TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- LOOK INTO EDU-TOURISM, URGES MINISTER

Look into edu-tourism, urges Minister

KOTA KINABALU:

Tourism is the future industry of Sabah and edu-tourism is the next course of action for the tourism industry players in the State to look into, said Datuk Masidi Manjun. According to the Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, people do not need a special skills to be involved in the industry, but they have to master the English language and public relations in order to survive in the globalised world. “People who want to be involved in the tourism industry have to improve themselves by learning to communicate better,” he said after a briefing by Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNITAR) Adjunct Professor and CEO of Sabah International Dynamic Management College (SIDMA College), Professor Dr Morni Haji Kambri. The briefing touched on SIDMA’s introduction of UNITAR Bachelor of Hospitality Management (Tourism) which will start its first intake in July 2008 and the college rebranding by adopting SIDMA College which is currently known as UNlTAR Sabah Regional Center. According to Masidi, edu-tourism can be created as a new niche to attract more tourists who will spend their tourism dollars in the State and edu-tourists who end up furthering their studies in Sabah will spend as much as RM40,000 in the State. “This will create a chain reaction and provide revenue to supporting services in the State Such as travel agents, in-bound tour operators, food courts and restaurants,” he said. Meanwhile, Morni said that the course would create a pathway for the hundreds of Sabah students who are currently doing their diploma in the tourism-related fields at various private colleges such as ATI College and Inti College. He added that it is very timely for SIDMA College which is the first private university to offer the course because the students here have to go to Peninsular Malaysia after completing their diploma before. “I am very optimistic that this course offered by SIDMA College together with UNITAR will also be able to bring in more overseas students,” he said.

TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- MALAYSIAN STUDENTS LACK DESIRE TO EXCEL IN STUDIES: MASIDI

Malaysian students lack desire to excel in studies: Masidi

KOTA KINABALU:

The lack of desire to excel in studies seems to be the general common problem among Malaysian students. According to Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun, they are also quite satisfied with obtaining just average scores in their examinations, and more interested in finishing their studies quickly. “That is why they normally choose to pursue courses that are considered easy. Little do they know that the easier the course, the harder to find a job, while those who study harder courses tend to be absorbed faster,” said Masidi, who is also the State Education Executive Councillor. He stressed that the problem with the younger generation today is that they do not have the perseverance and drive for excellence. “So parents should motivate their children to go beyond their capabilities,” he said when representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman at the Shell Educational Excellence Awards here yesterday. Masidi noted the attitude of some parents who preferred their children to pursue studies at universities or higher learning institutions nearer to home. “We cannot be too protective of our children just because we love them. We need to teach them to live their own lives. “One of these days, we will be gone and our children will only have themselves. They need to learn to survive on theft own. They cannot stay dependent on us forever,” he stressed, Earlier, in reading Musa’s speech, Masidi said the event witnessed the two most important elements, namely education and human capital, which in the globalised world should move alongside each other to see greater impact on the nation’s economy. “ We must be wise to properly plan education with innovative and creative measures so that the human capital would be of greater quality and more competitive to meet the current demand,” said Musa. Some 40 academically outstanding students from Sabah and Labuan received scholarships from Shell Malaysia to pursue their pre-university and first-degree studies at local and overseas universities. An additional 200 bursaries worth RM750 each were given to upper secondary students who performed outstandingly in their examinations. In total, the awards amount to over RM2.3 million in new sponsorships for students in Sabah and Labuan this year. For the first time, the batch of scholarship recipients also include post-Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia students who are being funded to pursue pre-university studies in Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia, diploma, foundation, matriculation and A-Level courses. according to Shell Malaysia Exploration and Production Managing Director Wee Yiaw Hin, they have been sponsoring deserving students over 40 years and most had emerged to lead or serve the nation in various corporate, social, political and academic capabilities. “Each year, we invest RM11 million nationwide in various educational assistance or capacity- building programmes and of this amount, 60 percent is invested in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said. Apart from offering bursaries and scholarships, Shell also indulges in several skills development and education-related activities for youth such as Campus Ambassador Programme, Malaysian Young Designers Awards, Shell Traffic Games and Nature Education “It is with conviction that Shell Malaysia will continue to invest in these educational programmes and youth development initiatives. Not least as they are designed to nurture our younger citizens particularly, and enable our local communities to develop themselves and eventually grow their own economic capabilities” said Wee.

TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- YONG LIKELY TO BE SUMMONED TO SABAH ACA OFFCE TODAY

Yong likely to be summoned to Sabah ACA office today

KOTA KINABALU:

Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Yong Teck Lee is likely to be summoned to the State’s Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) office here today in connection with alleged graft involving RM5 million when he was the Sabah Chief Minister. According to a reliable source, Yong is required to be at the ACA office at about 2.30pm. It is not known whether the ACA is trying to build up a case against him or to collect more information to assist its investigation into the case. Yong had earlier alleged that the ACA’s move in opening investigation papers on him was a threat and questioned the timing, a day after Yong declared he had lost confidence in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on June 18. On Saturday, ACA Director- General Datuk Seri Ahmad Said Hamdan said the ACA had opened investigation papers on Yong in connection with the case. On June 19, the Kuala Lumpur High Court was told that Yong had ordered the payment of over RM5 million profit from the sale of shares belonging to a State-owned company to his selected agents in 1996. Ahmad Said said ACA took the action because elements of corruption existed following the testimony of a witness during the trial. He said it was normal practice for who gave the evidence in court the ACA to open investigation papers following evidence given by witnesses in court. Ahmad Said said the investigation papers were opened not just on Yong but also eight other people named as recipients of the RM5 million and Briskmark Enterprise Sdn Bhd former director Datuk Wasli Mohd Said, who gave the evidence in court regarding the matter. -Bernama

TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- CALL FOR SAPP MPs TO RESIGN TRICKY-ANALYST

Call for SAPP MPs to resign tricky-analyst

KOTA KINABALU:

The move of Barisan Nasional (BN) supporters to put up banners at different locations in Tawau two days ago, urging their Member of Parliment Datuk Chua Soon Bui to resign, has turned up the heat on Sabah politics. They say Chua’s decision to support a motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is tantamount to a betrayal of the people’s mandate in the recent general election. The banners — which read “Sila letak jawatan kerana telah mengkhianati kepercayaan dan mandat rakyat Tawau pada pilihanraya 2008. Hidup Barisan Nasional” (Please resign for betraying the Tawau people’s trust and mandate in the 2008 election. Long live Barisan Nasional) — were placed in the east coast town of Tawau in protest against Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) for supporting such a motion. Over in the west coast of Sabah, particularly in Sepanggar parliamentary constituency, a group of BN supporters made similar outburst albeit in a lighter tone, expressing their regrets over the statements by SAPP president Datuk Yong Teck Lee and their MP Datuk Eric Majimbun, belittling Abdullah’s leadership as Prime Minister and BN Chairman. Local political analyst Lesaya Lopog Sarudim views the protest as a “natural effect” of the political jolt delivered by SAPP but he considers the call to resign as politically tricky. “The voters are asking Chua to resign because of what she said (in support of a motion of no confidence). In my view, both Chua and Eric have not betrayed the people yet because they are still the representative of the people and they are still in BN. “What they are fighting for is actually the rights of the voters who happen to be the people of Sabah. “If they succeed in what they are doing, it is not only the voters of Tawau and Sepanggar that will benefit but the entire voters of Sabah, whether they voted for the BN or the opposition,” he told Bernama here yesterday. On June 18, Chua and Eric issued statements acknowledging their support for a vote of no confidence against the Prime Minister. In supporting the call for the motion, the two MPs and SAPP highlighted several issues affecting Sabah, including the request for 20 per cent in oil royalty, the return of Labuan and the immediate solution to the illegal immigrant problems. Both Chua and Eric had said that they were ready to face the music for their declaration of no confidence in the Prime Minister’s leadership. “This is a tricky position for the duo. Moving forward or backward is not an easy way for them. But I think the people should give them a chance,” he said. He said in Sabah, there were many BN component parties with different political platforms and ideologies and it was only natural for them to react in certain way when other component members belittled the leadership. Lesaya said the call by SAPP for a vote of no confidence against the Prime Minister showed that there was already a big crack in the State BN coalition. However, he said, BN component parties should find the best way to address the Sabah people’s longstanding grouses without resorting to a hardline stand. “Some people suggested that Sabah BN should call its first meeting and have a regular meeting after that. “This is the first step. We may not be able to solve all the problems but at least this is where we can listen to each other’s views. “At the Parliamentary level, there should be a regular meeting as well... if this happens, then we won’t have problems. “Sabah BN leaders should bring up problems with one voice, loud and clear,” he said adding that even United Pasokmomogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) shared SAPP’s views on the issue of illegal immigrants. Bernama

TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- SAPP MPs SHOULD UPHOLD BN DISCIPLINE: SHABERY

SAPP MPs should uphold BN discipline: Shabery

KUALA LUMPUR:

Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) Members of Parliament (MPs) were voted in on the Barisan Nasional (BN) ticket in the March 8 election and as such should be more responsible and uphold BN discipline, said Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek. He said it was not the BN way to question its leadership. “Like in a family, it is not right for a member to talk bad about the family to outsiders, what more to cooperate with enemies of the family just because they promised better things. “If the SAPP MPs feel that they need to serve the people, they have no other choice but to remain in BN. They must take a different path from their own leader, who has gone against the BN top leadership,” he told reporters at Parliament lobby here yesterday. Ahmad Shabery, who is also Kemaman MP, said SAPP MPs must make a stand whether to accept their leader’s action or respect the wishes of the people for them to serve under BN. SAPP President Datuk Yong Teck Lee recently announced that the party had lost confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and that its two MPs, Datuk Eric Majimbum (Sepanggar) and Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui (Tawau), would support a motion of no-confidence against Abdullah in Parliament. However, when asked about the presence of the two MPs in Parliament yesterday, Ahmad Shabery said:” I have yet to see them.” Meanwhile, Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said to date, the Speaker’s office had yet to receive any notification about a motion of no-confidence against the Prime Minister. -Bernama

TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- SIDIN, THIRD SABAHAN TO BE MADE POLICE COMMISSIONER- THIS TIME IN T'GANU

Sidin, third Sabahan to be made Police Commissioner - this time in T’ganu

KOTA KINABALU:

SAC I Sidin Abdul Karim was all positive when he received a call in May to inform him of his promotion and transfer to oil- producing State Terengganu this month. “I felt honoured, especially as the call came during my ‘crucial time’. I am turning 55 next month and the promotion as the Terengganu Commissioner of Police is just timely, it is one of the desired posts and I am proud to be given the opportunity to carry such an important responsibility,” he said. Sidin handed over the Police Management Department Chief post to his successor, ACP Izhar Ibrahim, during a simple ceremony at the Kepayan Police Headquarters here, yesterday. He is the third Sabahan to be appointed as Police Commissioner after Datuk Henry Chin, who served in Kuala Lumpur in the 1990s, and Mayor Datuk Iliyas Ibrahim, who was the State Police Commissioner in 2005. Sidin, who was born and raised in Semporna, joined the Force on July 19, 1973. He had served all over the State and held important posts such as Melaka Tengah District Police Chief, D7 Assistant Director General for two years, and Forensic Assistant Director General before he was posted back to Sabah and held the Police Management Chief post for 17 months, prior to his current promotion. He admitted that being the person overseeing crime-related activities in a different state is a challenge to him. “When I reported for duty on June 12, I had to adapt myself to the new surroundings. First there was the language barrier but I had to blend in. After some time, I find Terengganu as a nice place. I hope Twill be able to perform well, thanks to the guidance from Datuk Noor Rashid (Sabah Police Commissioner) and my senior colleagues... I will work hard, not for my own satisfaction, but for the people,” said Sidin, advising young officers to work hard. “It is important for the young officers to work hard, forget the promotions as it will come to you later. We must perform well so that when we think back, we will have no regrets,” Sidin said. Noor Rashid who witnessed the handing over of duties described Sidin as a hardworking and committed officer. “It was with his tireless contributions and friendliness that helped me and the Force to tackle the challenges in Sabah. He has vast knowledge on Preventive Laws and I hope he will be able to share it with his men in Terengganu,” said Noor Rashid. According to Noor Rashid, being the Head of the Police Force is like a being ‘father’ to his personnel. “We want to lead our ‘children’ to doing the right things. We want to be part of their success. It is always a proud moment for me when I see my men get promoted as those who performed well deserve promotions at least someday, somehow, you can tell your friends that he or she had served under your leadership. “To be a good officer, one has to be knowledgeable and possess the spirit to perform the best. If you have the knowledge but you do not use it well, it would such a waste. “So when you get a promotion, take the challenge and do your best, as in the end, you will get the best job satisfaction,” he said.

TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- YONG SAYS SAPP MPs CALLED BACK TO KK DUE TO DISTURBING EVENTS OVER 'VOTE'

Yong says SAPP MPs called back to KK due to disturbing events over ‘vote’

KOTA KINABALU:

SAPP President Datuk Yong Teck Lee has claimed that ever since the Party announced the planned tabling of no-confidence motion against the Prime Minister last Wednesday, its leaders had been advised by friendly parties not to underestimate the risky consequences and likely threats. He said in a statement yesterday that events in the last 24 hours had taken a disturbing turn, among others, “we have received reports that of intimidating and bullying tactics”. He said the Party’s two lawmakers — Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui (Tawau) and Datuk Eric Majimbun (Sepanggar) were absent from Parliament when it resumed on Monday, saying they had been recalled to Kota Kinabalu to discuss their safety and that of their families and offices. Several illegal banners instigating unspecified actions against the Tawau MP appeared overnight in Tawau, and a demonstration at the office of the Tawau MP will be held today, which was originally to be held after the last Friday prayers, according to Yong. He said SAPP had advised its Tawau officials to lodge a police report, and not to provoke the demonstrators and take leave from the office until the tension has eased at a later date. At an Umno gathering of several hundred in Kota Kinabalu on Sunday, aggressive words touching on racial incitement were used, with Short Message Services (sms) and unidentified phone calls implying threats to the two MPs and their aides, Yong said. In view of this disturbing turn of events, SAPP has taken extra caution for the safety of its MPs by calling them back to the Party HQ in Kota Kinabalu for consultations on the next course of action, including the safety of their persons and families and the security of their offices, he said. “SAPP truly appreciates and is very encouraged by the tremendous outpouring of support for the Party over it’s move (on vote of no-confidence against the PM). Our perseverance on this course of action is very much helped in knowing that the people are with us,” he said. “we are deeply touched that brother and sister Malaysians every where, including in Peninsular and Sarawak and overseas are coming forward to support. We can feel the pent-up frustrations of ordinary Malaysians who want change, a change for the better,” he said.He further said SAPP is overwhelmed by the voices in the printed media, internet, emails, sms, blogs and so on. “Media discussions, be it in favour or not of SAPP, have successfully brought the Sabah issues to. the national focus. Never shall Sabah be looked down upon again,” he added. SAPP dropped a bombshell last week when it called for the vote against Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in a move analysts said could unleash defections to the Opposition. Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance has said it is reluctant to mount a no-confidence vote, but would use a parliamentary debate Monday on an unpopular fuel prices hike as a test of confidence. “The Pakatan Rakyat are trying to highlight the problems with the Government policies, and our opposition to today’s. (yesterday) motion shows the people’s lack of confidence,” said Azmin Ali, Vice President of the Keadilan party, which heads the alliance.

