RM150,000 upgrading works of mother, child health clinic in Mile 10 Kota Padawan completed
Lo (ninth right) handing over the completed project during a simple handing over ceremony held at the clinic's building.
KUCHING, Dec 23: The upgrading works of the mother and child health clinic in Mile 10 Kota Padawan worth RM150,000 has been completed.
The project, which is allocated under Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) was handed over by Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang today.
The scope of the upgrading works involves the construction of an additional building.
Kota Padawan mother and child health clinic now has better facilities to provide quality health services to mothers and children in the area. — DayakDaily
Lo urges Borneo Highlands landowners to register with BHRC
Lo (fourth right) with the 2024-2025 elected committee.
KUCHING (Dec 23): Landowners at the Borneo Highlands have been told to register with the Borneo Highlands Resident Club (BHRC) if they haven’t done so.
BHRC chairman Dato Lo Khere Chiang said their inability to complete the list of landowners could hinder the distribution of vital information.
“BHRC serves as the communication centre between the landowners and government agencies or departments. Unfortunately, we do not have the complete list and contact details to disseminate important information,” he said in a press statement issued after the club’s second annual general meeting (AGM) dinner here on Wednesday.
Lo pointed out that a registered resident can play a significant role in the future development of the Borneo Highlands Resort.
“I think as residents of Borneo Highlands, it is our duty to do what is best for BHRC. Please spread the word to lot owners who are not yet members about the benefits and privileges of being members of BHRC,” he added.
BHRC’s objectives include safeguarding the rights of residents and property owners; ensuring security services; updating authorities on infrastructure improvements; generating income for club operations; and organising cultural and recreational activities.
On the AGM, 30 people including committee members, residents and their spouses attended. The meeting tabled various committee reports as well as the election for the 2024-2025 committee.
Being an officially registered club under the Registrar of Societies since 2022, Lo expressed his gratitude to members.
“This has been an eventful year. We engaged not only with our members, but also with government agencies such as the Padawan Municipal Council, Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore and the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit to fulfil the objectives enshrined in the club’s constitution,” he said.
Unregistered landowners can contact BHRC for further details regarding membership registration via email at 2022bhrc@gmail.com.
31 mission schools in Kuching, Serian receive financial aid from Unifor
Penguang (seated, centre) in a group photo with the assemblymen accepting the cheques on behalf of the schools. Archbishop Simon Poh is seated second right. — Photo from Sarawak Public Communications Unit
KUCHING (Dec 20): A total of 31 mission schools in Kuching and Serian have received financial assistance totalling RM4.1 million from the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor).
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil handed over the cheques to the schools at a simple ceremony held at Bangunan Baitul Makmur here on Monday.
Unifor director Datu Jack Aman Luat, in his speech text read by principal assistant director Low Suk Fong, said this was the third year that the Sarawak government had provided financial assistance to mission schools in the state.
He said the main purpose of giving the funds was to help schools manage, improve and upgrade their respective infrastructure.
Also present were Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang, Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin, Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus and Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kuching Archbishop Simon Poh.
Abd Karim: Embrace creativity, arts to nurture aspiring artists and entrepreneurs
Abdul Karim (fourth right) with the ‘Life Senses’ book during the launch. With him are Ting (second left), Lo (left), Raden (second right), Law (fourth left) and other guests.
KUCHING (Dec 12): The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts strives to cultivate an environment where Sarawak’s young talents can flourish, innovate and redefine the boundaries of creative expression.
Its minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this is in view of the ministry’s unwavering support for art, literature, and entrepreneurship.
“As we continue to move forward in time, let us embrace the spirit of creativity, the realm of arts, and the limitless potential for entrepreneurial success.
“These can nurture a generation of aspiring artists and entrepreneurs who are blessed with creativity and ingenuity,” he said when officiating the book launch of ‘Life Senses’ here last night.
He said the ministry also strived to provide a conducive environment where creativity, artistry and entrepreneurial spirit among Sarawakians can thrive.
Abdul Karim, who is also Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, pointed out that the journey of ‘Life Senses’ author Esther Law Lee Poh served as an inspiring testament to the immense potential that lies within the realm of the local creative industry which is progressing well and on par with others in the country and even on the world stage.
“It is exciting for us to witness the unfolding of Esther’s artistic journey and it is our sincere hope that her accomplishments will motivate others and to serve as a shining example for those with similar passion.
“Such attributes will also inspire the entrepreneurial ventures of our young generation,” he said.
Among those present at the launch were Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sebastian Ting, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, and Consul-General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching Raden Sigit Witjaksono.
