Uggah sings praises to Bidayuh culture brought alive in Kpg Semeba’s Gawai do

May 28, 2023 @ 11:13

Uggah (second left) and others in a group photo at 'Rami Gawea Semeba 2023' event at Kampung Semeba on May 27, 2023.

KUCHING, May 28: Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas sang praises to the organisation of the ‘Rami Gawea Semeba 2023 (RGS23)’ which brings the culture and tradition of the Bidayuhs ‘alive’ last night.

According to a media release, Uggah, who officiated the event at Kampung Semeba’s multi-purpose hall, said the success of the Gawai Dayak event showed that the village folk have a strong unity, calling the younger generation to carry on the culture.

“I am very impressed with tonight’s show of your vibrant and colourful culture and tradition, indigenous cuisine, hospitality, and unity.

“We must ensure the new generation continues embracing all these for posterity’s sake and identity.

“They, too, will fit in excellently in your efforts to promote your village as a tourist destination since it is very near the city,” he said.

Uggah (fourth left) and Doreen (on his right) trying the local Bidayuh dishes at the ‘Rami Gawea Semeba 2023’ event at Kampung Semeba on May 27, 2023.

Uggah, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Sarawak (MIPD), further reminded that apart from unity, the progress and prosperity of a community are also contributed by good leadership.

“Our Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, for instance, has shown himself to be not only a capable leader but a visionary one as well.

“He is constantly coming up with new revenue streams to allow Sarawak to finance its development objectives,” he added.

Uggah (right), Doreen (second left) and Wes (left) pose with the winners of the men and women traditional costume contests at the ‘Rami Gawea Semeba 2023’ event at Kampung Semeba on May 27, 2023.

Following this, Uggah has advised the people to continue to give their fullest support to Abang Johari and their assemblyman for Batu Kitang, Lo Khere Chiang.

At the function, Uggah announced a development grant of RM40,000 and another RM150,000 from the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) for the village’s religious needs.

Amongst those present were Uggah’s wife, Datin Amar Doreen Mayang, RGS23 organising chairperson Wes Mirid, Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) director Dr Adrian Susin Ambut, and Kampung Semeba chief Thomas Gaon. — DayakDailyhttps://dayakdaily.com/uggah-sings-praises-to-bidayuh-culture-brought-alive-in-kpg-semebas-gawai-do/

Vicar: St Basil’s Parish Centre project in Bt Kawa on schedule

BY IRENE C ON MAY 26, 2023, FRIDAY AT 4:36 PMSARAWAK

Dr Sim (centre) presents a cheque for the project to Archdeacon Jose, witnessed by (from left) Lo, Bishop Danald and Jack. – Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING (May 26): The St Basil’s Parish Centre project is on schedule and expected to be completed by August 2024, said vicar Archdeacon Jose Jul Endru.

He said the RM6.2 million project is currently at the piling stage, and will proceed to the foundation stage soon.

The Sarawak government had given RM1.4 million for the project under the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), he added.

Meanwhile, speaking at the earth-breaking ceremony of the project, Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian said the state government cares for the needs of all places of worship in the state and is committed to maintaining the unity and harmony amongst all races and religions.

He said the St Basil’s Parish Centre project is necessary in view of the growing community in Batu Kawa.

The project site’s blessing ceremony was performed by the Bishop of Kuching and Brunei Darussalam, Right Reverend Datuk Danald Jute.

Present were Unifor director Datu Jack Aman Luat and Batu Kitang assemblyman Cr Lo Khere Chiang.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2023/05/26/archdeacon-st-basils-parish-centre-project-in-bt-kawa-on-schedule/

DVSS director: Large number of free-roaming dogs challenge in rabies eradication efforts in S’wak

May 21, 2023, Sunday at 7:02 AM

Lo (second left) performs the opening gimmick for the event held as part of the ‘Rami Gawia Semeba’.

KUCHING (May 21): The large number of free-roaming dogs poses a challenge to the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) in efforts to eradicate rabies, said its director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud.

He said the department had so far vaccinated 230,000 dogs with anti-rabies vaccine since the outbreak in Sarawak in 2017, but educating the public on responsible pet ownership is still a big challenge.

“Prevention of animal bites is an important aspect in preventing the spread of rabies. Our department receives not less than 250 bite cases every month. From January to April (this year) a total 1,200 bite cases were received from both unprovoked and provoked types.

“That is why it is important to remind our friends, family and neighbours on responsible pet ownership to prevent such incidents from happening,” he said at the DVSS Rabies Awareness and Department of Agriculture AgriCOP programme held at Kampung Semeba yesterday.

The event, held in conjunction with ‘Rami Gawia Semeba’ (Semeba Gawai Celebrations), was launched by Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang who represented Food Industries, Commodities and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.

