Malaysia’s new cabinet

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Najib Razakunveiled a cabinet to drive through his ambitious economic and political transformation agenda on Wednesday.

He said the cabinet included a mix of technocrats and civil society representatives, who bring valuable experience from outside government, as well as experienced ministers and younger faces.

The cabinet also draws on Malaysia's diverse ethnic communities, he said.

New faces include: Paul Low, anti-corruption campaigner and President of Transparency International (Malaysia), will be a Minister in the Prime Minister's Department. P. Waytha Moorthy, human rights activist and Chairman of Hindraf, an NGO that campaigns for equal rights for Malaysian Indians, will be a Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department.

Abdul Wahid Omar, President and CEO ofMaybank, one of Southeast Asia's top 5 banks that serves 22 million customers, will be a Minister in the Prime Minister's Department.

Khairy Jamaluddin, the 37 year-old MP re-elected MP for Rembau with a tripled majority of over 18,000 votes, will be Minister for Youth & Sports.

Abdul Rahman Dahlan, MP for Kota Belud in Sabah, will lead the new Ministry of Urban Wellbeing, Housing & Local Government.

"The new cabinet will be responsible for delivering transformation in Malaysia and continuing the economic and political reforms that began four years ago.

"The new ministers bring both the measured calm of experience, and the vibrant energy of new ideas; a grounding in anti-corruption and human rights law, and an appreciation for the dynamism of the private sector.

"Over the past months and years, divisions have opened up in Malaysian society. Now it is time for all of us, in government and beyond, to put the bitterness behind us, and work towards national reconciliation and national unity.

"It is in that spirit that I have asked these men and women to serve, not just as ministers, but as a unity Cabinet. Together we will act to bring about national reconciliation, secure Malaysia's economic future, and build a stronger, more harmonious society,” he said.

The new line-up of Ministers and Deputy Ministers:

*Prime Minister: Najib Razak (UMNO)

*Deputy Prime Minister: Muhyiddin Yassin (UMNO)

Prime Minister's Department:

*Ministers:

Jamil Khir Baharom (UMNO), 2. Abdul Wahid Omar (Senator), 3. Idris Jala (senator); 4. Joseph Kurup (PBRS), 5. Shahidan Kassim (UMNO), 6. Nancy Shukri (PBB), 7. Paul Low Seng Kwan (senator), 8. Joseph Entulu Belaun (PRS)

Deputy Ministers: 1. Razali Ibrahim (UMNO); 2. Waytha Moorthy Ponnusamy (Senator)

*Ministry of Finance:

Minister of Finance 1: Najib Razak (UMNO)

Minister of Finance 2: Ahmad Husni Mohamad Hanadzlah (UMNO)

Deputy Minister of Finance

Ahmad Maslan (UMNO)

Ministry of Transport:

Minister: (Acting post being held open pending MCA decision) Hishammuddin Hussein (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Ab Aziz Kaprawi (UMNO)

*Ministry of Defence

Hishammuddin Hussein (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Abdul Rahim Bakri (UMNO)

*Ministry of Home Affairs:

Minister: Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar (PBB)

*Ministry of Education & Higher Learning

Minister 1: Muhyiddin Yassin (UMNO)

Minister 2: Idris Jusoh (UMNO)

Deputy Minister 1: Mary Yap Kain Ching (PBS)

Deputy Minister 2: P. Kamalanathan (MIC)

*Ministry of Works:

Minister: Fadillah Yusof (PBB)

Deputy Minister: Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin (UMNO)

*Ministry of International Trade & Industry

Minister: Mustapa Mohamed (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Hamim Samuri (UMNO)

*Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Minister: Anifah Aman (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Hamzah Zainuddin

*Ministry of Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism

Minister: Hasan Malek (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Ahmad Bashah Mohamad Hanipah (Senator)

*Ministry of Communication & Multimedia

Minister: Ahmad Shabery Cheek (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Jailani Johari (UMNO)

*Ministry of Human Resources

Minister: Richard Riot Jaem (SUPP)

Deputy Minister: Ismail Abdul Muttalib (UMNO)

*Ministry of Rural & Regional Development

Minister: Shafie Apdal (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Alexander Nanta Linggi (PBB)

*Ministry of Urban Wellbeing, Housing & Local Government

Minister: Abdul Rahman Dahlan (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Halimah Mohamad Saddique (UMNO)

*Ministry of Youth & Sport

Minister: Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: M. Saravanan (MIC)

*Ministry of Health

Minister: S. Subramaniam (MIC)

Deputy Minister: Hilmi Yahaya (UMNO)

*Ministry of the Federal Territories

Minister: Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: J. Loga Bala Mohan (Senator)

*Ministry of Plantation Industries & Commodities

Minister: Douglas Uggah Embas (PBB)

Deputy Minister: Noriah Kasnon (UMNO)

*Miistry of Energy, Green Technology & Water

Minister: Maximus Johnity Ongkili (PBS)

Deputy Minister: Mahdzir Khalid (UMNO)

*Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry

Minister: Ismail Sabri Yaakob (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Tajuddin Abdul Rahman (UMNO)

*Ministry of Tourism & Culture

Minister: Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz (UMNO)

Deputy Minister: Joseph Salang Gandum (PRS)

*Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation

Minister: Ewon Ebin (UPKO)

Deputy Minister: Abu Bakar Mohamad Diah (UMNO)

*Ministry of Natural Resources & Environment

Minister: G. Palanivel (MIC)

Deputy Minister: James Dawos Mamit (PBB)

*Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development

Minister: Rohani Abdul Karim (PBB)

Deputy Minister: Azizah Mohamad Dun (UMNO)

Ministers: 30

Deputy Ministers: 27

Total: 57

Total ministries: 24

Sarawak Barisan the most popular By STEPHEN THEN stephenthen@thestar.com.my

MIRI: The state Barisan Nasional commands the biggest voter support compared to other states in the just-concluded 13th general election.

In pointing this out, Sarawak Barisan Wanita deputy chief Datuk Fatimah Abdullah said the statistics showed that 480,138 had voted for Barisan compared to Pakatan’s 340,508.

“It means that some 68% of the total number of those voting in Sarawak on May 5 remained loyal to the Barisan,” Fatimah, who is also Women, Welfare and Family Development Minister, said when she addressed some 1,000 people during a Mother’s Day gathering organised by PBB here, Sunday night.

She said it also meant that Sarawak enjoyed the highest popular vote among all the states.

“This is Sarawak’s contribution to Barisan at the national level, which is by no means small,” Fatimah said, adding that Sarawak and Sabah combined made that contribution even bigger.

On the role of the state’s women in politics, Fatimah said the fact that all four women candidates fielded by Barisan won spoke volumes of their contributions.

She went on to praise the women in the state for playing a big role in helping Barisan return to power.

She said Barisan women had played an important role, not just during the campaign period, but also through their outreach programmes for the people.

On the way forward, she said: “Barisan did very well in the polls but there is much more work to be done. We must start our ground works now to face the next state election.

“It is going to be tougher than the recent general election because all the big guns from the opposition will be setting their sights on Sarawak all at once."

Fatimah also said it was important to analyse the results of the May 5 polls to know the trend.

She said the Sarawak results showed that the scenario in the urban and rural areas had changed significantly.

“Factors at play in the urban and rural constituencies have changed.

“In rural Sarawak, development issues are still important in the context of basic infrastructure, amenities, education and health facilities.

“In urban areas, all these are already there. Voters look at other factors in deciding where their votes should go.

“Barisan must look at all these factors and adjust its strategies to enable it to remain relevant to urban voters,” she said.

State BN to propose names for cabinet

KUCHING: The state Barisan Nasional (BN) is expected to propose several names for inclusion in the new federal cabinet line-up to be announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president Tan Sri James Jemut Masing said the party had come up with a list of candidates to be proposed to Najib who is also the national BN chairman.
“Of course, I will definitely suggest a few names from PRS. In fact, I already have someone in mind as we speak but it is not for public consumption. I can’t reveal the list yet, not until we have a meeting with the prime minister within these next few days,” Masing, who is also Land Development Minister, said when contacted yesterday.
PRS has two deputy ministers in the last cabinet – Selangau MP Datuk Joseph Entulu (Rural and Regional Development Ministry) and Julau MP Datuk Joseph Salang (Information, Communications, Arts and Culture Ministry).
Masing hoped that PRS would be allocated a full ministerial post this time following its success in the just concluded election.
Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) president Tan Sri William Mawan, had suggested during a dinner in Bau on May 2 that Anthony Nogeh be appointed deputy minister of youth and sports if he won the Mas Gading seat. He also hoped that Anyi Ngau would be appointed a deputy minister if he won the Baram seat.
There was also a possibility that four-term Bintulu MP Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who is the BN backbencher chairman, be given a full ministerial post.
SPDP was also allocated two deputy minister posts in the previous cabinet, namely Transport Ministry and Ministry of International Trade and Industry in the person of Jelaing Mersat and Datuk Jacob Dungau Sagan – both were dropped from defending their respective Saratok and Baram seat.
Another post namely the National Service Training Council chairman which is being held by former Mas Gading MP Datuk Dr Tiki Lafe is said being reviewed by the Home Ministry following his decision to contest against BN.
Both PRS and SPDP recorded 100 per cent win in the Sunday polls. PRS triumphed in Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Kanowit, Julau, Hulu Rajang and Selangau while SPDP successfully defended Mas Gading, Saratok, Baram and Bintulu.
Meanwhile, SUPP president Datuk Seri Peter Chin Fah Kui said the party would leave it to the prime minister to decide on the federal cabinet post for its sole MP Datuk Richard Riot who won in Serian.
Riot, who was deputy foreign minister in the last cabinet, garnered 19,494 votes to beat Edward Andrew Luwak of DAP who managed 6,343 votes and State Reform Party (STAR) candidate Johnny Aput (390 votes). Riot won by a 13,151-vote majority.
SUPP suffered heavily in the just concluded election having lost in six out of seven seats contested.
It lost Stampin, Sarikei, Lanang and Miri, while failing to wrest Bandar Kuching and Sibu from DAP.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/05/08/state-bn-to-propose-names-for-cabinet/#ixzz2SkONH0F7

