Three villagers from Kampung Sinar Baru receive grants for home repairs

May 31, 2024, Friday at 7:00 AM

Ngui (second left) presents the house specification documents to one of the house owners’ representatives, witnessed by Lo (third left) and others.

KUCHING (May 31): Three house owners in Kampung Sinar Baru here have received their assistance for house repairs under the Sarawak Poor Housing Improvement Programme (PPRMS).

According to Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, each of them is given a maximum allocation of RM15,000 for the repair works on the roof, walls, windows, stairs, bathroom and ceiling.

“We help house owners to improve the condition of their houses.

“Some of them are facing problems with the ceilings of houses that are already in a dilapidated condition.

“Now it is ready to be repaired and when it rains, there are no more leaks on the ceiling,” he told reporters after inspecting the condition of one of the houses and verifying the specification document of the house in the village, here yesterday.

Lo later thanked Kampung Sinar Baru area community leader Ngui Nam Chiew, the contractor and all members of the village development and security committee (JKKK) for working together with the residents towards making this initiative a success.

“I am also grateful to the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led government under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg because through this MRP-PPRMS 2024, we are able to help many people in need.

“Through this programme as well, the Sarawak government will continue to help and provide comfortable homes to the people of this state,” he said.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/31/three-villagers-from-kampung-sinar-baru-receive-grants-for-home-repairs/

Innovative solution set to address Kpg Bukit Panchor’s parking woes

May 31, 2024, Friday at 7:01 AM

Lo points at a section on the ceiling of the hall in showing JKR Bau district engineer Jessica Robert parts that need some upgrading works. With them is Mortadza.

KUCHING (May 31): Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang has unveiled an ‘innovative solution’ set to allay Kampung Bukit Panchor residents’ concern about parking issues in the area.

According to him, the solution involves having the riverbank at the village be developed as the designated parking space.

He added that the site was selected due to land scarcity.

“This approach not only addresses the parking issue, but also integrates the village’s natural riverside beauty into its infrastructure,” said Lo when met during his visit to the village yesterday.

He pointed out that despite the challenges posed by limited available land for many infrastructure projects, he was committed to any initiative meant to enhance the village’s infrastructure and its aesthetic appeal.

The latest significant development in the village was the completion of a new multipurpose hall, funded under Lo’s Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) grant.

“With the completion of the multipurpose hall, we now have a versatile space that can host a variety of events, from community meetings to indoor sports like badminton,” he said.

During the visit, the assemblyman also witnessed the signing of documents confirming that the second phase of the hall’s construction had been completed by the Bau Office of Public Works Department (JKR).

The next phase of the project, he said, would involve the installation of proper flooring, a stage and a changing room.

“Future plans for the hall include leveraging the hall for indoor sports and other recreational activities, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among villagers,” he added.

Among other future projects on Lo’s lists were the drainage works and a construction of a new ‘surau’, set to be located at the village’s riverbank.

Accompanying him during the visit were Kampung Bukit Panchor headman Mortadza Buang and JKR Bau officials.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/31/innovative-solution-set-to-address-kpg-bukit-panchors-parking-woes/

Dream of a safer, more comfortable home comes true

Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang (second left) take a look at the dilapidated house while being briefed by a contractor during his visit at Kampung Sinar Baru, Kuching. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni

KUCHING: A beneficiary of the Sarawak Dilapidated House Improvement Project (PPRMS), 33-year-old Andrien Talaja is grateful because finally, his dream of having a safer and more comfortable family home has come true.

He said previously, he and his family lived in a dilapidated house which lacked proper toilet and kitchen facilities and had a leaking roof.

“I’m grateful we will sleep better now at night when it rains heavily.

“I did not expect that finally, my family could live in a much more comfortable house thanks to the Sarawak government’s help,” he said

 Andrien said this when met by reporters after receiving  a letter signifying the completion of the renovation from  Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang Kampung Sinar Baru here  today (May 30).

The house actually belongs to Andrien’s mother, Wihelmina Sim. who was away at work.