It was announced that Dr Rundi and his deputies Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail and Martin Ben had contributed financial allocations to make the event possible.

Dr Adrian said that the increase in rabies cases in the state recently had caused panic among the public, and he reminded everyone that “it incurs a lot of cost to treat rabies because it involves lives”.

He also mentioned that since the rabies outbreak which started from Serian in 2017, there were already 59 people who lost their lives out of 66 human cases.

According to him again, other Asean countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines are also recording rabies cases and casualties.

“This clearly shows immediate action must be taken and cooperation from all sectors of the society must continue to combat rabies,” he said.

Dr Adrian expressed his appreciation to the Immune Belt Enforcement Team (IBET) under the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UPKS) which has vaccinated almost 50,000 animals near the Sarawak – Kalimantan border to produce this immune belt against rabies.

He also informed pet owners in Semeba and surrounding villages to be responsible and ensure the animals are vaccinated against rabies because there were samples from 11 dogs there within a 10km radius tested positive for rabies.

Meanwhile, Lo in his speech said rabies is a deadly infectious disease, and is still a serious threat to animals and humans around the world, not just in Sarawak.

“Responsible dog owners should always supervise the movement of their dogs so that they do not roam freely in public places, and ensure that (owners of) pet dogs obtain a license from the local authorities and (their pets) are vaccinated with anti-rabies vaccine every year.

“If we are exposed to an animal suspected of having rabies, we should wash the wound under running water and soap for at least 15 minutes and immediately seek treatment at a nearby clinic or hospital. This is the first step in treatment to prevent rabies. Therefore, it is very important for us to understand and take appropriate preventive measures,” he said.

Meanwhile, also held concurrently with the rabies awareness and mass vaccination was the promotion of AgriCOP program under the Sarawak Department of Agriculture.

Lo said the AgriCOP program was introduced and implemented in 2020 to enable target groups to be exposed to the latest agricultural technology through lectures, exhibitions and also agricultural models and demonstrations.

With Semeba and surrounding villages located near Kuching city, he said the village folks can consider joining the AgriCOP programme to start or increase their farming activities and earn extra income.

Also present at the event were Ministry of Food Industries, Commodities and Regional Development’s permanent secretary Sirai Daha, Department of Agriculture deputy director Ronald Ripid, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai and Kuching Division Bidayuh Temenggong Dato Austin Dimin.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2023/05/21/dvss-director-large-number-of-free-roaming-dogs-challenge-in-rabies-eradication-efforts-in-swak/

S’wak Vet Dept receives average 250 provoked animal bite reports every month

May 20, 2023 @ 15:46

Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang (third left) receiving a souvenir when representing Minister for Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Sarawak Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom to officiate at the AgriCOP and DVSS Awareness programs today (May 20, 2023).

KUCHING, May 20: The Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) has been receiving an average of 250 animal bite reports caused by provocation every month.

DVSS director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud said 1,251 of such cases were recorded from January to April this year.

He said it is important for everyone to be aware and responsible for their pets to prevent similar incidents from happening and to combat rabies.

“Since 2017, a total of 59 casualties out of 66 rabies cases involving rabies were reported in Sarawak.

“These figures clearly show that immediate action needs to be taken, and cooperation and collaboration between all communities need to continue to prevent this rabies disease,” he added.

Dr Adrian said this during the Department of Agriculture Sarawak Agriculture Community Outreach Program (AgriCOP) and DVSS Awareness programs held in Kampung Semeba here today.

Meanwhile, the AgriCOP program in Kampung Semeba is the first held in Kuching this year to provide an opportunity for Department of Agriculture Sarawak to engage head-on with the targeted group of local farmers.

It also acts as a platform to encourage more people to be involved in the agriculture sector while at the same time providing the latest information on agricultural technology. — DayakDaily

https://dayakdaily.com/swak-vet-dept-receives-average-250-provoked-animal-bite-reports-every-month/

Lo Khere Chiang ingatkan Chong Chieng Jen, tanggungjawab sebagai Ahli Parlimen Stampin

Views: 34

May 19, 2023

By Lorenzo Isaac Ak Anthony

Lo Khere Chiang menyuarakan pendapatnya pada sidang media di Kompleks DUN Sarawak. Foto:Lorenzo Isaac (TVS)

KUCHING, 19 Mei: Sekiranya Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Padungan, Chong Chieng Jen gagal memperoleh dana bagi menaik taraf bulatan Batu 15 sebaiknya Ahli Parlimen Stampin itu meletak jawatan.

Teguran ADUN Batu Kitang, Lo Khere Chiang itu sebagai maklum balas kenyataan Chong mahu Lo mendapatkan peruntukan berkaitan ekoran Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) mempunyai penyertaan ramai di dalam Kerajaan Persekutuan.

