%人民不支持政府,不过,至少还有40多巴仙人民是支持政府的。

逾50%人仍不满政府

“这很重要,是平衡及健康现象,即一部分支持,一部分没有。”


对于人民不支持(政府)的理由,他了解,因为人民追求好的环境,以及好的政府以推动每日生活,也想要孩子享有良好的教育制度等等。

“无论如何,我感谢大家这次的支持,每个人的愿望都是为了砂州发展,而做出投票的意志。”

同时,他感谢主办方举办是项有意义的健康讲座会,包括提供免费健康检查,这活动在牧师领导之下,更是办得有声有色;罗克强也祝福大家,因为大家能来参加这个活动,就都是非常蒙福的一群,可以抽出时间参加这个活动,而不是为生计而盲目忙碌。

22 May 2016

Health Check and Talk


WhatsApp-Image-20160521 [13047482]

 RPR Taman Flora Indah jointly held a Health Check & Health Talk at Taman Mewah, Flora Indah, Arang Road with Sg. Maong Methodist church this morning.

The medical staffs are volunteers from SGH.

State Assemblyman for Batu Kitang, Lo Khere Chiang said the health screening is good for people to know their latest health result and urged the people to live a healthy life style.


美华花园体育馆健康讲座


WhatsApp-Image-20160521 [13047482]

 砂人联党巴都吉当区州议员兼巴达旺市议会主席罗克强于今早出席美华花园体育馆举行的健康讲座活动。

这项活动是由美华花园居民联谊会与盐柴港卫理教堂联合举办,节目包括免费健康检查和健康讲座。

21 May 2016

i.Zakaya berpotensi tarik kunjungan pelancong


Halaman Utama (/) » Sarawak (http://www.utusanborneo.com.my/sarawak) » i.Zakaya berpotensi tarik kunjungan pelancong

% 2016-05-21

RASMI: Lo (empat kiri) dan Patrick (tiga kiri) serta yang lain melakukan simbolik perasmian pembukaan restoran dan bar i.Zakaya di iCom Square, Kuching semalam. 

KUCHING: Pembukaan restoran dan bar berkonsepkan Jepun di pusat komersial iCom Square dekat sini berpotensi sebagai tarikan pelancongan baharu di bandar raya ini. 

Pengerusi Majlis Perbandaran Padawan (MPP), Lo Khere Chiang berkata demikian ketika hadir merasmikan pembukaan restoran dan bar i.Zakaya di sini semalam. 

Restoran dan bar berkonsepkan Jepun itu merupakan pertama seumpamanya dibuka di bandar raya ini oleh dua usahawan muda Brendan Ting dan Owen Phan. 

“Saya yakin restoran dan bar ini berpotensi dijadikan salah satu daripada tarikan pelancongan baharu di kalangan pelancong tempatan dan luar negara yang berkunjung ke negeri ini. 

“Sehubungan itu, saya berharap lebih ramai usahawan muda kita akan mewujudkan lebih banyak tempat menarik untuk dikunjungi di bandar raya ini,” katanya ringkas. 

Dalam pada itu i.Zakaya mula dibuka kepada orang ramai semalam merancak lagi aktiviti perniagaan di iCom Square. 

Kedua-dua pemilik i-Zakaya ini merupakan anak didik kepada pengasas iCube Innovation, Dato Patrick Liew yang merupakan sebuah pusat inovasi dan jaringan kerjasama terbesar bagi usahawan muda. 

Ruangan dalaman restoran dan bar ini dihiasi rekaan moden dengan sentuhan kayu dan emas klasik demi keselesaan pengunjung ketika menjamu selera. 

Restoran dan bar ini merupakan lokasi ideal bagi penggemar makanan Jepun menikmati sajian kegemaran mereka dalam suasana yang eksklusif dan menenangkan. 

Pelabur i.Zakaya, Patrick semalam memaklumkan bahawa restoran ini akan diperluaskan kepada lebih 4,600 kaki persegi dengan tambahan seksyen baharu teppanyaki dalam masa terdekat.

