bidayuh dotcom [Press Releases Year 2002]

Year 2002

Source	Publication Date	Subject
Sarawak Tribune	Tue Nov 19, 2002	Population of Dayak Selakau dwindling
Sarawak Tribune	Mon Nov 18, 2002	Be bold in shaping economic status, Bidayuhs told
Sarawak Tribune	Sun Nov 17, 2002	Learning English will not harm one's identity: Dr Tiki
Sarawak Tribune	Sun Nov 17, 2002	LRES set up tuition centres for rural pupils
Sarawak Tribune	Sun Nov 17, 2002	Every village should have vision for development
Sarawak Tribune	Mon Nov 04, 2002	Dr Tiki: Parents and teachers must cooperate
Sarawak Tribune	Sat Nov 02, 2002	Put up leisure holiday resorts and apartments in Sematan: Ranum
Sarawak Tribune	Tue Sep 17, 2002	Learn basic business ethics, Bidayuhs told
Sarawak Tribune	Sun Sep 08, 2002	DBNA to organise trip to Bintulu
Sarawak Tribune	Sat Sep 07, 2002	Ministry urged to look into Serian water woes
Sarawak Tribune	Sat Sep 07, 2002	Devt master plan being prepared for Bau: Tiki
Sarawak Tribune	Thu Sep 05, 2002	Manyin: Treasure land as family heritage
Sarawak Tribune	Wed Aug 28, 2002	Bidayuh radio programmes on FM soon, says Norhayati
Sarawak Tribune	Thu Aug 08, 2002	Kpg Apar wins Desa Cemerlang contest
Sarawak Tribune	Mon Aug 05, 2002	Resolving arsenic problem in Bau
Sarawak Tribune	Mon Aug 05, 2002	Bau poised to become tourism district within two years: Abang Jo
Sarawak Tribune	Sun Jul 14, 2002	Nansian: The people must play their part in transforming Bau
Sarawak Tribune	Thu May 30, 2002	Rich Bidayuhs urged to give back to society
Sarawak Tribune	Thu May 23, 2002	Bengoh Rela receives MRP fund to fight crime
Sarawak Tribune	Wed May 22, 2002	Mambong to have community college
Sarawak Tribune	Tue May 21, 2002	DBNA's role to be redefined: Dawos
Sarawak Tribune	Sun May 19, 2002	Unity via power-sharing
Sarawak Tribune	Sun May 19, 2002	Govt-people synergy important : Ranum
Sarawak Tribune	Tue May 14, 2002	Primary schools to be given computers, assures Dr Tiki
Sarawak Tribune	Thu May 09, 2002	Time for Bidayuhs to have own identity, says Manyin
Sarawak Tribune	Tue May 07, 2002	It's Iban, Bidayuh, Lun Bawang
Sarawak Tribune	Mon May 06, 2002	Bidayuhs advised to discard negative aspects of culture
Sarawak Tribune	Tue Apr 23, 2002	St Stephen Parish needs more funds for new church
Sarawak Tribune	Sat Apr 20, 2002	Biodiversity of Bau's limestone being studied
Sarawak Tribune	Wed Apr 17, 2002	RM40 mln disposal park to be built in Mambong soon
Sarawak Tribune	Wed Apr 17, 2002	Kampung supports waste management system
Sarawak Tribune	Mon Apr 15, 2002	Former pupils help Kg Serasot progress
Borneo Post	Wed Apr 10, 2002	Taking a leap forward
Sarawak Tribune	Sat Mar 30, 2002	Calling for Sutuo Dayung Bidayuh out there
Sarawak Tribune	Tue Mar 26, 2002	Mas Gading not left out in pre-emptive package, says Tiki
Sarawak Tribune	Sun Mar 17, 2002	Luak is new chairman of DBNA Miri
Bernama	Fri Mar 15, 2002	Bidayuhs Want Language Included In National Education
Sarawak Tribune	Mon Mar 11, 2002	Bright future for Bidayuhs: Jabu
Sarawak Tribune	Sat Mar 09, 2002	Tiki unhappy with progress of Batang Kayan Bridge
Sarawak Tribune	Fri Feb 22, 2002	State to host national-level Gawai Dayak on 8 June
Sarawak Tribune	Thu Feb 14, 2002	Mas Gading, Batang Lupar to have community colleges
Sarawak Tribune	Wed Jan 30, 2002	Acquired land used for devt: Nansian
Sarawak Tribune	Wed Jan 30, 2002	Ecotourism Year 2003, Tourist spots in Bau to be upgraded
Sarawak Tribune	Tue Jan 29, 2002	MPP's committee on hot spring set up
Sarawak Tribune	Tue Jan 29, 2002	Support DBNA, members told

Sarawak Tribune, Tue Nov 19, 2002 (Population of Dayak Selakau dwindling)

Abeautiful mountain backdrop with the South China Seas a stone's throw away - this idyllic setting best describes Kampung Pueh, the only Dayak Selakau longhouse left in the Sematan sub-district near the western most part of Sarawak.

A 20-door longhouse built in 1973 and cluster of surrounding individual abodes are home to its 600-plus population.

This represents about five per cent of the population of one of Sarawak's smallest tribes whose roots have been traced to West Kalimantan.

The first cross-border migration into what is now Lundu district took place in 1830. The initial wave of migrants crossed into the State a decade before Sir James Brooke, who was to become first White Rajah of Sarawak.

It cannot be accurately ascertained why the Selako left a Dutch-ruled territory to move closer to the northern coast of Borneo that was then still under the Brunei Sultanate.

It could be due to some unsettling conditions in which they lived and farmed or they could be seeking temporary refuge from some hostile tribes. Perhaps, they were attracted by Chinese traders stopping along the Sarawak coasts to buy and sell.

According to Dr Awang Hasmadi Awang Mois, an expert on Dayak Selakau oral traditions and cultures from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), the tribe migrated from West Kalimantan to Sarawak in 1830s and 1870s.

"They speak a dialect that is not understood by anyone else outside the community. What struck me most when I first met a few of the Selakau students in Lundu was their language which sounded to me then like a rather strange version of local Malay," Dr Awang wrote in his paper on Selakau Oral Traditions for a Borneo Research Council Conference in 1992.

Kampung Pueh is situated at Jalan Pueh along the Lundu-Sematan road and is only one km from the unspoilt beaches at Pueh facing the South China Seas.

A tar-sealed road leads to the kampung all the way from Kuching, making for pleasant driving through the countryside.

The longhouse itself is about one hundred metres from the main road. There is a small village shop next to a motor repair shop.

Between the shop and the longhouse is a concrete block commemorating the first 100 years of Dayak Selakau migration to Sarawak.

The villagers still maintain their kinship ties with the Dayak Selakau community on the Indonesian side. They still speak the same dialect.

The Dayak Selakau chief is Mina Kalum, 76, a pemanca - the nomenclature for the second-highest ranked community leader after the temenggong.

His son Ranum Mina, 49, a former government information officer, has the distinction of being the first Dayak Selakau to be elected a State assemblyman.

A member of the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP), Ranum represents the State constituency of Tanjung Datu (N1), succeeding Datuk Ramsay Noel Jitam, a former Assistant Minister.

Another of Mina's son Ramil, 47, formerly with the Agriculture Department, is now a farmer and businessman. A third son Ratau, 36, is a farmer and lives with his father in the longhouse. The villagers are mostly farmers who plant padi, pepper and cocoa. Some are fishermen. All the young have access to schooling. The educated adults work in the public and private sectors in towns.

Nearly everyone agrees that the Dayak Selakau population - between 10,000 and 18,000 - is dwindling, largely because of inter-marriages with other the races.

The question has been asked - in the light of modernisation and their close proximity and accessibility to urban population - whether this could lead to their eventual extinction.

To those familiar with their way of life, the Dayak Selakau have a unqiue culture. They believe in holding gawai for almost anything and their cultural dances are like no others.

From the perspective of the anthropologist, they may be described as 'a lost and found tribe' who will no doubt attract considerable interests, especially from scholars of indigenous cultures and customs of the people in Southeast Asia. - SCC

Related Sites:
Borneo Research Council

Sarawak Tribune, Mon Nov 18, 2002 (Be bold in shaping economic status, Bidayuhs told)

KUCHING - Bidayuh community need to be more adventurous and be bold enough in their approaches to enhance their social economic status and wellbeing.

State Assemblyman for Tarat, Roland Sagah Wee Inn said one of the ways to achieve it was through their own initiative in acquiring new skills and becoming knowledgeable in Information and communication technology (ICT), as these qualities would become the primary tool in their ventures of new fields and braving new world.

Sagah was officiating a radio broadcast 'Kampong Kita' programme organised by the Bidayuh Services of Radio Television Malaysia Kuching, with the cooperation of the AJK Kampong Quop, at the Kampong Quop community hall recently.

According to Sagah, it was high time for the community to change their mindset and aiming for higher achievements.

"Such positive mindset will help them to be on par with the other communities especially in the era of globalisation."

Commending the local people for their support and cooperation in organising the community radio programme, he also reminded the villagers and Bidayuhs in general to support the usage of English language.

"English is the language of technology and communication." Kampong Quop, one of the oldest Bidayuh settlement near Kuching, accommodating about 500 families is the second Bidayuh village to hold the programme after Kampong Semeba.

The programme was designed to foster close and better rapport and understanding between Government agencies and the local people.

Sarawak Tribune, Sun Nov 17, 2002 (Learning English will not harm one's identity: Dr Tiki)

by Nathan Achuk

BAU - Learning maths and science in English will not harm a person's identity and cultural background, Deputy Minister of National Unity and Community Development Dr Tiki Lafe said.