TUESDAY-24TH JUNE 2008- NO SHOW, NO MOTION

No show , no motion
Much anticipated vote of no-confidence fails to take place in Parliament

KUALA LUMPUR:

The much anticipated vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to be supported by Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) led by Datuk Yong Teck Lee failed to take place in yesterday’s Dewan Rakyat sitting. The sitting only saw the tabling of one motion on the hike in fuel and goods prices tabled by Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad. The motion is being debated by Members of Parliament. Shahrir replied to points raised by MPs on the motion before the sitting adjourned yesterday. As this report was being written, the two SAPP MPs - Datuk Eric Enchin Majimbun (BN-Sepanggar) and Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui (BN-Tawau) - whom Yong said would support the no-confidence motion, were not in the house. When contacted, Eric, who is also SAPP Deputy President, said he had to return to Sabah to pay his last respects to a relative who had died. Dr Chua, a party Vice-President, could not be reached for comments. Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the Speaker’s Office did not receive any motion to move a no-confidence vote against the Prime Minister. Instead, DAP Adviser and MP for Ipoh Timur Lim Kit Siang submitted a notice to the Speaker’s Office on Sunday for an emergency motion to discuss the latest allegation on the murder of Mongolian woman Altantuya Shaariibuu. Under Standing Order 18 (1), a motion must be sent to the Speaker’s Office 24 hours before it can be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat sitting and whether the motion can be tabled or otherwise, it is up to the Speaker’s discretion. The Speaker will consider the notice for the emergency motion on three grounds - the issue is specific, of public interest and urgent. He has the power to reject a motion if it does not fulfill one of the three grounds. -Bernama

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- FOOD PRICES IN PENINSULAR CHEAPER THAN THOSE IN SABAH, SARAWAK

Food prices in Peninsular cheaper than those in Sabah, Sarawak

KOTA KINABALU:

Food prices in Sabah and Sarawak are still higher than those in Peninsular Malaysia, according to the weekly marketing guide posted on the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry’s website. While all the States in Peninsular Malaysia show a significant increase in food prices, such as those for poultry and vegetables, in Sabah and Sarawak they are at least 10 per cent to 15 per cent costlier. However, the prices of seafood like fish and prawns are much cheaper. Ikan kembung hitam and hijau (local) cost only RM6 in Kuching and Kota Kinabalu while in Seremban, Kuala Lumpur, Johor Baru and Alor Star they cost between RM7.50 to RM10 per kg. Prawn (small) costs only RM6 in both Sabah and Sarawak while in Kangar, Malacca, Ipoh and Penang they cost between RM8 to’ as high as RM16 per kg. “This is probably due to proximity. Sabah and Sarawak share a border with the province of East Kalimantan of Indonesia in the South,” said a trader in the SS2, PJ, market. “The traders don’t need to import seafood from the Peninsula so they don’t need to increase the price to make huge profits,” he said. When it comes to dry food, Kota Kinabalu still records the highest prices. Eggs (A, B and C grade) are about 8 per cent to 10 per cent more expensive and the same goes for the different types of vegetables, Qnions and garlic. And while the price of red onions is between RM1.40 and RM2 in Kuantan, Terengganu and Penang, in Sabah the red are priced at RM4 per kg. Shallots are sold at RM6 in Sabah and Sarawak while in the peninsula they are sold between only RM2.50 and RM4 per kg. Sabah has some beautiful places worth visiting and one of them is the Central Market in Kota Kinabalu. The market has two sections - the waterfront area for fish and an area in front of the harbour for fruits and vegetables. Other things to look out for are orchids and grapes imported from the United States and asparagus that is grown on the slopes of Mount Kinabalu. The prices of the food may be on the high side but you are guaranteed produce that is fresh as it is grown locally. The market offers almost everything, from a betel nut chew (a local concoction which leaves the mouth bright red), strange jungle fruits, nose-tingling spices and fresh herbs. Amid the stalls selling souvenirs are small outlets where Malaysian artists display their works. Here, visitors may even have their portrait painted or order custom-made crafts. In case you ever get bored, just outside the market is a riverside amphitheatre where there’s always a wayang kulit show, as well as more contemporary entertainment for the younger crowds. Another market that is worth mentioning is the one next to the wet market, in the waterfront area. The market is aptly-named Filipino Market, as most of the stalls are owned by Filipinos who sell a wide range of souvenirs, as well as fashion apparel.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- NABAWAN TO HAVE CLINIC WITH WARD FACILITIES