Raban nembiak diperansang ngaul diri ba pengawa dagang

Halaman Utama (/) » Iban (http://www.utusanborneo.com.my/iban) » Raban nembiak diperansang ngaul diri ba pengawa dagang

Utusan Borneo Online: 2016-05-21 

BEJADI: Lo ngempat riben kelai bejadi i.Zakaya (Restoren Jepun) di ICom Square, Jalai Pending Kuching kemari. 


KUCHING: Raban nembiak dalam kandang mengeri diperansang ngaul diri ba pengawa dagang baka dagang pemakai enggau ai irup, ku Kaban Kunsil Nengeri (ADUN) Batu Kitang Lo Khere Chiang. 

Bejaku bejadi palan pemakai i.Zakaya di ICom Square, ba Jalai Pending ngarika Menteri Opis Kunsil Kandang Menua ke mega presiden SUPP Datuk Prof. Dr Sim Kui Huan, Lo madahka peluang nya patut dikerebut raban nembiak ti rinduka pengawa dagang. 

“Aku ngelalau raban nembiak ke diau dalam kandang mengeri ke rindu ba pengawa dagang ngaul diri ba dagang pemakai enggau ai irup, restoren. 

“Peluang tu patut dikerebut ketegal peranak mengeri diatu ngembuan pemisi lalu dagang tu ulih mai penguntung ngagai sida,’ku iya. 

Kelimpah ari nya, Lo mega madah palan dagang iCom Square ti baru udah tembu digaga ngembuan pelin ke manah lalu tau endar matak temuai datai. 

Ku iya, tu mih palan dagang baru di mengeri Kuching ke ngembuan kar ke chukup manah lalu bengkah pemakai enggau ai irup ke dijual ba i.Zakaya pan ulih matak temuai datai. 

i.Zakaya ditumbuh dua iku orang dagang nembiak iya nya Brendan Ting enggau Owen Phan lalu seduai nyual pemakai enggau ai irup nitihka konsep restoren Jepun. 

Mayuh macham pemakai enggai ai irup ari menua Jepun dijual di i.Zakaya. Bela datai Dato Patrick Liew ke nyadi orang ti numbuhka iCube (iCom Square).

BN was uncertain of Batu Kawah, Batu Kitang victories

State BN election director Abang Johari says the outcome for both urban Chinese-majority seats had been in doubt until the last minute.

KUCHING: In the run-up to the recent Sarawak election, the state Barisan Nasional (BN) was not certain it could clinch victory in Batu Kawah and Batu Kitang, two important Chinese-majority seats in Kuching, Abang Johari Abang Openg said.

Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) president Dr Sim Kui Hian (Batu Kawah) and Padawan Municipal Council chairman Lo Khere Chiang (Batu Kitang) won the two urban seats.

At an appreciation dinner for Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB)’s campaign workers last night, the deputy chief minister spoke of an overture made by Sarawak Chief Minister Adenan Satem to BN members at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) in early April prior to the election.

“Tok Nan and all the rest of us gathered at BCCK. Tok Nan had said that in Batu Kitang, we have more or less 40 per cent Bumiputera voters.

“In Batu Kawah, we have more or less 39 per cent Bumiputera voters. And the Bumiputera voters will determine the outcome of the election in Batu Kawah and Batu Kitang,” said Abang Johari, who was also the state BN’s election director during the campaign.

“The worst (of the seats contested) was Batu Kawah and Batu Kitang. Up until election day, we were still wondering whether we would win or lose,” he said.
51“These seats are important because contesting in Batu Kawah was the SUPP president. We in PBB want SUPP president Dr Sim to win, and we achieved our target. And we also wanted to secure the victory for our comrade Lo,” he added.

Batu Kawah was one of seven seats that SUPP won in the May 7 state election.

Prior to the election, SUPP had control over only two seats. A defeat at Batu Kawah could have ended Sim’s political career.

Meanwhile, of the 11 new seats created in a redelineation exercise by the Election Commission last year, Batu Kitang was the only urban-based seat, carved out of DAP-controlled Batu Kawah and Kota Sentosa.