Speaking to reporters after an earth-breaking ceremony for the construction of a new 800-metre long village road at Kampung Jugan yesterday he said: "In the early days, English was used as the medium of instruction and no one lost his or her identity because of it."

Dr Tiki was commenting on the opposition to the use of English in teaching maths and science by Dong Jiao Zong, a peninsular-based Chinese educationist movement.

He described as unacceptable Dong Jiao Zong's claim that teaching the two subjects in the mother ton-gue (in this case Mandarin) would be more effective.

"I studied in English and I did not lose my Bidayuh identity. I also can cope with the rest in studies," Dr Tiki said, adding that countries such India had been using English as their medium of instruction for years and they were still producing some of the world's top brains.

He assured that the government had no intention of phasing out Chinese medium schools as their continued existence is enshrined in the constitution.

"Therefore, there is no ground whatsoever to accuse the government of planning to down-grade the role of Chinese medium schools," he said.

Tiki pointed out that based on government's record, the majority of Chinese parents were in favour of teaching maths and science in English and the Dong Jiao Zong was representing only a minority.

Sarawak Tribune, Sun Nov 17, 2002 (LRES set up tuition centres for rural pupils)

by Kinston Albert

KUCHING - LaSaillian Rural Education Service (LRES) was launched yesterday to provide free tuition to disadvantaged primary school children in the outskirts of the City.

Under the scheme, St Matthew Tuition Centre was established on July 1 this year in Kampung Sibulu, Bau, manned by four teachers and catering to 40 primary six children.

"More classes will be added to this Centre," revealed LRES board member Lim Choon Yang, who envisaged that more tuition centres would be built in Bau, Lundu and Kota Padawan.

"The second project will be implemented at Tiang Bakap in Padawan, for which an abandoned primary school building has been identified, and will be used as the tuition centre," he disclosed.

Lim said the project aimed to maintain and promote the LaSallian educative community image, provide funding for selected rural educational programmes proposed by the board, and undertake such programmes as a completely independent concern.

Its operational expenditure is entirely dependent on donations from former students of LaSallian Schools, the Catholic community and well-wishers.

Donations totalling RM85,000 have been collected from LaSalle brothers and 45 private donors, KTS will donate RM30,000 and Member of Parliament for Miri, Datuk Peter Chin, will top it up with a grant.

LRES is a registered, non-profit LaSallian project to promote the development of tuition learning centres for disadvantaged rural children and adults, irrespective of race and religion, in the archdiocese of Kuching. It is governed by a board appointed by the Brother Visitor in Council of the De LaSalle Brothers of Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Sarawak Tribune, Sun Nov 17, 2002 (Every village should have vision for development)

Every rural village must have its own vision for development, Dr Tiki Lafe said yesterday.

He pointed out that development in the village should not be the responsibility of the government alone. The people, he said, should compliment the government's efforts. Tiki was speaking at the earth-breaking for a new village road at Kampung Jugan.

He called on the people to focus on bringing more development and not relying on others for assistance.

He said: "We must help ourselves first before others can help us. We should shape our own destiny and not leave it to others to decide for us."

He pointed out that it would be futile to wait and pray for something to come without taking any initiatives.

"Development will eventually set in for every village but it can be quite slow. Therefore, we must find ways to accelerate the process ourselves. This is possible through continuous and closer co-operation among the village folks," he stressed.

According to Tiki, incidence of poverty among the rural people could be reduced if they could maximise their land use by setting up suitable industries in line with the government's call for the setting up of an industry in every village in the country.

He advised the villagers to meet the relevant government agencies for discussion, adding that the government would assist them in marketing their products.

He also stressed the importance of education as a mean of eradicating incidence of poverty among them, especially among the new generation.

"Our children are our future leaders and we must prepare them for all the challenges," he said.

He stressed that parents, in addition to showing good example, should also monitor the movement and friends of their children to curb the spread of social ills like alcohol consumption, drug taking and glue sniffing.

Sarawak Tribune, Mon Nov 04, 2002 (Dr Tiki: Parents and teachers must cooperate)

by Nathan Achuk

BAU - The development of students should be holistic and this warrants co-operation between parents and teachers, Deputy Minister of National Unity and Community Development Dr. Tiki Lafe said.

"The co-operation is vital to ensure our students are competent and competitive in the face of global challenges," he added at the fund-raising dinner of SMK Bau Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) here on Saturday.

He disclosed that there were cases where students who passed their examinations with flying colours in schools failed to shine at the tertiary level because they were not competitive.

This was because the students were confined to their textbooks and the four corners of their classroom, Dr Tiki said, stressing that relevant knowledge outside the school hours was also crucial.

In view of the current focus on mastering ICT and the English language, he advised parents and teachers to update their knowledge in these subjects.

"We need to groom our children to rise to the challenges and be on par with the rest of the world and we must be able to guide them, too," he said.

Dr Tiki added that apart from keeping track on their children's performance in schools, parents should be more responsive by establishing communication with their children's teachers.

He noted the important role of PTAs in improving facilities in schools and lauded the PTA of SMK Bau for its initiative in organising the fund-raising dinner before announcing a contribution of RM10,000 to the school.

Over 700 people, mostly former students of SMK Bau, the oldest school in the district, attended the dinner.

Sarawak Tribune, Sat Nov 02, 2002 (Put up leisure holiday resorts and apartments in Sematan: Ranum)

THE government has been urged to encourage private enterprises and landowners in Sematan to undertake turnkey projects to put up leisure holiday resorts and apartments for leasing or private ownership.

"We hope that the government would consider private sector participation with local communities to boost cottage industries in Sematan," said Ranum Mina (BN-Tanjung Datu) at the State Legislative Assembly.

With the declaration of Sematan area as a tourism development area, Ranum said more tourism facilities should be stepped up, especially in the quality of accommodation, holiday resorts and apartments.

Infrastructure like roads and jetties should also be upgraded to cater to the needs of tourists, he added.

Ranum suggested that the Tourism Ministry build a floating jetty or pontoon in Sematan and at Kampung Telok Melano for the convenience of tourists.

According to the member, Sematan would attract more tourists once the Batang Kayan Bridge is completed, adding that the government should also consider re-opening the airstrip in Lundu for private and small aircraft.

"This would help promote local aviation business and at the same time upgrade tourism infrastructure in Lundu district," he stressed.

Sarawak Tribune, Tue Sep 17, 2002 (Learn basic business ethics, Bidayuhs told)

by Peter Sibon

SIBURAN - Bidayuhs must acquire basic business ethics and management skills if they wanted to succeed in the field, State Assemblyman for Bengoh Dr Jerip Susil said.

According to him, good business ethics and management skills were essential for the success of any business.

"The Bidayuh community must acquire all these basic business management skills through trials and error. And those who persevere will pass the test and become better businessmen/ businesswomen," said Jerip at the opening of Dee Terang Buran Karaoke Lounge here.

He added that it was necessary for the Bidayuhs to learn from each other and also from others who had succeeded in their endeavours.

"We also need to learn from others, especially the Foochows on how they persevere until they succeed in their business," he said, adding that the Foochows were known for their hard work, perseverance, resilience, dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.

He pointed out that through the Bidayuh Forum, all Bidayuh Assemblymen and Parliamentarians made sure that the community was not left behind in the mainstream of development.

"We have identified the strength of the community which is hard work.

But that by itself will not be enough if it lacks perseverance," he said, adding that the community needed to be guided and provided with proper education to ensure success. Jerip also advised Bidayuh traders at the Satok market and other areas to be more prudent and stick to the products they sold.

"I have noticed that traders will sell one produce on one occasion and another produce on another occasion. Since there is no consistency in the products they sell, customers will not be able to identify their niche products and this will not help in attracting loyal customers," he added.

Meanwhile, Dee Terang Buran Karaoke Lounge management chairman, Encik Bernard Heng said his entertainment outlet would provide patrons with a homely place to unwind. Besides offering a wide range of drinks which are sold at affordable prices, the outlet also has state-of-the-art karaoke equipment to enable patrons to sing their favourite numbers.

"We are keeping our Bidayuh identity in our business to preserve our tradition," Heng said.

He later presented cash donations to St. Peter's Church, Kampung Simpok (RM 2,000) and St. Bonaventure's Church, Kampung Mundai (RM1,000). Some 100 invited guests and patrons turned up for the event.

Sarawak Tribune, Sun Sep 08, 2002 (DBNA to organise trip to Bintulu)

MIRI - The local branch of Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) will organise a two-day educational tour of Bintulu on 21 and 22 September.

The visit is aimed at fostering closer rapport among members of the two branches and also to expose the participants to the major industries in Bintulu.

Bidayuhs who would like to join the tour can register with the organiser before 17 September.

Entry fee is at RM25 for an adult and RM10 for a child aged between 6 and 17. There is no fee for children aged five and below.

The organiser will not provide any transport for the trip because it is on a convoy concept where the participants are requested to drive their own vehicles for the trip.

Every participants will be issued with an identification card and are required to gather at the parking area of Miri Youth Centre by 7am on 21 September for a short briefing before departing for Bintulu.

Registration forms are obtainable from DBNA Miri branch chairman Edward Luwak, Secretary Caroline Siburat, Treasurer Adaham Banti and Assistant Secretary Rijeg Noew.

Sarawak Tribune, Sat Sep 07, 2002 (Ministry urged to look into Serian water woes)

by Peter Sibon

SERIAN - State Assemblyman for Kedup, Encik Frederick Bayoi Manggie yesterday appealed to the Ministry of Rural Development to look into the water woes in the district.