Lo said the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government always strove to ensure its people have comfortable lives.

Through PPRMS, he said, the government would continue to help and provide comfortable homes to residents in this state.

“Under the leadership of Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, we have helped many people through various initiatives including  PPRMS which aims to provide comfortable housing for them.

“Under the PPRMS, each house will be given a maximum allocation of RM15,000 to repair the roof, walls, windows, stairs, bathroom, and ceiling to improve the people’s homes,” he said, adding that the house repair project would take one month to complete.

He urged all Sarawak residents to continue supporting the GPS government so that efforts to help and develop this state could be sustained.

After the visit, Lo and representatives of the relevant agencies, went on to visit the home of another PPRMS recipient in Kampung Bukit Panchor to see the progress of the project.

https://www.newsarawaktribune.com.my/dream-of-a-safer-more-comfortable-home-comes-true/

Cat City Bike Week a platform for states, countries to foster camaraderie, says Batu Kitang rep

May 24, 2024, Friday at 9:23 PM

Lo (right) and Tan sit astride the big bikes as the launching gimmick for the event.

KUCHING (May 24): The Cat City Bike Week (CCBW) 2024 has proven to be a significant event in fostering camaraderie between states and neighbouring countries on the island of Borneo, highlighting shared interests and hobbies among its participants.

In highlighting this, Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang commended the organisers for successfully gathering not only local bikers from Sarawak and Malaysia but also international participants from Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia.

“CCBW 2024 welcomes not only local bikers but also those from neighbouring states and countries to Sarawak.

“I am confident that CCBW 2024 is more than just a gathering of bikers; it is a platform to strengthen ties between states and countries on Borneo, fostering unity through shared interests and hobbies as bikers from various ethnicities and religions come together peacefully this evening,” he said.

He was speaking at the opening ceremony of CCBW 2024 at Aeroville Mall here today.

Lo also emphasised the importance of CCBW 2024 in raising awareness about motorcycle safety.

He noted that Bike Week serves as a platform to educate riders about safety through seminars or dialogues with authorities, aiming to reduce road accidents involving motorcyclists.

“Bike Week can additionally introduce local arts, culture, and tourism. Therefore, I hope all bikers can become tourism ambassadors for Sarawak when they return to their respective states or countries.”

Held at Aeroville Mall’s parking lot, the event brought together around 1,500 bikers from across the region, showcasing a remarkable display of solidarity and community spirit.

Also present during the officiating ceremony were CCBW organising chairman Abang Nor Nasaruddin Abang Noorzuki, Aeroville Mall director Kapitan Tan Gun Kee, and Harley Owners Group Kuala Lumpur Chapter Malaysia director TJ Rolan.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/24/cat-city-bike-week-a-platform-for-states-countries-to-foster-camaraderie-says-batu-kitang-rep/

Cat City Bike Week a platform for states, countries to foster camaraderie, says Batu Kitang rep

May 24, 2024, Friday at 9:23 PM

Lo (right) and Tan sit astride the big bikes as the launching gimmick for the event.

KUCHING (May 24): The Cat City Bike Week (CCBW) 2024 has proven to be a significant event in fostering camaraderie between states and neighbouring countries on the island of Borneo, highlighting shared interests and hobbies among its participants.

In highlighting this, Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang commended the organisers for successfully gathering not only local bikers from Sarawak and Malaysia but also international participants from Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia.

“CCBW 2024 welcomes not only local bikers but also those from neighbouring states and countries to Sarawak.

“I am confident that CCBW 2024 is more than just a gathering of bikers; it is a platform to strengthen ties between states and countries on Borneo, fostering unity through shared interests and hobbies as bikers from various ethnicities and religions come together peacefully this evening,” he said.

He was speaking at the opening ceremony of CCBW 2024 at Aeroville Mall here today.

Lo also emphasised the importance of CCBW 2024 in raising awareness about motorcycle safety.

He noted that Bike Week serves as a platform to educate riders about safety through seminars or dialogues with authorities, aiming to reduce road accidents involving motorcyclists.