Jln Penrissen’s Neon Trend Market launches with lighting of giant Christmas tree
Lo (fourth left) and other guests in a group photo with Santa Claus at the Neon Trend Market. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (Dec 13): The Neon Trend Market has been officially launched with the lighting of its giant Christmas tree at Lee Ling Heights at Jalan Penrissen here tonight.
The event saw Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who launched the market.
In his speech, Lo underscored the remarkable religious harmony prevailing in Sarawak.
“Religion has never been a big issue among our people in Sarawak. We have to look after the interests of every community and every faith.
“But we must not take things for granted despite the fact that only in Sarawak that we have Unifor, only in Sarawak the GPS (government) takes care of other religions other than Islam, and we can’t find this in any other part of Malaysia.
“It’s all by the grace of God that we have what we have today – a good government that takes care of every religion, every corner of the community,” he said.
In this regard, Lo urged Sarawakians to always appreciate peace and harmony.
“We are grateful that our society comprises various ethnicities and religions that can celebrate their festivities peacefully. Cultural diversity is not an obstacle; it is the foundation of a united and harmonious society based on mutual respect,” he said.
The event saw various communities coming together, including the Malays, Chinese, Ibans, Bidayuhs as well as the Indians, to celebrate the launch of the Neon Trend Market.
Lo took the opportunity to remind everyone to face political and economic challenges with unity and determination to ensure Sarawak’s continued peace and prosperity.
“Christmas is a celebration for all, and I would like to wish everybody a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,” he added.
Also present at the event were organising chairman Albert Lee, community leaders and councillors.
Batu Kitang rep grills MPs’ support for MyGaz over State-owned PetrosNiaga
Lo Khere Chiang
KUCHING, Dec 5: Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang has questioned Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen and Sibu MP Oscar Ling’s preference for renewing the subsidised licence for MyGaz instead of supporting Sarawak’s state-owned gas company, PetrosNiaga, which could contribute more to Sarawak’s economy.
In a statement issued today, Lo criticised both the MPs who recently disagreed on Sarawak’s decision not to renew the subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) licence for MyGaz, a Thai-based company.
“My question to both of them is: Which side are you on? Thai or Sarawakian?
“Notably, 60 per cent of Malaysia’s gas reserves originate from Sarawak. Yet Chong and Ling want to support a foreign company, MyGaz, a subsidiary company of Siamgas and Petrochemicals Public Company Limited, a company listed in The Stock Exchange of Thailand to sell subsidised LPG back to Sarawak with profits flowing out of our country back to Thailand.
“Why prioritise renewing the subsidised licence for MyGaz when supporting Sarawak’s state-owned gas company, PetrosNiaga, could contribute more to Sarawak’s coffers? PetrosNiaga, which offers competitive prices, ensures that profits remain within Sarawak for the benefit of Sarawakians,” he claimed.
Lo went on to criticise Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak for consistently advocating the use of Sarawak’s funds and not prioritising Sarawak’s interests in Federal parliament.
“Their efforts could be better directed in the Federal parliament to seek increased allocations for crucial sectors like education, infrastructure, healthcare, and flood mitigation on Sarawak’s behalf.”
Furthermore, the Batu Kitang assemblyman noted that Sarawak, under Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership, has witnessed progress, and PetrosNiaga aims to reclaim Sarawak’s rights and generate employment opportunities.
“After all, at the end of the day, aren’t we all Sarawakians who want to see Sarawak grow in wealth after so much is being taken away from us by Malaya?” alleged Lo.
Lo also drew a comparison between Sarawak and Penang, questioning DAP Sarawak’s loyalties by highlighting the development projects in Penang, such as the undersea tunnel and Light Rail Transport system, while Sarawak lacks similar infrastructure. — DayakDaily
KUCHING: Anda di pihak mana, Thailand atau Sarawak?
Itu soalan diajukan Lo Khere Chiang ke atas Ahli Parlimen Stampin, Chong Chieng Jen dan Ahli Parlimen Sibu, Oscar Ling yang tidak bersetuju dengan keputusan Kerajaan Sarawak untuk tidak memperbaharui lesen pengedaran Gas Petroleum Cecair (LPG) bersubsidi oleh Syarikat MYGAZ Sdn. Bhd. di Sarawak.
Lo yang merupakan Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Batu Kitang, menyifatkan dua pemimpin Parti Tindakan Demokratik (DAP) Sarawak itu jelas menunjukkan mereka menyokong MYGAZ iaitu anak Syarikat SIAM Gas, yang merupakan sebuah syarikat pembekal LPG dari Thailand.