Bayoi disclosed that some 50 percent of the rural villages in the district were without proper water supply during the current dry season.

"I would like to appeal to the Ministry of Rural Development to come to our aid, especially during this dry season to make a proper planning as this is the best time for them to do so," said Bayoi after handing over school equipment sponsored by Hong Leong Foundation Student Adoption Programme to needy pupils at SJK Chung Hua here yesterday.

He added that most rural villages in his constituency de-pended on gravity feed water supplies.

"But every year during the dry season, these people face water problems. I feel that something should be done because the water they use now is unhealthy for human consumption," he stressed, adding that most of the rivers or ponds from which the villagers were drawing water were polluted.

As a short-term measure, Bayoi suggested that the relevant authorities help the villagers by installing a pump at the deepest part of the rivers (lubok) near each village where water could be drawn to a big container to be distributed to nearby villages.

"This could be done easily as it would not cost too much to buy a pump and install it in a village where the collected water from the container could be distributed to nearby villages," he pointed out, adding that during the wet season, the villagers could depend on their gravity feed water supplies again.

Earlier, in his speech, Bayoi thanked Hong Leong Foundation for coming to the help of needy pupils at SJK Chung Hua Serian.

"The amount may not be much, but for these children and their families, this gesture means a lot," he said.

At the function, 30 needy pupils of the school received sponsorship from Hong Leong Foundation in the form of school bags, school uniforms and shoes.

The chairman of the Regional Management Committee of Hong Leong Group of Companies in Sarawak, Encik Alfred Wong and SJK Chung Hua Serian principal, Encik Tan Yew Kiap also spoke at the function.

Sarawak Tribune, Sat Sep 07, 2002 (Devt master plan being prepared for Bau: Tiki)

by Nathan Achuk

BAU - A development master plan is being prepared for Bau District to systematically manage the district's physical development, said Deputy Minister of National Unity and Community Development Dr Tiki Lafe yesterday.

As a tourist destination, he said development in Bau was inevitable and it was just a matter of time before the change took place. It was therefore imperative for the relevant authorities to be prepared with good planning and design.

He said: "In the past, projects were carried out on an adhoc basis and there was no proper planning by the local authority. It is high time that we plan for more systematic and orderly development in the district."

Dr Tiki, who was in Bau for a one-day working visit, said the masterplan would include provision of infrastructures like a conference centre, footpath and electricity supply to places like Wind Cave and Fairy Cave.

He also noted that the tourism industry would benefit tremendously if there was a hotel in the district. "I want to challenge local businessmen to build a hotel here," he said, pointing out that a hotel would attract more tourists and give them ample time to explore the various places of interests in the district.

He pointed out that the hotel should have a conference centre and also a decent restaurant serving local delicacies to visitors.

According to Tiki, who is also Member of Parliament for Mas Gading, inadequate infrastructure and facilities in the district needed to be addressed immediately.

He said Bau had become a new destination for meetings and seminars and as a result the Dewan Suarah Bau was over utilised to the extent that no major maintenance work could be carried out on the building.

He disclosed that the Paku Hotspring project had received the green light from the State Planning Unit and work would be carried out in stages as planned.

"We are presently at the land acquisition exercise and once we have completed that, we would proceed to the next stage."

The Deputy Minister disclosed that a rural Internet project had been initiated in collaboration with the Japanese International Corporation Agency.

"There are only five computers at the centre but we hope to increase it to ten soon. All the computers are placed at the Dewan Suarah but some improvement needed to be carried out at the centre," he said, adding that the facilities would help reduce the digital divide among the rural folk.

Sarawak Tribune, Thu Sep 05, 2002 (Manyin: Treasure land as family heritage)

By Peter Sibon

BAU - Bidayuhs have been reminded not to sell parcels of land they have inherited from their forefathers for quick monetary gains. Instead, they should develop the land for profitable economic ventures, Housing Minister Datuk Michael Manyin ak Jawong said when handing over land titles at Kampung Skandis Baru here Tuesday night.

"But if you are compelled to sell it to enable your children further their education, especially to tertiary level, then I would say 'yes' to that," qualified Manyin.

"If you are not careful, the Bidayuh community may lose all its land within 10 years," he warned, adding that the community should not be overwhelmed by the desire to possess material gains at the expense of land ownership.

According to Manyin, village folks could join hands in developing their land for commercial purposes to achieve high economic returns.

He pointed out that the Bidayuhs were very lucky because they stayed within easy reach of major towns in the State.

"We can count ourselves very lucky as we live not far from Kuching. You can drive from this kampung to Kuching within 15 minutes and I can reach my home in Serian from Kuching within an hour. And one can travel to Lundu in just an hour and half," Manyin said, referring to places like Serian, Padawan, Bau and Lundu which were near the city and had undergone vast development.

He also reminded the Bidayuhs to learn from other communities, especially the Chinese, on prudent saving.

"We have to learn to save for the sake of our future, especially for our children's education," he stressed.

On a related issue, he advised the Bidayuh community to remain united under the Barisan Nasional (BN) government to ensure continuous socio-economic development.

"We are a minority race, so it is very important that we remain in the BN. We cannot afford to be in the opposition. We have no choice but to remain united under the BN. Only by doing so can we join the other races in the State to further develop ourselves," he pointed out.

He added that under the Bidayuh Forum platform, all Bidayuh political leaders would go all out to help the community regardless of political belonging.

"All the Bidayuh State Assemblymen and Members of Parliament from the different BN component parties in the State, namely, PBB, SUPP, SNAP and PBDS have promised that they will cross party lines and dedicate their services for the good of the community," he pointed out, adding that the nine State Assemblymen and Members of Parliament and two Political Secretaries to the Chief Minister from the community were members of the Bidayuh Forum.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Mambong, Dr James Dawos Mamit reminded the community to remain united and steadfast in their support for the present leadership at both the State and Federal levels.

He also advised landowners to make good use of their assets. "Now you have the options to mortgage your land for useful purposes, especially for your children's education," he pointed out.

Bengoh State Assemblyman, Dr Jerip Susil and the Ketua Kaum (village headman) of Kampung Skandis Baru, Andrew Aket ak Rais also spoke at the function.

At the function, Dr. Dawos pledged to give his preemptive fund for next year amounting to RM60,000 for the expansion works of the community hall and Dr Jerip, his annual grant of RM10,000 for next year for the expansion and renovation works of the village church.

Manyin also presented land titles to 67 landowners, witnessed by heads of various government departments and some 300 villagers from Kampung Skandis Baru and Kampung Skandis Lama.

Sarawak Tribune, Wed Aug 28, 2002 (Bidayuh radio programmes on FM soon, says Norhayati)

By Peter Sibon

KUCHING - Bidayuh radio programmes will be upgraded to Frequency Modulation (FM) by 2004.

The tender to install FM equipment and peri-pherals has been sent out, disclosed Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) director Cik Hajah Norhayati Haji Ismail yesterday.

"The equipment should be available by this yearand the installation will be carried out next year. It takes a year to complete the project. I hope it will take off by 2004," Nor Hayati said.

She said the new radio network would allow the Bidayuh programme to be combined with other programmes on the Dayak communities to make it more compact, informative and entertaining.

Nor Hayati declined to reveal the actual cost of the project except saying it would be for the whole of Malaysia.

"We will combine the Bidayuh, Iban, Kayan and Kenyah radio stations and upgrade them from Medium Wave (MW) and Short Wave (SW) to Frequency Modulation (FM)," she disclosed.

She recently announced the upgrading of all radio stations in the State in line with the government's policy nationwide. "We in Sarawak will also benefit from this policy," she added.

She also disclosed that RTM Sarawak would continue to help the Kuala Lumpur-based RTM headquarters in enhancing national integration.

"We have come up with different programmes to cater to all levels of society. By doing this, we will continue to help the government isseminate its policies to the people," she said, adding that RTM did not face competition from the private television and radio stations as it has its own niche services.

Earlier, she disclosed that RTM would organise the first Mandarin Song Contest in the State, starting September, to discover new talents.

The contest is divided into three regions - Miri, Sibu and Kuching. The top three winners of each region will compete in the finals in Kuching on November 3.

Prizes including cash, trophies and hampers are up for grabs at the regional level and the grand finals of the competition. More information can be obtained from RTM offices in Kuching, Sibu and Miri.

Related Sites:
Frequency Modulation
Radio Televisyen Malaysia

Sarawak Tribune, Thu Aug 08, 2002 (Kpg Apar wins Desa Cemerlang contest)

By Elizabeth Serai James

KUCHING - Kampung Apar in Bau walked off with the first prize of RM4,000 cash and RM16,000 for its village development project in the Desa Cemerlang Contest held at divisional-level last year.

Second-place winner Kampung Buntal in Kuching took home RM3,000 in cash and RM13,000 for its village development project while Kampung Stunggang Melayu in Lundu was richer by RM2,000 cash and RM11,000 for its village project.

The prize-giving ceremony for the contest organised by the Rural Development Ministry was held at Kuching Resident's Office yesterday.

According to Acting Kuching Resident Masbah Haji Ariffin, the criteria for Desa Cemerlang included cleanliness and healthiness of the village, agricultural activities, educational and skills exercises, and the village's use of ICT.

"The villagers' creativity and participation are the two main aspects and the most important criteria in the contest, which the three winning villages possessed," said Masbah.

The ketua kaum of Kampung Apar in Bau, Rimbem anak Ruyar, 54, said the village won because of the cooperation given by the villagers and JKKK members. "When we have a project in the kampung, everybody cooperates and works hard for it," he said.

