FRIDAY-13TH JUNE 2008- ECO-CERTIFICATION FOR TOURISM PRODUCTS

Eco-certification for tourism products
Program to ensure industry developed sustain ably: Masidi

KOTA KINABALU:

An eco-certification program, as proposed in the Sabah Development Corridor Blueprint, will be developed by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment to ensure sustainable development of tourism. According to its Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun, the eco-certification will be part of the benchmarks to be developed for accreditation to indicate the quality and standards of our tourism products. “This program aims to make sure that every development project is eco-friendly, and takes into consideration any products for conservation,” he said, adding that the program will enhance the products. Masidi said the program is a growing trend in Europe where people prefer to patronize outlets which are eco-friendly, and the value of a product would be added instead of creating a new product. “We will invite an independent body to give the certification for the products that meet certain standards that we will use to measure the products,” he said, adding that the program will hopefully be conducted before the end of this year. “As about 80 percent of tourists come to Sabah for leisure and recreation, we have to ensure that we not only have new and innovative products that meet their needs and expectations but also high standards and quality of delivery of the products and services to encourage them to return for repeat visits,” he said. Masidi was speaking at a seminar on Sabah Tourism Industry Towards 2025, which was themed ‘Strengthening Sabah Tourism Towards a Vibrant Premier Tourism Destination” at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort here yesterday. It was attended by 200 tourism industry players and representatives. Also present at the one-day event were Deputy Secretary General (Tourism) in the Ministry of Tourism Dr Junaida Lee Abdullah, Institute for Development Studies Executive Director Datuk Dr Mohd Yaakub Hj Johari and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Suzannah Liaw. The seminar, which consisted of presentations and workshop, was organised to inform the stakeholders of the mission, vision, strategies and programmes of the SDC Blueprint with respect to the development of the State tourism industry and to obtain feedback to further chart the direction of the industry. According to Masidi, the visitor arrivals in 2007 yielded a total of about RM4.7 billion in tourism receipts for Sabah, contributing some 14.6 percent to Sabah GDP. He said the arrivals jumped by about 220 percent compared to the previous year. “A working target of 3.4 million visitor arrivals by 2010 has been set to provide a focus and thrust for development of tourism; new and appropriate products and services as well as supporting infrastructure,” he said. Masidi said the Sabah Tourism Masterplan 1996, which provides the framework and direction for policy, development and growth of tourism for a period of 15 years from 1995 to 2010 in the State, needs to be reviewed and updated as it is drawing to a close. “It is not only to keep the State tourism roadmap for development and growth current and relevant but also to achieve the vision and meet the objectives presented in the SDC Blueprint,” he said. Masidi said the blueprint, which can transform Sabah into a very desirable destination for tourists, can be realised in three development phases of specific target time-lines for steady growth and positioning of Sabah into a vibrant destination. “Of course, this vision also requires that we take the necessary measures to sustainably manage, protect and conserve the very resources that constitute the foundation of our tourism development and the long-term future of the industry in the State,” he said. Masidi said Sabah’s environmental resources are fundamental assets that will continue to determine the State’s market positioning as a Premier Nature and Adventure Destination. He said that while innovation is encouraged, the core values and integrity of local cultures should be understood and observed at all times and as much as possible maintained and preserved. “We would do a great disservice to our cultural heritage if we carelessly substitute authenticity with creations that completely alter the traditional values and essence of our traditional culture for short-term objectives and gain,” he said. He added that while the tourism in Sabah is still heavily reliant on air access and direct flight connections, the rising fuel costs can be surmounted if we have a clear understanding of the visitor generating markets, needs and behaviour, and respond accordingly with appropriate marketing and product development strategies,

FRIDAY-13TH JUNE 2008- FORUM ON COUNTERING EFFECTS OF SURGING FUEL PRICES TOMORROW

Forum on countering effects of surging fuel prices tomorrow

KOTA KINABALU:

A forum to educate the public in countering the effects of the global fuel prices hike will be held tomorrow, June 14. With the theme “Economy in jeopardy,” the three-hour event, organised by the Sabah Progressive Party’s Progressive Institute of Public Policy Analysis (PIPPA), will begin at 9am at the Sabah Trade Centre. According to the Organising Chairman, Datuk Tham Nyip Shen, the short duration may not be able to cover the entire topic but it has to start somewhere. “It would be good if the public could show some response during the seminar so that together we will be able to join hands and find a way to tackle the current economic crisis following the increase in oil price,” he said. He said the forum, which is conducted for free, will share with participants studies done by the speaker to enable them to better understand the current economic situation. “There is no use in being angry, and instead let us find the right measures and work closely with the Government to address the global crisis,” Tham said. “In particular, I would like to highlight that the differences between the demand and supply as a whole is versatile. In other words, the gap between the oil supply and demand is getting narrower. We actually realise one thing that the traders have been very irresponsible and that they have manipulated the oil prices ... this, unfortunately, cannot be stopped,” he said. Tham, who is also the PIPPA Chairman, said that under such circumstances, the question would be whether the people and the Government would suffer together. SAPP, being a responsible political party, he said, would like to make an effort to share the findings with the people. He stressed that a number of measures could be done such as changing the lifestyle and even changing the way the country is run. “For example, today the public consumes 20 per cent of the energy. But switching the lights off would probably cause security problem. So, it is not possible for the Government to just switch it off to save the 20 per cent energy consumption,” he said. On the other hand, new technologies could probably address the problem by coming up with a more efficient energy usage such as the application of Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology. It produces cost-effective lighting system that consume less than half of the power currently used. It consumes only 30 per cent of the actual power. “I would like to propose to the Government to come up with policy that encourages the public to have energy saving by giving incentives to people who make effort to save energy consumption. “For instance, if the electricity bill is RM100 a month and there is an effort to reduce it by half, the Government should give a reward in the form of subsidy,” he said. This, in the long run, would help the Government to reduce energy usage, he added.

FRIDAY-13TH JUNE 2008- GIANT FOOTPRINTS CAUSE STIR

Giant footprints cause stir

DARO:

Villagers here were shocked by the discovery of two extra large footprints near the fence of an orchard at a rural village. They probably resembled those mentioned many times in foreign reports in claims of sightings of the mysterious ‘bigfoot’. The shocker had been spreading like wildfire in Daro district for the past few days and among those drawn to the phenomenon was local businessman Tan Soon Kuang. Yesterday, Tan, 42, e-mailed the images of the mysterious creature’s footprints. He said he personally went to the village (which he refused to name out of respect for the wishes of locals) to check on the truth of the story. “The truth is in the photographs that I have taken with my camera,” he said to The Borneo Post in a telephone interview yesterday. According to him, the footprint measures 47 inches from heel to toe and 17 inches sideways, clearly too gigantic for any normal human being. Asked when and how he went to the village and took the photos, Tan answered: “I went there last Wednesday, June 11 after I heard about the news. “I drove about five minutes from Daro town to the village. Then, I walked on foot along a footpath for quite a few minutes to the place where I met many villagers who were gathered there. “Then some villagers pointed to the big footprints. I was shocked to see them and was excited as I took those photographs.” On his conversation with the villagers, he said: “When I asked the villagers the first time they discovered the two big footprints, they told me it was last Monday, June 9. “They also told me that they now recall that before they came across the footprints, the villagers had, a few months ago felt uncomfortable and sick as if there was something ‘unclean’ in the air. “They said they decided to look for a ‘bomoh’ (medicine man) who told them to go to an area, dig a small hole, then build a fence around it. The bomoh further told them to make offerings outside the fenced area. “And then last Monday morning the villagers saw the two big footprints outside the fenced up area.” Tan further said: “When I asked the villagers if they were afraid or not they told me some were afraid; other just curious. But all of them apparently believe that the place was ‘unclean’. “The villagers were now clearing up the footpath leading to the large footprints in anticipation of more people coming to have a look at the footprints. “The villagers also told me that it was not the first time that they saw such mysterious big footprints in their village. In fact, the first time they saw such big footprint was about 50 years ago.” Asked if there is any possibility that the footprints were man-made or false, Tan said it would be tough act for a person to do, to create such a mark on the hard ground. Jemoreng assemblyman Abu Seman Jahwie when contacted yesterday said he heard about such discovery somewhere in a village in Daro area. Asked if he thinks it is real, he replied: “Sorry, I can’t say. It could be just rumours. I have not been to the place. I am now in Matu.” The story has spread to Sibu. Here, Abdul Aziz Pung, who is very familiar with Daro, when contacted for his comments, said he had heard about the footprints from friends and relatives. “Yes, they said it is true. Initially I laughed it off, but then some of my friends who came down to Sibu town convinced me that they are real. I may be going there soon to see them for myself.”