Membidas situasi itu Lo mengingatkan bahawa, Ahli Parlimen Pakatan Harapan (PH)  termasuk wakil Parti Tindakan Demokratik (DAP) turut  memegang jawatan menteri dan timbalan menteri.

Sehubungan itu, kata Lo, Chong hanya memerlukan masa sekitar 20 saat dalam parlimen sebelum ini untuk membincangkan isu saliran dan pengairan di kawasannya.

“Saya juga boleh membawa isu kepada Ahli Parlimen GPS saya, tetapi saya ingin Chong menjalankan tugasnya sebagai Ahli Parlimen Stampin dan membawa isu-isu Stampin ke Parlimen juga,” kata Lo.

Lo mempersoal tentang keberkesanan Chong sebagai Ahli Parlimen jika beliau tidak dapat berkomunikasi secara langsung dengan ahli-ahli PH, menteri kabinet persekutuan, dan timbalan menteri, dan terpaksa meminta bantuan Lo sebagai ADUN untuk berhubung dengan kerajaan perpaduan di Parlimen.

Lo mengingatkan sekali lagi bahawa tugas tersebut merupakan tanggungjawab seorang Ahli Parlimen, bukan ADUN.

“Jika demikian, maka Chong sepatutnya mempertimbangkan untuk meletak jawatan kerana tidak berkomunikasi dengan rakan sejawat dari kerajaan perpaduan beliau di peringkat persekutuan kerana ini tidak akan memberi faedah kepada penduduk di kawasannya,” kata Lo yang juga ketua Parti Rakyat Bersatu Sarawak (SUPP) cawangan Batu Kitang.

Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang media di Kompleks Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Sarawak di sini, pada Jumaat.

Menurutnya dapat disaksikan ramai pengguna jalan raya termasuk penduduk Stampin menggunakan bulatan berkenaan kerana terletak tepat di sempadan antara Stampin dan Stakan.

Oleh yang demikian, beliau menyeru Chong, yang juga ketua DAP Sarawak, agar tidak memberikan alasanberhubung tanggungjawabnya untuk menaik taraf bulatan batu 15 di Parlimen kerana itu merupakan kewajiban dan tugasnya selaku seorang Ahli Parlimen.

“Secara keseluruhannya, banyak nyawa telah terkorban di tempat tersebut. Janganlah berikan alasan dan mengelakkan tanggungjawab. Ahli Parlimen Stampin, laksanakanlah tugas anda demi rakyat,” tegasnya lagi.

Untuk rekod, Lo memberikan respons terhadap kenyataan Chong semalam yang menjelaskan bahawa bulatan batu 15 sebenarnya tidak terletak di dalam kawasan  Stampin dan ia berada dalam bidang kuasa Kementerian Kerja Raya yang diketuai oleh Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi. – TVS

https://tvstv.my/2023/05/19/lo-khere-chiang-ingatkan-chong-chieng-jen-tanggungjawab-sebagai-ahli-parlimen-stampin/

Sarawak is the only State allowed to use ‘Allah’ and it is all because of GPS — Batu Kitang rep

May 19, 2023 @ 18:38

From left: Pang, Lo and Yap photographed at the press conference held at Sarawak DUN Complex on May 19, 2023. (photo by DayakDaily)

By Nur Ashikin Louis

KUCHING, May 19: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is the reason why Sarawak is the only State in Malaysia greenlighted by Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim to use the word ‘Allah’, says Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang.

Lo said without the formidable presence of GPS, Sarawak may have also been denied the usage of the term ‘Allah’.

The High Court on March 10, 2021 ruled that Christians nationwide can use the word ‘Allah’ and other words – ‘kaabah’, ‘solat’ and ‘baitullah’ – in their religious publication for educational purposes.

However, Anwar on May 16, reportedly had clarified that the use of ‘Allah’ in Christian publications was limited to Sarawak alone and would not affect other states in Malaysia.

Following this, Lo also questioned Sarawak Democratic Action Party’s (DAP) absence in fighting for Sarawakians’ right to use the word ‘Allah’.

“Let us take a moment of silence to reflect upon this situation. Why did we elect DAP into Parliament if they are unable to safeguard our rights? Were it not for GPS, Sarawak would be unable to use the term ‘Allah’ either,” he said at a press conference held at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex here today.

Lo thus called out Sarawakians to direct their votes toward GPS in future elections, as GPS’ representatives are the only ones capable and committed to upholding Sarawak’s welfare, protecting Sarawak’s rights and pushing forward agendas like development, Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), and the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

“Most importantly, GPS has complete loyalty to Sarawak, unlike DAP Sarawak who has to answer to its political masters in West Malaysia.

“DAP has indeed fallen short of its voters’ expectations,” he emphasised.