Meanwhile, the penghulu of Kampung Buntal, Haji Nawi Jemain Amir, 59, said the people of his village did not wait to be asked to help whenever there was a project as they knew what needed to be done.

Ketua kaum of Kampung Stunggang Melayu in Lundu, Haji Bentani bin Suni, 53, assured that every villager would join in a gotong-royong project.

The winning villages were advised to submit a written report on how they spent the money for project development.

Also present at the prize-giving ceremony were Deputy Resident of Kuching, Hang Tuah Merawin, and State Rural Development Department assistant director Abdul Kahar Abdullah.

Sarawak Tribune, Mon Aug 05, 2002 (Resolving arsenic problem in Bau )

BAU - Natural Resources Environmental Board (NR-EB) is currently studying the arsenic level in the water of Tasik Biru and the rivers in the district to enable the government to rehabilitate the water system.

According deputy chairman of NREB Dr James Dawos Mamit a consultant had been engaged and the study which begun three months ago is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

"Through this study we hope to resolve the arsenic problem in Bau. There are two kinds of arsenic, one is organic and the one is inorganic. The organic one can be rehabilitated quite easily but we are not sure about the inorganic one," said Dr James, adding that he was confident that both of types of arsenic could be treated.

Dr James who was present at the closing ceremony of the Bau Carnival 2002, said that the government wanted to promote water sports in the district and therefore it was imperative that Bau should have safe water for the sport activities to be held. He said in places like Bangladesh where the water system was contaminated by arsenic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) had successfully treated the water for safe consumption.

He added there was no reason that the water in Tasik Biru could not be rehabilitated. "Although arsenic is a poison, only a very high level of it can have negative effects on one's health, " he said.

Sarawak Tribune, Mon Aug 05, 2002 (Bau poised to become tourism district within two years: Abang Jo)

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - Minister of Tourism Dato Sri Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Haji Openg said the mining district of Bau would be transformed into a tourism district within the next two years.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Bau Carnival 2002, Johari said that the government acknowledged the potential of Bau, steeped in history, as a tourist destination because of its beautiful natural features and its strategic location.

He disclosed that the government was currently undertaking a study on the arsenic content in Tasik Biru and rivers in the district. "The government has approved RM2 million for the study of Tasik Biru water content as well as the rivers. From this study we hope to be able to neutralise the arsenic in the water because we want all visitors that come to Bau to feel safe," said Johari, adding that his ministry would then develop the landscape of Bau after the study had been finalised.

Under the Eighth Malaysia Plan, Johari revealed that the government would develop a RM2 million hot spring in Bau, which is located in Paku, some 5km north east of Bau town.

On another project, he said his ministry had also approved to build a new motorcross track costing RM1 million adjacent to the Fairy Cave.

Additionally, Johari noted that the Fairy Cave and Wind Cave would continue to be the centre of the annual International Bau Raft Safari to be held at the end of the year.

"With these new infrastructure, Bau will not be a sleepy town anymore, instead it will be more attractive to visitors travelling between Kuching and Lundu," said Johari and he added that Bau would also be transformed into a new sport tourism destination.

He urged the people of Bau to continue maintain their unity, s prerequisite for any development to take place. "The development that we witnessed today in Bau is a result of this peace and harmony that have been preserved. Without any co-operation by the people it will be difficult for the government to develop any area as any project will fail in the long run." Johari who was also impressed with the jongs on display said the jongs reflected the craftsmanship of its owners and therefore he believed the talents and skills could evolve into jong-making cottage industry.

Sarawak Tribune, Sun Jul 14, 2002 (Nansian: The people must play their part in transforming Bau)

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - It is up to the people of Bau to initiate the transformation of the district into a tourist destination offering its natural splendour, rich heritage and history, Tasik Biru assemblyman Peter Nansian Ngusie said.

At a press conference held after the Bau Carnival 2002 committee meeting here yesterday, Nansian said the development of Bau town was inevitable due to its proximity to Kuching City, adding that "it is just a matter of time before the change takes place but it is up to the people, especially local Bidayuhs, to be proactive and participate in the process."

Bau should reflect the success of its people so Nansian advised them to be receptive to change and development.

"Besides being a good place to stay, Bau also offers plenty of activities that can attract people from outside, so the government will want to further develop it," he added.

Meanwhile, he lauded the move to organise Bau Carnival 2002 that would help put Bau in the limelight.

The centre of attraction is the Jong Regatta, a colourful miniature sailboat race unique to Bau, which has received overwhelming response from the public with more that 100 entry forms handed out.

The Regatta will comprise nine races offering cash prizes of RM300 for the champion while the first and second runners-up stand to win RM200 and RM100 respectively.

Four races will be held for remote-controlled boats with the same prizes as for the Jong races.

Also on the itinerary are a full-time live band, musical entertainment and two-day cultural show with hourly lucky draws offering prizes worth RM300 to RM1000.

Those keen to participate in the carnival and for more details can contact Anthony Abad Minan (019-8393224), Asem Nyaen (764-128/763129), Michael Mikol (763124) or access the relevant website at http://www.bau.com.my

Sarawak Tribune, Thu 30 May, 2002 (Rich Bidayuhs urged to give back to society)

By Peter Sibon

KUCHING - Housing Minister Datuk Michael Manyin Jawong yesterday urged well-to-do Bidayuhs to fulfill their social obligation to their community by returning what they took from it, as this would help it catch up with the other communities in the State.

"Through the seminars and workshops that we organised, we have urged intellectual Bidayuhs to be more aware of their social responsibilities. So if they want the community to come up like other communities, they must pay back to their community," Manyin told journalists after visiting the paediatric ward at the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) here yesterday.

He noted that the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) had been organising talks and seminars on the importance of education.

"Whenever we organise seminars and talks for community leaders, we always stress on the importance of education. Education is the "in-thing" for the community. And we also provide input on what's happening in towns and how to face the challenges of a globalised world," continued Manyin.

He pointed out that only 1.5 percent of a total of 175,000 Bidayuhs in the State had tertiary education.

"So we cannot talk about rich Bidayuhs. None of us are actually rich. We are just able to survive. Some of us are holding good posts in the government but we are only employees and not employers," observed Manyin, adding that Bidayuhs also lagged behind the other communities financially.

Meanwhile, he urged poor Bidayuhs to register with the State Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation and the Federal Ministry of National Unity and Community Development.

The minister noted that the Bidayuh Seminar which was organised earlier last year was a success.

"In so far as we could gather many intellectual Bidayuhs which is by itself a success, but of course, we have to see the outcome of the resolutions - that we cannot expect to see instantly - but can expect something positive to come up in due time," continued Manyin.

He had, earlier on, led a group of Saberkas exco members to visit the paediatric ward at the SGH in conjunction with the Gawai celebration.

"Gawai is a unifying force for all communities in the State including the Malays, Chinese, Indians and Dayak communities besides being celebrated by Ibans, Bidayuhs and Orang Ulus," said Manyin, a vice-president of Saberkas.

Gawai was celebrated just like other major festivals of Hari Raya and Chinese New Year, with other communities joining in, he noted.

He also disclosed that the Dayak Cultural Foundation (DCF) of which he was a member of the board of trustees, had set aside RM80,000 for the education fund for the Iban community, RM60,000 for the Bidayuh community and RM40,000 for the Orang Ulu community.

Among those who accompanied him were Saberkas deputy secretary-general Roland Sagah Wee Inn, assistant secretary-general Paul Teo, executive secretary Wan Sagap, exco member Haji Mohammad bin Hassan and SGH deputy director Dr SK Oui.

Related Sites:
Sarawak General Hospital

Sarawak Tribune, Thu 23 May, 2002 (Bengoh Rela receives MRP fund to fight crime)

By Abdul Hakim Bujang

KOTA PADAWAN - Rela in Bengoh constituency will receive a sum of RM19,000 in Minor Rural Project (MRP) funds to finance local activities to boost efforts in fighting crime.

State Assemblyman for Bengoh, Dr Jerip Susil said the fund that he set aside was in recognition of Rela for playing a significant role in maintaining peace and order, especially in the rural areas.

"Wherever I go for functions, I feel very secure when I see Rela members around," he added.

Jerip was relieved to note that the number of crime cases in Padawan was still relatively low but worried to see the rise in the overall index in the State, with most of the crime committed by youngsters aged between 16 and 22.

"We discussed about fighting crime at the State Legislative Assembly and there is a directive from the Chief Minister to use MRP fund to reduce crime," he added.

He appealed to Rela members to continue playing a proactive role in their respective villages and to closely monitor any unwanted activities.

At the function, Jerip handed RM16,000 to Rela Penrissen and RM3,000 to Rela Padawan.

Sarawak Tribune, Wed 22 May, 2002 (Mambong to have community college)

By Peter Sibon

KUCHING - The government is looking for a suitable piece of land to build the RM20 million community college in the Mambong parliamentary constituency.

Mambong Member of Parliament Dr James Dawos Mamit said certain criteria had to be met before the allocation could be released by the federal government.

"We are looking for a suitable piece of land be-cause a big part of Mam-bong parliamentary constituency consists of Native Customary Right (NCR) land which cannot be used for the purpose as it has no title," Dawos explained to Tribune after leading the newly-elected office-bearers of Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) to pay a courtesy call on Housing Minister Datuk Michael Manyin at his office at Wisma Sultan Tengah on Monday.

There must be good infrastructure, electricity and water supply before the project could be approved, added Dawos.

The college, he said, would be implemented under the Third Outline Perspective Plan (OPP 3), with the aim of encouraging life-long learning for everyone, regardless of age.

"The college will be built to cater to the growing needs of our people to further their education up to certificate and diploma level," said Dawos, adding that it would not have problems getting qualified teaching staff.