25 out of 31 by Lian Cheng

KUCHING: The State Barisan Nasional (BN) has maintained its status as the ruling coalition’s “fixed deposit” by retaining 25 out of the total 31 parliamentary seats it contested in the 13th general elections here last night.
The opposition alliance — Pakatan Rakyat (PR) — failed in all its attempts to win in bumiputera-majority areas, managing to make gains only in the urban constituencies where the State DAP won five seats while its ally PKR won one.
The State BN’s contribution of the highest number of seats to the National BN in this ‘mother of all elections’ is the expected outcome as support for the BN in the state has been unwaveringly consistent, especially in the rural bumiputera-majority seats.
The Sarawak United Peoples Party (SUPP) lost its urban seats mainly to DAP. The peninsula-based opposition party took Kuching, Stampin, Sibu, Lanang and Sarikei while the other urban seat Miri went to PKR.
The SUPP narrowly avoided ending up empty-handed by retaining only one seat — Serian, a bumiputera-majority constituency under the party’s deputy president Datuk Richard Riot Jaem.
There are altogether seven Chinese-majority parliamentary seats in Sarawak, all of which are urban constituencies.
The only urban parliamentary seat still under the BN is Bintulu, held by Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing of Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP).
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) the backbone of the State BN, won all the 14 seats it contested.
Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) also successfully defended all its seven seats — Sri Aman, Selangau, Hulu Rajang, Julau, Kanowit and Lubok Antu while its archrival the Sarawak Workers’ Party (SWP) which contested in the same seven seats, drew a blank.
The Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) won all the four seats — Saratok, Mas Gading, Bintulu and Baram — it contested but faced tough fights in two of them – Saratok and Baram.
Its president Tan Sri William Mawan, who was trailing in the early count in Saratok, finished with a flourish to defeat PKR’s Ali Biju with a majority of 2,081 votes.
But it was a close shave for its Baram candidate Anyi Ngau who pulled through with a slim 194-votes majority against PKR’s Roland Engan.
For the opposition camp, DAP is the biggest winner in this 13th parliamentary election in Sarawak, taking five out of the 11 urban seats it contested — Bandar Kuching, Stampin, Lanang, Sibu and Sarikei.
PKR won only the urban seat of Miri, losing all the other 14 rural or sub-urban seats it contested.
Baru Bian was the highest profile candidate from the party, to be defeated. The PKR state chief lost to BN’s Hasbi Habibollah by a majority of 8,301 votes in a straight fight in Limbang.
PKR’s partner PAS lost all the five seats — Kota Samarahan, Batang Sadong, Tanjong Manis, Igan and Sibuti – it contested.
Both SWP and the State Reform Party (STAR) failed to make any headway in this election, losing in all the six and seven seats they contested respectively.
State BN chairman Pehin Sri Taib Abdul Mahmud said as expected, the State BN was able to deliver 25 out of 31 parliamentary seats to the National BN.
“It appears that in the areas where we won, we had a better majority compared to the past. The voters’ turn-outs were also better.
“The response from the rural areas was very good but not so in the urban areas where we were unable to counter the issues raised by the opposition,” he told a press conference held at his residence at Demak Jaya last night.
“Overall, in the urban seats, the tide was against us. The Chinese have not been receptive to the government policies in the urban constituencies,” the Chief Minister added.
However, he pointed out that overall, the support for BN in Sarawak is still overwhelming.
In the elections yesterday, 828,893 out of 1,083,972 voters in the state cast their ballots, according to the State Election Commission director Datu Takun Sunggah.
This represented 76.4 per cent of the total electorate, he added.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/05/06/25-out-of-31/#ixzz2SUOJEtXW

Sarawak BN Confident Of Winning 26 Of 31 Seats In GE13

KUCHING, May 3 (Bernama) -- Boosted by the strong support from Sarawakians, especially at the tail-end of the campaign, the Sarawak Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition is optimistic that its conservative forecast of winning 26 of the 31 parliamentary seats at stake in the state in the 13th general election can come true.

A confidence booster, undoubtedly, came in the form of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak, who is also the BN chairman. He has been able to get the people closer to the BN with a gruelling campaign tour that included helicopter-hopping to the interior areas in Lubok Antu as well as Saratok, Kuching and Sibu to woo voters, armed with the BN's "Akujanji" manifesto.

"The BN message had gone down very well with the people, who are fed up with the opposition's lies on issues like the native customary rights (NCR) and dam projects," said Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) supreme council member Datuk Idris Buang, who is a member of the well-oiled election machinery manning the PBB operations room at the PBB headquarters here.

He said protecting the right of the people to land, including NCR land for the bumiputeras, was one of the priorities of the BN government under the transformation programme of Najib at the federal level and Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud at the state level.

Having heard many grouses about the opposition from the man-in-the-street, he was confident that the state BN would win the 26 seats despite the somewhat fluid political situation up till Sunday's polling.

Given this forecast scenario, the PBB, which takes pride in being the most disciplined Sarawak BN component party, could expect a 100 per cent victory by retaining all the 14 seats it was contesting, mainly in the rural areas, he said.

Another BN political analyst said bumiputera votes from the Malay/Melanau constituents in the urban Chinese-majority seats of Lanang and Sibu could be relied upon to add the tally in BN's favour even though these two Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) seats were rated as "black" by the coalition in the face of overwhelming odds.

At present, only the Serian parliamentary seat out of the seven SUPP seats was categorised as "white" or safe for the BN due to its predominantly rural Bidayuh voters but he believed the party still had "the fighting spirit for a fighting chance," especially as Najib had gained some ground in Chinese areas throughout the country.

The local business community was also warming up to the BN because it was starting to realise that no other party except the BN could deliver, he said.

In the 2008 general election, the SUPP won six out of seven seats contested but lost another seat, Sibu, in a parliamentary by-election two years later.

While the personality of the candidates plays a decisive role, Najib's public denouncement of the Sarawak Workers Party (SWP) during his recent whirlwind visit to Lubok Antu had also dealt a blow to the self-proclaimed BN friendly party's attempt to deprive Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) of all its six seats in the Iban heartland.

It definitely cleared the air, as far as the BN stand was concerned, because the voters can now make the better choice of opting for BN and its continuous transformation than a family-oriented party that sees SWP president Larry Sng standing in Lubok Antu, his father Datuk Sng Chee Hua in Selangau and an uncle, George Lagong, in Hulu Rajang.

The political analyst said the opposition PKR's confidence to grab Saratok was dented when the prime minister campaigned for BN candidate Tan Sri William Mawan who is up against PKR's Ali Biju in a three-cornered tussle which also involves independent candidate, Datuk Abang Rosli Abang Paleng.

Najib managed to convince incumbent Jelaing Mersat, who had been dropped as a candidate, and his supporters to rally behind the BN.

He said that for Mawan, the Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) president and a state minister whom he described as a "diplomatic person and survivor," the stake had been too high because Ali was deemed to be popular in Krian due to his current capacity as the state assemblyman while Jelaing had been sulking for being dropped.

Apart from Saratok, SPDP is also contesting in three other seats including Baram where newcomer Anyi Ngau is expected to give a fresh approach to the Baram dam issue, highlighting that the development of hydro projects serves as a catalyst for better economic growth.

Come Sunday, voters in Sarawak will only elect their representatives in the Dewan Rakyat as the term of the 71-member Sarawak state legislative assembly expires only in 2016.

-- BERNAMA

PAS dan DAP mungkin kehilangan undi di Sabah dan Sarawak

Dari pemerhatian terhadap apa yang dilaungkan semasa kempen pilihanraya, PAS dan DAP mungkin kehilangan undi kerana perkataaan HUDUD. Perkara ini amat sensitif di kalangan pengundi.

Sarawak Barisan Nasional will win at least 24 seats, says Abang Johari

Speaking at the soft launching of the pedestrian bridge in Kampung Boyan here on Tuesday, he said he based his assessment on the fact that Sarawakians were aware of the capabilities of the BN in leading the country to greater heights of development.
“This is unlike some people who only know how to criticise and complain,” he said, in an apparent swipe at PKR president Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
“She said she felt pity for Sarawakians for having a lousy highway. Why didn’t she feel pity when her husband was the deputy prime minister?”
Abang Johari, who is also Minister of Housing and Minister of Tourism, urged voters not to believe whatever Pakatan Rakyat was peddling.
“They just want to split the unity of the people here. If we are disunited, we will destroy our own future.”
On another matter, Abang Johari told reporters that the state government aimed to redevelop all 12 villages in Seberang Hilir.
Without divulging details, he said it would be implemented in phases in the current and 11th Malaysian Plan.
“The redevelopment project will be based on the Malay culture and architecture of the villages. Once it is completed, it will definitely help to turn the Malay villages in Seberang Hilir to be a great tourist attraction.”
On the pedestrian bridge, he said the 400-metre long bridge linked Kampung Boyan to Fort Margherita, a 134-year-old historical building. He felt that the new attraction would help to create new opportunities for the local community.
Among those present were BN’s candidate for Santubong Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Pantai Damai assemblyman Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi and Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Datuk Bandar Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai. #myvote13 #ge13


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/05/02/sarawak-barisan-nasional-will-win-at-least-24-seats-says-abang-johari/#ixzz2S5JxSKgx

Safer, cheaper way to move goods

BINTULU: A railway linking Samalaju, Tg Kidurong, Bintulu Aiport and Mukah is in the pipeline and Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) is in the midst of drawing its designs.

This was disclosed by BDA general manager Datu Mohidin Ishak during a contract signing agreement on the proposed 9.5km road linking Mile 32 to the coastal road and the proposed infrastructural works at Samalaju Industrial Park (SIP) between Hock Seng Lee Berhad and BDA yesterday.

He said the rail transport system was essential in enhancing the growth of SIP and for Bintulu to benefit from spin-offs in the development projects in Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).
Senator Datuk Pau Chiong Ung, who was among those present at the function, believed it
would provide a cheaper cargo transport and ease traffic congestions as there would be less heavy vehicles carrying goods to and from SIP using the roads.
“There is always heavy traffic in our main trunk road with cargo movement from cities and towns and this may cause some safety issues.
“With the railway system, I believe lots of cargo can be transported since the railway will be connecting major ports and cities.