Nabawan to have clinic with ward facilities

KENINGAU:

A RM20 million health clinic will be built in Nabawan District under the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP), said Nabawan Assemblyman Datuk Bobbey Suan. He said the cost of the clinic had been approved by the Health Ministry. “The Nabawan people are still waiting for the construction of this clinic which will provide ward facilities,” he told reporters after officiating the Keningau channa agroindustry awareness workshop at Perkasa I lotel here on Saturday. Bobbey, who is the Assistant Agriculture and Food Industry Minister, represented the Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Sen Panglima Haji Yahya Hussin at the function. He added a 50-acre site for the clinic had already been provided since 1980. He also said the construction of a library costing RM1.5 million had started and expected to be completed early next year. “Other projects being planned in Nabawan are water and electricity supplies and upgrading of roads. I hope these projects could be implemented in the 9MP,” he said. Bobbey also disclosed that the hybrid solar project in Pagalungan sub-district to supply electricity to the people in the area is 90 percent completed. Only the wiring to building is yet to be fixed. Meanwhile, the Assemblyman advised the people in the area, especially in Pensiangan, to be more prudent in their spending following the hike of fuel and goods prices. He said the best way to lessen their burden is to plant commercial crops on their idle land. On channa fish breeding, Bobbey said it could assist in poverty eradication among the rural people. He said the project was part of the Sabah Development Corridor (SDC) for middle corridor besides the Jatrapha Research Centre in Nabawan and Handicraft Centre in Keningau. On the prices of dairy products, Bobbey said that his Ministry had asked the Veterinary Services Department to prepare a working paper on prices revision. “All decisions made will be brought at the Cabinet meeting for consideration,” he said. On the proposed revival of the Sabah Padi Board, he said that many factors had to be taken based on experience faced by the Government. He said the Ministry would prepare a working paper on the proposal.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- TENOM THALASSAEMIA SUFFERERS VISIT KK

Tenom thalassaemia sufferers visit KK

KOTA KINABALU:

Seventeen thalassaemia sufferers from the Tenom Thalassaemia Association (TTA) capped their two-day visit to the State Capital with a dinner hosted by the Chernicky Welfare Organisation Kota Kinabalu Sabah (CeWOS) recently. CeWOS President Johnny Mositun said the dinner was like a reunion for them because the children were among CeWOS’ first beneficiaries when it donated RM20,000 to the TTA for the improvement of facilities at its premises. There are 36 patients in the Association but only 17 could make it for the trip as some of them were taken ill. “Sadly, since our last meeting in 2006. three of them are no longer with us. So, for CeWOS, we are doing whatever we can to make them feel comfortable. “Hopefully, more people will come forward to provide assistance in whatever form so as to lessen their burden and forget a little bit about their sufferings,” said Mositun who is also a Deputy Speaker. He also presented “angpow’ to the children during the dinner also attended by CeWOS Treasurer-General Theresa Chong who is the benefactor, David Chernicky’s foster sister and co-organiser Dr Alex Leong at one of the leading restaurants in Penampang. The children had visited places like the Lok Kawi Wildlife Zoo and Crocodile Farm in Tuaran.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- MAKTAB NASIONAL WINS LAW MOCK TRIAL CONTEST

Maktab Nasional wins Law Mock Trial Contest

KOTA KINABALU:

Maktab Nasional emerged champion in the second Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Law Mock Trial Competition after they defeated Sekolah Menengah Yu Yuan of Sandakan at the High Court here on Saturday. During the mock trial presided over by Sessions Court Judge Ravinthran Paramaguru, teams from each school pitted against each other in a battle of wits and legal manoeuvres to simulate a real courtroom scenario. The competition was jointly organised by the Sabah QUT Alumni, Sabah Law Association (SLA) and International Education Consultancy (IEC). It was sponsored by the Faculty of Law at QUT. Eight secondary schools in Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan participated in the competition which commenced in April this year. They were SM All Saints, SM La Salle, SM Lok Yuk, KK High School, SM Tshung Tsin, Maktab Nasional, SM Sung Siew and SM Yu Yuan. Maktab Nasional was represented by Kimberley Lo and Karen Lui who acted as first and second barristers respectively, Jeremy Tan as solicitor, Kohinoor Kaur and Leland Chong as first and second witnesses respectively, and Natasha Sim as Magistrate’s Assistant. The team was led by teacher cum advisor Alexander Funk and legal coaches Brendon Soh and Grace Chaw. Maktab Nasional received a cash prize of RM3,000 and a championship trophy, while SM Yu Yuan and SM Lok Yuk received RM2,000 and RM1 ,000 for finishing second and third respectively.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- STUDENTS OF SM TEKNIK KENINGAU TRAIN AT NEXUS RESORT

