FRIDAY-4 APRIL 2008-MAYOR EXPLAINS, APOLOGIZES TO MP HIEW

Mayor explains, apologizes to MP Hiew

KOTA KINABALU:

Mayor Datuk Iliyas Ibrahim has called on Member of Parliament for Kota Kinabalu, Dr Hiew King Cheu not to politicize the issue of him not being included in the City Hali meeting on Tuesday. The invitation letter to Hiew was sent by an officer in the Sub Urban Department who was not aware of the directives in the National Action Council (NAC) dated 15 November2004 issued by the Prime Minister, he said. Saying that he has personally apologized and explained the unintentional mistake to Hiew, Iliyas denied there were “instructions from the higher authority’ to disallow the Member of Parliament to attend the said meeting, and the City Hall was only following the directive in the NAC. He also clarified that the meeting was actually the District Action Committee meeting and not the City Hall’s Advisory Council meeting as stated by Hiew. According to Iliyas, the NAC states that only the elected Assemblymen and Members of Parliament of the ruling Government are allowed to sit in all the District Action Committee meeting throughout the country. He said City Hall’s Director of Sub Urban, Azimi Salim, who organized the meeting has also written an apology letter to Hiew, who accepted their apologies. “He has accepted our apologies and I do not know why he decided to go to the press and politicize the matter,” said Iliyas, who added that both City Hall and Hiew, the elected MP for Kota Kinabalu, has the same role, that is serving the people. Hence, both parties should forgive and tolerate one another and not make a big issue out of a small matter that was not done intentionally, he said. According to Azmi, after explaining to Hiew the mistake on the invitation letter and pointing out the NAC directives, the latter was actually offered to stay on as an observer in the meeting but he (Hiew) said it was okay and decided to leave. On the meeting that was chaired by City Hall Director General, Datuk Dr Chua Kim Hing and attended by other elected Assemblymen and Members of Parliament from the Barisan Nasional parties, Iliyas said all those present are also representatives of the people of Kota Kinabalu. On calls for transparency, he said the City Hall, being a Government agency is committed to serve the people and has always practised transparency in all its dealings.

FRIDAY-4 APRIL 2008-CALL FOR OPEN TENDERS

Call for open tenders

Sabah builders call for transparency in awarding of Government projects

KOTA KINABALU:

Sabah Builders Association (SBA) has called on the Federal and State Governments to be transparent when opening tenders for their various projects. Apart from helping to reduce the cost of the projects, an open tender system would prevent malpractices and ensure projects are awarded fairly and completed on or before schedule, said SBA President Tsen Kui Lin in a statement yesterday. He said this was among the main issues discussed during the recent SBA annual general meeting, when a lot of members voiced out their dissatisfaction over the present system in awarding Government projects. He said some of the members pointed out that they would only know of the existence of various Government projects after being implemented. Tsen said most of the contractors in the State, articu1arIy SBA members, have been deprived of the chance to participate in the implemental con of Government projects. He said the SBA meeting also resolved to persist in their call for the authorities concerned to reduce the levy on construction workers and abolish PKK and Pukonsa licenses, maintaining only CIDB as the other two are overlapping. The Association wants the Government to let local contractors to secure contracts for projects directly without going to sub—con and sub—sub—con, as it would reduce the cost of the projects, he said. It hopes efforts to revive the SabaContractors Consortium as a construction arm would proceed for the benefits and future of SBA members, he said, adding that more local workers should be trained through the setting up of the proposed Sabah Consortium College. Tsen said SBA is planning to either buy or build a new office building as the existing one is old and obsolete. They are also planning to establish a website for SBA to communicate with members and other trade associations.

THURSDAY-3 APRIL 2008-SPECIAL TREAT FOR SECRETARIES ON APRIL 26

Special treat for secretaries on April 26

KOTA KINABALU:

It is Secretary’s Week again, and for the first time, the Beverly Hotel will be teaming up with the Sabah Secretary’s Association (SSA) for a special treat for all hardworking secretaries. Dubbed the ‘Red Carpet Hollywood’, the event’s joint organising chairperson, Zahara Ismail, said the dinner will be held on April 26 and promises fun-filled programmes. Zahara, who is also the Hotel’s Sales and Marketing Director, said among the highlights of the event would be performance by Madonna (Paper Doll Sabah) and D’Sunrise Band, while Deejay Andrew will be emceeing that night. “There will also be lucky draws and a special prize for the best dressed secretary,” she said after a food tasting for the Hotel’s promotional item during the Secretary’s Week. It is expected that some 300 people will be attending the event, and Assistant Industrial Development Minister Jainab Datuk Sen Panglima Ahmad Ayid is expected to be the guest of honour. Those attending will be able to taste a variety of cuisines covering the Indian, Chinese, Malay and Western style of cooking. Tickets are sold at RM6O per person and bookings can be made by calling 088-258998. “We hope that bosses would take full advantage of this dinner ... let it be a nice way of appreciating your secretary’s good work,” said Zahara. Meanwhile, SSA President Emily John Yagot, who is also the joint organising chairperson of the event, said that to date, they have a total of 260 members, and the number keeps growing. “This is a great way to keep in touch with other secretary friends from other organisations,” she said. The Association will also be holding its 32nd general meeting at Hotel Shangri-La, Kota Kinabalu on April 19. “We will also be attending the 19th ASA Conference to be held between Oct 19 and 22 at the Crown Plaza Mutiara, KualaLumpur and conducting a study tour to Australia in mid November this year,” she said.