Pau added that he had raised the idea of building a railway in Bintulu in Parliament a few times and pledged to give another push for federal funding for the project before his term expired in December.
“This system is also one of the cheapest ways of transporting cargo as it reduces cost, thus customers will get goods at cheaper prices,” said Pau.

Meanwhile Mohidin said the proposed 9.5km single carriageway road costing RM64.5 million would be an alternative road for heavy vehicles commuting from the SIP and nearby industrial areas to the Tg Kidurong road, currently the only access to SIP.

To be completed by April 23, 2015, the proposed road will link Bakun junction along the Pan Borneo trunk road to the Samalaju gyratory at the coastal road.
“With the construction of this road, BDA can open another area at the Bakun junction for development,” he added.
He said the area, which was already a popular place for hawkers to ply their trade, could be developed into a commercial and residential centre.

The infrastructural works at SIP (Phase 2 stage 4-proposed drainage diversion works) costing is expected to cost RM16.5 million.

According to Mohidin the infrastructural works were expected to be completed within nine months.

Representing the contractor were its managing director Datuk Paul Yu Chee Hoe and site manager Wong Liong Hung.
Also present to witness the contract signing ceremony were Senator Datuk Pau Chiong Ung, Temenggong Barry Yek and Pemanca Dr Francis Toh.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/30/safer-cheaper-way-to-move-goods/#ixzz2RtclQJi3

Impossible to build Pan Borneo highway in five years, Chong told

Tan, who is also SUPP Youth chief, insisted that there was no way Pakatan could complete the highway within the next five years.
“Talking is very easy. Do not try to fool me as I am an engineer.”
On BN’s manifesto, he said they committed to “building a 2,300km Pan Borneo Highway stretching from Sematan, Sarawak to Serudung, Sabah in the next five years, and not completing.
“We only commit to building, but they promised to complete the highway in the next five years, which is ridiculous.”
Tan, also an MBKS councillor, stressed that a highway project should not be deemed as simple as a grass-cutting job.
“A highway construction is not like cutting grass in MBKS areas where the council can divide into zones to engage many contractors to deliver the job.”


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/29/impossible-to-build-pan-borneo-highway-in-five-years-chong-told/#ixzz2RntQnrf1

Richard Riot: Full minister would be a bonus

SERIAN: Datuk Richard Riot the Serian incumbent says being appointed a deputy minister is indeed an honour, but to be promoted to a full minister if he wins this election will be a bonus for him and the people who have rallied behind him for the past 22 years.

He said before being made deputy foreign minister it was difficult to bring the desired development to the people as his MP allocation was limited.

“But after being made deputy foreign minister and a little bit of power I have been able to contribute more to the people.

“If I win this election and made a full minister, it will be a bonus for the Bidayuh community,” Riot told a big crowd at his operation centre in Kampung Pichin, some 15km from here yesterday.

Riot said he did not expect a big crowd of more than 4,000 people made up of mostly women supporters from villages in his constituency and hoped their presence would be translated into votes.
“If each and every one of you can convince five other voters, then we can easily garner 20,000 votes and that will mean victory to the BN in Serian.”
When met later, Riot said he had to work harder even though Serian was considered a safe area.
“I have been campaigning door-to-door to meet the voters. We have 28 groups made up of 15 people each to go out to all the villages in Tebedu area and after that we will move to Mongkos area,” he said.
He said he had reached out to the Chinese voters in Serian and was convinced that they were behind him.
“I have also met up with the more than 1,000 headmen and JKKK members from all the villages just recently. Yesterday, I had a meeting with the men supporters.”
On issues raised by the opposition, he said that it was centred mostly on land, “but it is not a major issue here”.
Riot, who is also SUPP deputy-president, said he would not be able to assist in other SUPP areas as he was too busy in Serian. He is also his own director of operation.
Meanwhile, Kedup assemblyman Martin Ben, urged the people to vote for the BN in this election to give Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak another mandate to continue with his transformation programmes.
In the 2008 general election Riot won the seat with a majority of 13,427 votes against Sylvester Belayong of SNAP.
This time around, he is involved in a three-cornered fight against Edward Luak of DAP and Johnny Aput of Star. #myvote13 #ge13


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/28/riot-full-minister-would-be-a-bonus/#ixzz2RhvD6we9

‘Five new flyovers to ease Kuching traffic’ by Geryl Ogilvy Ruekeith

KUCHING: The state has applied to build five more flyovers in various locations in the city including one over the Datu Temenggung Abang Kipali bin Abang Akip roundabout, to ease the fast growing traffic congestion here.

Infrastructure Development and Communication Minister Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong said the proposals have been officially submitted for consideration by the federal government.

The elevated road projects were proposed to be built at the Jalan Mendu-Batu Lintang intersection, Green Road-Jalan Keretapi intersection, Mile 2 and-a-half Rock Road intersection and Stutong roundabout. This, apart from the roundabout leading to the Matang road.
Calls for a flyover to be built above the Datu Temenggung Abang Kipali bin Abang Akip roundabout have been made for years, following the worsening traffic congestion along the Matang road and Jalan Tun Abdul Rahman leading to the Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Rahman Bridge that connects Petra Jaya to the city centre.

“The Public Works Department (PWD) estimated each flyover project to cost about RM70 million but it could cost less because the (newly-completed) Jalan Song flyover was tendered at only RM48 million. Now there is no more congestion there,” Manyin who is also Tebedu assemblyman told reporters following an event to announce the site of the new Matang-Batu Kawa dual carriageway two-lane road project near Matang E-mart here yesterday.

Also present were Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud who officiated at the event, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Yong Khoon Seng, Works Ministry secretary general Datuk Himmat Singh, Petra Jaya incumbent MP Datuk Fadillah Yusof, Housing Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg and Tupong assemblyman Datuk Daud Abdul Rahman among others.

The state recently announced that a third bridge to connect Petra Jaya and the city centre wouldbe built at Matang connecting to Batu Kawa as an alternative route for commuters. Matang area is currently experiencing daily acute traffic congestion especially during the morning and noon peak hours.

There is an immediate need to provide an alternative route between Matang and Kuching city to cater for the fast pace development and population growth in Matang to allow fast disperse of traffic.
Touching on the new RM145 million bridge project to connect Matang and Batu Kawa, Manyin said the bridge is most likely to be built as a causeway although the decision has yet to be finalised. Provision will be made to enable the bridge to cater for passing vessels. He estimated the project to be completed within two years.

“Building the bridge as a barrage will cost less. The PWD and the DID (Drainage and Irrigation Department) will conduct a thorough study to see which option would provide better advantages.
“The planning for the whole project has been completed and the project has been officially given the green-light by the Public Works Ministry. The state hoped that the open tender could be awarded as soon as possible after the general election,” he continued.

Manyin explained the project would be divided into two phases. The first phase will involve the construction and upgrading of about 8km two-lane dual carriageway road from E-mart roundabout at Matang linking up to the existing Stapok Utama road all the way to Jalan Batu Kawa and for the building of a 300 metre four-lane bridge spanning across Sungai Sarawak.
The E-mart roundabout would be upgraded into a traffic signalised junction. The second phase is the upgrading of the Mile 4-Jalan Stephen Yong bypass area.
“The PWD has the capability to undertake this project. Furthermore, we will award the project in packages to various contractors in order to expedite the project,” he continued.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/27/five-new-flyovers-to-ease-kuching-traffic/#ixzz2RcGE04s9

Awang Tengah: 1,000km pan-Borneo dual carriageway in 5 years a realistic pledge Read more: Awang Tengah: 1,000km pan-Borneo dual carriageway in 5 years a realistic pledge - Latest - New Straits Times

KUCHING: The task to turn the present single way Pan-Borneo trunk road into an over 1,000-km dual-carriageway in Sarawak in five years' time is a realistic target, as far as the State government is concerned.

Sarawak Second Minister of Planning and Environment, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, today said that the plan to upgrade the trunk road into a highway had long been made and would just be a matter of implementing it.

He said in fact, several parts of the Pan-Borneo road had already been upgraded to dual carriageways and the plan by the State would expedite the process of upgrading the rest.

"We are very realistic (about completing the project in five years' time). The main issue now is we are giving priority to this project," he told a press conference here.

He was asked to comment on one of the pledges made under Barisan Nasional's 13th general election manifesto on building a 2,300km Pan-Borneo Highway from Sematan, Sarawak to Serudung, Sabah.

Awang Tengah said Sarawak had been getting special attention from Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak ever since the latter became the Prime Minister.

He said between 2008 and early 2013, the Federal government had approved RM32.17 billion to carry out development projects in the state.

"Never before had Sarawak enjoyed such a big allocation from the Federal government," he added.

Meanwhile, the State's Infrastructure Development Minister, Datuk Seri Michael Manyin Jawong, who was also present at the press conference said about RM9 billion would be required to upgrade the remaining single-lane road to dual-carriageway.