Also present were Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap and Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang. – DayakDaily

https://dayakdaily.com/sarawak-is-the-only-state-allowed-to-use-allah-because-of-gps-batu-kitang-rep/

罗克强：张健仁国会只花20秒 提出选区“灌溉和排水”问题

2023年5月19日

峇都吉當州議員羅克強（中）與哥打聖淘沙州議員葉耀星、丹絨峇都州議員潘隆銘一起召開記者會反擊浮羅岸州議員張健仁的指責。

（古晋19日讯）峇都吉当州议员罗克强表示，8哩难以忍受的交通堵塞及15哩致命交通岛，每天都有成千包括来自实旦宾的道路使用者；实旦宾国会选区包括格路地区严重洪水，许多应该升级为消防栓的闸门阀消防栓；实旦宾国会选区学校条件差，缺乏可接受的设施，这些都是联邦政府监管下的问题。

他说，希盟有82名国会议员，其中15名担任部长职务，13名担任助理部长职务，行动党独自拥有10名部长和副部长职位，而且希盟的负责人是马来西亚尊敬的首相安华。

“张健仁指责我在砂立法议会花费太多时间要求他为砂拉越争取更多的拨款。请问张健仁你知道作为实旦宾国会议员的角色吗？你的工作是解决你选区的问题。”

他今日在州议会媒体室记者会上如此表示。

值得一提的是，他指出，张健仁在上一届国会会议中只花了20秒的时间提出了他在实旦宾国会选区的“灌溉和排水”问题。

“我可以向砂政盟提出问题，但我希望张健仁作为国会议员尽自己的职责，在国会中提出实旦宾区的问题。 ”

他质疑张健仁是否已经成为一个无效的国会议员，无法直接与任何希盟成员，联邦内阁部长和副部长进行沟通，并要求他作为州议员与联合政府在国会中进行沟通？

“如果是这样，那么张健仁应该考虑辞职，因为他与联合政府在联邦层面的同事没有沟通将对他的选区和选民没有好处。”

他敦促张健仁与希盟部长召开会议，以优先考虑实旦宾选区内的重要项目实施，人民将他们的选票委托给民主行动党，是因为对伊斯兰党的担忧。

“然而，自上台以来，即使承认统考也难以实现。”

他指出，2017年行动党表现出与伊党合作的意愿，其中一位行动党领导人甚至断言伊党没有对华人社区造成伤害，而如今首相安华宣布“阿拉”一词只能由砂拉越使用，而行动党在这个问题上保持了沉默。

“值得思考的是，如果没有砂政盟的强大存在，砂拉越也可能被拒绝使用‘阿拉’一词。”

他强调，1963年马来西亚协议明确强调尊重所有宗教的必要性，它保证了我们各自的信仰而不受限制。

“不幸的是，沙巴经历了来自西马的众多政党的渗透，削弱了本地政党。这种脆弱性使首相安华声称甚至沙巴也不能使用‘阿拉’一词。”

“让我们反思这种情况。如果西马政党无法维护我们的权利，为什么我们要选举行动党进入国会？如果没有砂政盟，砂拉越也无法使用‘阿拉’一词。”

因此，在未来的选举中，他认为，人民必须将选票投向砂政盟，因为砂政盟是唯一有能力和致力于维护砂拉越福利、保护 砂拉越权利、推动发展、统考、大马建国契约等议程，并且最重要的是砂政盟对砂拉越完全忠诚，而砂拉越行动党必须回答其在西马的政治主人。

“行动党确实没有达到选民的期望。”

而哥打圣淘沙州议员叶耀星也指出，当地这之前3届州议员都是张健仁，而他除了提出问题之外，并没有把问题解决。

“而当我们人联党胜出之后，理所当然把之前所累积的问题推给我们。”

他强调，无论是人联党或者砂政盟都不会逃避人民提出的问题，而是真心的给与解决。

https://news.seehua.com/?p=986643

罗克强：解决选区问题 . 张健仁若做不到 应辞职

峇都吉当区州议员罗克强（中）表示，许多实旦宾选区课题都是属于联邦政府权限；左为丹绒峇都区州议员潘隆铭；右为哥打圣淘沙区州议员叶耀星。

（古晋19日讯）峇都吉当区州议员罗克强强调，他在砂议会要求实旦宾区国会议员张健仁解决选区课题，是要确保他履行国会议员职责，若张健仁无法做到，应考虑辞去国会议员。

“张健仁是否知道国会议员的职责？我在砂议会提出实旦宾选区交通堵塞和水患等问题，是因为这些都是他的职责。”

很多都是联邦权限

罗克强今日在砂议会媒体室召开新闻发布会时说，8哩交通堵塞、15哩交通岛车祸黑区、水患、消拯及学校设施残旧等，都是联邦政府权限。

他说，本身可以向砂盟部长反映上述课题。惟，他要张健仁履行职责，解决实旦宾选区课题，毕竟这是国会议员的职责。

“如果张健仁完全没有效率，无法与任何联邦部长反映选区课题，却要我向联邦政府提出，这是荒谬的。若如此，张健仁应考虑辞去国会议员。”

https://sarawak.sinchew.com.my/20230519/190021kc1100-2/

Lo to Chong: DAP has 10 ministers and deputy ministers, resign if unable to source fund for Mile 15 roundabout

May 19, 2023 @ 17:46

Lo stresses a point during a press conference at Sarawak DUN Complex on May 19, 2023. Photo by DayakDaily.