On the development of the Bidayuh dictionary, Dawos disclosed that it was progressing well with two experts working full-time, one from the United States and the other from Singapore.

He also disclosed that the government was serious about completing the tarsealing of Padawan Road. He pointed out: "As announced by the Assistant Minister of Infrastructure Development and Communications some time last year, the government will honour its promise, and with fine weather the contractor will be able to complete the project."

Sarawak Tribune, Tue 21 May, 2002 (DBNA's role to be redefined: Dawos)

By Peter Sibon

KUCHING - The role of Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) is to be redefined to make it relevant to the community.

The association would focus on three very important issues namely unity, culture and education, said its president Dr James Dawos Mamit after leading DBNA's newly-elected office bearers on a courtesy call on the Minister of Housing Datuk Michael Manyin at his office yesterday.

Dawos pointed out that unity was of paramount importance to the community, being a minority in the State.

"The unity that we experience today has never been better. As such the various groups among the Bidayuh community must continue to cooperate among ourselves to achieve a common goal," said Dawos, pointing to the four major ethnic groups in the community - Bukar-Sadong, Biatah-Penrissen, Bau-Jagoi and Selako-Rara.

On culture, he said the community must discard the negative aspects.

"In order to progress there is no other way but to discard all the negative aspects of our culture. By doing so we will remain focus on the things that we are doing," he explained.

On education, he advised parents to encourage their children to study hard to gain places in the institutions of higher learning.

The association, he stressed, would strive to provide financial assistance to Bidayuh students who achieved excellent results.

Dawos disclosed that Manyin was responsive in providing valuable advice on the new direction of the association.

"The Minister was responsive to our needs for advice. He gave a lot of new ideas as to where the community should head in this challenging era of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and globalisation," said Dawos who was returned unopposed as president of the association for the second consecutive term at its triennial delegates' meeting (TDM) on 5 May.

The other office bearers for 2002-2004 are: deputy president - Peter Nyaed Juses; six vice presidents: Kendy Edward, Suimi Kinseng, John Repet @ Repet ak Ngirai, Augustine Jose Duna, Alexander Ganyang and Edward Andrew Luak; secretary general - John W. Chamberlin Sirau; assistant secretary general - Hamarah Mapus; treasurer general -James Sinjeng; assistant treasurer general - Austin Minjap; information officer - Joseph Beron; cultural officer - Vincent Richard; five ordinary exco members are Puan Megir @ Migel ak Gumbek, Ron Ah Goh, Rapoi Sidop, Dingih Kihong and Charlie Ungang.

Sarawak Tribune, Sun 19 May, 2002 (Unity via power-sharing)

Balanced approach to peace and stability necessary for development and progress

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - The concept of power-sharing practised by the Barisan Nasional is key to uniting the country and the people, Housing Minister Datuk Michael Manyin said.

He pointed out that although Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) is the backbone of the State Barisan Nasional, it staunchly advocated and practised such a concept.

"PBB bases its decision-making on consensus by taking into account the views of all its BN partners. This has created an important balance for us to maintain peace and stability which is essential to spur development and progress in the State, added Manyin, a PBB vice president.

He was speaking at Parti Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) N14 Bengoh Divisional meeting yesterday.

Manyin also expressed confidence that the State BN would retain the Mas Gading and Mambong seats in the next parliamentary elections expected soon.

On the Bidayuh community, he said they must learn proper financial management in order to succeed in business. "Practise prudence and thrift and don't spend your money carelessly," he advised.

Citing an example, he said in 1987 and 1988 when the price of pepper was high, many Bidayuh were taking home between RM 40,000 to RM100,000 a year.

But instead of saving part of their earnings, they spent the money without thinking and today most of them were back to how they were before - slogging to make ends meet, Manyin pointed out.

However, he said no one should be blamed for what had happened.

"At that time, money was something foreign to our community and some were ignorant of its importance. Nevertheless, we should take note of what had happened and not repeat the same mistake. We must learn on how to save and make our money multiply through business ventures,"he advised.

Manyin urged the Bidayuh to learn from the other races and change their mindset if they wanted to be in the forefront of development and progress.

"There are lots of things we can learn from the other races who are ahead of us in many aspects. To achieve this, it is vital for us to change our mindset and attitude."

He acknowledged that it would take some time before the Bidayuh could change their way of thinking.

He urged them to discard old customs which were restricting their progress.

Also present were Encik Frederick Bayoi, State assemblyman for Kedup, Encik Roland Sagah Wee Inn (Tarat), Encik Peter Nansian Ngusie (Tasik Biru), Dr James Dawos Mamit, MP for Mambong, Dr Tiki Lafe, MP for Mas Gading, PBB Assistant Secretary Encik Peter Minos, PBB Supreme Council Member Encik John Nyigo and Bengoh Division Chief Encik Sora Rusah.

Related Sites:
Minorities and Power Sharing

Sarawak Tribune, Sun 19 May, 2002 (Govt-people synergy important : Ranum)

SEMATAN - The government and the people must move forward in synergy to ensure that the country can successfully face the challenges of modernisation, said Tanjung Datu State assemblyman Ranum Mina yesterday.

The synergy could be created through proper explanations and understanding of government policies and programmes, he said at the closing of the final of this year's Kuching Division Kuiz Kenegaraan at the community hall, here.

The team of Persatuan Sukan dan Kebudayaan Pendidikan (PSKPP) Lundu, Kasma K3P and Kolej Kejururawatan B, Kuching took part in the curtain raiser of the statewide competition after beating seven other teams in the preliminary rounds held yesterday at two venues in Lundu yesterday.

The competition, organised by Information Services Department, is an annual activity of the department. It is primarily a tool of information dissemination where questions are based on various aspects of the country's development such as arts and culture, science and technology, the economy, leaders and history.

Other questions are based on administration and the constitution, international relations, development projects, sports and current affairs.

Ranum reiterated that the people must understand government policies and development programmes as failure to understand them might lead to their non-support and doubts of the government's effort to fulfil their aspirations.

He pointed out that the people must also be receptive to changes in this era of globalisation and liberalisation, particularly those brought about by the information explosion.

Describing the department as a bridge between the people and the government, he said the department's face-to-face communication approach to create understanding between the people and the government had become more relevant than ever.

Despite the advent of information and communication technologies (ICT) that had seemed to preclude the need for face-to-face communication in information dissemination, it was always necessary for the people and government to personally come face to face, particularly through the presence of the department's officers.

He said that these officers, who had been well-trained as communicators, should be able to convince the people of the government's sincerity to uplift their standard of living and bring the country to greater heights of development.

By their personal presence among the people, these officers would also be able to receive the people's views on various issues of nation-building and channel them to the government with a view of enhancing the effectiveness of the development processes. He called on the people, students in particular, to acquaint themselves with ICT and be able to take advantage of their immense usefulness for their benefit.

He told the people that they should also be able to discern between information that were true and false and sieve out the good from the bad ones if ICT were to have a real impact on the country's push towards meaningful progress.

Kuching/Samarahan Divisional Information Officer, Ikram Pawi also spoke.

Earlier, a children's colouring competition that attracted a big crowd of people, parents in particular, was held at the same venue as part of the two-day programme.

A cake-making contest and a karaoke singing competition were also held to add fun and colour to the competition, held here for the first time.

The PSKPP team emerged champion while the team of Kolej Kejururawatan and KASMA K3P took second and third spot respectively.

Zainol Naiman and Jamaludin Abd. Wahab, both of PSKPP team, Hazmawati of Kolej Kejururawatan team B and Wendi Azlan of KASMA K3P, who had scored the four highest individual points were picked to represent Kuching division in the state-level competition.

Sarawak Tribune, Tue 14 May, 2002 (Primary schools to be given computers, assures Dr Tiki )

By Kevin Tan

KUCHING - The government will continue to provide computers to primary schools, especially those in the rural areas, to help develop a Know-ledge-community (K-community).

Deputy Minister of National Unity & Community Development Dr Tiki Lafe gave this assurance when he handed over 25 computers to 17 primary schools in Bau yesterday.

"More computer and other resource centres will be set up in primary schools as the government wants students to understand the importance of Information Com-munication Technology (ICT) at a young age," added Dr Tiki.

All the 17 primary schools are expected to receive one unit of computer each while larger primary schools will be allocated an extra unit.

More computers are also expected to be handed out to primary schools in Lundu at a later date.

Related Sites:
To Bridge the Digital Divide, The Malaysia's Way

Sarawak Tribune, Thu 09 May, 2002 (Time for Bidayuhs to have own identity, says Manyin )

By Peter Sibon

KUCHING - Housing Minister Datuk Michael Manyin welcomes the move by the government in passing the Interpretation (Amendment) Bill 2002 at the State Legislative Assembly whereby Iban, Bidayuh and Lun Bawang communities will no longer be referred to as 'Sea Dayaks', 'Land Dayaks' and 'Murut' respectively.

He noted it was time that the Bidayuhs had their own identity as the word 'Land Da-yaks' was no longer relevant to describe the community.

"It was first used by the colonialists but as we have enjoyed our independence since 1963, it is high time for us to have our own identity," Manyin told Tribune at the lobby of the State Legislative Assembly yesterday.

He added that other issues related to the Bill would be solved after it had been gazetted.

"Bidayuh leaders will have to sit down to discuss issues pertaining to the implication of the Bill," said Manyin, adding that words like 'Gawai Dayak' festival would be affected.

In a related development, Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) president Dr James Dawos Mamit said the association would have to convene a meeting to decide on a new name to reflect the true identity, as reflected in the new Bill.