“Kira-kira 60 peratus daripada rizab gas Malaysia adalah dari Sarawak, jadi mengapa perlu mengutamakan memperbaharui lesen bersubsidi untuk MyGaz apabila syarikat gas milik Kerajaan Sarawak, PetrosNiaga boleh menyumbang lebih kepada dana Sarawak?
“PetrosNiaga yang menawarkan harga yang kompetitif, memastikan keuntungan kekal dalam Sarawak untuk manfaat rakyat Sarawak berbanding MyGaz yang keuntungan mengalir keluar dari negara kita ke Thailand,” katanya menerusi satu kenyataan, hari ini.
Justeru, pemimpin dari Parti Rakyat Bersatu Sarawak (SUPP) itu menegaskan agar Chong dan Oscar menggesa pemimpin mereka untuk memperuntukkan lebih banyak dana persekutuan kepada Sarawak, daripada secara konsisten membangkang keputusan Kerajaan Sarawak yang dilakukan demi rakyat Sarawak.
“Usaha mereka boleh ditujukan dengan lebih baik di parlimen untuk mendapatkan penambahan peruntukan bagi sektor penting seperti pendidikan, infrastruktur, penjagaan kesihatan dan tebatan banjir bagi Sarawak,” katanya.
Lo turut mempersoalkan sumbangan yang dilakukan oleh DAP Sarawak kepada Sarawak, yang kini sebahagian dalam sekutu Kerajaan Perpaduan.
Katanya, DAP Sarawak seharusnya memperjuangkan dan mengutamakan kemakmuran Sarawak, daripada sentiasa menembak, mencari kesalahan, membangkitkan sentimen dan memutar belit kebenaran semata-mata untuk mengekalkan relevansi sebagai pembangkang demi kelangsungan politik mereka.
Sebaliknya, beliau berkata DAP Sarawak hanya berdiam diri apabila Pulau Pinang dianugerahkan projek sistem Pengangkutan Aliran Ringan bernilai RM10 bilion yang dibiayai oleh Kerajaan Persekutuan.
“Pulau Pinang terkenal dengan sistem pengangkutan yang maju dengan dua stesen kereta api utama, terowong bawah laut bernilai RM6.3 bilion serta landasan kereta api funikular yang mengagumkan.
“Kini mereka memulakan sistem Pengangkutan Aliran Ringan bernilai RM10 bilion manakala Sarawak tidak mempunyai satu pun kereta api bahkan LRT. Di manakah DAP Sarawak, ia tidak kelihatan seperti mereka menyebelahi Sarawak,” katanya.
Batu Kitang rep calls on Asadia to preserve ancient tradition of ‘periuk tanah’
Lo (centre) hits the ‘gendang pampat’ after receiving it as a token of appreciation for attending the event. Also seen are (from left) Mabong and Sidi.
KUCHING (Dec 3): The Academy of Sarawak Dayak Iban (Asadia) should preserve the ancient tradition of Iban pottery, known as ‘periuk tanah’ (earthen pot) to ensure the longevity of this cultural treasure, said Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang.
Citing research from the Sarawak Museum, which was published in ‘The Sarawak Museum Journal Volume 10, No 19/20, 1962, Lo said the earthen pot that existed 40,000 years ago is very similar to that used by the Iban community today.
“It is my hope that Asadia will persist in advocating and bequeathing the uniqueness of Dayak arts and culture, so that these unique artistic expressions do not fade into oblivion with the passage of time.
“Therefore, Asadia needs to organise ceramic classes to preserve one of the unique aspects of Iban culture, which is the art of crafting periuk tanah,” he said in his speech at the Asadia Cultural Classes Graduation Night held at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) hall here last night.
Recognising Asadia’s efforts to revive and promote Dayak culture, Lo believe that Asadia can move more actively and attract the interest of the youth to learn Dayak culture, as well as participation of those from the Malay and Chinese communities.
“This indirectly helps to maintain Dayak identity, steering the youth away from negative activities and crimes, fostering unity and harmony in Sarawak society,” he said.
Lo also underscored the economic potential of Asadia’s initiatives, stating that the skills acquired from Asadia can be marketed as tourism and business products.
“Traditional arts like tabuh, sape, belikan, and skills in decorative arts and crafts can attract international tourists.
“For example, craft products such as Bunga Jarau experience high demand during celebrations, serving as decorations in government complexes, private spaces, and shopping centres,” he said.
The event witnessed the presentation of certificates to some 200 participants of various age and races who had just completed their traditional Iban dances course, art of self-defence, traditional music and Iban oral tradition.