Students of SM Teknik Keningau train at Nexus Resort

KOTA KINABALU:

For the first time in Malaysia, a vocational school has introduced an attachment programme for its students to gain first-hand experience in an actual work environment. Since 2006, SM Teknik Keningau has included a one-week practical attachment as part of the Bakery Course for students taking their MPAV and SPM examinations. The two modules involved are the Bread and Yeast and Patisserie. The objective of this exercise is to give students the opportunity to gain as much practical knowledge as possible directly from the related industry before they graduate. In turn, they will be able to apply their academic knowledge and expertise in an actual work situation. This will help the students develop a higher level of confidence in their ability and capability in this field before venturing into the work force. Nexus Resort Karambunai is the first resort chosen by SM Teknik Keningau to place its students. Two groups totalling 18 students underwent their one-week training between May 25 and June 7 this year. They were accompanied by two chaperones from the school and stayed at the resort staff campus. The students were supervised by Chef Marcel Riemer, Executive Sous Chef at Nexus Resort, and were given the opportunity to learn not only about pastry and baking but also how the other kitchens operate as well. Currently, the industrial training offered at SM Teknik Keningau is for the Form 5 students 2007/08 session. This is the first time such a programme is carried out by a vocational school in Malaysia. This type of training is usually organized by institutes of higher learning such as polytechnics and other industrial training institutes. However this type of programme is actually very useful to ensure SPM graduates from technical and vocational schools have the right foundation to get involved in the food service industry.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- MARE'S MILK CAN HELP FIGHT DISEASES

Mare’s milk can help fight diseases

KUALA LUMPUR:

The wild mare’s milk if taken regularly can help prevent the growth of cancer cells, according to a study. Besides preventing the growth of cancer cells, it also slows down the ageing process, relieves the effects of stress and is beneficial for the treatment of dengue, diabetes and asthma. Nevertheless, the benefit derived from the consumption of wild mares milk could vary in individuals. This was confirmed by Associate Professor Dr Rozita Rosli, who is the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (Postgraduate and Research) at Universiti Putra Malaysia. “We were the pioneers of the study on mare’s milk in 1997,” she said. Research on mares milk had already proven that compared to cow and goat’s milk, the composition of mares milk closely resembles mothers milk. It has significant anti-cancer properties that could kill or retard the generation of cancer cells, she added. Dr Rozita noted that the focus of the study was on the reaction mechanism of the mare’s milk from the Niemans breed on two types of leukemia and another four types of cancer - ovary, breast and colon. In the in-vitro analysis on leukemia patients found that the mare’s milk was able to destroy some 50 to 60 percent of the cancer cells in tests conducted at the university. “This goes to show that the wild mares milk has significant anti-cancer properties that could kill or retard the generation of cancer cells,” she added. In 1996, Setia Brothers Sdn Bhd, producer and sole distributor of wild mares milk as a health supplement, introduced its product called Niemans SKL to Malaysian consumers. Setia’s Managing Director Norhayati Abdul Rahim said, over the years, the product has gained a reputation as an effective anti-cancer agent and is increasingly popular among local consumers. In preparing to penetrate the international market, Niemans SKL has undergone a rebranding exercise, and is now packaged under the brand name Niemans Feramilch. “Where our products were previously only available in liquid form in 200ml to 500m1 bottles, we have now included capsules packed in blister packets as well,” she added. According to Norhayati, the company’s re-branding process not only involved transforming and enhancing its product image through quality packaging but also enhanced with nutraceutical innovation incorporating ingredients not found in similar products that are currently in the market. - Bernama

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- MOTION FORCES CHINA TOURISTS TO CANCEL TRIP TO SABAH: CHIN

Motion forces China tourists to cancel trip to Sabah: Chin

KOTA KINABALU:

Parti Bersatu Sabah(PBS) Supreme Council member Kapitan Chin Tek Ming yesterday said it was morally wrong for Sabah Progressive Party President Datuk Seri Panglima Yong Teck Lee to move a vote of no-confidence against the Prime Minister. “Yong has again tried to use the illegal immigrants issue and Chinese leader platform to hero and has used Chinese community as his pawn in his political chess game,” he charged in a statement yesterday. Chin claimed that Yong had kept silent on the issues of returning Labuan to Sabah and Petroleum royalty when he was the Chief Minister. “He ought to know that such issues needed to be discussed among the people of Labuan, Sarawak and Sabah in order to reach the best solution. Why didn’t he ask for the return of Labuan when he was the Chief Minister?” he asked. According to him, Yong is engineering SAPP’s exit from the BN by creating conditions that would lead to the dismissal of the Party so that he can emerge as a hero and as a saviour of the rights of Sabahans. Chin also said that since the general election had passed, all the parties must settle down and do their work so that we can go through this I hard time together instead of creating political turmoil and putting Malaysia in political instability. “I received complaints from a few travel agencies that they have tens of chartered flights from China until the end of this year which were cancelled recently upon the announcement of the motion to be tabled by SAPP. Our people and Government have lost the chance to earn these foreign currencies and our tourism industries have been badly hit,” he said.