At the moment, he said out of the total 1,010km road, about 300 km had been upgraded into dual carriageways while about 710km were still single lanes.-- BERNAMA



Read more: Awang Tengah: 1,000km pan-Borneo dual carriageway in 5 years a realistic pledge - Latest - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/latest/awang-tengah-1-000km-pan-borneo-dual-carriageway-in-5-years-a-realistic-pledge-1.250912#ixzz2RZLezH9t

White, black and shades of grey for BN Sarawak

By Peter Sibon

Dato Peter Minos
BN facing daunting odds in Kuching, expects tough battles in 10 other seats
KUCHING: The state Barisan Nasional (BN) has categorised the state’s 31 parliamentary seats into ‘black’, ‘dark grey’, ‘white grey’ and ‘white’ areas.
White is for safe seats, black for areas where the coalition faces overwhelming odds, dark grey for seats where it faces very strong opposition while constituencies where there are opposit ion candidates capable of causing an upset are white grey.
State BN secretariat spokesman Dato Peter Minos in revealing the ratings of the seats at a media briefing at PBB headquarters here yesterday said only Bandar Kuching, where voters seemed to have made up their mind, had been graded black.
He added that fi ve constituencies listed as dark were Stampin, Sarikei, Sibu, Lanang and Miri while another five seats – Mas Gading, Saratok, Lubok Antu, Selangau and Hulu Rajang – were considered white grey.
Despite the rating, Minos who is state BN deputy information chief said with concerted efforts in the grey areas, BN was confi dent of winning at least 25 seats in the polls.
He pointed out that the situation in these areas was still very fl uid and with 10 more days to go before the polling date the odds could swing either way.
“It ’s too early to make an accurate assessment on these ‘dark grey’ and ‘white grey’ areas now as we still have 10 days to go before polling.” On the chances of each BN component party, Minos said the 14 seats allocated to PBB were considered secure due to the party’s strong discipline and leadership.
As for SUPP which has been al located seven seat s, only Serian is considered ‘white’ as the constituency is a Bidayuh majority area.
“The Bidayuhs have been very supportive of the BN so Serian is considered a safe seat.
“But for the other six urban seats, the vast majority of voters have more or less made up their minds on who to vote for as shown by the 2011 state election results,” said Minos.
In the last state election, SUPP lost 13 of the 19 seats it contested.
As for PRS which is contesting in six seats, Minos said the party was facing formidable opposition from SWP candidates as they
were formerly from the same party.
“And with considerable resources, SWP led by the Sng family could cause an upset in Lubok Antu, Hulu Rajang and Selangau,” said Minos.
In Lubok Antu, BN incumbent William Nyallau Badak is facing SWP president Larry Sng. In Selangau, Larry’s father Dato Sng Chee Hua is challenging incumbent Datuk Joseph Entulu Belaun and PKR’s Joseph Joshua Jabeng. In Hulu Rajang, Wilson Ugak Kumbong is facing SWP deputy president and Pelagus assemblyman George Lagong.
As for SPDP which has four seats to fight for, it is facing strong challenges from PKR as well as their former members.
Mas Gading has been identified as the toughest for SPDP where incumbent Datuk Dr Tiki Lafe, a former senior official of SPDP, is standing as an independent candidate against newcomer Anthony Nogeh.
In Saratok and Baram, BN-SPDP candidates Tan Sri William Mawan and Anyi Ngau respectively could be undermined by the undercurrent of resentment from supporters of the incumbents who had
been dropped in their fight against PKR and independent candidates.
“In Saratok, we hoped Tan Sri William Mawan can win against strong PKR candidate Ali Biju who has been rumoured to receive support from
incumbent Jelaing Mersat,” said Minos.
Anyi who is making his debut in the election has to deal with issues on NCR land as the Baram Dam is being played up by the opposition in Baram.
“But being a new face, Anyi Ngau may pull through as he is seen as not being a party to any of the issues,” said Minos.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/26/white-black-and-shades-of-grey/#ixzz2RWDxVVtI

KUCHING: The task to turn the present single way Pan-Borneo trunk road into an over 1,000-km dual-carriageway in Sarawak in five years' time is a realistic target, as far as the State government is concerned. Read more: Awang Tengah: 1,000km pan-Borneo dual carriageway in 5 years a realistic pledge

Sarawak Second Minister of Planning and Environment, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, today said that the plan to upgrade the trunk road into a highway had long been made and would just be a matter of implementing it.

He said in fact, several parts of the Pan-Borneo road had already been upgraded to dual carriageways and the plan by the State would expedite the process of upgrading the rest.

"We are very realistic (about completing the project in five years' time). The main issue now is we are giving priority to this project," he told a press conference here.

He was asked to comment on one of the pledges made under Barisan Nasional's 13th general election manifesto on building a 2,300km Pan-Borneo Highway from Sematan, Sarawak to Serudung, Sabah.

Awang Tengah said Sarawak had been getting special attention from Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak ever since the latter became the Prime Minister.

He said between 2008 and early 2013, the Federal government had approved RM32.17 billion to carry out development projects in the state.

"Never before had Sarawak enjoyed such a big allocation from the Federal government," he added.

Meanwhile, the State's Infrastructure Development Minister, Datuk Seri Michael Manyin Jawong, who was also present at the press conference said about RM9 billion would be required to upgrade the remaining single-lane road to dual-carriageway.

At the moment, he said out of the total 1,010km road, about 300 km had been upgraded into dual carriageways while about 710km were still single lanes.-- BERNAMA



Read more: Awang Tengah: 1,000km pan-Borneo dual carriageway in 5 years a realistic pledge - Latest - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/latest/awang-tengah-1-000km-pan-borneo-dual-carriageway-in-5-years-a-realistic-pledge-1.250912#ixzz2RKeyIIvT

Sarawak Election 2013

MIRI, Sarawak - Punters are cashing in as excitement over Malaysia's general election campaign builds up, with some placing bets of upto RM200 (S$81) in the hope of striking the jackpot.

A Bernama news agency report on Monday cited Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) publicity and information chief Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew as saying that the election betting had started soon after the nomination process last Saturday.

"It is very worrying as the betting can influence the election results and ultimately, those who suffer for the next five years will be the people at large," he said at a news conference, here.

"We advise those who may want to bet on the election results to stay away from it and do not waste your future by gambling," he said.

Mr Ting, who is the Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Miri parliamentary seat, said the party would not lodge a police report since the police had assured them that betting activities were under scrutiny.

Sarawak, that has 31 parliamentary seat, has long been considered BN's "fixed deposit". But that grip could be loosening amid unhappiness with its long-time Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud, accused of corruption and nepotism during his three-decade rule.

People are also angry over alleged land grabs by the state government. Natives have set up blockades to stop loggers from clearing their ancestral hunting grounds.

Sarawak is not holding state elections on May 5 because it held them in 2011.

Candidates off the blocks by Jonathan Chia

KUCHING: The GE13 countdown is ‘on’ to polling day on May 5 — triggered when nomination day was over — with candidates from the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) and the opposition jostling for the hearts and minds of the voters.
In Sarawak, notably in Bandar Kuching, Miri, Sibu and Bintulu, big names have wasted no time springing into campaigning and hustings.
While the overall mood is electrifying for candidates navigating judiciously within the folds of manifestoes from Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat, Marudi town yesterday had yet to stir from slumber with little life of a poster war between PKR’s Roland Engan and BN’s Anyi Ngau.
But in the state capital, Bandar Kuching BN candidate Tan Kai fired the early salvo yesterday when he launched his personal election manifesto, which he described as “the pledges of a fishing village boy in building a vibrant and harmonious Kuching City.”
In line with his election campaign tagline of “Clean and Just,” Tan said his ultimate struggle for the constituents of Bandar Kuching is to fight for clean governance and a just society.
Besides that, he pledges in his manifesto to bring transformation to Kuching City in business, tourism and safe city.
“I pledge to create and boost opportunities for the business community, especially for young entrepreneurs,” said Tan.
“Among the plans are to initiate and establish a new night market in Padungan area as well as to create a more vibrant commercial hub along pedestrian streets stretching from India Street, Main Bazaar and from Waterfront to Padungan,” he said in a press conference here yesterday.
The launching of Tan’s manifesto was also attended by SUPP secretary-general Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, women chief Tnay Li Ping and youth secretary-general Wilfred Yap. Knowing the potential of the tourism industry, his aim for the next five years if elected as an MP, will be to strengthen the state’s tourism industry as well as to increase direct flights from major cities around the world to Kuching.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/22/candidates-off-the-blocks/#ixzz2R8ryaPrQ

Mawan dicabar oleh Ali Biju dari PKR

SARATOK: Kerusi Parlimen Saratok bakal menyaksikan pertembungan tiga penjuru di antara calon Barisan Nasional (BN) Tan Sri William Mawan, Ali anak Biju (PKR) dan Rosli Bin Lek @ Abang Roselie Abang Paleng (Bebas).

Mawan, 64, presiden Parti Demokratik Progresif Sarawak (SPDP), menggantikan tempat penyandang kerusi Saratok, Jelaing Mersat yang tidak dicalonkan semula untuk Pilihan Raya Umum ke 13 (PRU13) pada 5 Mei ini.

Proses penamaan calon yang bermula jam 9.00 pagi semalam menyaksikan Ali Biju, 45, dengan diiringi oleh Elley Chandi selaku pencadang dan Basan Karim selaku penyokong merupakan calon pertama yang menghantar borang pencalonan.

Ia kemudian diikuti oleh calon Bebas, Rosli Bin Lek, 74, bersama pencadang Samawi Nusi dan Musa Junaidi selaku penyokong menghantar borang pencalonan.

Mawan, bersama Datuk Haji Abdul Wahab Aziz selaku pencadang dan Lim Kheng Huat selaku penyokong merupakan calon terakhir yang memasuki ruang penamaan calon bertempat di Pejabat Daerah Saratok.

Di BAU, proses penamaan calon bagi kerusi Parlimen Mas Gading berjalan lancar tanpa sebarang perkara tidak diingini berlaku walaupun berlaku sedikit provokasi dari penyokong parti yang bertanding.

PRU13 kali ini bakal menyaksikan persaingan sengit empat penjuru bagi mempertahankan kerusi Parlimen Mas Gading.

Calon BN Nogeh Gumbek yang merupakan muka baru akan ditentang oleh bekas penyandang kerusi Mas Gading, Datuk Tiki Lafe yang bertanding sebagai calon Bebas.

Turut mencabar dua orang calon parti pembangkang, Mordi Bimol yang bertanding atas tiket DAP manakala Patrick Anek Uren mewakili Parti Reformasi Negeri (STAR).

Ini bermakna calon BN, Nogeh Gumbek akan berhadapan dengan dua orang bekas penyandang kerusi parlimen Mas Gading yang sudah pasti mempunyai pengalaman luas dalam bidang politik.