“Bike Week can additionally introduce local arts, culture, and tourism. Therefore, I hope all bikers can become tourism ambassadors for Sarawak when they return to their respective states or countries.”

Held at Aeroville Mall’s parking lot, the event brought together around 1,500 bikers from across the region, showcasing a remarkable display of solidarity and community spirit.

Also present during the officiating ceremony were CCBW organising chairman Abang Nor Nasaruddin Abang Noorzuki, Aeroville Mall director Kapitan Tan Gun Kee, and Harley Owners Group Kuala Lumpur Chapter Malaysia director TJ Rolan.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/24/cat-city-bike-week-a-platform-for-states-countries-to-foster-camaraderie-says-batu-kitang-rep/

Durian hawker can still lodge complaint to Sarawak ombudsman, says Kota Sentosa rep

May 16, 2024, Thursday at 7:01 AM

Yap (seated second left) speaks to the media during the press conference.

KUCHING (May 16): The aggrieved durian hawker who has to cease business at Padungan seasonal fruit market can lodge a complaint to the Sarawak ombudsman over the local council’s decision, said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

Yap said the ombudsman is part of the government’s system of administrative law to scrutinise the work of the executive branch of the government.

“The Sarawak ombudsman is an independent body and is primarily a guardian of correct behaviour,” said Yap during a press conference at the media room of Sarawak Legislative Assembly complex here yesterday.

The assemblyman explained the ombudsman’s function was to safeguard the interests of the citizens by ensuring administration according to law, discovering instances of maladministration and eliminating defects in administration.

“Methods of enforcement include bringing pressure to bear on the responsible authority, publicising a refusal to rectify injustice or a defective administrative practise, bringing the matter to the attention of the legislature and instigating a criminal prosecution or disciplinary action.”

Alternatively, Yap said the hawker can apply to the High Court for a judicial review on the legality of the council’s decision in ceasing his business.

Thus, Yap said he was appalled to read the Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen’s statement calling the Sarawak Legislative Assembly’s Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohd Asfia Awang Nassar ‘insensitive’ in dismissing his emergency motion about the plight of the durian hawker in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly recently.

When dismissing the motion, Asfia had previously said the facts had indicated the durian hawker was operating illegally at the market and Kuching South City Council (MBKS) was within its authority when issuing a notice to cease business to the hawker.

Meanwhile, during the press conference, Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang also criticised Chong for creating a big ‘hoo-ha’ over the matter to gain publicity.

Lo said Chong should learn from Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How who sought solutions on a previous case involving a hawker through the courts.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/16/durian-hawker-can-still-lodge-complaint-to-sarawak-ombudsman-says-kota-sentosa-rep/

Batu Kitang assemblyman praises Premier’s education initiatives

Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang

BATU Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang commended the Premier’s visionary move to provide free tertiary education starting in 2026, making Sarawak the first in Malaysia to do so.

He applauded Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s foresight, recognising education as a top priority and highlighting the significance of investing in human capital.

“The proposed financing plan, involving a sovereign wealth fund with an initial investment of RM8bil in 2024 and planned annual allocations of RM300mil for the next two decades, will pave the way for Sarawak’s future prosperity.

“Acknowledging the Premier’s commitment to talent attraction and intellectual capital development, it’s important to prioritise technical and financial courses to enhance graduates’ employability in Sarawak’s evolving digital economy,” he told the august House.

Moreover, Lo advocated for reclaiming Sarawak’s education autonomy and urged unity among Sarawakians to negotiate with the federal government for greater autonomy in education and health sectors.

He went on to add that there’s a need for additional community leaders, including two village chiefs and three Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) members, to accommodate the growing population in the Batu Kitang constituency.

He said that the present village chief is already at capacity due to a large population in Mile 3 and Mile 6.

“Thus there is an urgent need for another village chief to take care of the Malay community in Batu Kitang and urgent need for a Bidayuh to assist the Dayak communities.

“I hope that the Premier’s office will recognize their hard work all these years and appoint them as JKKKs to serve their respective village.”