THURSDAY-3 APRIL 2008-LIFE BAN FOR SIX LOCAL ANGLERS WHO CHEATED

Life ban for six local anglers who cheated

Sabah International Fishing Tournament organizers tighten rules

KOTA KINABALU:

The organizers of Sabah International Fishing Tournament is adopting more stringent rules after discovering some participants had cheated their way to winning prizes in past tournaments. Sabah Anglers Association (SAA) President Datuk Wilfred Lingham revealed at a press conference to announce the introduction of the new rules at Sutera Harbour Marina here yesterday that a number of these cheaters managed to unfairly walk away with the tournament’s main prizes and titles. He said the organizing committee has engaged a local legal firm to help in reviewing and enforcing the tournament rules and regulations. Lingham said he has learned that during the past tournaments, there were local participants who sneaked to nearby fish farms and jetties to buy live or freshly caught fish and passed them off as their catch at the tournament’s weighing centre. The organizer has begun to tighten their watch over the participants by deploying tournament marshals who would keep an eye on each boat throughout the event, he said. As a result, six local participants were banned for life from the tournament after being found trying to use the same tactic, he said. Expressing regret over the action of these participants, Lingham said: “There is no sportsmanship in that and it is humiliating for the local anglers.” “We must stress this is a tourism event to promote Sabah where at the same time we hope to attract participation of international anglers; Certainly we don’t want to promote a negative image,” he said. He said the organizer has also decided to be firmer on the penalties for hoe found to have broken the tournament regulations and rules, or tried to cheat their way to winning prizes. For example, unlike in the previous years, those who are found cheating this time would not only cause his team to be disqualified from the team category but the entire team members would also forfeit their right to contest in the individual category. “As the prizes grow bigger, participants are also trying harder to outsmart us to win the tournament by means of cheating. So it is sensible to make it not only harder but also riskier for them to do so,” he said. He said a briefing on the rules and regulations of the competition will be give to participants at 7pm on Friday , just after the tournament registration period which will be open from morning to 6pm the same day.

THURSDAY-3 APRIL 2008-WELFARE OFFICERS NEED TO BUCK UP

Welfare officers need to buck up
Many complaints received from people, says Minister

KOTA KINABALU:

The current policy of the Sabah Welfare Department is probably too bureaucratic and outdated, thus there is a need to improve the system to effectively meet the needs of the people. Making this remark yesterday, Community Development and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Hajah Azizah Mohd Dun suggested senior officers from the Department go to the ground to supervise all its offices and related institutions to see for themselves the real scenario. This is necessary so that all issues and problem that arise could be dealt with immediately” said Azizah, while delivering her speech at the closing of a seminar on improving the delivery system of the Department, which was attended by over 50 officers and staff from the Welfare Department. She said there is a need to set up an internal audit system in the Department to keep tab on the handling of financial assistance. The internal audit system will ensure accountability in the management of assistance, she added. Azizah said that as the Minister responsible for Welfare Department, she would not compromise on discipline and those found to have committed any wrongdoings or abuse of power would be dealt with according to the law. “Stern action would be taken should such problems or wrongdoings occur in the Welfare Department,” she said. Azizah also suggested more rehabilitation centres be set up for people with disabilities in urban and suburban areas as well as villages in the State so that they can be trained to be independent. She urged Welfare Department officers to be proactive in improving their services, especially for single parents, domestic violence victims, senior citizens and underprivileged children and those with disabilities. She said she has been receiving numerous complaints about Welfare Department officers being not fully committed to serving the public, such as not being responsive and sensitive to the needs of those requiring help from the Department. Furthermore, she said, some officers are not in the office during office hours and some are ignorant in handling cases under the jurisdiction of the Welfare Department. Asked at a press conference later whether the time taken by the Department to process applications for assistance should be reduced, Azizah replied: “To ensure that the Department provides their service effectively and avoid unnecessary bureaucratic procedures, I have suggested that the delegation of power be reviewed. “I have also suggested that the length of application be reduced to 30 days or one month.” Asked whether the officers at the district level should be allowed to make a decision on minimizing the bureaucratic process, she said that currently, it would not be possible as the approval of applications is based on the yearly budget.