Also present were Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia) president Sidi Munan and Asadia head cum organising chairman Mabong Unggang
Batu Kitang rep visits APM volunteer member recovering from burns
Lo (standing right) seen holding the hands of Mohd Syafiq during the visit.
KUCHING (Dec 4): Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang visited an injured Civil Defence Force (APM) volunteer member at his residence today.
Mohd Syafiq Ali Hanafiah is recovering from severe burns sustained after he tried to save a six-year-old caught in a fire that involved five houses at Lorong 16, RPR Batu Kawa earlier in August.
However, his efforts were in vain as the child tragically perished in the fire.
As a result of the incident, he suffered 75 per cent burns to his body.
KUCHING: The Federal Government should seriously consider building a Trans-Borneo Railway to accelerate development and provide alternative public transport for Sarawak and Sabah, says a Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) backbencher.
Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had been pushing for the proposal to go through and Transport Minister Anthony Loke had agreed to a feasibility study.
"However, we would like to emphasise the need for prompt and tangible action, not just carrying out years of feasibility studies which could be flushed down the drain any time there is a change of government," he said when debating the budget speech in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Wednesday (Nov 22).
Lo said it was high time for the Federal Government to recognise the need for a Trans-Borneo Railway linking Sabah and Sarawak to Brunei and Indonesia as both states were lagging behind Peninsular Malaysia in road and rail transportation.
"The railway project is of utmost importance to boost Sarawak's economy. Indonesia is already improving its railway system in Kalimantan and if Sarawak is not doing it, we stand to lose a great deal," he said.
Besides connecting cities across Borneo, Lo said the railway could also provide access to the interior for mining operations and transportation of raw materials.
He said this would speed up the development of rural areas of Sarawak and Sabah.
"The Federal Government cannot give lame excuses such as low population density in Sarawak and Sabah and non-profitability and try to shelve the proposal based on these excuses.
"Implementing public transport such as the one and only railway network in Sarawak should not be considered for profit but as an investment by the Federal Government to improve the region's wider economy," he said.
Lo also said the railway was estimated to cost RM63.3bil, less than the RM110bil estimated for the proposed Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail project.
"Because Sarawak contributes RM80bil annually to the national coffers, the KL-Singapore railway project should be set aside for now to ensure that the Trans-Borneo Railway takes precedence," he added.
Batu Kitang rep: Amendment Bill gives Petros 100 pct control over gas distribution in S’wak
Lo Khere Chiang
KUCHING (Nov 22): The Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill 2023 serves as a crucial step towards ensuring a more efficient, equitable and sustainable distribution of natural gas in Sarawak, said Dato Lo Khere Chiang (GPS-Batu Kitang).
This, he said, will establish a new role of gas aggregator, Petros, which will be responsible for procuring gas from various sources and supplying it to distribution companies.
“This will help break the monopoly of current gas suppliers under Petronas and provide consumers in Sarawak with more choice and greater control over our own energy resources,” he said in his debate on the Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill 2023 at the august House here Tuesday.
With the amendment of the Bill, Lo said this reaffirms Petros’ position and ensures that the distribution of gas will be done 100 per cent by the state.
As the appointment of Gas Aggregator is a key provision of the Bill, he said the aggregator will be responsible for procuring gas from various sources, including domestic producers, importers and liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals.
“They will also be responsible for negotiating gas prices with suppliers and ensuring that consumers get a fair deal,” he added.
He said the Bill will also promote the development of the domestic gas industry. This includes encouraging investment in gas exploration, production and transportation, as well as supporting the development of downstream gas-based industries, such as petrochemicals and fertilisers.
“Thanks to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg that we are able to come this far today by promoting the development of Sarawak’s domestic gas industry and today we have complete rights over the distribution of gas in Sarawak.
“This Bill will most certainly create jobs, boost economic growth and diversify Sarawak’s economy,” he said.
Jerip: Sarawak govt conducting due diligence on MASWings as part of takeover bid
The Sarawak state government is currently conducting due diligence on MASWings Sdn Bhd in preparation for its acquisition, the Sarawak state legislative assembly was told today (November 23). - NSTP/MOHD ADAM ARININ
KUCHING: The Sarawak state government is currently conducting due diligence on MASWings Sdn Bhd in preparation for its acquisition, the Sarawak state legislative assembly was told today (November 23).
State Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil said negotiations are also ongoing with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and Khazanah Nasional Bhd to acquire the shares in MASWings.
"The takeover will be in stages and the operation of the Sarawak-owned airline will only commence once the whole takeover process is completed and finalised," he said in a reply to Lo Khere Chiang (GPS-Batu Kitang) who wanted to know when Sarawak's own airline will start operating.