Furthermore, he addressed administrative hurdles faced by businesses, urging the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) to streamline the process for trade licence applications to reduce inconvenience for entrepreneurs.

He also raised concerns about water supply issues in Kampung Bunga Rampai and called on relevant authorities to address the persistent low water pressure affecting residents’ daily lives.

https://www.newsarawaktribune.com.my/batu-kitang-assemblyman-praises-premiers-education-initiatives/

Ting: Sarawak will have authority to make laws relating to tourism with Federal Constitution amendment

May 9, 2024, Thursday at 12:05 PM

Ting says the state government has proposed to amend Item 25A (Tourism) from List I (Federal List) to List III (Concurrent List) of this Ninth Schedule. – Bernama photo

KUCHING (May 9): The Sarawak government will have the authority to make legislation relating to tourism in the state if the proposed amendment to include ‘tourism’ in List III (Concurrent List) of the Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution is approved, said Dato Sebastian Ting.

The Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister said the state government has proposed to amend Item 25A (Tourism) from List I (Federal List) to List III (Concurrent List) of this Ninth Schedule.

“The Sarawak government’s intention was presented to this august House through a ministerial motion tabled by Deputy Minister in the Premier of Sarawak’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) which seeks to secure a comprehensive amendment to the Federal Constitution and includes the proposed amendment to Item 25A.

“This proposal was also presented to the federal government and until today, this matter has been actively pursued,” he said during the question-and-answer session at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here today.

He was responding to a question from Dato Lo Khere Chiang (GPs-Batu Kitang) on where Sarawak was actively pursuing for the reinstatement of autonomous rights for its tourism sector.

Ting said the federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) has initiated several discussions with Sarawak and Sabah where both states have presented their stand on the matter.

“The Sarawak government through my ministry and State Attorney General Chambers have reiterated the same stand.

“However, with the change of stand by the Sabah government whereby they proposed for this Item 25A to be taken out from the list and remain as residual matter, a further discussion between the Sarawak Attorney General Chambers and Sabah Attorney General Chambers on Oct 13, 2023, has been initiated to finalise the stand,” he said.

He said to date, Sarawak was still waiting for the Sabah government to finalise their stand before this matter can be brought up to MOTAC and subsequently the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) Technical Committee, which will be chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof for further action.

Ting said once ‘tourism’ is inserted under the Concurrent List, the state would then have the flexibility to adapt tourism matters into Sarawak’s local law.

He said these included promoting investment in tourism businesses; developing tourism human resources; improving state management of tourism sectors by generating a favourable environment for tourism businesses; products development on the infrastructure as well as maintenance; facilitate the community-based tourism, locality based tourism and cross border tourism i.e. medical tourism; issuing the licensing for tourist guides, Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H), homestay registration and training tourism institution as well as tourism vehicle; implementation of the tourism enforcement; and collection of tourism tax by the Sarawak government.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/09/ting-sarawak-will-have-authority-to-make-laws-relating-to-tourism-with-federal-constitution-amendment/ https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/09/ting-sarawak-will-have-authority-to-make-laws-relating-to-tourism-with-federal-constitution-amendment

Sarawak Urged To Reclaim Tourism Autonomy

KUCHING: Sarawak should demand the return of tourism autonomy with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) now enshrined in the Federal Constitution. 

Batu Kitang Assemblyman, Dato Ir Lo Khere Chiang said that tourism was never in the scheduled list under the Federal Constitution but was added under Item 25A of the Ninth Schedule in 1994.

"As a result of tourism being placed under federal jurisdiction, issuing of all licences related to the tourism industry requires the approval of Putrajaya. 

"This federal control leads to unnecessary bureaucracy for even things like tour bus and homestay licences," he said. 

He said this while debating the Motion of Appreciation for the Address by the Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar during the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Session on Thursday.

Dato Ir Lo also cited other issues faced in the industry including agents of the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme having to go through the vetting and regulation processes by the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) once more after their licences expire. 