FRIDAY-13TH JUNE 2008- INCOME TAX CUT POSSIBLE

Income tax cut possible
2009 Budget proposals may include income tax exemption or reduction

PUTRAJAYA:

Personal income tax exemption or reduction to lighten the people’s burden following the fuel price hike and food supply crisis is among the proposals put forward during the 2009 Budget consultation yesterday. Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop said the proposal was made by several Barisan Nasional (BN) Members of Parliament during the consultation between the BN Backbenchers Club and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who is also Finance Minister, at the Finance Ministry here. “We will include this point as a proposal and see whether it will be implemented in this budget,” he told reporters after the consultation. According to records, personal income tax exemption and reduction to one or two percent had been implemented on 91,000 tax payers in the 2002 Budget. Nor Mohamed said at the moment, only one million of the 10.5 income earners in Malaysia paid tax. He said those who were single and earning less than RM2,950 monthly need not pay income tax, while those married and with children were also not required to pay the tax if they earned less than RM3,200 monthly. “Out of one million tax payers, only 38,000 pay at a high quantum of 28 percent.” Nor Mohamed said income tax contributed about RM10 billion out of the estimated national income at RM147 billion this year. He said the 2009 Budget would also focus on improving the transportation system, including the Government buying buses for use not only in Kuala Lumpur and Penang but also in other areas, besides providing incentives to public transport operators. Prior to this, the Government had announced its plan to buy 100 buses including 30 in the next few months for the purpose. Currently, about 20 percent of the Malaysia’s population use public transport compared to between 50 percent and 70 percent in western countries. Efforts are being made to encourage the people to use public transport to increase the usage to 40 percent in the next few years. -Bernama

FRIDAY-13TH JUNE 2008- ASTRO SETS NEW PENALTIES

Astro sets new penalties

KUALA LUMPUR:

From next month, Astro subscribers will not have to pay the RM10 fine for late payment of bills. Instead, a reminder will be issued, failing which the account will be disconnected and a RM20 reconnection fee charged. It will also pro-rate the penalty charge of RM500 currently imposed for early cancellation of subscription, if the set-top-box is returned in good working condition. This was disclosed by Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission on Wednesday. It had held two meetings with Astro recently to discuss outstanding consumer complaints. Astro is also introducing more family-orientated programmes so that subscribers have more choice in cheaper, more relevant packages.

FRIDAY-13TH JUNE 2008- INEFFICIENCY IN GOVT DEPTS LEADS TO PROJECTS DELAY: CM

Inefficiency in Govt Depts leads to projects delay: CM

KOTA KINABALU:

Inefficiency in the Government Departments and agencies must be addressed immediately as it has resulted in delay of development projects which sometimes stretches up to a year. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, who stressed this yesterday, said: “The allocations have been approved but due to some glitches, the implementation is either delayed or the projects could not be carried out on time. “Sometimes, the allocation given has to be brought forward, so when there is an increase in allocation from the Government, it is not necessarily an increase as the amount has been brought forward from the year before,” he said. Stressing that this is such a waste, Musa said the inefficiency is depriving the people of better development. It is important to identify the source of the problem so that immediate solution can be found to overcome it, he said during the Chief Minister’s Department/Finance Ministry’s monthly gathering at the Tun Ahmad Raffae Auditorium, Tun Mustapha Tower here. Musa said that setting up one- stop centres would be probably the best solution. “With such centres, everything can be done faster and the development projects can be implemented timely for the good of the State and the people,” he said. He said that the revival of State Development Office (SDO) to replace the disbanded Sabah Federal Development Department (JPPS) brings greater responsibility to all Government departments and agencies, especially those involving the implementation of development projects in Sabah. “Apart from directly channeling allocations to the implementation agencies, the move also entails improvement in efficiency and coordination to ensure development projects could be carried out more effectively for the benefit of the target groups,” he said. The Chief Minister urged all civil servants to be more dedicated to earn the people’s trust, especially the rural folks, in their ability to implement and manage development projects in the State. The current situation, where the world is facing slow economic growth in the wake of food crisis and escalating fuel prices, poses a greater challenge to the Government and it requires everyone to be rational and prudent, he said. “We have also taken measures to minimise expenses. In fact, prudent spending is nothing new to the State Government as it has long been our practice, and as a result, we have managed to strengthen our financial position. “All civil servants must play their role to ensure there is no wastage. We would have to cut down unnecessary expenses without affecting productivity and delivery system. I believe this can be done since good governance and being thrifty have long existed in the administration,” said Musa.

THURSDAY-12TH JUNE 2008- GOVT STILL CONSIDERING COAL POWER PLANT

Govt still considering coal power plant

KOTA KINABALU:

Sufficient power supply is needed for Sabah to move on in terms of development, but it must be clean power. “We must realise that sooner or later, we have to move on, especially when talking about development, particularly industrialization, where we need sufficient power supply but it has to be clean power,” stressed Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun, yesterday. Speaking at a press conference after the State Cabinet Meeting at Wisma Innoprise here, he said the State Government is still considering the Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s proposal to build a 300-megawatt coal-fired power plant in the east coast of Sabah. He said the State Government is taking into account the views of everybody, including locals, nongovernmental organisations and experts, on coal-fired technology before making a decision. Masidi was commenting on an advertisement put up by TNB Chairman Tan Sri Leo Moggie, entitled “Why Coal For East Coast Sabah?”, which contains information on coal-fired technology and how it would benefit the people. TNB’s initial proposal to set up coal-fired power plant in Silam Lahad Datu was rejected by the State Government in April after strong objections from locals and NGOs’ over fears that the project would cause serious harm to the ecologically sensitive environment there. “TNB had appealed to the State Government to reconsider its decision to scrap the project or identify new place for it to set up the coal-fired plant for the benefit of the people in the east coast of Sabah,” Masidi said. The State Government, he added, had agreed to a second meeting with TNB recently, and allowed a public meeting between Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd and NGOs to provide the former an opportunity to explain the rationale behind their insistence in proceeding with the coal-fired project. “We in the Government are actually very transparent; we are not hiding anything. The interest of the people and environment is still our top priority but at the same time, we cannot just live on the environment, life must go on. “In this world, we have to learn that in order to move on, we will need sufficient electricity supply. If the project (coal-fired plant) is approved, it has to be built on a suitable location... for now, let us give it much consideration first. “They (TNB) made an appeal to find a new place. The State Government’s view is very simple, we told them to lay their cards on the table so that the people can evaluate every aspect of the proposal, thus ensuring they will comply with the higher standard of efficiency. “Therefore we will consider and listen to the views of everybody, including the advice given by the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching, Xie Fugen,” said Masidi. Xie, who was on an official visit to Sabah, disclosed that they had ventured into coal-fired plant technology long ago.