MONDAY-23 APRIL 2008- REGARD SABAH, SARAWAK AS PARTNERS AND NOT SONS: YONG

Regard Sabah, Sarawak as partners and not sons: Yong

KOTA KINABALU:

The Federal Government should regard Sabah and Sarawak as their ‘partners’ rather than ‘sons’, said Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Yong Teck Lee. Yong stressed that the Federal Government should do away with the ‘father and son’ superiority, where the Barisan Nasional Government tends to bow to the mentality of a father disciplining their children. “That seems to be the way they treat us in Sabah. When we are naughty or making too much noise, they give us some sweets. “This is not a healthy relationship. It makes us unwilling to listen, and not open up and express our feelings,” he said, referring to statements made by BN Secretary-General Tengku Adnan Mansor about SAPP’s move to support the vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in the Parliament sitting. The former Chief Minister said history showed that both Sabah and Sarawak along with West Malaysia were joined together to form Malaysia, and therefore the two States deserved to be viewed as equals. “It would be much healthier if the Federal Government could adjust their mentality, attitude and mindset that we are actually partners, rather than sons. “We hope that what we see now (that the whole nation is a political debate), will bring about change in how the central leadership looks at the two States,” he told reporters at the SAPP’s mobile service booth at the Sunday Gaya Street market, where the Party leaders would spend time to listen to public grouses. Yong who was also at the booth yesterday which attracted a big crowd and many stopped by to chat or shake his hands. Touching on Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s comment that BN will remain strong despite SAPP’s no-confidence vote against the Prime Minister, Yong said that it was the expected response from the Party leadership. “They must say their part in order t consolidate the BN in view of what has been happening. I will just take what he said at face value,” said Yong. On support from other BN component parties, he said that at least two component parties would be happy to go along with whatever the Party leadership decides, but he hopes that the other component parties would lend their support. “I think that a lot of people will support us. I know certain leaders at the Federal level and from other States have basically lost confidence in the Prime Minister and some have indicated it within their own parties,” he said and hoped the vote for no confidence would be tabled during the Parliament session which begins today.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- IT'S WRONG FOR SAPP TO MAKE DECLARATION: LDP

It’s wrong for SAPP to make declaration: LDP

KOTA KINABALU:

It is principly wrong for Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) to openly declare their intent to initiate or support a vote of no-confidence on the Prime Minister in Parliament, said Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Secretary General Teo Chee Kang. “If SAPP has lost confidence in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s leadership, the honourable thing that they should have done before calling for a vote of no confidence is to quit from the Barisan Nasional first. Whether or not they actually do it in Parliament tomorrow (Monday), irrepairable damage is already done to the Barisan Nasional, said Teo in a statement yesterday. He said shortly after the Government’s unpopular decision of the increase in fuel prices, while the public opinion on the Government is down, Datuk Yong Teck Lee saw this as a ‘window of opportunity’ to perform his political stunt for furtherance of his personal agenda under the pretext of fighting for State’s rights. “Criticising SAPP does not mean that we disagree with them on the several issues raised by them such as illegal immigrants and eradication of poverty in Sabah. Liberal Democratic Party is also vocal when it comes to issues concerning the people. We voice out the people’s grouses in the right forum, but we do not subscribe to such unprincipled tactic,” Teo said. By saying that BN no longer exists in Sabah and that it is only in form but not inspirit and substance, he said Yong had actually insulted the whole ruling coalition in Sabah under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Hj Aman. “Datuk Raymond Tan was right when he took the stand that SAPP, as a BN component Party, could not move the vote of no-confidence. But now he seems confused because although he takes the opposite stand, he still chooses to remain in SAPP, and now he is begging the Prime Minister not to take action against his own colleagues for having done something which he disapproves,” he added.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- UPKO UNDECIDED ON NO-CONFIDENCE VOTE

Upko undecided on no-confidence vote

KOTA KINABALU:

Upko has not decided on which way to go should a no-confidence vote against the Prime Minister come up in Parliament, its Deputy President Datuk Wilfred Bumburing said. However, Upko President Tan Sri Bernard Dompok had earlier said the Party had “no plans to play hero” during such a vote. Bumburing said whatever the decision, Upko would participate in any debate should the vote come up. “We cannot deny that we share Sabah Progressive Party’s views on issues pertaining to the migrant problem. “We are firm about this and we are unhappy about so-called Cabinet Committee to tackle Sabah’s illegal immigrant woes,” he said. Bumburing said a similar committee set up in 2002 had only one meeting. “It’s almost forgotten and now they are talking of the same thing,” he said, adding that a Royal Commission of Inquiry was a better option as it would be able to act on the problem firmly. Upko has four Members of Parliaments Party President and Minister in Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, Bumburing who is Tuaran MP, Datuk Dr Marcus Majigoh (Putatan MP) and Datuk Siringan Gubat (Ranau MP).

