Author: Ma Chee Seng

EC cannot increase DUN seats, says NGO

KUCHING: The Election Commission (EC) does not have the authority to increase the number of seats in the Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Sarawak, clarified Rise of Social Efforts (ROSE) in a statement on Thursday (May 16). It said that while the EC can redraw electoral boundaries, any increase in the

MBKS mayor urges focus on broader urban planning amid durian stall issue

KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng has urged politicians to focus on the city’s broader urban planning needs rather than a single durian stall issue that impacts only a few citizens. “These vendors with daily permits have indeed been very lucky for 10 years to

Power outage strikes Matang substation

KUCHING: A vandalised high-voltage underground cable near Kampung Gita resulted in a power outage at the Matang 33KV substation here around 1:30 p.m. on May 12. Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), the retail arm of Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), promptly dispatched a technical team to address the issue, completing repairs by

“Study in New Zealand Info Session” on May 19 in Kuching

KUCHING: MMS Education Placement Specialists, in collaboration with Education New Zealand (ENZ), is hosting a “Study in New Zealand Info Session” on May 19 from 1pm to 5pm at the MMS office. This event offers students and parents a chance to explore New Zealand’s renowned education system. With over 35

Efforts underway to manage rural road connectivity

A PILOT programme in Baram to manage rural road connectivity has secured three proponents on two-year contracts, each requiring an annual funding of RM5 million, totaling RM15 million from the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS). In his ministerial winding-up speech on Wednesday (May 15) Minister of Infrastructure and Port

State to produce 10GW green energy by 2030

SARAWAK will prioritise energy allocation for domestic use, with plans to double clean electricity generation to 10 gigawatts (GW) by 2030. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg also said that competitive energy rates will be offered to investors and only excess energy will be exported to Brunei,

Substantial funding for farm roads and infrastructure development

THE Sarawak government has allocated substantial funds for farm roads and infrastructure to boost agricultural productivity and support local farmers. Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom said this in his winding-up speech at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on May 14.

Fatimah raises concerns over mental health issues

AMENDMENTS to the Mental Health Act in 2023, aimed at decriminalising suicide attempts, will empower vulnerable individuals to seek help without fear. In expressing such optimism Women, Childhood, and Community Well-being Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah reiterated the ministry’s commitment to address various social issues, including mental health, to ensure

Wesak Day celebration unites 5000 Buddhist devotees in Kuching

KUCHING: The Wesak Day celebration has brought together a throng of 5000 Buddhist devotees, gathered at the Kuching South City Hall (MBKS) building yesterday (May 11). Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said Kuching, amidst the lush forests, and amidst reflections on global religions, Wesak celebrations resonate deeply.

Quick action controls fire at bus station

KANOWIT: Quick action by members of the public helped contain fire at a bus station store room in Pekan Kanowit today (May 11). According to reports, the fire and rescue department (Bomba) received a distress call at 12.55 pm about the incident, leading to a rapid deployment of a team