Abang Johari also said the outcome for Repok and Meradong, both state seats in the Sarikei division, were less than certain. Bumiputera voters constitute 40 per cent of Repok and nearly half of Meradong.

SUPP wrested control of both state seats from DAP in the election.

“As the election director, I thought we might deliver between 68 to 70 seats. But we won Batu Kawah and Batu Kitang, which increased our tally to 72 seats. PBB itself saw a clean sweep victory, winning all 40 seats,” Abang Johari said to applause.
53“This is the victory that we enjoy when we work hard. The rakyat supports Tok Nan’s people-centric policies, So much so that even the Chinese community shifted their allegiance to BN.

“At the very least, we have reduced the majority in the seats lost to DAP. Ultimately, Tok Nan received a mandate in this election,” he said.

Abang Johari also spoke of being shaken by news of the helicopter crash on May 5, which took the life of deputy plantation industries and commodities minister Noriah Kasnon and five others.

Having taken a similar flight path of the ill-fated helicopter on the same day, Abang Johari said he had not experienced any weather difficulties.

“It was a thirty-five minute difference. We never know when life will end. Maybe, it could have been my helicopter,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lo, who was present at the dinner, told the audience that Sarawak BN must begin working towards victory for the coming general election.

He said SUPP needed support to achieve victory in Stampin, a parliamentary constituency that covers the state constituencies of Kota Sentosa, Batu Kitang and Batu Kawah.

The Kota Sentosa assemblyman is state DAP leader Chong Chieng Jen.

“I know the election is just over. I know it is not fair to ask for your support again during this thank you dinner, but I’m pleading with all of you, let’s make this possible,” the new Batu Kitang assemblyman said.

“For the sake of Sarawak, we must win Stampin. For the future of Sarawak, for the wealth of Sarawak. Only when we are strong as a state, will the West Malaysians not step on us. If we are weak, they find us contemptible and push us around. We must unite,” he added.

The next general election must be called by June 24, 2018.

May 21, 2016 
FMT News
 

马当划入北市局辖区? 罗克强不置可否


2016年5月20日



峇都吉当区州议员兼巴达旺市议会主席罗克强(右3)为居酒屋iZakaya日本餐厅开幕。左3为居酒屋iZakaya日本餐厅创办人拿督刘清永,左1及右2为合伙人潘启文与陈运广。
(本报古晋20日讯)马当将被划入北市市政局辖区?巴达旺市议会主席罗克强不置可否,他表示,为人民提供更好的服务才是关键,由谁接管并非重点。


同时是峇都吉当区州议员的罗克强今午为居酒屋iZakaya日本餐厅剪彩后,被媒体询及有关马当地区是否将被划入北市市政局辖区时表示,重点不是由谁来接管,人民的利益才是关键。如果是由北市市政局接管,就必须是能够为人民提供更好的服务。

坐落于Icom Square的居酒屋iZakaya日本餐厅今日正式开张,为喜爱日本美食的民众带来新的消费选择。据了解,居酒屋iZakaya日本餐厅面积达3600平方尺,同时是本地目前最大的清酒酒吧和餐厅,装潢具现代化风格,也融入日式特色。

罗克强在代表人联党主席拿督沈桂贤出席iZakaya日本餐厅开幕仪式时,欣见古晋市有一间具特色及日本文化的日本餐厅,而且设计及格调可以媲美新加坡的日本餐厅。

他说,古晋市正迈向发展,人民生活素质也随之提升,大部分的人都有能力享受有素质的生活,因此希望更多年轻人能以iZakaya日本餐厅年轻合伙人看齐,在创业的同时能促进砂州经济发展。

520我爱你千人宴晚会 罗克强﹕应该年年办


2016年5月20日


(本报古晋20日讯)520我爱你千人宴慈善晚会活动应该年年举办﹐以便能够为砂心脏基金会筹募更多经费﹐进而能够添购医疗器材来造福更多的病患。


古晋巴达旺市议会主席兼峇都吉当区候任州议员罗克强是在代表砂地方政府部部长拿督沈桂贤出席今晚于古晋皇冠广场举行的怀念李岚风520我爱你千人宴慈善晚会活动时﹐如是提出建议。