Satu lawan satu di Batang Lupar

Di SRI AMAN, Parlimen Batang Lupar bakal menyaksikan pertembungan satu lawan satu di antara calon BN Datuk Hajah Rohani Abdul Karim yang mempertahankan kerusi itu dengan calon PKR Abang Zulkifli Abang Engkeh.

Rohani ketika ditemui pemberita selepas proses penamaan calon semalam berkata perjuangan untuk rakyat, negara dan bangsa telah bermula.

Katanya, BN akan meneruskan program transformasi yang telah diperkenalkan oleh Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak sekiranya rakyat kembali memberi mandat kepada mereka pada PRU13 ini.

“Kita akan berjuang demi rakyat agar segala kemudahan serta kesenangan hidup dapat dikongsi bersama,” katanya.

Di SERIAN, kerusi Parlimen Serian pula menyaksikan perlawanan tiga penjuru antara calon BN, Datuk Richard Riot Jaem, 61, calon DAP, Edward Andrew Luwak, 61, dan calon STAR, Johny Aput.

Penyandang Parlimen Serian, Riot dari Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sarawak (SUPP) tiba di Pusat Penamaan calon pada jam 8.40 pagi semalam dengan diiringi kira-kira 500 penyokong. Calon DAP tiba 20 minit kemudian bersama kira-kira 100 penyokong manakala calon STAR tiba jam 9.20 pagi.

Terdahulu, Riot mengingatkan penyokong beliau supaya tidak menggunakan kekerasan semasa berkempen kerana BN disegani selain menganggap PRU sebagai satu peperangan.

Senarai Calon Parlimen Sarawak

Calon Parlimen Saratok (P205)
1) Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom (BN)
Pencadang: Datuk Wahab Aziz Penyokong: Lim Kheng Huat.
2) Ali Biju (PKR)
Pencadang: Elley Chandi
Penyokong: Basan Karim.
3) Datuk Abg Rosli Abg Palei (Bebas)
Pencadang: Samawi Nusi
Penyokong: Musa Junaidi
Calon Parlimen Lubok Antu (P203)
1) William @ Nyallau Badak (BN)
Pencadang: Johnichal Rayong Ngipa
Penyokong. Jampi Tutong
2) Larry Sng Wei Shien (SWP)
Pencadang : Jawah Gerang
Penyokong : Semijie Janting
3) Nicholas Bawin (PKR)
Pencadang : Maling Luna
Penyokong : Barodi Mawong
Calon Parlimen Santubong (P193)
1) Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar (BN)
Pencadang: Rokiah Temben
Penyokong: Dalijah Jool
2) Zulrusdi Hol (PKR)
Pencadang: Bolek Maludin
Penyokong: Sobey Daud
3) Affendi Jeman (Bebas)
Pencadang: Majid Meta
Penyokong: Ramlan Ismail
4) Mura Kadir (STAR)
Pencadang: Habibah Kadir
Penyokong: Fatimah Deng
Calon Parlimen Mas Gading (P192)
1) Anthony Nogeh Gumek (BN)
2) Datuk Dr. Tiki Lafe (Bebas)
3) Mordi Bimol (DAP)
4) Patrick Anek Uren (STAR)
Calon Parlimen Kanowit (P210)
1) Aaron Ago Dagang (BN)
Pencadang: Kujat Dudang
Penyokong: Lau Khong Kui
2) Ellison Ludan Muyan (SWP) Pencadang: Medan@Nyalu Muyan Penyokong: Emperang Bangau.
3) Thomas Laja Besides (PKR) Pencadang: Chen Nguk Fa
Penyokong: Blantau Entili

Calon Parlimen Selangau (P214)
1)
Datuk Joseph Entulu Belaun (BN)
Pencadang: Datuk John Sikie Tayai
Penyokong: Joseph Mauh Ikeh
2)
Datuk Sng Chee Hua (SWP)
Pencadang: Manja Ganggang
Penyokong: Angga Nali
3)
Joshua Jabeng (PKR)
Pencadang: Jengging Radin
Penyokong: Menda @ Minda Jepun
Calon Tanjung Manis (P206)
1)
Datuk Norah Abdul Rahman (BN)
Pencadang: Ir Zawawi Embong
Penyokong: Dora Joseph
2)
Jurina Mut (PAS)
Pencadang: Salman Reozeni
Penyokong: Wan Japar Wan Sen
Calon Parlimen Kota Samarahan (P197)
1)
Rubiah Wang (BN)
Pencadang: Mahani Sahari
Penyokong: Jemat Abak
2)
Abang Ahmad Kerdee Abang Masagus (PAS)
Pencadang: Zulkipli Ramzi
Penyokong: Mahathir Ahmad
Calon Parlimen Batang Sadong (P200)
1)
Nancy Shukri (BN)
Pencadang: Datuk Mohd Naroden Majais.
Penyokong: Datuk Wahab Suhaili.
2) Dr Mohamad Jolhi (PAS)
Pencadang: Adam Ahid.
Penyokong: Yusof Babin
Calon Parlimen Serian (P199)
1)
Datuk Richard Riot Jaem (BN) Pencadang: Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong
Penyokong: Martin Ben
2)
Johny Aput (STAR).
Pencadang: Francis Uli
Penyokong: James Nyungkin
3)
Edward Andrew Luwak (DAP)
Pencadang: Cyrill Langin
Penyokong: Bunsin Kalum
Calon Parlimen Mambong (P198)
1)
Dato Sri James Dawos Mamit (BN)
Pencadang: Datuk Roland Sagah.
Penyokong: Dr Jerip Susil
2)
Dr Dripin Sakoi (STAR)
Pencadang: Lyennen Lensem
Penyokong: Lensem Sandah.
3)
Wille Mongin (PKR)
Pencadang: Mangan Ngandok.
Penyokong: Iana Akam.
Calon Parlimen Mukah (P213)
1)
Dato Sri Muhammad Leo Toyad (BN)
Pencadang: Hadiah Jeraie
Penyokong: Ardi Matan
2)
Hai Merawin (DAP)
Pencadang: Ting Yu Pang
Penyokong: Lim Yu Siew
3)
Sylvester Ajah (Bebas)
Pencadang: Micheal Baton
Penyokong: Masni Joll
Calon Parlimen Stampin (P196)
1.
Datuk Yong Khoon Seng (BN)
Pencadang: Tan Joo Phoi
Penyokong: Lo Khere Chiang
2.
Julian Tan Kok Ping (DAP)
Pencadang: Desmond Pui Hong Hui
Penyokong: Bong Kuet Vui
3.
Soo Lina (STAR)
Pencadang: Kong Nai Eng
Penyokong: Mesah Suhaili
Calon Parlimen Lanang (P211)
1)
Datuk Tiong Thai King (BN) Pencadang: Wong Chin Ho
Penyokong: Ting Mee Huong
2)
Alice Lau (DAP)
Pencadang: Lawrence Hii
Penyokong: Yap Hoi Leong
Calon Parlimen Sibu (P212)
1)
Vincent Lau Lee Ming (BN)
Pencadang: Ting Hoong Hua
Penyokong: Augustine Ngu Liong Ing
2)
Oscar Ling Chai Yew (DAP)
Pencadang: Adeline Kiu
Penyokong: Irene Chang
3)
Narawi Haron (Bebas)
Pencadang: Yusoff Karikap
Penyokong: Ali Karikap
Calon Parlimen Bintulu (P217)
1)
Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (BN)
Pencadang: Datuk Talib Zulpilip
Penyokong: Datuk Dr Stephen Rundi Utom
2)
Dr John Anthony Brian
Pencadang: Philip Chan Hwa Tat Penyokong: Sengok Sabang
Calon Parlimen Petra Jaya (P194)
1)
Datuk Fadillah Yusof (BN)
Pencadang: Irwan Zulkarnean Hasbi
Penyokong: Ahmad Nahab.
2)
Ahmad Nazib Johari (PKR)
Pencadang: Mohd Yusof Baharuddin
Penyokong: Muhammad Suffian Jamel
Calon Parlimen Julau (P209)
1)
Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum (BN)
Pencadang: Jerry Clement
Penyokong: Jana Sawing.
2)
Wong Judat (SWP)
Pencadang: Jimmy Jarub
Penyokong: Wong Liong Ring.
3)
Andy Wong Hong Yu
Pencadang: Gruka Bujit
Penyokong: Sibat Ayong
Calon Parlimen Sri Aman (P202)
1)
Masir Kujat (BN)
Pencadang: Jiram Gendang
Penyokong: Ronald Chengir Bugak
2)
Wilfred Stephen Landong (SWP)
Pencadang: Michael Kang Akon
Penyokong: Edward Landong
3)
Nicholas Munjah Ason (PKR)
Pencadang: Lias Julai
Penyokong: Iso Sidu
4)
Donald Lawan (Bebas)
Pencadang: Lawren Buda
Peyokong: Suring Drisa
Parlimen Igan (P207)
1. Ajiji Fauzan (PAS)
2. Wahab Haji Dolah (BN)
Parlimen Betong (P204)
1) Dato Sri Doulas Uggah Embas
2) Cecelia Siti Una (PKR)
Parlimen Bandar Kuching (P195)
1) Tan Kai – BN
2) Chong Chieng Jen – DAP
Parlimen Batang Lupar (P201)
1) Datuk Rohani Abdul Karim – BN
2) Abang Zulkifli Abang Engkeh – PKR
Parlimen Betong (P204)
1) Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas (BN)
2) Cecilia Siti Una (PKR)
Parlimen Sibuti (P218)
1) Ahmad Lai Bujang (BN)
2) Robby @ Muhammad Zaid Tandang (PAS)
Parlimen Miri (P219)
1) Datuk Sebastian Ting
2) Dr Michael Teo (PKR)
3) Chong Kon Fatt (STAR)
Parlimen Baram (P220)
1) Anyi Ngau (BN)
2) Roland Engan (PKR)
3) Patrick Sibat (Bebas)
Parlimen Limbang (P221)
1) Hasbi Habibollah (BN)
2) Baru Bian (PKR)


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/20/senarai-calon-parlimen-sarawak-update/#ixzz2R3KXnHjW