By Nur Ashikin Louis

KUCHING, May 19: Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang has told Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen who is also Stampin MP to resign if the latter could not source for funding for the upgrading of the notorious Mile 15 roundabout.

On Chong’s point that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) has 23 MPs in the federal government and that Lo could have easily contacted them to request allocations, Lo pushed back the fact that Pakatan Harapan (PH) has 82 MPs with Democratic Action Party (DAP) alone holds 10 ministerial and deputy ministerial posts and that the head of PH (Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim) is in fact the Prime Minister.

Lo also pointed out that Chong only spent 20 seconds in the last parliamentary session to bring up ‘irrigation and drainage’ issues in his constituency.

“I can also bring up issues to my GPS MPs but I want Chong to do his job as Stampin MP and bring up Stampin issues in Parliament as well.

“Has Chong become so ineffective as a parliamentarian that he cannot communicate directly to any of the PH members, federal cabinet ministers and deputy ministers and have to request me as an ADUN (assemblyman) backbencher to communicate with the unity government in Parliament? That is the job of an MP in parliament, not for an ADUN like me.

“If such were so, then Chong should consider resigning from his position as his non communication with colleagues from his unity government at the federal level will do no good for his constituency and constituents,” said Lo who is Sarawak United Peoples’ Party Batu Kitang chief.

Speaking to the reporters at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex here, Lo said thousands of people including the Stampin constituents are travelling ‘up and down’ (around) the roundabout which is located right at the border between Stampin and Stakan.

He urged Chong (Democratic Action Party Sarawak chief) to not give excuses in bringing up the need to upgrade 15th Mile roundabout in the Parliament as it serves even the latter’s constituents.

“The point is many people have died there.

“Don’t give any excuses (and) don’t shoot your responsibilities. MP for Stampin, just get the job done for the people,” said Lo.

Lo was responding to Chong’s remark yesterday who clarified that the 15th Mile roundabout is not even in the Stampin constituency and it is within the purview of the Ministry of Works helmed by Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi. — DayakDaily

https://dayakdaily.com/lo-to-chong-dap-has-10-ministers-and-deputy-ministers-resign-if-unable-to-source-fund-for-mile-15-roundabout

罗克强：解决选区问题 . 张健仁若做不到 应辞职

峇都吉当区州议员罗克强（中）表示，许多实旦宾选区课题都是属于联邦政府权限；左为丹绒峇都区州议员潘隆铭；右为哥打圣淘沙区州议员叶耀星。

19/5/23 （古晋19日讯）峇都吉当区州议员罗克强强调，他在砂议会要求实旦宾区国会议员张健仁解决选区课题，是要确保他履行国会议员职责，若张健仁无法做到，应考虑辞去国会议员。

“张健仁是否知道国会议员的职责？我在砂议会提出实旦宾选区交通堵塞和水患等问题，是因为这些都是他的职责。”

很多都是联邦权限

罗克强今日在砂议会媒体室召开新闻发布会时说，8哩交通堵塞、15哩交通岛车祸黑区、水患、消拯及学校设施残旧等，都是联邦政府权限。

他说，本身可以向砂盟部长反映上述课题。惟，他要张健仁履行职责，解决实旦宾选区课题，毕竟这是国会议员的职责。

“如果张健仁完全没有效率，无法与任何联邦部长反映选区课题，却要我向联邦政府提出，这是荒谬的。若如此，张健仁应考虑辞去国会议员。”

叶耀星：系统化解决问题

Hasidah: Govt continuing pursuit of 35 pct Dewan Rakyat seats for Sarawak, Sabah

May 18, 2023, Thursday at 3:34 PM

Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali — File photo by Roystein Emmor

KUCHING (May 18): The state government will continue to pursue its demand for Sarawak and Sabah to have 35 per cent of seats in the Dewan Rakyat, said Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.

The Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63, State-Federal Relations) said this is to ensure Sarawak’s representation in Parliament is in line with the original spirit and purpose of the formation of Malaysia and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

“It is also pertinent to mention that this matter has also been made known to the Deputy Prime Minister (Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof) as he was appointed to oversee all matters relating to the implementation of MA63 on the federal side,” she said in reply to Lo Khere Chiang (GPS-Batu Kitang) during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.