THURSDAY-12TH JUNE 2008- ALONGS OFFER LOAN TO BET ON EUROPEAN CUP CASH

Alongs offer loan to bet on European Cup CASH

claims illegal moneylenders advertising services in City

KOTA KINABALU:

The public is advised not to take out loans from illegal moneylenders to bet on the ongoing European Cup soccer matches. Consumer Association of Sabah and Labuan (CASH) Deputy President Nordin Thani said he had been informed that some illegal loan sharks were advertising loans for betting on the tournament. “They are already advertising their services in and around the City,” he said, adding that gambling is risky business and those who lose would not be able to pay their loans and the illegal loan sharks would trouble them. Nordin also urged the relevant authorities to carry out more spot checks on records of all licensed moneylenders following complaints of harassment from their customers who have settled their loans. He said some moneylenders have been calling their former customers to settle “incidentals” incurred when they took the loan. “Those who lodged their complaints with CASH claimed that the moneylenders continued to harass them despite having settled the loan. The excuse given by the moneylenders was that there were incidentals incurred by the debtors which needed to be settled,” he said. Nordin said the relevant authorities should before renewing the licenses of money lenders, check and ensure that they are in compliance with the law as well as interview the company’s customers. “We are requesting that the moneylenders inspectorate interview the borrowers personally and the company’s statement of accounts be audited by an independent body and copies of the statement be extended to the Federal Finance Ministry as well as the Ministry of Housing and Local Government before any license is renewed. “This way the relevant authorities can find out what is the interest rate charged and how much profit the moneylenders are making,” he said. Nordin also suggested that written permission from the employer notwithstanding from the public or private sector be made a criteria in applying for loans from moneylenders. He also disclosed that in Labuan, moneylenders and their associates are taking advantage of the current economic situation by opening up more hand phone shops, which are a front to illegal money lending services. These premises also operate as pawn shops where customers are allowed to pawn their hand phones for a loan with an interest rate of between 15 percent and 20 percent for a 21-day period. Nordin said similar activities are also widely practised in Kota Kinabalu and pointed out that the compensation paid out to the hand phone owners in the event of theft or fire is inadequate. “This is because the licensed pawn shop owners are only liable to pay a compensation of the pawned amount plus another 25 percent on top of that amount to the affected customers. “This compensation is grossly inadequate considering the original Purchase value of the item. The Pawnshops Act 1972 does not protect the consumers but the pawnshop owners,” he said. According to him, under the Pawnshops Act 1972, the interest allowed to be charged is only two per cent monthly and not the 15 per cent to 20 per cent imposed by pawnshops now. On the outcome of his meeting with consumers in Labuan, Nordin said CASH met with 60 people who claimed to have been cheated by licensed moneylenders who charged them exorbitant hidden interest on the loans. “There were also complaints of the loan agreements being tampered with and despite attempts, including reporting the matter to the authority, the problem remains unresolved. “The moneylenders are not worried about the police reports against them as they told the customers that the authorities concerned are on their side,” he said, adding that CASH had advised those affected to seek legal redress to the problem. To this end, he urged the Government to issue licenses to those who will do business according to the law. Nordin, meanwhile, urged banks to extend a copy of authorization letter to their agents instructed to carry out repossession of defaulters’ vehicles instead of the Repossession Order given to their agents. Nordin said many defaulters have complained of being approached by repossessors claiming to be the authorized agents appointed by the banks but could not produce relevant documents to support the claim. “The banks must also specify the amount of fees charged by the repossessors instead leaving it entirely to them. Some charge up to RM300 for a repossession and storage fees even before the car is taken away,” he said.

THURSDAY-12TH JUNE 2008- DO WORK SERIOUSLY, CM TO PEOPLE'S DEVT LEADERS

Do work seriously, CM to People’s Devt Leaders

KOTA KINABALU:

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman wants the People’s Development Leaders to carry out their responsibility seriously. “I have always said the same thing to YBs. We have been entrusted with a large responsibility. We have been given a large mandate. So, it is our duty to return the favour and fulfil the promises we made’ during the election,” he said when witnessing the swearing in of 56 People’s Development Leaders at Wisma Innoprise here yesterday. Musa added there was a lot of work to be done, including programmes and projects to be implemented for the people. He said since the People’s Development Leaders are on the ground, they should be the eyes and ears of elected representatives and pay attention to the people’s needs and problems. Musa also said more training should be provided for these leaders so that they can be more effective in their job. “You should also be up to date with prevailing issues in the Country, including important Government policies and decisions,” he said. Citing the recent fuel hike as an example, the Chief Minister said it must be explained to the people that the issue was a global one and not just confined to Malaysia. “The people, including leaders, must also change their lifestyle by being more prudent in their spending and reduce unnecessary spending,” Musa said, adding the people must also be encouraged to plant crops on their land instead of leaving them idle. “Don’t leave your land idle. It’s a waste. People with land should plant padi, fruits and vegetables, especially with the current world food crisis,” he said. The Government, he added, has already given subsidies for seedlings and fertilizers to encourage farming in the Country and the people should therefore take advantage of them.

THURSDAY-12TH JUNE 2008- LDP WANTS EFFECTIVE STEPS TO HELP LOW INCOME EARNERS

LDP wants effective steps to help low income earners

KOTA KINABALU:

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Deputy President Datuk Chin Su Phin has urged the Government to draw up effective and comprehensive measures to overcome the current problems affecting the country, in particular the domino effect of the drastic hike in the fuel prices. “I strongly believe that the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has the capacity to come up with the solution to the problems affecting the people” he said yesterday. Chin dismissed the recent claim by Petronas that it would go bankrupt if it continues to provide subsidies, as Malaysia is a net oil exporting nation. Towards this end, Petronas has been reaping huge profits each year and as such it is only logical for the company to bear the responsibility in assisting the Government especially during this hard and challenging period, he said in statement. Chin also called on Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad to be more responsible and mindful of the people’s feeling and stop making “inconsistent” statements relating to the fuel price issue. According to Chin, a day before Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced the steep increase in fuel prices, Shahrir gave an assurance that the price of the commodity would not be increased until the Government reviewed the fuel subsidy in August this year. He said this gave the impression of a lack of communication between the Prime Minister and Shahrir who is holding a very important portfolio dealing with matters, not just the fuel but other goods, that are affecting the people. “By right, Datuk Shahrir should have a good rapport with other members of the Federal Cabinet,” said Chin. On June 7, Shahrir announced that there would be no increase in fuel prices in the near future but two days later he was quoted as saying again that there would be no hike in fuel prices unless the prices in the global market hit the USD200 per barrel, recalled Chin, adding this meant that there would be no fuel price hike until March 2009. “But, in today’s media reports, Datuk Shahrir was quoted assaying that the Government would have to review the fuel prides again. And as at yesterday (June 10), the crude oil price in the global market was at USD135 per barrel and so does this mean that our fuel prices will be increased again by next month (July). “As a Minister, Datuk Shahrir should be more responsible and mindful of the people’s feeling because whatever statement he makes will reflect the Government’s policy. With the present situation, the prices of other goods have also increased and the people are already very unhappy with the Barisan Nasional (BN) Government. “In fact, the Rakyat understand that the increase in fuel prices is a global trend, but what they are not satisfied with is the Government’s sudden action to increase the fuel prices and the percentage is too drastic,” Chin contended. In this regard, Chin suggested that the Government should have come up with a systematic plan to increase the prices of fuel and in giving the subsidy or allowance to the people so that they are not overly burdened with the drastic amount and changes. On the Government’s cash rebate payments to qualified car owners, Chin said the majority of the people are from the lower income group and do not own vehicle and therefore being denied of such subsidy. “The domino effect of fuel price increase will greatly burden the lower income group in view of the increase in the prices of other goods as well,” said Chin, adding that it is therefore timely for the Government to really draw up a policy on the provision of subsidy targeted at the lower income group.