On October 27, Sarawak-owned company Hornbill Skyways Sdn Bhd and MAG inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expedite the acquisition of the shares in MASWings for the management of rural air services.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had said the MoU will pave the way for detailed discussions between both parties to ensure that the state acquires the majority stake in the airline.
Hornbill Skyways, which has been operating air charter services in Sarawak since 1977, was mandated to take over the ownership of MASWings and operate rural air services in Sarawak and Sabah.
Abang Johari said the state government aims to make Kuching the airline's main hub and expand the carrier's routes to regional destinations, including Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, South Korea and India.
However, he said MASWings would not be profit-oriented as the aim of the expansion is to serve the people. — BERNAMA
Dr Jerip: Sarawak’s airline will only start operations once takeover process is completed
Datuk Dr Jerip Susil said the state’s takeover of MASWings will be carried out in stages.
KUCHING (Nov 23): The operations of Sarawak’s own airline will only commence once the whole takeover process is completed and finalised, said Datuk Dr Jerip Susil.
The Deputy Transport Minister said the state’s takeover of MASWings will be carried out in stages.
“The Memorandum of Understanding between the Sarawak government, Hornbill Skyways Sdn Bhd and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) was signed on Oct 27, 2023.
“In this regard, the Sarawak government is in the process of conducting due diligence on MASWings Sdn Bhd and negotiating with MAG and Khazanah Nasional Berhad to acquire the shares in MASWings,” he said.
Dr Jerip said this in response to a question from Dato Lo Khere Chiang (GPS-Batu Kitang) during the question-and-answer session at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here today.
To a supplementary question from Lo on the purpose of an MoU signed by the Sarawak government with the federal government on July 20, Dr Jerip said the MoU was for the acquisition of Rural Air Services (RAS) by the state government.
“Through this MoU, the federal government has given their assurance to continue the RAS subsidy and the acquisition of RAS by the Sarawak government will not affect the rural air services on all existing RAS routes as stipulated in the RAS agreement,” he said.
He said based on the Malaysian Aviation Commission Act 2015 (Act 771), a total of 40 routes were approved as RAS routes.
“These included 30 routes for internal Sarawak; six routes for internal Sabah; and four routes for interstate Sarawak and Sabah,” he added.
Put aside KL-S’pore HSR project and build Trans-Borneo Railway instead, Lo tells Putrajaya
Lo said it was high time the federal government recognised the need to have a Trans-Borneo Railway to accelerate development and provide an alternative public transport option for Sarawak and Sabah.
KUCHING (Nov 22): Dato Lo Khere Chiang (GPS-Batu Kitang) has urged Putrajaya to put aside the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail (HSR) project and build the Trans-Borneo Railway linking Sabah and Sarawak to Brunei and Indonesia instead.
He said it was high time the federal government recognised the need to have a Trans-Borneo Railway to accelerate development and provide an alternative public transport option for Sarawak and Sabah.
“Our visionary leader, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has been pushing for this proposal to go through and the federal Transport Minister has agreed to a feasibility study.
“However, we would like to emphasise the need for prompt and tangible action, not just the carrying out of years of feasibility studies, which could be flushed down the drain again and again anytime there is a change of government,” he said when debating the 2024 State Budget at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here today.
He told the august House that the Trans-Borneo Railway project is estimated to cost RM63.3 billion while the HSR between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore has been estimated to cost RM110 billion.
“This Kuala Lumpur-Singapore railway only serves to bring added comfort to elite travellers.
“I hope our Stampin MP (Chong Chieng Jen) can remind our federal Transport Minister that because Sarawak contributes RM80 billion annually to the national coffers, the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore railway project should be set aside for now and ensure that the Trans-Borneo Railway takes precedence,” he said.
Lo said the railway project is of utmost importance to boost Sarawak’s economy.
“Indonesia is already improving its railway transport in Kalimantan and if Sarawak is not doing it, we stand to lose a great deal.
“In addition to connecting cities around Borneo Island, it can also provide access to the interior for mining operations and transportation of raw materials, thereby speeding up the development of the rural areas of Sarawak and Sabah,” he said adding that rail is a smart, sustainable and efficient way to move freight and people.
He hoped that the federal government will not try to shelve the proposal based on their “lame excuses” such as low population density in East Malaysia and non-profitability.
“Implementing public transport such as the one and only railway network in Sarawak should not be considered for profits at all, but as an investment by the federal government to improve the region’s wider economy.
“It is time to give back to Sarawak what is rightfully ours after 60 years of independence,” he remarked.