"We will think of a new name for the association. If we can't find a new and more fancy name, then we will just use Bidayuh National Association (BNA) or BiNA," suggested Dawos.

Social Development and Urbanisation Minister Dato Sri Dr James Masing, who is also Information Chief of Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS), said the party would stick with the name as there was nothing wrong with it.

"The word 'Dayak' is a generic term for the Ibans, Bidayuhs and Orang Ulus. So there is no reason for PBDS to change the name to something else," commented Dr Masing.

When tabling the Bill in the State Legislative Assembly on Monday, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Rural and Land Development Tan Sri Datuk Amar Alfred Jabu said the Interpretation (Amendment) Bill 2002 was intended to change the names given to certain native communities by the colonial or Brooke administration.

"Besides, the word 'Muruts' should no longer be used to describe the Lun Bawang communities in Sarawak. However, the word 'Murut' is retained as the birth certificates of old members of the community still have it to describe the race of the person," said Jabu.

"It is hoped that with the passing of the Bill, the Federal Government will take action to amend Article 161A(7) of the Federal Constitution which repeats the names of the native races or communities set out in the Schedule to the Interpretation Ordinance.

Sarawak Tribune, Tue 07 May, 2002 (It's Iban, Bidayuh, Lun Bawang)

Interpretation (Amendment) Bill: 'Sea Dayaks', 'Land Dayaks' will be dropped while Lun Bawang will no longer be classified as 'Muruts'

By Abdul Hakim Bujang

KUCHING - Following the passing of the Interpretation (Amendment) Bill 2002 at the State Legislative Assembly yesterday, the Iban, Bidayuh and Lun Bawang communities will no longer be referred to as 'Sea Dayaks', 'Land Dayaks' and 'Murut' respectively.

Earlier, when tabling the Bill, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Rural and Land Development, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Alfred Jabu said the Interpretation (Amendment) Bill 2002 was intended to change the names given to certain native communities by the colonial or Brooke administrations.

Jabu added: "Besides, the word 'Muruts' should no longer be used to describe the Lun Bawang communities in Sarawak. However, the word 'Murut' is retained as the birth certificates of the old members of the community still have the word 'Murut' to describe the race of the person."

It is hoped that with the passing of the Bill, the Federal Government will take action to amend Article 161A(7) of the Federal Constitution which repeats the names of the native races or communities set out in the Schedule to the Interpretation Ordinance.

"It is important that the names of the native communities in Sarawak as stated in the Federal Constitution should synchronise with those set out in our Interpretation Ordinance," stressed Jabu.

On the present amendments to the Interpretation Ordinance, he said they were required to update its provisions, especially in the light of changes in the titles of certain public, judicial and police officers and also changes in the administrative system of the State.

Jabu added: "It is sometimes necessary to amend the Interpretation Ordinance to discard some old terminologies or names which were given by the Brooke and colonial administrations, especially to the ethnic or native communities in the State."

Sarawak Tribune, Mon 06 May, 2002 (Bidayuhs advised to discard negative aspects of culture)

KUCHING - Bidayuhs have been advised to discard the negative aspects of their culture so that the community's socio-economic development and progress will not be hampered.

"We will probably be-come mere spectators, if not the victims of development and progress if we do not change our mindset," Housing Minister Datuk Michael Manyin said at the closing of the Triennial Delegates Conference of Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) at its headquarters at Jalan Kumang here, yesterday.

If the Bidayuh community were to progress like the other races, they must be highly discipline, thrifty, and give greater emphasis to education, he said.

"We must also stop pulling each other down. Whoever is capable, whoever has the merit should be given the opportunity to lead and the rest of us must give them our undivided support," he said, adding that the Bidayuh community must strive to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to face the tough challenges brought about by globalisation.

Manyin also urged the DBNA to redefine its roles and goals for the 21st century in order to play a bigger role in the new millenium.

He added the success of DBNA could not depend only on the president and exco members but also on the efforts and contributions of every member of the Bidayuh community.

On politics, he said the Bidayuhs must realise that they could never rule and form the government alone because they don't have the number.

He pointed out that there were about 175,000 Bidayuhs in Sarawak, out of the two million people in the State or out of 22 million people in Malaysia.

"In terms of percentage, we only form about 8 per cent of the population in Sarawak or 0.07 per cent of the population in Malaysia.

He added that been a small community, the Bidayuhs had no choice but to go along with the government of the day, and work closely together with the other races in the country. "We just cannot go on our own, because if we do, we would be digging our own grave," he said. Earlier, DBNA president Dr James Dawos Mamit also spoke.

Sarawak Tribune, Tue 23 Apr, 2002 (St Stephen Parish needs more funds for new church)

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - St Stephen Parish needs more funds for the construction of a new parish church to cater for the expanding Catholic population in the district.

According to the Parish Rector Rev. Father Joachim Pang, the present church could not accommodate the large congregation coming for Mass every Sunday.

"The need to build a new church arises because the existing church is too small. Every Sunday, you can see people standing outside the church," said the priest who had served in Bau the last 19 years.

The new church, which was about 30 percent completed, he added, could accommodate over 2,000 people compared to only 1,000 in the present church.

To meet the RM 3 million budget for the new church, Fr. Pang disclosed that the church had started its fund-raising programme since 1995 but was still short of funds as the parish relied on parishioners' contributions.

"I have been to Singapore, Sibu and Kuching to raise funds for our church and we are grateful with the donations we had received.

"At the same time we will welcome more contributions in any form that can assist us with the construction," said Fr. Pang, adding that all cheques could be addressed to St Stephen Parish.

The parish had organised a joggerthon, a fund -raising dinner, parish sales and was currently making a monthly collection from the parishioners, he added.

Donations can be forwarded to the parish office or Fr. Pang who can be contacted at 082-763434 or 011-272312.

Sarawak Tribune, Sat 20 Apr, 2002 (Biodiversity of Bau's limestone being studied)

KUCHING - Sarawak has embarked on an ambitious project to study the biodiversity of limestone hills in Bau, a town once famed for its gold mining activities.

The 30-month study, called the Bau Limestone Biodiversity Project (BLBP), was launched in September last year.

It is the first of its kind in the state and is funded by the Asean Regional Centre for Biodiversity Conservation.

The inventory work would be completed in March 2004, Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) chief operating officer Eileen Yen told Bernama in an interview yesterday. She said the project was aimed at generating information on the economic significance and potential of Bau's rich limestone biodiversity.

"Bau, located 35km from Kuching, represents the oldest limestone formation in the state apart from Mulu and those found in Bintulu," she said.

The researchers, comprising scientists from Singapore and locals, have so far covered 16 of the 19 hills in Bau.

They include a botanist from Singapore's Botanical Garden Dr Ruth Kiew, former director of Forest Re-search Institute of Malay-sia (FRIM) Dr Francis Ng, zoologist Associate Profes-sor Dr Peter Ng, Associate Professor Dr Yong Hoi Seng and Universiti Malay-sia Sarawak (Unimas) Associate Professor Dr Fati-mah Bujang.

Yen said the limestone hills of Bau were rich in flora and fauna. "When the data are ready, we would be able to identify species of frogs, fish, plants and trees," she said. Bau produced about RM125.7 million worth of gold between 1990 and 1996, and its Tasik Biru or Bau Lake was once rich in gold deposits.

The crystal blue water of Bau Lake is a reflection of its glorious past but today it is better known as a tourist attraction.

"That is why SBC has taken a step in the right direction to come up with this project which could help promote Bau as one of Sarawak's premier tourist attractions," she said.

Geological studies have also suggested that Bau may have deposits of antimony, copper, lead and zinc.-Bernama

Related Sites:
Sarawak Biodiversity Centre
Inventory of flora and fauna of limestone habitat in Sarawak

Sarawak Tribune, Wed Apr 17, 2002 (RM40 mln disposal park to be built in Mambong soon )

By Harun Jau

KUCHING - A state-of-the art disposal park costing more than RM40 million will soon be built in Mambong, disclosed Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) deputy chairman Dr James Dawos Mamit said.

He said the three-in-one facility sited on a 134-hectare piece of land would house a municipal waste sanitized landfill, a hazardous wastes secured landfill, and an incinerator for hazardous or scheduled wastes.

Sarawak would be the first state in Malaysia and for that matter, South East Asia, to operate an all-in-one disposal park of such a standard, he said at the Trienekens' Annual Press Appreciation Night 2002 held at Harbour View Hotel on Monday night.

Dawos who is also the Member of Parliament for Mambong said the disposal park serving Kuching City and the outskirts including Kota Samarahan and Bau would last for at least 25 years.

He added that it would be built to enable the leachete or dirty water emanating from the sanitary landfill to be treated prior to discharge to prevent it from contaminating the underground water.

Additionally, nearby or surrounding villages would not be adversely affected as the sanitary landfill would not give out unpleasant odour or attract swarms of flies, he assured, adding that the facility would be differently managed from that in Penang and Sibu.

On waste disposal in rural areas, Dawos disclosed that the NREB was doing a minor sanitary landfill project at Kampung Sadir, Padawan, located in the upper reaches of the Sarawak Kiri River. He said the RM40,000 project would be ready by next month.

"This is the first one for the rural area and if proven successful, we will request for assistance from the government to do some more elsewhere, especially villages located in water catchment areas," he said.

Dawos appealed to local councils to adopt sanitary landfill methodology to manage solid wastes generated in their areas. He revealed that NREB had identified 16 cases of illegal dumping of solid wates in Kuching but it was difficult to catch the culprits as most of it was done at night or when enforcement officers were not around.