THURSDAY-12TH JUNE 2008- JUDGES SENT TO 'BOOT CAMP' OR INDOCTRINATION: REPORT

Judges sent to ‘boot camp’ or indoctrination: Report

KUALA LUMPUR:

Malaysian judges were sent to an indoctrination “boot camp” and threatened with dismissal to pressure them into making pro-Government decisions, a senior judge said according to reports Wednesday. In explosive allegations made in open court, Justice Datuk Ian Chin said he was threatened by former Premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad over his handling of high-profile cases, one involving a close associate of the then-leader. “Now, though he is no longer the Prime Minister and so no longer able to carry out his threat to remove judges, the coalition Party that he led is still around,” he said, according to The Borneo Post. Justice Chin made the allegations, which were picked up by the national press Wednesday, before hearing a dispute over results of March general election in Sarawak. He said he was targeted by Mahathir after refusing to award “astronomical” payouts in two libel cases in 1997, while a judge who agreed with the then-Premier’s views was promoted to the Federal Court. Justice Chin reportedly said that he was later packed off to a five-day boot camp with selected judges and Judicial officers. It was without any doubt “an attempt to indoctrinate those attending the boot camp to hold the view that the Government’s interest as being more important than all else when we are considering our judgement,” he said. Cabinet Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim, who is in charge of legal affairs, indicated he believed the allegations, and that they would harm the reputation of the nation’s justice system. “I can’t say I’m surprised by the revelations. There have been many stories in the past,” he told reporters. “It is regrettable that it has happened, it is a bad reflection oil our country. We have to make sure it does not happen again,” he said. “You should not tell judges what they can or cannot However, he dismissed calls from the Bar Council for in official probe into the allegations. “An investigation will not reveal anything more than what we know. What we need to do is restore Judicial independence and make sure such incidents do not happen,” he said. Bar Council President Ambiga Sreenavasan said the allegations were “both startling and damning.” judges, both present and past, must be encouraged to come forward and provide information on any such instances of interference so that further action may be taken,” she said according to the New Straits Times. Mahathir stood down in 2003 and his successor Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has been criticised for failing to carry out his promises to tackle corruption, which is deeply entrenched in politics and business. Justice Chin’s allegations add to the pall cast over the country’s Judiciary by a recent royal commission into a sensational Mahathir-era video clip that showed a top lawyer brokering judicial appointments with the help of politicians. The commission found in May that there was evidence of an “insidious” conspiracy to influence the appointment of judges, and the Government promised to investigate those implicated. Mahathir, who has fallen out with his successor and accused him of corruption and nepotism, has previously challenged the authorities to charge him. His spokesman told AFP the former Premier would respond to Chin’s comments “in due course. Meanwhile, the Star picked up the report in The Borneo Post on Tuesday that Chin made the allegations before he was hearing an election petition challenging the results of the Sarikei parliamentary seat, which was won by a Barisan Nasional candidate by just 51 votes. “In a report in The Borneo Post on Tuesday, that comes hot on the heels of the findings of the Royal Commission on the V K Lingam video clip,Justice Chin said the threat from the former Prime Minister came after he handed down two judgments in 1997,” the Star said. One was a judgment on a libel case involving MGG Pillai and Tan Sri Vincent Tan where he refused to give what he considered to be an astronomical award. Justice Chin said the other judgment was in an election petition on Bukit Bangunan in the Sri Aman Division that he ruled in favour of Independent candidate Donald Lawan against Barisan Nasional candidate Mong Dagang. “Shortly after the two judgments, the Judges Conference was held from April 24, 1997 where the then Prime Minister issued a thinly veiled threat to remove judges by referring them to a tribunal and stating that, though it maybe difficult to do so, it was still done.” Justice Chin said the former Prime Minister expressed unhappiness with what he termed ‘the Borneo Case’. “Everyone knew which case he was referring to,” he added. Justice Chin said after the threat, the former Prime Minister said people should pay heavily for libel and he only got a single response from a Court of Appeal judge who asked if he would be happy with a sum of RM1 mil as damages for libel. “He approved of it and later made known his satisfaction by promoting this judge (since deceased) to the Federal Court over many others who were senior to him.” A month later, Justice Chin said he and selected judges and judicial officers were packed off to a boot camp from May 26-30, 1997 where there was an attempt to indoctrinate them with the view “ that the Government interest was more important than all else.” “Stating this devilish notion was no less a person than the President of the Court of Appeal. Everyone was quiet during the question sessions.” Justice Chin added “the perversion of justice” continued and recounted an episode when a fellow judge Muhammad Kamil Awang told him he had received a telephone call from the then Chief Justice asking him to dismiss the election petition that he was going to hear in Kota Kinabalu. “We went into the possibility of making a police report or of writing to the Chief Justice a letter to record what he had said over the telephone but in the end he decided against it since it would be his word against that of the Chief Justice,” he said. Justice Chin said he was happy to later on learn that Kamil did not bow to the pressure and went on to hear the petition, thereafter making a decision based on law and evidence. Justice Chin said he wanted the parties involved in the current petition and their counsel to hear his disclosure in case they wanted him to rescue himself. The High Court Judge said he had twice The High Court Judge said he had twice stood unsuccessfully as a Barisan Nasional candidate for a Parliamentary and later for a State seat in Sabah in the 1980s and in one of those elections he was defeated by a DAP candidate. “Now, though he is no longer the Prime Minister and so no longer able to carry out his threat to remove judges, the coalition party that he led is still around” and the second respondent was a Barisan candidate and “may cross someone’s mind that I may have an axe to grind against the party concerned or any party thereof.”

THURSDAY-12TH JUNE 2008- 10PC ALLOWANCE CUT HERE

10pc allowance cut here
CM announces measures similar to austerity drive done by KL over fuel prices

KOTA KINABALU:

A 10 per cent cut in the entertainment allowance of Ministers, Assistants Ministers, the State Speaker and their Deputies was among the measure’s taken to minimise Government expenses following the recent massive fuel prices hike. Describing the move as “part of our way to show concern for the rakyat’s (people) sufferings, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said the measures are similar to the austerity drive that had been announced by the Federal Government. The 10 per cent cut is to take effect immediately, according to him. “We have taken into consideration the current situation, and we are concerned over the people’s well-being and how they are suffering due to the crease in fuel prices. Therefore, we are taking measures internally and externally to cut costs,” he said. He hoped the 10 per cent reduction in emolument would improve productivity and the delivery system, stressing that to date, no new post would be introduced, unless necessary. “We are also freezing the giving of souvenirs, and all Government functions are to be held within the premises, (in addition to) reducing overseas trips and conducting staff training in-house,” he said. Musa also wants all Government offices to adopt austerity measures like saving utility and telephone costs, optimising the usage, and restrict the purchase of new assets to important items only as well as cut down on unnecessary office renovations. “We will update the financial regulations from time to time. For instance, the State would be putting a stop to the purchase of new vehicles and ensure that available vehicles are used efficiently. We will only be using manual-engine four-wheel drive vehicles to reduce maintenance costs,” he said. Musa however, said that prudent spending is nothing new with the State Government. “We have always been thrifty in our spending. The State’s annual Budget is meant to stabilise its income and expenses. “In view of the current situation, we are taking extra measures to ensure that there is no wastage on the part of the Government,” he added. Touching on the State Government’s external measures, Musa called for the import duties on cement from Asean countries to be abolished. “The State Government would be seeking the Federal Government’s assistance to waive the duties to help the construction sector overcome rising costs,” he said after chairing the Cabinet Meeting at Wisma Innoprise here yesterday. He appealed to the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to expedite the standardisation of prices of essential goods nationwide to help ease the rising cost of goods in the State. He also urged the Federal Government to extend the supply of diesel subsidy to public transport operators but cautioned local operators not to increase their prices without proper discussions with the relevant agencies. “We also need the Federal Government to review the poverty income level,” he told ‘reporters, adding’ that the Government Linked Companies (GLCs) should also take the necessary action to lighten the people’s burden by rescheduling loans, among others. He however stressed that despite the measures to reduce expenses, the Government would not jeopardise the development projects that would benefit the people, especially the lower income and those in the rural areas. “We will continue to be committed when it comes to providing development. The decision (fuel prices hike) may not be popular but as a responsible Government, we will ensure that the trust given will be upheld well, not just for now but for the good of the future generations,” he said.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- SABAHANS AMONG MOTHER'S AWARD RECIPIENTS

Sabahans among Mother’s Award recipients

KUALA LUMPUR:

Two Sabahans were among 10 Malaysian mothers who received the inaugural ‘Malaysian Mother’s Award 2008” from the Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tuanku Nur Zahirah. The award, organised by the Islamic Dakwah Foundation of Malaysia (Yadim) and the Malaysian Muslim Women Consultative Council, is aimed at raising the awareness among the society on the roles played by mothers in creating and moulding quality human resources. Lim Sai Khim, 77, of Kuala Lumpur; Anis Abdullah, 65, of Johor Baharu and Zaharah Mahmoodin, 66, of Perak are the recipients for the Mothers of Distinction category. Sajarah Latip, 72, (Sarawak); Rumunah Nodo@Haji Mustaffa, 64, (Johor Baharu); Prito Kaur @ Habibah Abdullah, 62, and Raseni Suparno, 58, (both from Sabah); and Alice Santha Abishegam, 59, (Kuala Lumpur) received the Mothers of Excellence category. Dayang Rakiah Abang Ali, 62, from Sarawak and Lam Boon Lun @ Dr Helen Gan, 61, from Kuala Lumpur are the recipients for the Special Jury Award. In her speech Tuanku Nur Zahirah praised Yadim for the initiative and paid tribute to Malaysian mothers for their roles in moulding the young, which she said, was the country’s hope for the future. The Mothers of Distinction recipients receive trophies and RM5,000 each while Mothers of Excellence receive RM3,000 and Special Jury Award (RM1,500) as well as trophies. - Bernama