THURSDAY-3 APRIL 2008-CLAIM OF BN LEADERS QUITTING A LIE: KIANDEE

Claim of BN leaders quitting a lie: Kiandee

BELURAN:

The people have been urged not to believe the Opposition’s “lie” that several Barisan Nasional leaders are planning to leave the ruling coalition. Member of Parliament here, Datuk Ronald Kiandee, said it has become the Opposition’s latest trick to lure and distract the people from continually trusting BN. “The Opposition have been spreading the lie that several BN leaders are ditching the ruling coalition in an effort to, create political unease in the State,” he said. “Therefore, we should not listen to this lie. We must realise that such stories are tactics by the Opposition to distract the BN leaders. This is exactly what they are waiting for... to disunite the BN leaders,” he said. Speaking during a meet-the-people session at Kampung Botition near here, Kiandee said he is optimistic that the Opposition’s tactics would not work, especially as the people’s trust in the ruling coalition is still strong. “It is the people’s choice, especially in the rural areas. This is obvious with our performance during the 12th general election last month,” he said, adding that the rural folks believe that BN is the only Government that would be able to bring change and development to them.

THURSDAY-3 APRIL 2008-BN RISKS LOSING SABAH

BN risks losing Sabah

MP Mojigoh accuses KL of denying qualified Sabahans of jobs, promotions

PENAMPANG:

Barisan Nasional (BN) will likely lose Sabah in the future if the Federal Government continues to overlook the need to promote and appoint qualified Sabahan civil servants in federal departments. Putatan Member of Parliament Datuk Dr Marcus Mojigoh said the Federal Government is risking the continued support of Sabahans or BN by alienating qualified Sabahan government officers; not promoting or appointing them. “It creates unhappiness, uneasiness and anger among Sabahans towards the BN Government and it must put a stop to all this nonsense. If not, the Opposition will take advantage of the rakyat’s dissent and BN will be finished the next election,” Mojigoh warned. He also took the Federal Government to task for not recruiting any Sabahan among junior officers in RTM Sabah. “I was told by a source from RTM that 30 newly appointed junior officers from Peninsular Malaysia started work in RTM Sabah early this year,” he said. “The people want to know why not a single Sabahan Organization (UPKO) Vice resident said. Voicing his frustration over the situation, Mojigoh said this is something like colonization and it rukes Sabahans unhappy. “It seems like we (Sabahans) are not part of Malaysia and it is akin to looking down on Sabahans... To them, we have no value,” he said. The Federal Government, he said, knows very well that Sabah is facing unemployment problem, therefore it should offer jobs to the unemployed graduates here. “I was informed that the new Federal State Youth and Sports Department Director is also from Peninsular Malaysia. Why wasn’t the Deputy Director who is a Sabahan promoted? The Government should not have overlooked the Deputy Director,” he said.

THURSDAY-3 APRIL 2008-PAKATAN RAKYAT A WAKE-UP CALL - JAHID

Pakatan Rakyat a wake-up call Jahid

KOTA KINABALU:

Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Youth Chief, Jahid Jahim said the Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) should not treat People’s Pact (Pakatan Rakyat) being formed by the Opposition lightly. He regarded the formation of the PKR-DAPI-PAS alliance as a “wake up call” to the State BN component parties and reckoned that they should start working harder in strengthening the coalition. Jahid, who is Assistant Youth and Sports Minister, was commenting on the formation of People’s Pact by the Opposition parties in an effort to present themselves as a credible alternative to the BN Government. PKR Adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday that DAP Adviser Lim Kit Siang, PAS President Datuk Seri Hadi Awang and PKR President Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail had all agreed that the move to formalize the Alliance be brought back to their respective parties for approval. To strengthen the BN, Jahid suggested the coalition come up with a calendar of events with the participation of members from the respective component parties. “We must have continuous plans to organise more activities, not just political programmes but also cultural and sports events in the calendar,” he said. Silam MP Salleh Kalbi concurred with Jahid, pointing out that the Opposition parties are trying to copy the BN. He said although the PKR, DAP and PAS had wrested powers from the BN in five states in Peninsular Malaysia, majority of the people are still supporting the BN Government.