"Valid licences were issued by MOTAC in the first place. They should only penalise those who break its rules, not penalising all industry players in Sarawak by revoking their licences regardless of compliance," he said. 

Additionally, he said that the Sarawak MM2H programme also has its own unique conditions separate from those in Malaya. 

Therefore, the mishandling of this issue could seriously harm the economy as MM2H participants contribute billions in foreign exchange by buying houses, supporting education, and boosting local businesses, he said. 

Meanwhile, the Batu Kitang Assemblyman also noted that MOTAC only contributes RM30 million annually to Sarawak as development funds, while Sarawak contributes up to RM300 million annually.

“Why should we let MOTAC dictate us? Our Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP Sarawak) can handle regional tourism well and we can understand ourselves better than anyone," he stressed.

In this regard, Dato Ir Lo urged for the issue to be resolved as soon as possible and for the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government to take over all matters related to the tourism industry in Sarawak. - UKASnews

Posted on 09 May 2024

Source of News: UKAS

https://premierdept.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/1543/UKAS

Taib’s legacy: A privilege for Sarawakians

Datuk Lo Khere Chiang speaking to reporters. Photo: RAMIDI SUBARI

BY LEONG Z-KEEN

BATU Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang paid tribute to the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud for being a capable and insightful town builder.
 
The assemblyman also complimented the late Head of State’s tenacity in pushing his vision and ideals for the state despite facing backlashes from the community.

“I remember those arguments against the late Tun Taib when he first mooted the idea of constructing hydroelectric dams in Sarawak.

“However, he pushed ahead with constructing the dam in Bakun amidst negative criticisms and remarks from the community and Sarawak is realising the benefits of his endeavour today,” Lo said.

He was debating in support of the motion of appreciation to the former Head of State in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly session today.

Lo also recounted the time when the late Head of State was shrewd in guiding the Sarawak away from foreign power interfering with the state’s political affairs.

“The most notable event that I can vividly associate the late Tun Taib is the way he strategically steered UMNO clear from entering Sarawak and paving the way for leaders after him to protect the sanctity of this Dewan,” he said

https://www.newsarawaktribune.com.my/taibs-legacy-a-privilege-for-sarawakians/

將砂定為貿商重要樞紐 為經濟增長提供機遇

（本报古晋7日讯）巴都吉当区州议员拿督罗克强指出，砂拉越地理位置优越，并位于主要航运航线的交汇处，将砂拉越定位为贸易和商业的重要枢纽，为经济增长提供机遇。

他披露，砂拉越拥有6个港口，该地区的民都鲁港口的有效运作以及所有6个港口的个别优势，可以作为新成立的砂拉越海港局的最佳实践模型，进一步加强砂拉越港口的运营 和管理，符合砂拉越的利益。

因此，他支持2024年砂海港局法案，因该项法案将整合砂拉越所有港口管理、运营、规划和发展，并成立一个全新的中央管理机构，即砂拉越海港局。

他说，该项法案将改革砂拉越港口运营的治理结构和监管框架，包括协调港口费用、船舶费用、港口收费和费用，并为砂拉越的港口管理和运营提供私有化的规定，这将塑造砂拉越地区的经济格局 。

拿督罗克强今日在砂州立法议会内参与2024年砂海港局法案辩论时指出，民都鲁港口不久将成为全球第一个利用海浪动能发电的港口。

他披露，砂拉越丰富的天然资源，如天然气，也是宝贵资产，必须通过利用碳捕获、利用和储存等技术有效利用。

“我们可以优化天然气利用，确保地区能源安全。因此，建立健全的港口系统对促进国内和国际贸易至关重要。通过在港口设施方面的战略投资，我们旨在巩固砂拉越在能源市场的领先地位。 ”

他向砂总理成功说服联邦政府的成果表示祝贺，根据2024年3月签署的谅解备忘录，联邦政府同意让砂拉越完全拥有民都鲁港口，这是一个位于远东和欧洲的战略性国际港口， 也是世界上最大的液化天然气出口码头之一。

https://weareunited.com.my/12165860/

Shophouse renovations: Onus on owners, says Lo

Datuk Lo Khere Chiang

KUCHING: The onus is on shophouse owners to renovate their premises should the need arise by engaging engineers or builders.