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- JUNE DEADLINE TO PAY ASSESSMENT FEES

June deadline to pay assessment fees

KOTA KINABALU:

The Kota Kinabalu City Hall has urged ratepayers in the State Capital to pay their assessment fees and the overdue amount before the end of this month. Those who have not received their assessment bills can go to the Housing Tax Unit, Ground Floor, Kota Kinabalu City Hall or call Lonnie at 088-52 1760 or Michael Kung at 088-521758.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- MINISTRY URGED TO STATE STAND ON TRAINING CENTRE

Ministry urged to state stand on training centre

KOTA KINABALU:

The Rural Development Ministry has been urged to firmly state its stand on the Community Development Training Centre at Kampung Mansiang, Menggatal which has been left idle for many years. In making the call yesterday, Sepanggar Member of Parliament Datuk Eric Majimbun said it is important for the Ministry to make a stand on whether it wants to revive the Centre or give it to the village. He said he had written several times to the Ministry regarding the matter but there was never any reply until today. “Three years ago we were told that the Rural Development Ministry wanted to revive the Centre but no action has been taken until today,” said Eric during a visit to the Centre yesterday. He was accompanied by former Community Development Department Director Datuk Paul Wong. Eric said he was prepared to allocate the money from his MP funds if the Centre is handed over to the village to be used for training youths with multi-skills and knowledge. Meanwhile, Paul said that the Centre, located about 1.5km from Menggatal town, was set up during the Berjaya Government in 1979 and placed under the Chief Minister’s Department. He said it was used for training People Development Leaders and other community leaders. The centre was never utilised during the nine years of the Parti Bersatu Sabah Government and when the Barisan Nasional came to power in 1994 until today.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- SABAH ECOSYSTEM HEALTH PROJECT WILL TAKE YEARS TO COMPLETE

Sabah Ecosystem Health Project will take years to complete

Project will start with sampling at sanctuary, reserves: Director

KOTA KINABALU:

The implementation of the Sabah Ecosystem Health Project would take several years to complete, according to Sabah Wildlife Department Director Laurentius Ambu. He said the project would commence with sampling in and around the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, Kabili-Sepilok Virgin Jungle Reserve and Tabin Wildlife Reserve in the East Coast. “Information on transmission risk is needed in Sabah, and such data is absolutely necessary in order to ensure the long-term survival of our wildlife and those animals of particular importance for ecotourism,” he said at a workshop on “Ecosystem Health Monitoring in Wildlife Tourism Areas” at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park yesterday. The Sabah Ecosystem Health Project was initiated by Professor Michael Muehlenbein from Indiana University, USA. Laurentius said that Professor Muehlenbein’s project would provide the international community with an outstanding example on how to properly manage healthy human-animal relations. Some 50 people attended the workshop sponsored by the Sabah Wildlife Department and Indiana University. The participants included senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Sabah Wildlife Department, Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Health, University Malaysia Sabah, Sabah Tourism Board, Sabah Parks, State Environment Protection Department, Forestry Department, Sabah Foundation, WWF-Malaysia, Borneo Conservation Trust, UK Orangutan Appeal and HUTAN. The objective of the seminar was to discuss the importance of health monitoring of human-wildlife interactions in Sabah, an understanding of which will function to ensure the sustainability and growth of ecotourism as well as human and animal health. Specific prevention measures were discussed to minimize these risks to wildlife in Sabah during the workshop. Muehlenbein provided an informative lecture on responsible ecotourism, with particular reference to prevention measures to minimize negative impacts on animal populations. He said that ecotourism functions to facilitate awareness of cultural and natural histories in diverse environments, creating financial benefits to those local populations which invest in conservation of their cultural and natural histories. Such nature-based tourism can certainly serve as an important potential tool to assist conservation efforts in preserving populations of wildlife, particularly primates A natural consequence of expanding tourism at wildlife sanctuaries is increased human-wildlife contact, which must be properly managed in order to prevent infection transmission between these groups, according to Muehlenbein. Muehlenbein also described the Sabah Ecosystem Health Project as a proposed collaboration designed to better understand risk of infection transmission between humans, wildlife and livestock in Sabah. Despite the presence of known infectious diseases within cohabitating human, wildlife, livestock and domestic pet populations throughout the world, and the emergence of novel infectious diseases in ecological hotspots where human- wildlife contact is substantial, he noted that very few surveillance programs exist to specifically describe and monitor the risks of human-animal infection transmission. Humans (tourists and local populations), wildlife (orang-utans, macaques, small mammals, birds and bats), domestic dogs and cats, and livestock will be sampled to determine the distribution of various infectious diseases, and prevention strategies will be developed, added Muehlenbein.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- CHINA LEARNS LESSON FOR NEGLECTING ENVIRONMENT

China learns lesson for neglecting environment
Consul-General urges developing nations to avoid mistakes made by his country

KOTA KINABALU:

The Republic of China known for its vast development, has learned its lesson, as far as conserving the environment is concerned. The country which started its open economy policy way back in 1978, is now suffering from the effect of neglecting the importance of environment protection, thus calling on developing countries to act fast before similar destruction is done on their land. This was a simple reminder from the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching, Xie Fugen, who was in town for an official visit. “We have learned our lesson. We admit that in our effort to boost our economy, we forgot and neglected the importance of conserving and protecting the environment. As a result, today we are paying double for the damages done,” he told the media during a courtesy call on Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Liew Vui Keong here yesterday. Xie said under the 1978 open economy policy, the China Government had carried out development projects in the east coast area. “We have done well in economy but we lost so much as far as the environment is concerned. We had to spent lots of money to rectify the problem, therefore we are reminding and advising other countries to avoid the mistakes we made,” he said. After seeing the destruction caused to the environment, the China Government has imposed stricter policy to ensure the environment remained protected despite the vast development projects. “We are currently developing the middle, west and northern part of China and have listed environment protection as a top priority. We do not want to repeat the mistakes we have done in the past. Corporate companies are free to do business but they must make sure that the environment is protected,” he said, adding had pollutions on China’s two main river had forced the Government to act fast. “We are already seeing positive results on the river protection policy and hope it can be maintained for generations,” he said. During the meeting, Xie and Liew exchanged views on the business opportunities available in China and Sabah, as well as other issues such as those concerning illegal immigrants and food supplies. “The tourism industry in Sabah is developing very good. I often see a lot of tourists from China whenever I come here for a visit. This is probably due to the many direct flights available from the State to many major cities in China,” he said. he added that the China Government is also currently boosting its Neighbour Friendly Policy and is extending it to Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and The Philippines. Liew, on the other hand, introduced the on-going Sabah Development Corridor, encouraging investors from China to venture into businesses in Sabah. “We welcome any groups wishing to come and visit Sabah and see for themselves potential businesses available here, and we hope to do vice versa to improve and ensure sustainable business links between China and Sabah,” he said. Currently, there are seven China- based companies operating in Sabah, of which six are related to construction while one is a shopping complex.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- DOWNPOURS AND EROSION AFFECT HOUSES AT RIVERBANK

Downpours and erosion affect houses at riverbank

KOTA KINABALU:

Heavy downpours the last few days sent shivers down the spine of Zainuddin Binbang. Somehow, he knew that the worst was coming. Looking across the river, Zainuddin could see the construction works for a new bridge, which is part of the flyover project along Putatan-Kepayan Road, actively taking place. Part of the river was covered with soil to allow the construction company’s heavy machineries to do piling, but that had impeded the water flow, which was slowly eroding the riverbank along Kampung Muhibbah Lama in Petagas, Putatan. “The erosion was like a ticking bomb. The water currents had slowly eroded and caused a small section of soil at the corner of the next door’s kitchen to cave in. I knew it was just about time that my 32-foot kitchen and bathroom would collapse,” said the 39-year-old Zainuddin, who had been staying in the house for the last 10 years. True enough, at 7am yesterday, the concrete built bathroom collapsed, followed by the kitchen about half an hour later amidst the downpours which also caused flash floods elsewhere in the City and outskirts. “I was prepared for the worst and knew this was going to happen. Worried for my family’s safety, I sent my wife and eight children to stay with my father-in-law, while I stayed back for any eventuality. “We had contacted the Village Development and Security Committee and they in turn had notified the construction company about the bad effects of the erosion. But somehow, our grouses had fallen on deaf ears. “I was so worried about my house and could not get to sleep the whole night. I just sat and waited for the worst to come,” he said. They had exhausted all efforts to draw attention to their plight and predicament, which was by far his worst experience, according to him. “We had gone through floods before and compared to the 1996 Storm Greg incident, this was the worst. Now my kitchen is gone, we have no food left.,. I had just bought our food supplies recently,” said Zainuddin, who is a barber. The destructive erosion had affected at least three houses built near the river. Sudin Ahmat, 43, who was born and bred in the village also agreed that this was his worst experience. “Things happened. I do not want to say much but hope the relevant authorities and would do something to help us,” he said. His younger sister, Rina, 40, recalled that the river used to be clean and safe. “We used to jump into the river to bathe. It was smaller before but the river has now become wider and dirty ... it is no longer safe,” she related. She said they had lodged a police report over the contractor’s, action for covering part of the river to carry out its construction works. “For many years, we have also requested the authorities to build retaining walls along the riverbank to prevent erosion, but this has yet to be done. We hope this incident would finally send a message to the authorities concerned. “Honestly, we are not against any development as it would also benefit us somehow. But we just hope that while actively carrying out the development projects, the welfare of the people should not be neglected,” she stressed. Putatan Member of Parliament, Datuk Marcus Mojigoh, who visited the site said an emergency meeting was called immediately to discuss matters pertaining to the problem, yesterday. “I have sat with the District Officer and a representative from the construction company. The company has removed the pile of soil from the river to allow the water to flow unimpeded. They have also agreed to compensate, whether to reconstruct the damaged houses or in monetary terms. “Secondly, we are also looking at building embankment on the riparian reserve. Actually these houses were not supposed to be built by the riverbank as it is within the river reserve, which is meant to allow erosion. But since there are houses involved, and things had happened, we will try our best to help the victims,” he said. On the requests for retaining walls, Mojigoh said he had written to the relevant ministry but to date, it was still considered as low priority. “After all, it was supposed to be a river reserve and there should be no structure built on it,” he said.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- OVER A MILLION RINGGIT RAISED BY SABAH CHINESE BODIES FOR VICTIMS

Over a million ringgit raised by Sabah Chinese bodies for victims

KOTA KINABALU:

A total of RM1,065,043.96 in donations have been raised by Chinese community organizations and companies throughout Sabah to assist the earthquake victims in China. The money was handed over to the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China based in Kuching, Mr Xie Fugen, during a presentation ceremony at the Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hall at Kampung Air here yesterday. Among the 39 donors were the See Hua Group of newspapers - The See Hua Daily News and The Borneo Post (RM280,000) which collected the donations from their readers; Che Sui Khor Moral Uplifting Society (RM119,076.60), Taiwan Alumnus Sabah (RM80,000), Kunak Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM55,213), and the United Association of Private Chinese Secondary Schools Committee Sabah (RM40,176.76). The massive earthquake which shook Si Chuan Province of China, killed more than 69,000 and left nearly 18,000 people missing and scores injured. Other organizations which handed their donations to the Consul-General were Gabungan Persatuan Hokkien Sabah, Wanita (RM21,770), Young Malaysian Movement (RM13,986.10), Tanjung Aru Youth Association (RM5,000), Persatuan Pengurusan Yu Huang Tuaran (RM5,123), Persatuan Masyarakat Tai Poo Sabah (RM11,000), KK Zhang Clan Association (RM9,000), SZCA Association (RM6,000), Kota Kinabalu Hakka Association (RM10,890), Sabah Ann Koai Association (RM11,000), The Sabah Northern Association (RM7,000), Persatuan Eng Choon Sabah (RM4,050), and Sabah Amusement Association (RM16,000), Semporna Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM21,250), Gabungan Dewan Perniagaan Tionghua Sabah (RM6,000), Sipitang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM13,500), Lahad Datu Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM22,850), Tuaran Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM8,300), Keningau Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM2,000), Kota Marudu Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM4,315), Kota Belud Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM7,200), Pertubuhan Amal dan Pendidikan Akhlak Ji Her KK (RM52,965), Kung Yin Ting Temple (RM4,000) and Persatuan Masyarakat Cina Bersekutu Sabah KK (RM14,500), Ever Win Tyres Accessory Sdn Bhd (RM1,000), Kota Kinabalu Teo Chew Association (RM7,000), The Yongs Nga Khi Welfare Association of Sabah (RM8,000), Kian Kok High School (RM16,733.50), Chung Hwa Likas Kindergarten (RM3,000), Gabungan Persatuan Cina Sabah - Youth Section (RM4,000), Foe Chow Association Sabah (RM1 1,650), Gabungan Persatuan Cina Sabah - Women Section (RM15,000), Labuan Foe Chow Association (RM15,000), Beaufort Chinese Chamber of Commerce (RM16,195) and The Lung Yen Association (RM5,000). During the presentation of the donations, Xie thanked all the organizations for their kindness, and assured that the donations would be distributed to earthquake victims in China. “I’m really moved today because a lot of people have donated and it doesn’t matter how much they donated, what matters the most is that they have shown their kindness to help our people in China,” he said. According to Xie, the Embassy will try their best to transfer the money to the victims in China, which is quite hard, especially for those who were affected in the remote areas. “We have already received a lot of donations from various organizations and the most important thing is to build homes for the affected victims there,” he said. Xie said that Malaysia is one of the countries which always extends international aid to China since both countries had developed a good relationship in every area. According to him, the China Consulate in East Malaysia had discussed with the Government to set up a new consulate here to strengthen relations between both countries and to develop a better relationship in every area. Also present during the presentation was Sabah United Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry President Datuk Seri Panglima Sari Nuar and See Hua Group Area General Operations Manager Mr Ngu Ngiong Hieng.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- RM75 MIL BOOST FOR PADI

RM75 mil boost for padi
Sabah Govt also requesting KL for more allocations for food production, say Musa

KOTA KINABALU:

The State Government has requested the Federal Government to increase the allocation for food production, especially for padi cultivation, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said. “We are also asking for more allocations to open up new land for food production,” he said when Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed called on him at his official residence in Sri Gaya here on Tuesday. Among the topics discussed were the issue of food supply in Malaysia, particularly Sabah and steps taken to address them. According to Musa, Sabah wants to play a key role in resolving issues involving food production in the State and the Nation in general. “We still have tracts of land that should be opened up, especially for rice cultivation,” he added. Mustapa meanwhile said the Federal Government has approved an additional allocation of RM75 million this year to boost padi production in Sabah. He said RM32 million of the allocation was for agricultural inputs such as providing fertiliser assistance. Another sum of RM25 million is for drainage and irrigation development, RM7 million for farm mechanisation, RM5 million for maintenance of drainage and irrigation system and RM3 million each for land flattening and pest control. “Malaysia has enough land for agriculture, so there is no reason for us not to achieve self-sufficiency in food production. For Sabah, the priority is to increase rice production,” he told reporters after visiting a goat rearing farm in Tuaran near here yesterday. Mustapa said the food production sector was expected to receive an additional allocation under the mid-term review of the Ninth Malaysia Plan, to be announced on June 26. He said the move is in line with the new policy of the Government to give priority to the food production sector in the wake of the global food crisis. He said under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, his Ministry was allocated with RM7 billion. Another RM10 billion was allocated for the agricultural sector undertaken by other Ministries and agencies. On measures to lighten the burden borne by padi farmers following the fuel price hike, Mustapa said the Government would provide assistance totalling RM140 per hectare to plough their land, with RM100 of the amount coming from the State Government. He said the Government is in the process of registering farmers nationwide for the food production incentives totalling RM513 million, to be given to farmers who ventured into farming other than padi.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- CEOs CONFERENCE WILL HELP ATTRACT INVESTMENTS, SAYS CM