Meanwhile Dawos who is a director of Trienekens disclosed that the company's collection of wastes in Kuching last year totalled 140,000 tonnes or an increase of 20 percent which he attributed to several factors: the successful implementation of a modern waste collection system that was more efficient than the previous system; utilisation of modern, higher capacity waste collection trucks; introduction of free bulky wastes services for households; and spring-cleaning activities.

Among those present at the dinner were Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd chairman Jurgen Pickenhagen, its managing director Joerg Domroes, and executive Gilbert Maronier.

Related Sites:
Trieneken's Online
Radioactive Waste Management Policy Issues in Malaysia

Sarawak Tribune, Wed Apr 17, 2002 (Kampung supports waste management system )

KUCHING - Residents of Kampung Seratau, under the jurisdiction of Padawan Municipal Council (PMC), received their wheel bins at Seratau Community Hall last Sunday.

Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd managing director Joerg Domroes officially handed over the wheel bins to Kampung Seratau headman Patrick Satob in a symbolic ceremony witnessed by over 200 residents.

According to the secretary of Kampung Seratau's Village Development and Safety Community (JKKK), Patrick Munai, the residents had been supportive of the integrated waste management system and the use of wheel bins.

"The cleanliness and beautification of Kampung Seratau is the priority of the people and our committee has worked hard to ensure that this standard is maintained," Patrick added.

Residents of Kampung Seratau have every reason to be proud as they have won, for two consecutive years, the Most Beautifully Landscaped and Clean Village award accorded by Padawan Municipal Council (PMC).

Meanwhile, a Trienekens spokesman said his company was glad for the cooperation rendered by the folks of Kampung Seratau whose ability to adapt to the new waste management system should be emulated by other villages.

Sarawak Tribune, Mon Apr 15, 2002 (Former pupils help Kg Serasot progress)

BAU - Former pupils of SRK Serasot are playing an important role as catalysts of change in Kampung Serasot.

According to the association's advisor, Asso-ciate Professor Dr. Gabriel Tonga, many former pu-pils of the school are helping the village any way they could to ensure that it kept up with progress in the State.

"Since we cannot join the JKK because most of us are working in Kuching, we formed the alumni so that we can support the JKKK (the village committees), PTA and all the other associations in the kampung by working out the problems and helping the people in the village" he added.

Speaking to Tribune after the presentation of a cheque by Minister of Urbanisation and Social Development, Datuk Sri Dr. James Jemut Masing to the village for the construction of a multi-purpose hall, Gabriel disclosed that the alumni had been instrumental in getting the government fund for the proposed RM275,000 project. Gabriel, who is also the deputy dean in UNIMAS Social Sciences Faculty, disclosed that former pupils had been organising annual activities to help SRK Serasot.

"The school was in a bad shape a few years ago and we are working hard to improve its facilities. And with the support of the school, we conduct workshop or seminar for the pupils at least twice a year."

Gabriel added that former pupils of the school were planning to build a resource centre and a new football field for the village.

Since its inception in 1960, SRK Serasot had produced many professionals who are now working in numerous capacities in the public and private sectors.

Borneo Post, Wed Apr 10, 2002 (Taking a leap forward)

KUCHING: Her creativity, hard work, dedication and commitment to give her clients the best of her products paid off handsomely.

Veronica Tresa anak Michael Jidang, 31, was recently awarded the Woman Entrepreneurship Award 2001, a national-level recognition for entrepreneurs in the country.

She was selected among 100 other entrepreneurs throughout the country and the only Sarawakian to be shortlisted for the finals.

Tresa said she was indeed happy and felt honoured to be awarded with such recognition as she felt it would help motivate other Bumiputeras to venture into business.

“I hope this achievement will further encourage Bumiputera entrepreneurs and those aspiring to be entrepreneurs to strive harder and believe in themselves that they too could achieve success and compete with others in the country.”

This was because, she added, many locals here still had the perception that Peninsular Malaysians were much better in terms of entrepreneurship, market networking and technology. A Bidayuh woman from Kampung Semeba, Mile 7 here, Tresa used to be a fixed income earner about 10 years ago, but today she is a successful businesswoman managing two companies of her own.

In 1994, she set up the first computerised embroidery services provider in town and established DTC Enterprises Sdn Bhd.

Her products consisted of personalised embroidered badges, T-shirts, towels, uniforms, name tags, ties, tracksuits, caps, golfstraw, hats, souvenirs and premium items and leather goods.

“It’s a very tough business to venture in because no one has started it. Now there are six other companies in the business. But my family members had been very supportive with the idea and have helped me tremendously until today. And my friends are very helpful too,” she said.

Her first embroidery sewing machine was bought with a loan from Bank Pembangunan. Demand kept growing, and she bought several more advanced machines imported from Germany.

Employees were sent for training in Kuala Lumpur. Today, she employs ten persons, including family members.

What’s needed to succeed? She says it’s a combination of hard working, motivation, self confidence, courage, creativity, and willingness to learn plus encouragement from her loved ones.

Sarawak Tribune, Sat Mar 30, 2002 (Calling for Sutuo Dayung Bidayuh out there )

By Diana Hiu

MIRI - The Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) is seeking a successful, dynamic and progressive Bidayuh woman here to be given the recognition Sutuo Dayung Bidayuh (Bidayuh Woman Role Model).

The selected woman would help boost the confidence of other Bidayuh women to develop themselves.

"We want these women to know that their contributions and hard work are being appreciated, and an example not only for the Bidayuh people, but also for other races to follow," said a spokesperson Helen Jety.

She urged anyone who knows Bidayuh women with matching criteria to nominate them for this recognition award and to submit their particulars to the DBNA.

The particulars to be included are the nominees' general background: education or academic level, career (past and present), participation in associations or charitable organisations, recognition awards received (if any) and their contributions towards the Bidayuh community.

A brief supporting story of recommendation should also be attached in the no-mination documents. If the nominee is married, a supporting story should include how she divides her time between family, career and community works.

The closing date for the submission of nominations is 15 April. Contact Helen Jety (85-421450 ext 16 or 085-424490 (O), 085-426816 (residence) or Jacqueline Raphael at 085-651022-/651422 for more information.

Sarawak Tribune, Tue Mar 26, 2002 (Mas Gading not left out in pre-emptive package, says Tiki)

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - A sum of RM5 million had been allocated to Mas Gading Parliamentary constituency for development projects under the pre-emptive package, disclosed its Member of Parliament Dr Tiki Lafe on Sunday.

"The amount is, of course, not enough to cater for a large constituency that covers Bau and Lundu districts. However, I am trying my best to make sure everybody get a piece of the cake so that everybody will benefit," said Tiki when speaking at Kampung Skibang during the handing over of a turnkey project for 93 families.

He acknowledged that the electricity project in the kampung only covered more than half of the village population but he assured them that they would benefit from the rural electricity supply project (RES) soon.

"I am not sure if we should get another generator. It might not be a good idea as the trunk road projected to be completed in August and the RES will come once the road is completed," explained Tiki.

Tiki, who is also the Deputy Minister of National Unity and Community Development, pointed that nobody should feel neglected because any oversight was coincidental and urged those who feel dejected to come forward and voice their grievances.

"The government is committed to bringing development to the people of this country but there are constraints.

"It is impossible for us to bring development to all at once, and that is why some projects are done in stages. Slowly but surely, development will come," added Tiki before announcing a RM30,000 contribution for upgrading the village community hall. He was pleased to note that more than 90 percent of the fund had been spent to expedite progress in the Mas Gading areas, especially in the rural areas Mas Gading, he said, had progressed tremendously over the years.

"In Mas Gading, we are very fortunate because we have one of the best road networks in the State. Compared to some parts of the State, we should be grateful with the infrastructure that we have."

On another note, Tiki urged parents to take charge of their children's education and encourage them to focus on their studies. "As parents, we must prepare our children for the future. And the future looks even more challenging with the emergence of the knowledge-based economy and globalisation. Therefore our children must acquire the necessary knowledge, skill and ability to be competitive."

Sarawak Tribune, Sun Mar 17, 2002 (Luak is new chairman of DBNA Miri )

By Idris Hj Edrews

MIRI - At its triennial general meeting (TGM) at Dynasty Hotel, yesterday, the local branch of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), elected Edward Luak as its new chairman as replacement for George Sikien who declined to seek re-election.

In his first speech as chairman, Luak pledged to work hard for the association and community - specifically to look after the welfare of members - describing it as "top priority".

"I thank the members who believe that I and my committee members have the ability to carry on the good work of the association. In response, we will do the best we can in order not to disappoint you," he said. Another promise he made was to increase the association's fund with a view to construct their own building "which at the moment is only a dream".

"The dream has been with us long enough, so we must do our best to make it a reality in the near future," he said, adding that any extra money could be channeled to children of members who achieved outstanding results in public examinations.

Bernama, Fri Mar 15, 2002 (Bidayuhs Want Language Included In National Education)

KUCHING, March 15 (Bernama) -- Sarawak's Bidayuh community wants its language included in the national education curriculum in efforts to ensure its effective participation in the country's mainstream development.

Sarawak Housing Minister Datuk Michael Manyin said Friday the community, through relevant channels such as the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) and the Majlis Adat Istiadat Sarawak, would further pursue the matter soon.

"The proposal will be submitted to the Education Ministry once we have worked out common spellings in the vocabulary and got ready the school syllabus and teaching staff," he said when opening the Bidayuh Orthography Promotion Workshop here.

At present the Iban and Kadazandusun languages had been incorporated into the school curriculum.

He said there was a need for the Bidayuh to have a common unifying language system as it had at least five major dialects despite comprising only eight percent of the state's population of two million.