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- UMNO DIVISIONS FREE TO NOMINATE CANDIDATES: MUSA

Umno divisions free to nominate candidates: Musa

KOTA KINABALU:

All the 25 Sabah Umno divisions are free to nominate their choice of candidates for the Party elections in December. Sabah Umno Chief Datuk Seri Musa Aman, however, stressed that all branches and divisions must conduct their meetings in an orderly fashion and in accordance with Party rules and regulations. “What is important is for Umno to be strengthened in the State,” said the Chief Minister after chairing the State Liaison Committee meeting for the first time at its new multi-million ringgit two-storey building here yesterday. Musa said that at the meeting, he stressed on the importance for all Umno elected members to continue to work hard in their constituencies in view of the mandate given by the people. During the meeting, Sabah Umno fully endorsed its undivided support for Party President Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his Deputy Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in the light of current political developments, including Sabah Progressive Party’s push for a vote of no-confidence against Abdullah who is also the Prime Minister. On whether he will be defending his Supreme Council post or planning to seek a higher post in the Party, Musa said that it was too early for him to decide. The Umno branch meeting is scheduled to be held between July 17-Aug 24 while the divisional meeting is from Oct 9 to Nov 9. There are over 5,000 Umno branches in Sabah from the 25 divisions. “I am confident that everything (meeting) will all be in order, God willing,” he said. On another development, Musa, who is also the Sabah Barisan Nasional Chairman, disclosed that none of the Umno leaders will be ditching the Party for the Opposition. Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Deputy President Dr Syed Hussin Ali yesterday claimed that 10 Members of Parliament from Sabah and Sarawak will be joining the Opposition’s camp soon, stressing that it would then lead to a change of Government. “They can claim whatever they want. They have been dreaming of forming a new Government so let them be. “What is more important is for the Government’s elected representatives to play their role and fulfill the promises made to the people,” Musa reiterated.

MONDAY-23 JUNE 2008- GOVT HELP LOW-INCOME GROUP EARN MORE

Govt to help low-income group earn more

KUALA LUMPUR:

The Government will issue small business permit to low-income earners who are seeking to increase their income to cope with economic burden following the fuel prices hike, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said yesterday. The Prime Minister said Government employees could also apply for the permit, which would cover petty trading and hawker’s licences in locations such as agricultural market, night market and housing areas which had spaces for such purposes. “The permit can be short-term or long-term depending on the applicants’ requirement,” he told reporters after briefing the Barisan Nasional (BN) Members of Parliament on subsidy restructuring at the Auditorium Perdana, Angkasapuri. Answering a question, Abdullah said Government employees, however, needed to get permission from their department heads and that the business should not interfere with their office work. “If this is not causing them to neglect their work, they can apply... subject to approval from the heads of department,” he said. He said the Government was also coming up with plans to help the Orang Asli under the social safety net programme currently being finalised. Abdullah said the Government had also decided on steps to help the small-and-medium industry to cope with the burden arising from the fuel price hike. He said the anti-inflation committee had agreed to the measures but they needed to be scrutinised further by the Finance Ministry as they involved tax matters. “We will decide in the very near future. Although the Treasury has suggested that the matter be announced during the tabling of 2009 Budget in August, I feel that if they can be announced much earlier, it will be of great help to those in need,” he said. The Prime Minister also said following the high global fuel prices, specific directives would be issued to enhance energy efficiency. In this context, he said, the Government had agreed to find other sources of energy such as solar and wind power as well as biofuel and the possibility of developing nuclear energy. “But we need to study this (developing nuclear energy) because it is not easy to dispose of nuclear waste,” he said, adding that several companies had expressed interest in developing solar and wind power facilities. He said steps would also be taken to increase productivity in the commodity sector, such as oil palm, without increasing the areas for plantation. “This is a possibility which we can now implement following the advancement in technology,” said Abdullah. He said the Government also wanted to ensure that the innovation and creativity sector be strengthened, and administrative efficiency be enhanced, to lower the cost of doing business in Malaysia so that the country would continue to be a profitable business destination even with the high fuel price. He said Malaysians might also need to change their lifestyle, particularly in minimising waste in their daily lives. “I don’t mean we should be stingy. It’s just that we should avoid wastage... in good times or bad.” He said the short-term and long-term measures identified by the Government should be implemented for the benefit of the people in the long run. Asked how far the people accepted the fuel price hike recently, Abdullah said, there were those who understood the necessity due to the global oil price hike. “But there are those who still complain... that the hike is too high. But they should also accept the fact that despite the increase the government also implemented measures to lighten their burden,” he said. Abdullah said the people, however, are only interested in reacting to the issue and not the measures taken by the Government.