Calon Pilihanraya Sarawak

SARAWAK
P192 MAS GADING
DAP
Mordi Bimol
BN
Nogeh Gumbek
STAR
Patrick Anek Oren
BEBAS
Datuk Dr Tekhee @Tiki Anak Lafe
P193 SANTUBONG
BEBAS
Affendi Jeman
STAR
Mura Kadir
BN
Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar
PKR
Zulrusdi Mohamad Hol
P194 PETRA JAYA
PKR
Ahmad Nazib Johari
BN
Datuk Fadillah Yusof
P195 BANDAR KUCHING
BN
Tan Kai
DAP
Chong Chieng Jen
P196 STAMPIN
DAP
Julian Tan Kok Ting
STAR
Soo Lina
BN
Datuk Yong Khoon Hiang @ Yong Khoon Seng
P197 KOTA SAMARAHAN
BN
Rubiah Wang
PAS
Abang Ahmad Kerdee Abang Masagus
P198 MAMBONG
STAR
Dripin Anak Sakoi
BN
Datuk Dr James Dawos Mamit
PKR
Willie Anak Mongin
P199 SERIAN
DAP
Edward Anak Andrew Luwok
STAR
Johnny Anak Aput
BN
Datuk Richard Riot Anak Jaem
P200 BATANG SADONG
PAS
Mohamad Jolhi
BN
Nancy Shukri
P201 BATANG LUPAR
PKR
Abang Zulkifli Abang Engkeh
BN
Datuk Rohani Abdul Karim
P202 SRI AMAN
BN
Masir Kujat
BEBAS
Donald Lawan
PKR
Nicholas Mujah Ason
SWP
Wilfred Stephen
P203 LUBOK ANTU
SWP
Larry Soon @ Larry Sng Wei Shien
PKR
Nicholas Bawin Anak Anggat
BN
William @ Nyallau Anak Badak
P204 BETONG
PKR
Cecelia Siti Una Anak Sittie Endek
BN
Datuk Seri Douglas Uggah Embas
P205 SARATOK
PKR
Ali Anak Biju
BEBAS
Rosli Lek @ Abang Roselie Abang Paleng
BN
Tan Sri William Ikom
P206 TANJUNG MANIS
PAS
Jurina Mut
BN
Datuk Norah Abd Rahman
P207 IGAN
PAS
Ajiji Fauzan
BN
Wahab Dollah
P208 SARIKEI
BN
Ding Kuong Hiing
DAP
Wong Ling Biu

P209 JULAU
BN
Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum
SWP
Eong Judat
PKR
Wong Hong Yu
P210 KANOWIT
BN
Ago Anak Dagang
SWP
Ellison Ludan Anak Muyan
PKR
Thomas Laja Anak Besi
P211 LANANG
DAP
Alice Law Kiong Yieng
BN
Datuk Tiong Thai King
P212 SIBU
DAP
Oscar LIng Chai Yew
BN
Lau Lee Ming
BEBAS
Narawi Haron
P213 MUKAH
DAP
Hai Merawin @ Bonaventure
BN
Datuk Sri Muhammad Leo Micheal Toyad Abdullah
BEBAS
Sylvester Ajah Sibah @ Ajah Subah
P214 SELANGAU
BN
Datuk Jospeh Bintulu Anak Belaun
PKR
Joshua Anak Jabing @ Joshua Jabing
SWP
Datuk Sng Chee Hua
P215 KAPIT
BN
Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi
DAP
Ramli Anak Malaka
P216 HULU RAJANG
PKR
Abun Sui Anyit
SWP
George Anak Lagong
BN
Ugak Anak Kumbong
P217 BINTULU
BN
Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing
DAP
John Brian Anthony Anak Jeremy Guang
P218 SIBUTI
BN
Ahmad Lai Bujang
PAS
Muhammad Zaid Tandang
P219 MIRI
BN
Datuk Sebastian Ting Chew Yew
PKR
Micheal Teo Yu Keng
STAR
Chong Kon Satt
P220 BARAM
BN
Anyie Ngau
BEBAS
Patrick Sibat Sujang
PKR
Roland Engan
P221 LIMBANG BUKIT MAS
PKR
Baru Bian
BN
Hasbi Habibollah
P222 LAWAS
STAR
Alirahman Kamseh
DAP
Baru Langub
BN
Datuk Hendry Sum Agong

Nomination Day

PREPARING FOR NOMINATION DAY: Students walk past Election Commission workers putting up a banner at Dewan Al Muneerah in SMK Petra Jaya, Kuching, on the eve of Nomination Day. — Bernama photo
Candidates have one hour from 9am today to register for the polls
KUCHING: Candidates accompanied by their proposers and seconders will converge on nomination centres throughout the nation today to register for the 13th General Election (13th GE).
A total of 31 nomination centres in the state will open from 9am to 10am today for candidates to submit their nomination forms.
Although the lists of candidates from all parties are supposed to have been finalised, there is still a possibility of some surprises today.
The state Barisan Nasional (BN) named all their 31 parliamentary candidates including eight new faces, on April 16 but several incumbents who were dropped continued to harbour hopes they would be re-nominated.
This issue has been resolved except in Mas Gading and Saratok where the incumbents and their supporters have not been appeased.
The Mas Gading incumbent Datuk Dr Tiki Lafe has declared he will be defending his seat despite being dropped by BN while in Saratok supporters of Jelaing Mersat continue to protest against his omission from the list.The opposition front, Pakatan Rakyat( PR), only managed to resolve their bickering over allocation of seats among its component parties; PKR, DAP and PAS yesterday.
Both PKR and DAP only finalised their lists after much bargaining and horse trading over overlapping claims on several seats.
Sarawak Workers party (SWP) announced its full line-up on Thursday while STAR unveiled its candidates yesterday.
It is expected that every seat in the nation will be contested with BN and PR as the main proponents and several smaller parties and independents trying their luck.
The last parliamentary election was held in March 2008 and the parliament was dissolved on April 3.
In Sarawak BN will contest in 31 seats while PKR (15), DAP (11), PAS (7), SWP (6) and STAR (8).
The seats where the contests are expected to be very keen are Bandar Kuching, Stampin, Mas Gading, Saratok, Sibu, Selangau, Lubok Antu, Hulu Rajang, Miri, Baram and Julau.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/20/nomination-day/#ixzz2QyjrKevB

The Tentative list of candidates in Sarawak

PREPARING FOR NOMINATION DAY: Students walk past Election Commission workers putting up a banner at Dewan Al Muneerah in SMK Petra Jaya, Kuching, on the eve of Nomination Day. — Bernama photo
Candidates have one hour from 9am today to register for the polls

KUCHING: Candidates accompanied by their proposers and seconders will converge on nomination centres throughout the nation today to register for the 13th General Election (13th GE).

A total of 31 nomination centres in the state will open from 9am to 10am today for candidates to submit their nomination forms.

Although the lists of candidates from all parties are supposed to have been finalised, there is still a possibility of some surprises today.

The state Barisan Nasional (BN) named all their 31 parliamentary candidates including eight new faces, on April 16 but several incumbents who were dropped continued to harbour hopes they would be re-nominated.

This issue has been resolved except in Mas Gading and Saratok where the incumbents and their supporters have not been appeased.

The Mas Gading incumbent Datuk Dr Tiki Lafe has declared he will be defending his seat despite being dropped by BN while in Saratok supporters of Jelaing Mersat continue to protest against his omission from the list.The opposition front, Pakatan Rakyat( PR), only managed to resolve their bickering over allocation of seats among its component parties; PKR, DAP and PAS yesterday.

Both PKR and DAP only finalised their lists after much bargaining and horse trading over overlapping claims on several seats.

Sarawak Workers party (SWP) announced its full line-up on Thursday while STAR unveiled its candidates yesterday.

It is expected that every seat in the nation will be contested with BN and PR as the main proponents and several smaller parties and independents trying their luck.

The last parliamentary election was held in March 2008 and the parliament was dissolved on April 3.


In Sarawak BN will contest in 31 seats while PKR (15), DAP (11), PAS (7), SWP (6) and STAR (8).

The seats where the contests are expected to be very keen are Bandar Kuching, Stampin, Mas Gading, Saratok, Sibu, Selangau, Lubok Antu, Hulu Rajang, Miri, Baram and Julau.



Fact File:



The tentative list of candidates in Sarawak.