In pointing this out Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang said the submission of structural drawings to the council is only for record purposes.

He was responding to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen complaining of a slow reply from the council after a report on the safety of two-storey shophouse buildings here was submitted.

Lo stressed that the council engineers do not go through the structural design of professional engineers who submit their structural drawings to the council.

“The integrity of the structure rests with the design engineer who is responsible for his structural design during his lifetime.

“In the case of these two-storey shophouses which have been in existence for the past 40 years or more, I notice that many of them have either been repaired or renovated to meet the needs of their businesses.

“The tenant who has complained to Chong but prefers not to move out of their rented premises nor to renovate their shophouse leaves me completely perplexed,” he said.

He questioned why Chong was not advising the tenant who complained to move out or renovate the shophouse.

“This is more perplexing to me. However, whatever the agenda of Chong in this case is, I urge him not to confuse the public and waste everybody’s time.

“All Chong needs to do is to advise the particular tenant to move out or to repair her premises.

“We are all mature and sensible enough to understand that if a two storey building is dangerous, we should not continue to rent the place and endanger our own lives,” he said.

https://www.newsarawaktribune.com.my/shophouse-renovations-onus-on-owners-says-lo/

Call on Stampin MP to advise shophouse tenants to either move out or repair units

May 5, 2024, Sunday at 6:32 PM

Lo stresses some points during the simple press conference at Lorong Datuk Tawi Sli No 4 in Kuching.

KUCHING (May 5): Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang has called upon Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen to advise the tenants of the shophouses near Lorong Datuk Tawi Sli here to either relocate or undertake necessary repair works on the damaged units.

Adding on, Lo described the situation where the tenants had complained to Chong about the matter, but did not want to move out or renovate the units, as ‘completely perplexing’.

“We are all mature and sensible enough to understand that if a two-storey building is dangerous, we should not continue to rent the place and endanger our own lives,” he said in a press conference that took place at Lorong Datuk Tawi Sli No 4 here today.

Adding on, Lo also questioned Chong’s eagerness in the matter, citing discrepancies in statements that had been made by the latter.

“In a newspaper report dated April 30, 2024, he (Chong) mentioned nine shophouses yet to be closed by the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP).

“At times, he spoke about a report by an engineer, which said four shophouses needed to be renovated.

“Whether it’s one, or four, or nine, or the entire 43 shophouse units in this light industrial estate, the responsibility lies with the owners themselves to engage a professional engineer or builder to renovate their own two-storey premises.”

In this aspect, Lo explained that when an engineer submitted structural drawings to the council, the council would only keep them for record-keeping purposes.

“The council’s engineer does not go through the structural designs drawn by the professional engineers and submitted to the council.

“The integrity of the structure rests on the design engineer who is responsible for his structural design during his lifetime.”

On April 29, Chong – also the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman – had criticised the MPP over the delay in tackling the structural issues affecting some shophouses at Lorong Datuk Tawi Sli here.

“The MPP, as the authority empowered by the Sarawak Buildings Ordinance (SBO) 1994, has the power to issue notices to shop-owners where the building’s structural integrity is in question, either to demolish the building or to order some repair works to be done on it.

“The report has been submitted to MPP, and we are still waiting for its follow-up action.

“Thus, I call upon the MPP to take immediate action in assisting the shop-owners in resolving building structure issues,” Chong had stated.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/05/call-on-stampin-mp-to-advise-shophouse-tenants-to-either-move-out-or-repair-units/

罗克强：张健仁需建议 租户搬离或维修店屋

2024年5月5日

拿督罗克强昨日前往古晋朋尼逊路三哩半达威斯里巷工业店建筑召开新闻发布会。

（古晋5日讯）针对古晋朋尼逊路三哩半达威斯里巷工业店建筑，巴都吉当区州议员拿督罗克强指出，本身希望实旦宾区国会议员张健仁不要混淆公众，也不要浪费大家的时间，张健仁需要做的是，建议相关租户搬离或维修他们的店屋。