罗克强说﹐自上世纪80年代初出道起﹐砂州资深歌星李岚风就把一生都奉献给了歌唱事业。

他披露﹐李岚风曾经希望能够为砂心脏基金会筹款﹐以用作添置医疗器材及配备﹑进而让更多心脏病患获得治疗之用途。

他续称﹐唯在今年一月初﹐李岚风却不幸因为心脏病发作而去世了。

为砂心脏基金会筹款

“但在今晚﹐李岚风的生前愿望却获得了1000人的支持﹐所以我相信他在天之灵﹐也会感到欣慰。”


他更冀望是项520我爱你千人宴慈善晚会活动能够年年举办﹐以便能够为砂心脏基金会筹募更多经费﹐进而能够添购医疗器材来造福更多的病患。

“我也希望砂州政府能够支持是项晚会活动的举行﹐并拨款予主办单位。”

与此同时﹐他也认为说﹐在实现李岚风的遗愿之余﹐该晚会活动的举行﹐也将能够协助发掘并栽培歌唱人才。

罗克强撂下豪言 来届国选重夺实旦宾



砂副首长拿督阿玛阿邦佐哈里(左3)、首相署部长南茜苏克丽(左2)、峇都吉当区州议员罗克强(右1)、地方政府部长兼石角区州议员拿督沈桂贤夫人拿汀王淑燕(左1)出现慰劳晚宴。
砂副首长拿督阿玛阿邦佐哈里(左3)、首相署部长南茜苏克丽(左2)、峇都吉当区州议员罗克强(右1)、地方政府部长兼石角区州议员拿督沈桂贤夫人拿汀王淑燕(左1)出现慰劳晚宴。



(本报古晋20日讯)峇都吉当区州议员罗克强撂下豪言:“来临国选,人联党可以重夺实旦宾国会议席!”

他今晚出席土保党峇都吉当及石角州选举竞选机制慰劳晚宴时表示,砂州选举成绩让他有信心可以在有可能于一年半后举行的全国大选中,重夺实旦宾国会议席。

他表示,石角区州议员拿督沈桂贤如今已被委任为地方政府部长,而他本身则是巴达旺市议会主席,这次很好的搭配,以便为选民带来更好的服务。

与此同时,首相署部长南茜苏克丽也表示,在州选期间,谣言四起引起对选民造成混淆,国阵需谨慎面对,吸取州选时的经验。

土保延续不败记录
她称,刚落幕的州选是砂州最大的战役,因为议席从过去的71席增加到82席,但国阵同时也取得空前大胜,而土保党也再次延续不败记录,取得上阵40席大获全胜的漂亮成绩。

她表示,人联党上阵13席并成功拿下7席,也同样值得庆祝,他们从行动党夺回5个议席。

土著选票不仅是奠定了胜局,而华人选票也明显回流,因为首席部长进行了许多惠民政策。

她称,在过去的砂拉越州选举,峇都吉当和石角在州选时备受关注,在首长丹斯里阿迪南沙登领导下,通过大家的努力,终于取得胜利。

与此同时,她说,在此次州选举时,不断有许多假消息、谣言四处流传,引起选民的混淆。

她认为,国阵必须谨慎面对,同时吸取州选时的经验,而国阵此次的成功,也是奠定于团结一致的基础上。

出席上述慰劳晚宴的也包括砂副首长拿督阿玛阿邦佐哈里、至于砂地方政府部长兼石角区州议员拿督沈桂贤则因在首都吉隆坡有要务,所以不克出席,所以由夫人拿汀王淑燕代替。

See Hua Online

20 May 2016

沈桂贤:分享宗教知识可增进各族谅解


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 砂地方政府部长拿督沈桂贤强调,分享宗教的知识与智慧,可增进各族之间在宗教事务上的了解,并且促进互相尊重与容忍的精神。