1) Mas Gading

BN – Anthony Nogeh Gumbek

DAP – Mordi Bimol

STAR – Patrick Anek Uren

Bebas – Datuk Dr Tiki Lafe



2) Santubong

BN – Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar

PKR – Zulrusdi Hol

STAR – Mura Kadir



3) Petra Jaya

BN – Datuk Fadillah Yusof

PKR – Ahmad Nazib Johari



4) Bandar Kuching

BN – Tan Kai

DAP – Chong Chieng Jen



5) Stampin

BN – Datuk Yong Khoon Seng

DAP – Julian Tan

STAR – Lina Soo



6) Kota Samarahan

BN – Rubiah Wang

PAS – Abang Ahmad Kerdee Abang Masagus



7) Mambong

BN – Datuk Dr James Dawos Mamit

PKR – Willie Mongin

STAR – Dr Dripin Sakoi



8) Serian

BN – Datuk Richard Riot Jaem

DAP – Edward Luwak

STAR – Johnny Bob



9) Batang Sadong

BN – Nancy Shukri

PAS – Dr Mohammad Jolhi



10) Batang Lupar

BN – Datuk Rohani Abdul Karim

PKR – Abang Zulkifli Abang Engkeh



11) Sri Aman

BN – Masir Kujat

SWP – Wilfred Landong

PKR – Nicholas Mujah



12) Lubok Antu

BN – William Nyalau Badak

PKR – Nicholas Bawin Anggat

SWP – Larry Sng



13) Betong

BN – Dato Sri Douglas Uggah Embas

PKR – Cecilia Siti Una



14) Saratok

BN – Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom

PKR – Ali Biju



15) Tanjung Manis

BN – Datuk Norah Abdul Rahman

PAS – Jurina Mut



16) Igan

BN – Datuk Abdul Wahab Dolah

PAS – Ajiji Fauzan



17) Sarikei

BN – Ding Kuong Hiing

DAP – Andrew Wong Ling Biu



18) Julau

BN – Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum

PAS – Dr Ambrose Labang Jamba

SWP – Wong Judat

PKR – Andy Wong Hong Yu



19) Kanowit

BN – Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang

PKR – Thomas Laja

SWP – Ellison Ludan



20) Lanang

BN – Datuk Tiong Thai King

DAP – Alice Lau Khiong Yieng



21) Sibu

BN – Vincent Lau Lee Ming

DAP – Oscar Ling



22) Mukah

BN – Dato Sri Muhammad Leo Michael Toyad

PAS – Nani Sahari

DAP – Hai Merawin



23) Selangau

BN – Datuk Joseph Entulu Belaun

PKR – Joshua Jabeng

SWP – Datuk Sng Chee Hua



24) Kapit

BN – Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi

DAP – Ramli Malaka



25) Hulu Rajang

BN – Wilson Ugak Kumbong

PKR – Abun Sui Anyie

SWP – George Lagong

STAR – Dr Elli Luhat



26) Bintulu

BN – Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing

DAP – Dr John Brian Anthony



27) Sibuti

BN – Ahmad Lai Bujang

PAS – Mohd Zais @ Robby Tandang



28) Miri

BN – Datuk Sebastian Ting

PKR – Michael Teo

STAR – Chong Kon Fatt



29) Baram

BN – Anyie Ngau

PKR – Roland Engan



30) Limbang

BN – Hasbi Habibollah

PKR – Baru Bian



31) Lawas

BN – Datuk Henry Sum Agong

DAP – Dr Bob Baru Langub

STAR – Ali Rahman Kamseh



Nomination centres in Sarawak.



P.192 MAS GADING – Bau Civic Centre

P.193 SANTUBONG – Institut Kemahiran MARA

P.194 PETRA JAYA – Dewan Al-Muneerah SMK Petra Jaya, Kuching.

P.195 BANDAR KUCHING – MBKS Auditorium, Kuching

P.196 STAMPIN – Padawan Municipal Council

P.197 KOTA SAMARAHAN – Kota Samarahan Civic Centre

P.198 MAMBONG – Court Room of the Siburan Sub District

P.199 SERIAN – Meeting Room of the Serian District Office

P.200 BATANG SADONG – Dewan Mesra, Simunjan

P.201 BATANG LUPAR – Sri Aman Civic Centre

P.202 SRI AMAN – Meeting Room of Sri Aman Resident Office

P.203 LUBOK ANTU – Lubok Antu Sports Complex, Lubok Antu

P.204 BETONG – Dewan Sukan Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan, Betong

P.205 SARATOK – Meeting Room of Saratok District Office

P.206 TANJONG MANIS – Dewan Masyarakat Sarikei

P.207 IGAN – Daro Government House

P.208 SARIKEI – Sarikei Civic Centre

P.209 JULAU – Julau District Office

P.210 KANOWIT – Kanowit District Office

P.211 LANANG – Meeting Hall of Sibu Public Library

P.212 SIBU – Sibu Civic Centre

P.213 MUKAH – Mukah Mesra Civic Centre

P.214 SELANGAU – Selangau District Office

P.215 KAPIT – Main Briefing Room of State Government Complex Kapit

P.216 HULU RAJANG – Kapit Civic Centre

P.217 BINTULU – Bintulu Civic Centre

P.218 SIBUTI – Meeting Room of Subis District Council Office

P.219 MIRI – Miri Civic Centre

P.220 BARAM – Marudi District Office

P.221 LIMBANG -Limbang Civic Centre

P.222 LAWAS – Lawas Indoor Stadium

GE13: Many battlefronts of Sarawak The Star

KUCHING: Sarawak is expected to see far more multi-cornered fights in GE13 compared to previous polls.

It is likely that none of the 31 parliamentary seats will be won uncontested and there will be fewer straight fights.

Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) alone is guaranteed at least a three-cornered fight in all of its six seats Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Julau, Kanowit, Selangau and Hulu Rajang.

Besides Pakatan Rakyat candidates, the Sarawak Workers Party's (SWP) will contest too.

In Lubok Antu, incumbent William Nyalau Badak will face PKR's Nicholas Bawin Anggat and SWP president Larry Sng, while in Selangau, Larry's father Sng Chee Hua will contest under the SWP emblem against incumbent Datuk Joseph Entulu Belaun, who is PRS deputy president, and PKR's Joshua Jabang.

In Hulu Rajang, Barisan's new face Wilson Ugak Kumbong will face SWP deputy president George Lagong, who is Pelagus assemblyman, and PKR's Abun Sui Anyit.

Some Pakatan leaders view SWP's candidates as spoilers because they claim to be a Barisan-friendly party, although Barisan leaders have rejected them.

Another multi-cornered fight is Mas Gading where Barisan incumbent Datuk Dr Tiki Lafe is considering contesting as an independent after he was dropped.

If that happens, Mas Gading could be in for a multi-cornered fight between Barisan's new face Anthony Nogeh Gumbek, DAP's Mordi Bimol, State Reform Party's (Star) Patrick Anek Uren and Dr Tiki.

Apart from PRS, the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) expects to see multi-cornered fights in Stampin and Miri due to the inability of PKR and DAP to come to an agreement on both seats.

Five-term Stampin incumbent Datuk Yong Khoon Seng could face DAP's Dr Tang Sie Hing and PKR's Voon Shiak Ni, while Barisan's new face in Miri, Datuk Sebastian Ting, could face DAP's Ling Su Kien and PKR's Michael Teo.

In Santubong, incumbent Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, who was Parliament Deputy Speaker, is preparing for a possible four-cornered fight against PKR's Zulrusdi Hol, Sarawak Umno Promoters Protem Committee chief Affendi Jeman and, possibly, former state Education Minister Datuk Bujang Ullis as an independent.

Sarawak BN touts its good governance

STATE MANIFESTO: Taib also pledges more jobs, business opportunities through Score
SARAWAK Barisan Nasional launched a five-point state supplementary manifesto pledging good governance; transformation of the state economy; transformation of the rural areas to ensure that people there are not left behind and marginalised; preserving peace, harmony and stability in the state and a sustainable environment.

Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, who launched the manifesto after meeting all the 31 Sarawak BN parliamentary candidates at Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) headquarters at Jalan Bako in Petra Jaya, said the state's accountable and prudent fiscal and financial management was what kept Sarawak abuzz.

"Sarawak's good financial management has been acknowledged by the Auditor-General for 10 consecutive years until now."

He said ratings by international rating agencies like Moody's and Standard & Poors had given the state a positive investment grade credit rating.

"No other state in Malaysia has received these ratings. Sarawak's track record in good governance is crucial to gain the confidence of international investors."

Pointing out that the state's economy was "growing very steadily", due to its efficient and responsive delivery system and strict adherence to financial procedures, Taib said foreign direct investment in 1980 was a mere RM0.1 billion.

In 1990, the FDI in Sarawak was RM1.7 billion and in 2009, it jumped nearly five-fold to RM8.4 billion.

From 2010 to 2020, it is estimated that FDI into the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (Score) alone would balloon to RM147.5 billion.

Taib said to transform the state's economy, the BN would create more business and job opportunities for all in the coming years through Score.

The manifesto stated that Score would provide 836,000 direct employment by the year 2030. The spin-off industries would create another 800,000 jobs.

He pointed out that if Bintulu could be transformed by just one trigger industry -- liquefied natural gas (LNG) -- he asked to "just imagine" what transformation could take place in the state with the 10 trigger industries of Score.

The pace of the transformation of the state's economy was such that it would make Sarawak a developed state "earlier than 2020" and the state's GDP per capita was projected to more than double by the year 2030.

Sarawak projects its GDP per capita to be RM45,00 in 2020 and RM97,500 by 2030.

Taib said in transforming the state's economy, the state BN places top priority on education, particularly in producing people with technical skills.

"We will achieve the high income, developed nation status earlier than 2020."

In its pledge on rural transformation, the supplementary manifesto gave a guarantee of the people's rights over their lands.

It stated the BN government recognised genuine Native Customary Rights (NCR) lands and was committed to bring 1.5 million ha of these NCR lands into the land register.

The state BN government also pledged to continue to provide a network of roads, electricity supply and water supply in the rural areas so people here were not left behind in the mainstream of development.

It added it would continue to improve health services, housing facilities, continue to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas and continue to improve the socio-economic conditions in the rural areas through agricultural entrepreneurship and poverty eradication programmes.

The manifesto also promised a sustainable development.

It also highlighted that Sarawak BN has an excellent record in environmental management where 84 per cent of the state's total land areas of 12.4 million ha is still under forest cover.