Sarawak Tribune, Mon Mar 11, 2002 (Bright future for Bidayuhs: Jabu)

By Nathan Achuk

KUCHING - Bidayuhs in Sarawak must remain united so that they will be able to meet the challenges of the future, said Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Amar Alfred Jabu anak Numpang on Saturday night.

"If the Bidayuhs maintain their solidarity, I am sure they can tackle any challenges facing the community. For that reason, the Bidayuh must discard all parochial and religious differences and work for a common goal," advised Jabu at a fund-raising dinner organised by St. Paul's Parish for the construction and completion a new parish hall in Bunuk, Penrissen.

"The Bidayuhs now are politically united as shown in the last State election when all the Bidayuh candidates from BN won their seats. I am happy to see Bidayuhs from Bau working closely with those from Serian and Padawan. This is a good sign for the future of the Bidayuhs," said the Deputy Chief Minister.

Pointing out the Bidayuhs were among the first group of natives to receive education in Sarawak, Jabu added: "Many Bidayuh professionals and intellectuals are now working in various sectors: they are not only contributing to nation-building but also fulfilling their social obligations to the community. I congratulate the Bidayuhs for their various achievements and hope this positive trend will continue among them."

Jabu, who is also the Minister of Land and Rural Development, also urged all Sarawakians to work together in maintaining peace and harmony so that the State could be among the most developed in the country.

"Twenty years ago, Sarawak was ranked among the bottom three in terms of development but today, we are proud to say that the State is probably among the top three in the country.

"Therefore, we must remain committed and be ready to work hard to ensure that Sarawak will continue to progress, especially within the implementation period of the Third Outline Perspective Plan until 2010.

"We must also look beyond the year 2010 and pursue development programmes that have been outlined under Vision 2020 so that we will not be left behind," added Jabu, who later announced a contribution of RM15,000 to the parish hall fund. He was pleased to note the good achievements of Sarawak students in the recent SPM and STPM results.

Meanwhile, according the chairman of the fund-raising committee, Peter Minos, the committee is working hard to raise funds for the parish hall which is estimated to cost RM 500,000.00.

He appealed for contributions, especially from Christians in the State.

Among present were the Puan Sri Datin Empiang Jabu, Minister of Housing Datuk Michael Manyin anak Jawong, Deputy Minister for National Unity and Community Development Dr. Tiki Lafe, State Assemblymen Dr Jerip Susel, Lihan Jok and Ranum anak Mina.

Some 1000 people at-tended the fund-raising dinner.

Sarawak Tribune, Sat Mar 09, 2002 (Tiki unhappy with progress of Batang Kayan Bridge)

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - Member of Parliament for Mas Gading, Dr Tiki Lafe yesterday voiced his dissatisfaction over the progress of the Batang Kayan Bridge that had been delayed for more than 52 weeks.

"The construction has been delayed for so long until it became a "political bridge", especially in the last election when the opposition played up the issue," he lamented.

Tiki, who is Deputy Minister for National Unity and Social Development, disclosed that Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Sri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi during his last visit to the State had enquired about the bridge and instructed him to re-solve the matter amicably.

"A lot of money has been spent on the bridge with no results to show for it.

"It is time the main contractor shows some progress, failing which we may consider terminating his contract and re-tender the project," warned Tiki, adding that he had discus-sed the matter with Public Works Minister Datuk Seri Samy Vellu who promised to look into the matter immediately.

According to Tiki, his sources said progress of the bridge was slow because few people worked on it everyday. The RM20 million bridge had made the government look inefficient in the eyes of the people, he said.

He disclosed that the people in Lundu had expressed their displeasure over the delay in building the bridge and the poor ferry service.

During the last Chinese New Year festive period, only one ferry catered to a large number of visitors, Tiki recalled, adding that until the bridge was ready, better service was needed due to the sudden increase in visitors to the Lundu-Sematan area in the last few years.

According to JKR director, Hubert Thian Chong Hui, the department was aware of the bridge's status and looking to resolve the matter amicably.

"The main contractor has written to us and given us his commitment to complete the project within another year. We want to keep the present contractor because if we were to re-tender the project, it will cause further delay like to two or three years down the line," he said, assuring that JKR was working to resolve the issue.

Termination of the contract would be the last option if the contractor failed to comply or did not show any result. Thian disclosed that a new sub-contractor with local working experience had been appointed.

On the ferry service, he said it had been privatised. He assured the public that he would look into the matter immediately and have the necessary steps taken to avoid the same problem especially with the coming Gawai Dayak celebration.

Meanwhile, on the Tanah Putih Bridge construction, Thian added work on the bridge should start soon.

Sarawak Tribune, Fri Feb 22, 2002 (State to host national-level Gawai Dayak on 8 June

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - Sarawak will host the national-level Gawai Dayak celebration on 8 June this year, disclosed National Unity and Community Development Deputy Minister Dr Tiki Lafe.

"This is the second year that the national-level Gawai Dayak celebration is held in Kuching with the Tourism Ministry given the mandate to organise the celebration," he said adding that the centralised celebration would be participated by the Dayak communities in the State.

He revealed that early preparations were underway including inviting foreign media to join the celebration to give it wider coverage.

Tiki called on all Sarawakians to support the event to make it a success. Malaysia has five national-level celebrations namely Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, Hari Gawai and Pesta Keamatan.

Earlier, Tiki who was attending a Chinese New Year dinner at Bau Civic Centre here said Sarawakians were blessed to live in peace and harmony despite their diverse cultural background and religious differences.

"We must uphold the peace, harmony and stability that we have achieved for the sake of future generations, and to ensure continuous development of our nation," Tiki told the 600 people gathered at the dinner.

On social problems, Tiki said the government took every initiative to curb social ills especially among the younger generation. "We must encourage them to participate in activities such as participating in organising committee for functions like tonight's dinner."

Tiki cautioned that certain groups in the country like the Kumpulan Militan Malaysia (KMM) were trying to undermine the government by force and violence.

"This group thought that society would want to join their rebellion, but they failed to understand that our people want peace and harmony to prosper. The whole world is against violence and terrorism."

The government had acted speedily to contain and curb the threat from such groups in the country or other groups that threaten to undermine the prevailing peace and harmony in the country, he noted.

Among those at the dinner were State assemblymen for Tasik Biru and Bengoh respectively, Peter Nansian Ngusie and Dr Jerip Susil, Pemanca Lee Boon Jak and community leaders.

Sarawak Tribune, Thu Feb 14, 2002 (Mas Gading, Batang Lupar to have community colleges)

By Nathan Achuk

KUCHING - The Federal government has given the green light for the construction of two community colleges in the Mas Gading and Batang Lupar parliamentary constituencies next year.

This was disclosed by Member of Parliament for Mas Gading, Dr. Tiki Lafe and Member of Parliament for Batang Lupar, Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar during the Sarawak United People Party's open house held in conjunction with the Chinese New Year.

According to Tiki, who is also the Deputy Minister of National Unity and Social Development, the proposal has been approved by the Federal government and is awaiting the final endorsement from the Education Ministry. He pointed out that the college would benefit those who could not continue with their studies as the future job market demanded knowledgeable, skilful and competent workers.

"The government is introducing a new form of economy, that is the K-economy and because of this, we need to have a lot of knowledgeable and skilful manpower.

"And we also have a high rate of school drop-outs. We need these colleges to train them and provide quality manpower to our current and future industries and, at the same time, fulfil the government vision of developing a knowledgeable society." Tiki's view was shared by Junaidi who said that the college would increase the level of training for people in his constituency. Junaidi said there were two factors that needed to be considered in implementing the project in his constituency, namely, the land and funding for the colleges.

"I have written to the State government requesting for a suitable site for the college and also to the Ministry of Education to study my paperwork on the matter. I pointed out that the guidelines used in Peninsular Malaysia might not be applicable in Sarawak."

On the curriculum in the college, Junaidi hoped that courses in agriculture, aquaculture, wood-based training and fishing would be offered.

Under the Eighth Malaysia Plan (8MP), every parliamentary constituency in the country will have a community college. The college will be another avenue for drop-outs, school leavers, workers and the public to obtain hands-on training and education that will enhance their skills to join the labour market.

Sarawak Tribune, Wed Jan 30, 2002 (Acquired land used for devt: Nansian)

By Nathan Achuk

BAU - Landowners will be fairly compensated by the government when their lands are used for development, said Tasik Biru State assemblyman Peter Nansian.

He was attending a ceremony to present cheques to some 21 families whose lands were acquired for the construction of a public road at Kampung Tembawang Sauh.

The government would only acquire land when necessary for projects beneficial to the people. It would ensure that payment of compensation was prompt, and announce any payment made to the public.

"The road constructed by the government in this kampung benefits everyone staying here, while landowners are compensated for their lands," Nansian gave as an example.

"Today's ceremony has once again proved that the government is committed to bringing development and safeguarding the interests of landowners. This not an election gimmick as accused by the opposition during the last election campaign."

Urging the people to work closely with the government, he advised them not to listen to those going around and attempting to stir up the people. "These people have no-thing better to do but cause trouble despite the progress achieved. Ignore them and let us focus on peace and development among our people."

He reminded the recipients of compensation to use their money wisely and get their priority right. During the ceremony, a total of RM147,704 was paid out for a kampung road that was completed late last year. Some 583 persons from 78 families reside in the kampung.

Meanwhile, headman Abui anak Seli said his kampung had benefited from the road and various projects initiated by the government. "We are grateful for the government assistance. To date, we have electricity supply, are involved in the SALCRA scheme (Bratak 1 scheme), have good roads and clean piped water supply," added Abui who has been headman of the kampung since 1983.

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