他说,当各族对于彼此的宗教有一定的理解时,就可减少许多不必要的误会。

“目前社会,宗教已经成为敏感的课题,但无苦否认的是,宗教在人们忙碌的生活中,扮演极为重要的角色,因为它有助于调解人们的身心,尤其是纾解生活压力。”

也是人联党主席的沈桂贤是于18日上午出席砂拉越佛教会观世音圣像工程动土礼时,发表致词。

出席这项活动者包括砂拉越佛教会主席拿督郑正金、砂华总会长拿督黄益隆博士、槟城极乐寺继中法师、马来西亚佛教总会总会长兼本会导师释上日下恒长 老、槟城极乐寺方丈兼本会导师释上贤下观大法师、古晋南市市长拿督曾长青、民都鲁区国会议员拿督斯里张庆信的代表翁荣华、砂国阵人联党巴都吉当区候任州议 员罗克强及筹委会主席房秀芳。

沈桂贤强调,他所谓的宗教知识与智慧分享,并非是传教,要他人成为教徒之一。

对于砂拉越佛教会,他赞扬在郑正金领导下,成功塑造该会成为对于社会有贡献的组织,为社会慈善福利作出贡献。

Sarawakians benefit from Adenan’s policies

Sarawakians benefit from Adenan’s policies

Lo Khere Chiang
KUCHING: The decision by the state BN to reduce assessment rates and other local taxes has benefited even those who do not pay taxes and this can help stimulate economic growth, said Padawan Municipal Chairman Lo Khere Chiang.
“I think it’s very good because it reduces the burden on our people, which means our people have a little bit more money to spend,” Lo told reporters in Kuching today.
Abolishing the toll and quit rent, reducing the assessment rates and electricity tariffs… all these things that the chief minister has done have reduced the burden of our people,” said Lo, who is also Batu Kitang state assemblyman.
In April, Chief Minister Adenan Satem announced a statewide reduction in the assessment tax rate. This followed a state government move in March to abolish quit rent.
“Such policies give people extra money in their pockets so they can spend.
“You spend here, people get jobs. Everybody gets a share of the cake. I think it’s an excellent idea,” said Lo.
Since taking office in 2014, Adenan has enacted several populist policies aimed at reducing the cost of living.
For example, farmers who own less than 100 acres of land no longer need to pay taxes.
Electricity tariffs were cut since last April by between 2% and 40%, with RM20 in subsidies for each low-income household.
Tolls at three bridges in Kuching, Sibu and Miri have been removed, while a RM1 ferry fee ceiling was enforced this year.
Such people-centric policies were promoted by the state BN campaign during the recently-concluded state election.
Lo belongs to the BN component party, Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP).
In April, DAP charged that the cuts in assessment rates did little to affect living cost.
The Opposition party also blamed the BN MPs for passing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) bill in 2014, which DAP said was the chief reason for the rise in living cost.
“This (Adenan’s) policy is no better than former CM Taib Mahmud’s policy.
“He may give some goodies to the people by abolishing quit rent, help smallholders or residential houses, reducing the government’s revenue by about RM8 million,” state DAP leader Chong Chieng Jen was quoted as saying.
Meanwhile, Lo said residents who already had paid the full year assessment rates, which has been reduced by 20%, will get a rebate.
“Not to worry because in their next bill, the council will repay you. I know some people at the beginning of the year, have already paid all their assessment. First-half, second-half, they’ve paid off everything,” Lo said.
“They don’t want to have the hassle of going to the council in the beginning of the year and going back to the council in the middle of the year again. So these good law-abiding citizens paid off early. Not to worry, the council will repay you in your next bill.”
Lo added that he did not know if control over the district of Matang, located to the north-west of the capital, will be ceded from the Padawan Municipal Council to the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU).
“I can’t tell for sure what is going to happen in the future but this subject has been talked about before.
“I think, at the end of the day, DBKU wants to see if it’s worth taking over. If it’s not worth it for DBKU to take over, why should they do it and make a loss?
“If they take over and it costs more money to look after the place, it may not be economically viable for them to take over, ” said Lo.
https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2016/05/20/sarawakians-benefit-from-adenans-policies/