“大家都已不是年轻人，都已足够成熟和理智明白，如果一栋两层楼的建筑是危险的，就不应该继续租用这个地方，从而危及我们自己的生命。”

他称，这些两层店屋存在已经超过40年，本身注意到其中许多已经进行了修复或翻新，以满足他们业务的需要。

他说，租户向张健仁投诉，但却选择不搬出租用的房屋，也不愿意翻新店屋，让其感到非常困惑。

他称，作为一个有着丰富常识的学识渊博的律师，为何不建议租户搬出或修理店屋，更让其困惑不解。

拿督罗克强是于今日前往古晋朋尼逊路三哩半达威斯里巷工业店建筑召开新闻发布会时，如是表示。

他续称，张健仁于2024年4月30日的报导中，提到市议会尚未关闭的9栋店屋，甚至还提及一份工程师的报告指出有4栋店屋需要翻新。

他指出，不管是一栋、四栋、还是整个这轻工业区的43栋店屋，在这种情况下，责任应该落在业主身上，他们应该聘请专业工程师或建筑师来翻新他们的两层楼店面。

他也说明，当一名工程师向市议会提交结构图纸时，这些图纸只是被市议会保留作为记录。市议会的工程师不会审查向市议会提交结构图纸的专业工程师的结构设计。

https://news.seehua.com/post/1156336

Dayak customs, tradition can contribute to Sarawak’s unity, says Batu Kitang rep

May 2, 2024, Thursday at 7:01 AM

(From second left) Padila, Lo, Tan (right) and others perforning the symbolic launching of Aeroville Mall’s Gawai Bazaar 2024.

KUCHING (May 2): The customs and traditions of the Dayak community can contribute to the spirit of unity in Sarawak, says Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang.

Speaking during the opening of Gawai Bazaar 2024 in Aeroville Mall here yesterday, he said like other festivals in Malaysia, Gawai Dayak celebration is also important as it can build an ethnic identity.

He further lauded the Gawai Bazaar programme, saying that it is one of the ways to strengthen the camaraderie and develop a harmonious atmosphere in the state.

“Hopefully with this organisation, we can share the joy and excitement of Gawai Dayak regardless of race or religion.

“Therefore, as the people of Bumi Kenyalang who always value peace and harmony, we are very grateful because our community consists of various races and religions can celebrate festivals according to their respective religions and traditions peacefully,” said Lo.

He further reminded everyone to always be united in any situations that occur whether politically or economically to ensure that Sarawak remains safe and prosperous.

“We in Sarawak are very lucky because religion and race have never caused an issue to the spirit of unity that has been intertwined for a long time.

“Like this afternoon, we can see our Malay and Chinese friends are also present together to enliven the event today (May 1).

Meanwhile, the Gawai Bazaar programme director Padila Jiahong said the event is held from May 1 to 12, with 35 kiosks indoor, and 11 food kiosks outdoor.

She said the programme is held with the objective of promoting the beauty, uniqueness and cultural diversity of our community in Sarawak through the collaboration of the non-governmental organisation (NGOs), community, private companies, small traders, local art activists and Dayak culture lovers.

“It is also to create a community of entrepreneurs and small traders to promote their products, and local delicacies, handcrafts of the local community.

“Most importantly, it is to create and strengthen consensus between various government and non-government agencies to achieve common goals, especially to customers of Aeroville Mall and business partners,” said Padilla.

The opening ceremony was also attended by Aeroville Mall director Kapitan Tan Kun Gee, Kelab Seni Budaya Anak Sarawak (Kesera) president and Mrs Global Asian 2023 Kimi Tomas, and other distinguished guests.

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/02/dayak-customs-tradition-can-contribute-to-sarawaks-unity-says-batu-kitang-rep/

https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/05/02/dayak-customs-tradition-can-contribute-to-sarawaks-unity-says-batu-kitang-rep/