Sharifah Hasidah said the Sarawak government had proposed to the previous federal government for the number of Dewan Rakyat representatives for Sabah and Sarawak be increased to 35 per cent.

She said the matter was at that time presented to the MA63 Special Councilduring its meeting on Sept 8 last year.

She said it was agreed at that meeting that the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law) at that time would bring up this proposal to the federal Cabinet under the previous government.

“However, as we all know, on Oct 10 last year, the Malaysian Parliament was dissolved to make way for the 15th general election (GE15). After the establishment of the new Federal (unity) government, the honorable Prime Minister has agreed to form a different committee to replace the previous committee, that is the MA63 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63) comprising all our deputy premiers.

“On Jan 20 this year, the first meeting of MTPMA63 was held and through this meeting, a working committee chaired by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) was proposed to be created to continue the discussions on this matter of 35 per cent representation in Parliament.

“This committee was established in order to obtain a policy decision since this matter will involve amendments to the Federal Constitution,” she explained.

Sharifah Hasidah also said increasing seats in Parliament can be done by amending Article 46 of the Federal Constitution, whereby the number of elected members is specifically altered.

On the re-delineation exercise for the state, she said pursuant to Article 113 of the Federal Constitution, there shall be an interval of not less than eight years between the dates of completion of each review.

She pointed out the last re-delineation process for Sarawak was done in 2015 and as such the next review of re-delineation should be this year.

“Under Article 113, the Election Commission shall from time to time as they deem necessary review the division of the Federation and the States into constituencies,” she added.

https://bit.ly/43bXBpQ

恢复东马占国席35%提案 砂副部长称仍停在政策决定阶段

The Malaysian Insight

莎丽法哈希达透露，东马国会议席增至35%比例课题，已进入政策决定阶段。（档案照：透视大马）

恢复35%国席来自东马的提案，已进入政策决定阶段。

砂拉越首长署助理部长莎丽法哈希达指出，由首相署部长阿莎丽娜主持，于1月20日成立的1963年马来西亚协议特别理事会，在第一次会议就成立了行动委员会，以获得政策决定。

“此政策决定是必须的，因为这涉及联邦宪法的修正案，但时至今日，仍无结果。”

她强调，砂州政府将继续跟进，以确保国会的议席比例，符合马来西亚和1963年协议的宗旨。

莎丽法哈希达今日在砂州议会，回应峇都吉当州议员罗克强的提问时，如此表示，并指副首相法迪拉负责监督及实施整个1963年协议的相关事宜。

砂州政府是在前朝的国盟政府期间，提出增加国会的议席比例，并原定由时任首相署部长旺朱乃迪，在2022年9月8日的特别委员会会议后，提呈建议书予内阁。

“结果在旺朱乃迪提呈建议书之前，国会就解散以进行第15届全国大选。”

莎丽法哈希达补充，可透过联邦宪法第46条文修正案，或联邦宪法113条文重新划分选区，增加东马的国会议席比例。

“依据联邦宪法113条文，选举委员会理应依据国会与各州选区情况，在必要时重新审查，而每次重新审查的日期间隔，不应少于8年。”

砂州上次进行选区重新划分为2015年，代表下一次的重新审查年份为今年。  

https://www.themalaysianinsight.com/chinese/s/443257

Batu Kitang rep questions DAP’s silence over nod for S’wak, Sabah Christians to use ‘Allah’

May 19, 2023, Friday at 9:04 PM

Lo speaks to reporters at a press conference at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Media Room here today. – Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi

KUCHING (May 19): Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang questions Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen over the silence of DAP top leadership in responding to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent announcement in allowing the word ‘Allah’ to be used by the Christians in Sabah and Sarawak in their prayers.

Lo said he was contemplated and perplexed with Chong’s party leadership for not responding to the matter.

Lashing out at Chong for continuing to fall short of Sarawakian’s expectation despite being elected as a member of parliament, Lo said he could not see any significant contributions from Chong over the matter – on the usage of the word ‘Allah’.

He pointed out the decision in allowing Christians in Sarawak to use the word ‘Allah’ in their prayers could not be achieved without the presence of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in the unity government.

In response to Chong who implied that he spent too much time in the state’s legislative assembly (DUN) asking him to ask for more allocation for Sarawak, Lo instead asked Chong if he knew and understood his role as a member of parliament.

“My question to YB Chong – do you know your role as Stampin MP? Your job is to solve problems in your constituency at the federal parliament,” Lo said during a press conference here today.

“Astonishingly, DAP has remained remarkably silent on this matter. It is worth contemplating that, without GPS, Christians in Sarawak may have been denied the right to use the word ‘Allah’ in their prayers,” he said.