Read more: Sarawak BN touts its good governance - General - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/sarawak-bn-touts-its-good-governance-1.258114#ixzz2QocVHBoY

8 new faces in State BN lineup

KUCHING: Eight new candidates are in the the State Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates list unveiled by Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) headquarters here yesterday.
Speaking after announcing the candidates, Taib disclosed that the constituencies which will see new faces were Mas Gading, Kota Samarahan, Bandar Kuching, Saratok, Sibu, Miri, Baram and Hulu Rajang.
“Of the 31 parliamentary seats we are going to contest, eight of our candidates are new faces. Out of the eight one is a female, Rubiah Wang, who is our candidate for Kota Samarahan,” he said.
Taib, who is State BN chairman, revealed that the seats with the change of candidates were three each from Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) and Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) and one each for PBB and Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS).
SPDP dropped Jelaing Mersat in Saratok and Datuk Jacob Dungau Sagan in Baram while it has chosen Anthony Nogeh Gumbek for the Mas Gading seat.
Jelaing was replaced by the party president and Pakan assemblyman Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom while in Baram Sagan was replaced by Anyie Ngau.
Nogeh’s inclusion ended speculations that now-partyless Datuk Dr Tiki Lafe could be re-nominated to stand as a direct BN candidate.
The change in PBB is the fielding of Rubiah in Kota Samarahan in place of Dato Sri Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib while for PRS the party dropped Datuk Billy Abit Joo and replaced him with Wilson Ugak Kumbong in Hulu Rajang.
The new faces from SUPP are Temenggong Vincent Lau Lee Ming for Sibu, the party’s youth chief Tan Kai (Bandar Kuching) and Datuk Sebastian Ting the political secretary to Datuk Seri Peter Chin (Miri).
“The changes are made based on the assessment carried on the performance of the respective parliamentarians over the past few months and we believe the candidates we have will be able to assist our Prime Minister to get better mandate from the people following the political swing in the 2008 general elections,” he said.
Taib also said with the combination of old and new faces in the line-up the state BN was confident that it would contribute towards BN’s overall success in the polls.
“We believe we can win at least 23 to 27 out of the 31 seats we are going to contest in this general election,” he said.
Met at the lobby when leaving the PBB headquarters, he again reaffirmed his confidence by telling The Borneo Post that the state BN should be able to win two thirds of the parliamentary seats in Sarawak.
In the 2008 general election Sarawak only lost Bandar Kuching to the DAP but in 2010 it lost another seat when Wong Ho Leng, also from DAP won the by-election in Sibu following the death of its incumbent the late Datuk Robert Lau Hoi Chew.
Of the 31 parliamentary constituencies in Sarawak, PBB as the backbone of the state BN, held 14 seats followed by SUPP (seven), PRS (six) and SPDP (four).
Among those present at the media conference that was held after a state BN leaders meeting were presidents of the component parties except for SUPP who was represented by its deputy Datuk Richard Riot who will be defending his seat in Serian and Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/17/8-new-faces-in-state-bn-lineup/#ixzz2QfjqEHcj

Seeing tourism through the eyes of Sarawak’s ‘big village' by Justin Calderon

Kuching is a big village, a kampung besar. This is an honest perspective from an outsider after spending two weeks in Sarawak’s capital, a remote outpost of Borneo that is somewhat more than a town but less than a city.

It is this intimacy, bred of an idiosyncratically Borneo reclusiveness, that has lured in visitors from near and far through Kuching, or ‘Cat City’, the aptly domesticated gateway to more primal unknowns.

FASINATING PLACE: Photo of a Bidayuh longhouse, one of the last remaining of the Bidayuh ethnic group. Tourism has been a part of Sarawak’s DNA for the decades that have elapsed since foreigners began penning their fascination with this slice of Borneo, today still a byword for exotic flora and fauna of an alien kind.

Tourism has been a part of Sarawak’s DNA for the decades that have elapsed since foreigners began penning their fascination with this slice of Borneo, today still a byword for exotic flora and fauna of an alien kind.

“Before Malaysia’s formation as an independent state, Sarawak was very much isolated – a place that writers would romanticise, describing a far-flung land rich in biodiversity and home to over 30 ethnic groups,” deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Alfred Jabu recently reminisced with Inside Investor.

Today, Sarawak still embodies this timeless allure, and foreigners are predicted to increasingly continue making the haul through Kuching and other international gateways.

By 2014, the State of Sarawak is targeting six million tourist arrivals, up from more the more than four million that came in 2012.

Yet hoteliers in Kuching have become wont to bemoan the lack of flight connectivity to their quaint home, as well as the fact that human capital has been sucked out of the domestic tourism biosphere.

“We suffer from a severe manpower shortage,” Rosemarie Wong, director of The Ranee, a luxury boutique-style hotel in Kuching, told Inside Investor.
“Those experienced in the hospitality industry are working overseas or on international cruise ships,” she added.
Helpful in part, Sarawak will soon seriously shape up on the connectivity side of the problem.

This year, a major boost for tourism will come from extended flight connections, first of all through the newly launched airline, Malindo Air, which started flying its inaugural Kuala Lumpur-Kuching and Kuala Lumpur-Kota Kinabalu routes in March 2013.

Malindo Air chief executive officer Chandran Ramamuthy had said that efforts would continuously be made to step up connections, starting with 12 routes by end-2013, making big waves for the young airline, which had already begun creating a word-of-mouth buzz with its low-cost model that paradoxically offers great service and amenities.
Additionally, Malindo Air, 49 per cent owned by Indonesia’s Lion Air, has ordered a sizeable number of aircraft to expand its services, with a fleet that is slated to increase to 12 by end-2013 to match the new routes planned.

Now here is the part really worth zooming in on – if all goes as hoped, the Indian capital of New Delhi would become Malindo Air’s maiden international destination some time in the middle of 2013, followed by direct flights from Kuching to Indonesia, Japan, China and South Korea within two years.

The fresh link to New Delhi is most significant because it offers a cure to the other hurdle impeding Sarawak’s potential for growth in the tourism sector.
Through a connection to India, Malindo is actually whipsawing at the blocade facing tourism by opening up a bridge for human capital from the overpopulated, yet educationally credible, South Asian nation.

The effects could be equally manifold: Indian workers could be given a hand to fill the void not just in the tourism sector, but also in other areas where human capital has become critically low in supply, such as research centers, technically advanced heavy industries and agriculture – namely oil palm, a business that suffers from a shortage of labourers and currently depends on 80 per cent of its workforce from neighbouring Indonesia.

Evidently, Sarawak’s allure of natural wonder doesn’t attract high-end visitors, who often prefer to spend their time moving from mall to mall shopping for luxury brands and eating in five-star restaurants.
Yet much like wild safaris best exemplified in east Africa, Sarawak has great potential for personalised eco-tourism, where customised explorations through the hinterlands can be run by business savvy entrepreneurs who are keen to capitalise on the projected 50 per cent increase in tourist arrivals.

This may be the next fascinating chapter of the state, but countless variables still stand in the way. One thing can be said for certain, however; Sarawak will always be a place worth penning about, no matter the story that unfolds.


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/14/seeing-tourism-through-the-eyes-of-sarawaks-big-village/#ixzz2QPWEKXM2

Waiting game continues for BN candidate-wannabes

KUALA LUMPUR: The high hopes and excitement of many to learn the list of Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates for the 13th general election (GE13) turned into disappointment as the most anticipated announcement did not materialise yesterday.
To those of interest, especially candidate-wannabes, it seems that they just have to wait for a few more days.
“…yet to be finalised. Will be announced in a few days’ time,” Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak told reporters after meeting with the BN election machinery at the Putra World Trade Centre here yesterday.
Najib, who is also BN chairman, said the process of finalising the list had yet to be completed because it was a complex and difficult process and several factors must be taken into account in deciding the seats and candidates.
He said it was not possible for the party to accommodate the requirements of everyone or to satisfy all individuals.
Hence, he also called on BN members to understand the actual fact that the objective of this general election was not merely to be selected as candidates, but also to form a strong government at the national and state levels. — Bernama


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/11/waiting-game-continues-for-bn-candidate-wannabes/#ixzz2QG9J5JD5

‘Golden Ring Ladies’ awed by Golden Triangle meikeng@thestar.com.my

KUALA LUMPUR: Coming from a village located 1,000m above sea level, Singai anak Nikan was reasonably captivated by the sight of the soaring KL Tower.

The 62-year-old Bidayuh from Kampung Semban – a remote settlement on top of a hill in Padawan, Sarawak – said: “I wanted to visit KL Tower because I think its height is amazing.”

Singai is one of seven “Golden Ring Ladies” in her village who still keep to the dying tradition of wearing long copper bangles on their hands and legs as a symbol of beauty and respect.

It is said that those who wear the luyang (hand bangles) and lasung (leg bangles) should wear them for life.

Singai, a padi farmer, said the hustle and bustle of the city did not put her off.

“I don’t find it very noisy. I also like shopping and seeing the interesting clothes here,” said the grandmother of 30, who also tried roti canai for the first time.

Singai is on a four-day visit to Kuala Lumpur with two other “Golden Ring Ladies”.

They have been invited to speak to Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim at Angkasapuri at 10am today.

Singai, who has been wearing the bangles since she was six, said they did not hurt as she was “used to it”.

Andrew Teyok Gudang, 51, who escorted the women, said those who wear the bangles could become a dayung lanyak, a respected elder in the community.

“Only the dayung lanyak can lead the beris or prayers for a good harvest and other matters including good health,” he said.

Andrew lamented that young women were reluctant to continue the tradition of wearing the bangles.

Borneo to enjoy further development under BN

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah and Sarawak are assured of more progress under a Barisan Nasional (BN) government, with numerous projects expected to take off in the next five years if the coalition is returned to power.
According to the BN election manifesto launched by Prime Minister and BN chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak here last night, one of them is the construction of the 2,300-km Pan-Borneo Highway stretching from Sematan in Sarawak to Serudung in Sabah.
The highway is expected to spearhead new growth areas, better business opportunities and enhanced communications.
Themed ‘People First’, the manifesto was unveiled in the wake of the dissolution of the Dewan Rakyat on April 3, paving the way for the country’s 13th general election.
There is also the pledge to build 2,500 kilometres of paved roads in Sabah and 2,800 kilometres in Sarawak, while the rural electrification project will benefit 60,000 households in Sabah and 80,000 in Sarawak.
The BN is also committed to extending clean water supply to another 320,000 homes nationwide in the next five years.
In a bid to provide better access to quality healthcare services, the BN, in its manifesto, pledges to set up a heart centre and cancer centre in every major hospital in both states.
The coalition also promises to improve access to quality education for rural and minorities communities, especially those in Sabah and Sarawak.
Meanwhile, in the economic sector, the 31-page manifesto said the effectiveness of the bumiputera agenda, including for bumiputeras in Sabah and Sarawak, will be enhanced by providing business opportunities, a stronger eco-system and institutional support.
The BN, meanwhile, pledges to gazette all native customary land in close consultation with state governments should it be returned to power in the upcoming general election.
The coalition is also committed to providing more income-generating opportunities within indigenous communities and increasing the intake of indigenous youth into tertiary and vocational education.
In addition, the BN promises to set up special courts with the same status as the High Court under the present justice system to deal specifically with native customary rights issues. — Bernama


Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/07/sabah-sarawak-to-enjoy-further-devt-under-bn/#ixzz2PlM1ssNT