CEOs Conference will help attract investments, says CM

KOTA KINABALU:

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said the International CEOs Conference 2008 to be held here next week will yet again put Sabah in the international spotlight so as to attract more investments, especially in the manufacturing, tourism and agriculture sectors. “This is indeed in line with the economic objectives under the State Development Agenda and the Sabah Development Corridor, which was launched by the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) early this year,” he said, when chairing the main organising committee meeting for the conference here yesterday. The International CEOs Conference will be held from June 15 to 17, and among the objectives are to provide intellectually stimulating, constructive and healthy exchange of views among the role-players and delegates; make available opportunities for companies to broaden their contact bases and networks with industry leaders and delegates, and to give updates on the business and investment opportunities available as well as the policies formulated. Musa said Abdullah had consented to be the guest of honour at the closing ceremony on June 17, while Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak is expected to officiate the opening ceremony on June 16. Realising the magnitude of these events, Yayasan Sabah Group has appointed once again the Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute (ASLI) as the Event Manager for ICC2008. The Chief Minister said more than 500 delegates had confirmed their attendance, coming from countries like USA, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, France, The Netherlands, Ireland, Dubai (UAE), Kuwait, Syria, Japan, India, Pakistan, Singapore, The Philippines and Brunei. “It pleases me to note that the number of confirmed participants is more than that of ICC2005. I also note that some 12 foreign dignitaries comprising Ambassadors and High Commissioners will be gracing this conference,” said Musa. He said the essence of this conference is concisely reflected in its theme ‘Managing Sustainable Growth and Competitiveness In the Globalised Era’. This theme has been chosen as it is considered the most prevailing issue in the light of the present economic and social environments of this region. “Hence we have strategically designed the Conference to cover topics that are pertinent to the world today. On top of that, we are bringing in experts and leading players to discuss significant global issues such as climate change and global warning. In a nutshell, environmental problems will become one of the most difficult issues faced by mankind, because if unresolved, it could directly threaten the future existence of the human race,” said Musa. He said another subject of great significance and one of the most notable realities today is the rise of Asian Giants - China and India. “The rise of such large economies within a short time span is unprecedented and this undoubtedly will present both opportunities as well as challenges for Asia and the world. “I truly believe that sustainability, especially in a world characterized by rapid unpredictable change cannot be overstated. As such, we hope this Conference will provide all of us with the ideal platform to analyse and comprehend key issues as well as find practical and achievable solutions to some of the more pressing problems that require timely attention,” Musa added.

WEDNESDAY-11TH JUNE 2008- SUHAKAM WELCOMES TUANKU MIZAN'S SPEECH ON HUMAN RIGHTS

Suhakam welcomes Tuanku Mizan’s speech on human rights

KUALA LUMPUR:

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has welcomed the speech by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, on the occasion of His Majesty’s birthday last Saturday. Its Vice-Chairman Tan Sri Simon Sipaun said Tuanku Mizan had spoken in some concerns relating to human rights, like the establishment of the Judicial Appointment Commission and the amendment to the Printing Presses and Publication Act 1964. “Suhakam welcomes this statement from His Majesty which reflects the King’s concern for human rights in Malaysia,” he said in a statement. Sipaun said these issues had been part of Suhakam’s recommendations as contained in the Commission’s various annual reports tabled to Parliament. - Bernama

TUESDAY-10TH JUNE 2008- GOVT SEROIUS IN OVERCOMG OF FUEL PRICE HIKE: MUHYIDDIN

Govt serious in overcomg effects of fuel price hike: Muhyiddin

KUALA LUMPUR:

The move to slash the entertainment allowances of Ministers and other proactive actions show that the Government is serious to overcome the problems following the increase in fuel prices. Minister of International Trade and Industry, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, said the Government was concerned about the problems faced by the rakyat, especially the poor and low income group. “The members of the administration, in line with the concept of leadership by example, must be prepared to sacrifice together with the rakyat by being thrifty to face the effects of the rise in fuel price and the move to restructure the subsidy scheme,” he said in a statement here yesterday. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi yesterday announced several cost-cutting measures such as the 10 percent cut in the entertainment allowances of the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Ministers and Deputy Ministers effective July 1. Other steps include limiting the use of hotel facilities to international events and functions, and prohibiting the renovations of office and freezing the purchase of office assets such as cars, furniture and computer. - Bernama

TUESDAY-10TH JUNE 2008- MINISTERS' ENTERTAINMENT ALLOWANCE REDUCED BY 10%

Ministers’ entertainment allowance reduced by 10%

PUTRAJAYA:

The entertainment allowance for the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Ministers and Deputy Ministers will be reduced by 10 per cent effective July 1, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said yesterday. Announcing the austerity measures which would save the Government RM2 billion annually, the Prime Minister said the Government would announce other measures from time to time in an effort to cut down Government expenditure following the oil price hike. Abdullah said the austerity measures included freezing paid leave for Ministers and Deputy Ministers and limiting their vacation to the Asean region only and the duration should not exceed one week. Previously, this group enjoyed paid vacation borne by the Government to any destination once a year. Speaking to reporters after chairing the first meeting of the Council on Tackling Inflation, Abdullah said he had also told the Council that the austerity drive should include restricting travels by Ministers, Deputy Ministers and civil servants abroad. In addition, he said Government departments were not allowed to make office renovations while postponing any purchase of assets as well as holding functions and entertainment activities. “The Government too feels the hardship faced by the people and felt that the leadership must show a good example in facing this challenge,” he said. Currently, the monthly entertainment allowance for the Prime Minister is RM18,865, Deputy Prime Minister (RM15,015), Federal Ministers (RM12,320) and Deputy Ministers (RM6,000). Abdullah said the austerity drive in Government spending was being carried out following the rise in prices for fuel and food. The price of petrol reached USD138 per barrel in the world market which forced the Government to restructure the fuel subsidy and raised the retail price for petrol by 78 sen to RM2.70 per litre, effective last Thursday. He said the Government was considering an increase in several allowances for the people to widen the social security net. “The income threshold will be raised so that more Malaysians will benefit from these allowances,” he said, adding that detailed information on the matter would be announced within a week. Referring to the directive to restrict overseas travel, Abdullah said it would only be allowed for official duties involving important international conferences and meetings only or intergovernmental meetings. He said the officers attending such meetings should also be those who were directly involved in the task concerned and the number of such Ministry or department officials should not exceed three. Under the directive, a Minister was only eligible to bring three Ministry officials on official duty abroad while a Deputy Minister could only bring two officers. The Prime Minister said the use of hotel facilities was only allowed for international meetings, conferences, seminars and workshops. “All courses, trainings and workshops organised by the Ministries, Departments and Agencies must be restricted using existing facilities at the Ministries, Departments and Agencies concerned including the Putrajaya International Convention Centre,” he said. Abdullah said the renting of new and additional office space, moving to another building or making renovations to the existing office were also prohibited. He said any expenditure for the purchase of assets including the buying of cars, furniture, computers and other office equipment which had yet to be committed should be postponed. In addition, the purchase of minor items for office use such as printing materials and stationery must be reduced, he said. The Prime Minister said that f the existing Government assets, maintenance work must be carried out in an optimum manner to save resources and expenses during the period. “Functions such as the official opening of offices, conferences, meetings, workshops, courses and prize giving should be restricted,” he said. If necessary, he said these functions must be held on a modest scale without incurring much expenses to ensure there was no wastage The expenditure on decorations and food must be modest and wherever possible, the functions must be held in existing government facilities, Abdullah said. “There’s no need to make special shirts merely to be worn for the official opening, for just a day. Thereafter, the shirt cannot be worn because of the writing on the shirt, and it is kept only for remembrance,” he said. He said the giving of souvenirs was not encouraged but if it was necessary, it should be confined to books, local handicrafts and food items. The Prime Minister also announced the freezing of new posts in Government Departments to cut down on public expenditure except for certain and critical posts in the fields of education, health and enforcement as well as posts that could directly increase national revenue collection. Abdullah said the restructuring of organisations involving Ministries, Departments and Statutory bodies was prohibited except for those aimed at improving the structure of the organisations without involving the creation of new posts or to reduce the manpower strength. - Bernama