Lo, who is also Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) secretary general, said DAP had also failed to fulfil its promises to recognise Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) and to have it accepted nationwide.

“However, since assuming power, even the recognition of UEC has remained elusive,” said Lo, referring to Chong as merely a puppet to its political masters in Peninsular Malaysia and who has done nothing in fighting for Sarawak’s rights.

“Why did we elect DAP into parliament if they are unable to safeguard our rights? If it weren’t for GPS, Christians in Sarawak would not be able to use the word ‘Allah’.

“I can bring up issues to my GPS YBs but I want YB Chong to do his job as an MP and to bring up Stampin issues in parliament as well,” said Lo.

“Has Chong become so ineffective that he cannot communicate directly to any of the PH members, federal cabinet ministers or deputy ministers, yet requesting me as a backbencher to communicate with the unity government in parliament?” Lo asked.

“That’s the job of an MP, not for an ADUN (backbencher) like me. If such was the case, then Chong should consider resigning from his position as his non-communication with colleagues from his unity government at the federal level will do no good for his constituency and the constituents.

“I urge Chong to convene meetings with his esteemed PH ministers to prioritise the implementation of vital projects within the Stampin constituency,” Lo stressed.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2023/05/19/batu-kitang-rep-questions-daps-silence-over-nod-for-swak-sabah-christians-to-use-allah/

Batu Kitang rep dishes out eight challenges to Stampin MP

May 17, 2023 @ 18:45

Lo (left) throwing eight challenges to Chong while debating the TYT's speech at the DUN Complex on May 17, 2023. Composite photo shows screenshots taken from a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) YouTube livestream. 

KUCHING, May 17: Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang has dished out at least eight challenges to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen who is also the Padungan assemblyman.

In his debate on the Sarawak Governor’s speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting here today, Lo first challenged Chong to fight for funding from the federal government for the additional 23 fire stations needed across Sarawak due to population growth.

This was followed by a second challenge which is the upgrading of numerous existing sluice valve fire hydrants to pillar hydrants.

“It is imperative that YB Padungan focuses on his duty as an MP to seek federal funds, additional funds, in Parliament, for Bomba (Fire and Rescue Department), a federal agency, to upgrade the numerous existing sluice valve fire hydrants to pillar hydrants, which are above ground and more visible,” said Lo.

Lo then challenged Chong to take responsibility for certain road issues affecting Mile 8 where an overhead pedestrian walkway is needed across Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli and another one across Jalan Kalong Ningkang, from Boulevard to Everrise supermarket and from Everrise supermarket to the Lim Liang Kee commercial centre to prevent jaywalking.

Lo also highlighted the Mile 15 roundabout where he said an elevated U-turn needs to be built in place of a roundabout due to a number of accidents occurring under present conditions.

“The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated, and I call upon YB Padungan to take immediate action to prevent any further accidents or fatalities. It is my belief that this solution, an elevated U-turn, would greatly enhance the safety of the affected area and prevent any further loss of life,” said Lo.

Federal roads are under the federal government’s purview.

From road safety, Lo moved on to security which is also under the federal government’s purview, and pointed out that there are only two vehicles to patrol the vast area between Mile 17 and Telaga Air.

He urged Chong to bring the issue to Parliament to provide necessary support and resources including 10 new vehicles to allow Padawan police to effectively patrol housing estates in Padawan and the Stampin constituency.

Lo then moved on to education, pointing out that tables and chairs are lacking in SK Arang while SMK Jalan Arang has a collapsed septic tank and its assembly hall is too small to accommodate 1,700 students.

“In addition, there are ten Chinese schools in Sarawak classified as government aided schools run by associations and NGOs which are struggling to maintain their facilities. I urge YB Padungan to raise this in Parliament for more allocation under the federal government to assist them,” said Lo.

Meanwhile, Lo also took the opportunity to express his frustration over Chong’s statement that it was unreasonable to request RM400 million from the federal government to address flash floods in Kampung Quop.

“Sarawak contributes RM80 billion annually to federal coffers. However, YB Padungan deems it unreasonable to request RM400 million from the federal government to address flash floods in Kampung Quop.

“YB Padungan raises objections when spending is proposed for the betterment of Sarawakians but remains silent about Penang spending RM46 billion on the Penang Transport Master Plan during the PH (Pakatan Harapan) tenure as government,” Lo asserted. — DayakDaily

Keupayaan Luar Biasa Premier Sarawak

Keupayaan Luar Biasa Premier Sarawak

RABU, 17 MEI 2023

KUCHING: Premier Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg mempunyai keupayaan luar biasa dalam memimpin negeri ini ke arah kestabilan ekonomi dan politik. 

Menurut Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (Adun) Batu Kitang Ir Lo Khere Chiang, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Zohari telah berjaya mengurus ekonomi negeri ini dan membawa kepada Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK) sebanyak RM136 bilion pada 2019. 

“Negeri ini telah menganggarkan KDNK sebanyak RM282 bilion menjelang 2030, sekali gus meletakkan kita sebagai negeri maju pada tahun tersebut.

“Dengan rancangan itu, sebanyak 195,000 pekerjaan akan diwujudkan dan pendapatan isi rumah boleh dinaikkan kepada RM15,047,” katanya. 

Beliau berkata demikian semasa membahaskan usul penghargaan atas ucapan Yang Di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak dalam Persidangan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Sarawak Ke-19 pada Rabu.

Tambah beliau, Premier Sarawak juga telah memperuntukkan RM7 Juta bagi membina semula Taman Nelayan di Lubuk Buaya Taman Landeh yang bukan sahaja akan menarik pelancong tempatan malah juga pelancong luar seperti dari Brunei dan Singapura. 

Selain itu ujarnya, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Zohari juga telah melaksanakan Skim Lanjutan Kampung Batu Kitang di Kampung Bunga Rampai yang telah berjaya memenuhi peningkatan keperluan perumahan penduduk dan membawa kegembiraan kepada mereka untuk memiliki rumah sendiri. -EDISI UK

罗克强：微藻培育符合砂拉越绿⾊能源议程

17 05, 2023

（古晋17日讯）峇都吉当区州议员罗克强赞扬砂拉越总理近日推展首个微藻碳捕捉设施，证明总理致⼒于改善砂拉越经济，为砂拉越人民争取权益。

微藻培育提供捕获⼆氧化碳的绿⾊方案，符合砂拉越绿⾊能源议程。 来⾃藻类⽣物质的脂质能够生产可持续航空燃料，能为砂拉越带来数 ⼗亿令吉收入，同时帮助世界实现净零碳排放。脂质还可⽤于动物饲 料和药物，从⽽创造新就业机会。

罗克强今日参与砂拉越州元首施政御词辩论时发表上述谈话。

同时，他说巴达旺警区资源不⾜的问题，能够获得关注，因为这涉及了实旦宾国会选区选⺠安全和福祉。

罗克强也指出，巴达旺警区只有两辆警车能⽤于巡逻，而范围从17哩覆盖至德拉甲艾。

“资源不足将导致犯罪率上升，尤其是白天或夜晚破屋行窃案件，因此作为选⺠的代议士，我们有责任保障社区安全。”

罗克强耶敦促浮罗岸区州议员兼实旦宾区国会议员张健仁，在国会积极解决此问题，提供必要的⽀持和资源，包括20辆新警车，而不是从西⻢运往巴达旺警局的旧警车，以确保有效巡逻不断增加的住宅区。

另外，罗克强也请求紧急关注晋连路15哩环形交叉路⼝的安全问题，这是因为该处发⽣许多意外事故和死亡车祸。

罗克强认为，张健仁应该善用国会议员身份，在国会积极争取拨款，以兴建U转高架桥取代上述环形交叉路⼝，避免再有意外事故或死亡车祸，他相信这个解决方案能大大提高该路段安全性。

Two rabies fatalities reported in Batu Kitang constituency this month alone, says rep

Lo speaking to reporters when attending a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house event organised by Persatuan Penduduk Kampung Haji Baki today.

KUCHING (May 14): Two rabies fatalities have been reported in Batu Kitang state constituency this month alone, said Lo Khere Chiang.

According to the Batu Kitang assemblyman, one case was reported from Kampung Tematu, involving a 24-year-old man on May 10 while another was reported from Kampung Bumbok on May 11, whereby a 50-year-old victim had died after being bitten by a rabid dog.

“It is very sad that the victims had died from the rabies disease and I think both of them did not seek medical attention immediately when they got bitten by the rabid dogs.

“Where rabies is concerned, we must wash our wounds and seek medical attention immediately,” he told reporters when asked to comment on the matter at a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house event held at Kampung Haji Baki multipurpose hall today.

Reporters were told that two more villagers had sought medical attention after being bitten by dogs at Kampung Bumbok last night.

Lo urged the local authorities and enforcement agencies to go all out in stamping out rabies outbreak in the state, which has so far claimed eight lives this year.

“I would like to urge the public to keep their pet dogs inside their house compound and get them vaccinated against rabies. Please don’t let them roam freely on the streets,” said Lo, who is a former Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman.

Lo also concurred that conducting joint operations to capture stray dogs on the streets might be the only effective approach to eradicate rabies for now, adding that the rabid dogs that have yet to be captured would usually die within a week due to the infectious disease.

He also advised pet owners to neuter their dogs so that they will not ‘multiply’ unnecessarily.