TUESDAY-10TH JUNE 2008- DO AWAY WITH SERVICE TAX AND GOVT TAX CALL

Do away with service tax and Govt tax call

KUALA LUMPUR:

The Government should abolish the service tax and Government tax of five per cent respectively, charged by restaurants and eateries, including fast-food outlets, to lighten the burden of the lower income group. In making the suggestion, Malaysia Airlines System Employees Union (Maseu) Executive Secretary Mustafar Maarof said the move would enable these people to enjoy a better life. “As consumers, we ask the authorities to make surprise visits on food outlets all over the country to see if they are really paying the taxes,” he said in a statement yesterday. Mustafar said food businesses now raised prices at will, and by displaying a copy of the Government’s approval to charge the two taxes amounting to 10 per cent, the situation would only worsen. “For example, lunch that costs RM9 goes up by 10 per cent to become RM9.90. “Imagine a family with two children eating at a fast-food outlet, a RM45 bill will go up by RM4.50 to become RM49.50,” he said. -Bernama

TUESDAY-10TH JUNE 2008- CASH REBATES FROM SAT

Cash rebates from sat
Abdullah brings forward payment to ease people’s burden with fuel prices hike

PUTRAJAYA:

The Government has announced that cash rebates payment to qualified private car owners, previously scheduled for July 1, has been brought forward to this Saturday to lighten the burden of the people following the massive increase in the prices of fuel. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said car owners who had renewed their road tax in April and May this year would also be able to get their payments at the Post Office on that day. The detailed information on the matter would be disclosed soon, he told reporters after chairing the first meeting of the Anti-Inflation Committee at his office here yesterday. Owners of cars up to 2,000cc, as well as pick-up trucks and jeeps up to 2,500cc, will get RM625 for each vehicle while motorcyclists with vehicles up to 250cc will receive RM150 each. Abdullah said to further ease the burden arising from the fuel prices hike, the fleet card quota, which enabled public transportation companies to buy diesel at a subsidised price, would also be increased. “Public transports which have fleet cards facility will still be able to buy diesel at the old price of RM1.43 per litre. “To ensure that public transportation fares are maintained, the Government decided that the diesel quota, which can be bought with the fleet card facility, will be increased,” he said. The types of vehicles qualified for the fleet card facility would also be expanded to cover factory buses, and taxis which are powered by petrol he said. The fleet card quota would be determined by the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, he added. The price of petrol shot to US$138 per barrel in the global market, forcing the Government to restructure the fuel subsidy. The retail price of petrol is now at RM2.70, up by 78 sen effective last Thursday. - Bernama

MONDAY-9TH JUNE 2008- CONVERSATION MEASRURES TO PROTECT SABAH ELEPHANTS

Conservation measures to protect Sabah elephants

KOTA KINABALU:

Several conservation measures were recommended to enable the future viability of Bornean elephants in Sabah at an international workshop held at Shangri La’s Rasa Ria Resort last month. Issues such as human-elephant conflict, elephant management, habitat management, research and education, fund raising and tourism were discussed and priority actions were set. First, the conference identified four major elephant areas and urged their declaration as ‘managed elephant ranges’: Lower Kinabatangan, Tabin, Deramakot-Sebuku, Ulu Kalumpang. These four elephant ranges should ideally be maintained under natural forest management and all necessary measures to re-establish connectivity within and between these ranges need to be investigated. Other major recommendations included the establishment of a Borneo Elephant Conservation Alliance (BECA) to encourage collaboration and communication among all stakeholders involved in elephant management in Sabah. This alliance will help coordinate fundraising, conservation, research, education and information sharing; produce urgent basic biological information on the Bornean elephant to better understand the dynamics and the ecology of this species in Sabah; decide for and implement a moratorium on new oil palm development within 500m on both sides of the Kinabatangan River and include all State lands covered with forest and adjacent to the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary (LKWS) into the LKWS, more attention to be given to the problem of elephant crop raiding and conflict mitigation; and create a management committee for Responsible Elephant Tourism(RET), chaired by the State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment.As stated by Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun at the closing ceremony on May 23, “Time is running out fast and there are not many animals left in the wild. If we do not do something urgently I think we are going to lose these animals. This wildlife, as part of the State natural heritage, is the very reason why people come to Sabah. We need to protect wildlife and its natural habitat!” The workshop was hosted by the State Government and co-organised by the Sabah Wildlife Department, Cardiff University, the NGO HUTAN, Universiti Malaysia Sabah and WWF-Malaysia. Funding was provided by the Darwin Initiative for the Survival of Species (UK), the US Fish and Wildlife Service Asian Elephant Conservation Fund (USA), Borneo Conservation Trust (Sabah) and Rasa Ria Resort itself. Around 150 participants from around the globe attended the workshop, including elephant experts from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Gabon in central Africa, UK and USA. The aims of the workshop were to present the results of the works carried out during the last eight years and to discuss the results with all stakeholders involved in the conservation and the management of elephants in Sabah. The objectives were to provide a forum for presenting and discussing the results of ongoing studies about the Bornean elephant ecology, its distribution, movement and habitat use, the population genetics, and human-elephant conflicts; to provide sound management recommendations for securing elephants’ long-term survival in Sabah; and to produce a resolution endorsed by all workshop participants and to be tabled before the Sabah State Government in the near future. The workshop was opened by Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Bolkiah Haji Ismail and closed by Masidi, to whom the resolution was presented.

MONDAY-9TH JUNE 2008- UMS MEDICAL SCHOOL READY IN THREE YEARS

UMS MEDICAL SCHOOL READY IN THREE YEARS

KOTA KINABALU:

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) has created history again as it will soon have its own Medical School building worth RM259 million. It will be among the nine higher learning institutions in the Country to have a Medical School. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled b Nordin in his speech during the ground breaking ceremony of the building yesterday, said that the Federal Government had approved 19 selected projects for the development of UMS under the Ninth Malaysia Plan involving a sum of RM644.389 million. The Medical School which is to be built on 35 acres of land in the main UMS campus, is among the 19 approved projects. “The cost of constructing the school includes the administration office, teaching and learning laboratory, cost related to biomedical, family health, surgery and research centres,” he said. Khaled added apart from being a centre of knowledge, the school could also help to meet the manpower needs. He said one of the Government’s main focuses on developing human capital is to produce more doctors to ease the shortage in the Country. According to him, the current ratio of one doctor to 1,350 people shows that the country still needs doctors. “The Government is aiming to have a ratio of one doctor to 650 people. Now we have about 21,000 doctors in the country. We still need 20,000 more,” Khaled said, adding the school would take three years to complete. Upon completion, the intake of medical students will be increased to 150 a year from the current intake of 71. UMS Vice Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Noh Dalimin, who was present at the ceremony, said that opportunity for the University to develop new programs, especially in the medical fields and other related fields, would be opened widely once the building is completed. This can also help to enhance the level of health in community as well as the level of medical services in Sabah and generally in Malaysia, he said. He hoped that more studies could be done, especially on the problem of thalassaemia faced by villagers in Kudat. According to Mohd Noh, to date UMS has a total of 329medicalstudents and has 61 lecturers, including from overseas. Mohd Noh who is going to retire next week, also said that they are waiting for the completion of the Rural Medical Centre in Sikuati, Kudat which is being built at a cost of RM15million on 10 acres of land. He is confident that the University’s desire to have its own teaching hospital will be materialized soon under the Higher Education Ministry’s leadership. Mohd Noh also said that UMS students are using the Likas and Queen Elizabeth Hospitals and other nearby hospitals to do practical training. Also present at the ceremony were Mayor Datuk Iliyas Ibrahimand deans and department heads of the UMS.