FRIDAY-25 APRIL 2008- JAPANESE GIANT FIRM PICKS SABAH

Japanese giant firm picks Sabah

Yanmar opens R&D centre for biomass-derived fuels

KOTA KINABALU:

Well-known Japanese giant company, Yanmar Co Ltd, has chosen Sabah to be the centre of its global research and development (R&D.) network for developing biomass-derived fuels. The Oasaka-based company established in 1912, is the first to develop Japanese practical small size diesel engines. It has a strong footing in research and development in various countries, including UK, India, Indonesia and Thailand particularly on alternative fuels such as FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester), waste cooking oil, rapeseed oil and palm oil. Taking advantage of the State’s rich biomass source, it has recently opened its Yanmar Kota Kinabalu Research and Development Centre in the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP). The centre which officially opened end of January, is poised to be the research and development centre for the region as well as the hub for environmental technology and information. Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia, Masahiko Hone earlier this week visited the facility which has already started researches and working on developing a 100 percent pure biomass derived fuel. “The centre will be overseeing the activities and collaborating with other Yanmar Research and Development Centres throughout the world. It will monitor and supervise biodiesel projects in India and UK,” he told reporters here last night. He said Sabah’s ecosystem is one of the most important mega biodiversities in the world and the Japanese, being a close partner of Malaysia, is interested in continuing to take an active part in activities promoting environmental conservation, such as developing an environmental friendly fuel. With increasing environmental awareness among companies and consumers and clean energy is rapidly gaining prominence, he said bio-diesel is offering an interesting prospect as the fuel of the future. Malaysia is the world’s second largest producer of palm oil, which is the main feedstock for biodiesel. In 2005, the country formulated the National Biofuel Policy (sometimes known as the National Biodiesel Policy) to call for production of a biofuel blend of five percent processed palm oil and 95 percent diesel known as B5. The policy encourages the use of this blend by the public, establishes an industry standard for palm biodiesel quality and promotes the setting up of biodiesel plants in the country for export purposes.

WEDNESDAY-2 APRIL 2008-MEMORABLE PROMOTION FOR 19 COPS

Memorable promotion for 19 cops

KOTA KINABALU:

Nineteen newly promoted senior police officers received appreciation during a simple and memorable ceremony at the Kepayan Police Headquarters here yesterday. State Police Commissioner (CP) Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim took time off from his busy schedule to pin rank badges on the uniforms of the cops which he referred as ‘a way to boost their spirit’. In fact, the two superintendents and 17 Assistant Senior Police (ASP) should be proud of themselves as they were the first in the history of the police force in Sabah to receive the rank badges which were pinned on their uniforms by the CP. “This is a day to celebrate it is a promotion and should be welcomed grandly. They have done a tremendous job and it is just right to show our appreciation of their well done job by honouring and celebrating the promotion together. “Besides, it would also make them feel appreciated and boost their confidence. We hope it would also encourage them to work harder in the future,” he said. Rashid added that it was important for the police officers to continue performing well, especially in the effort to improve their delivery system. Stating that there will be more of similar event in the future, he said: “We want to create quality manpower in the future. Appreciate them and they will do good.”

WEDNESDAY-2 APRIL 2008-MAN LOSES ALL VALUABLES FROM PRADO VEHICLE

Man loses all valuables from Prado vehicle

KOTA KINABALU:

A man who went to meet some friends in Hill Top, Luyang, after withdrawing a large sum of money from a bank in Inanam, found his Toyota Prado four-wheel drive broken into and all his valuables stolen. The incident occurred around 9.30am on March 25 when the victim was having breakfast with some friends. He had parked his vehicle close to the coffee shop. Half an hour later, he returned to his vehicle and found the back window behind the driver’s seat broken. His laptop, Indonesian passport, RM18,000 and three cheque books were missing. Eyewitnesses informed him that a Proton Waja with four men inside had stopped near his vehicle, broke the window and took all his belongings before taking off. The eyewitnesses had also given the suspects’ car plate number to the victim who immediately lodged a police report around 10.15am. Police had also taken close circuit television recording of the incident. Further check on the plate number with the Road Transport Department showed that it was fake. Acting City Police Chief Superintendent Rowell Marong confirmed the incident. He said no arrest had been made and investigation into the case was continuing.

WEDNESDAY-2 APRIL 2008-SABAH, SARAWAK SHOULD BE GIVEN 10 FEDERAL POSTS: PKR

Sabah, Sarawak should be given 10 Federal posts: PKR

KOTA KINABALU:

Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) State Youth Vice Head Muada Joe Ojihi said at least 10 Federal Ministries should be allocated to Sabah and Sarawak to reflect the East Malaysian States’ pertinent position in the Federation. Muada said important portfolios such as Public Works, Agriculture and Rural Development could have been entrusted relevantly to leaders from East Malaysia, still underdeveloped but encompassed a much bigger size than the whole of Peninsular, the other part of the Federation. “There must be reasons why it is so difficult for the Federation to strengthen East Malaysia within the Federation itself This is an irony. We used to see leaders from East Malaysia standing side by side with the Prime Minister; but no more now. “But what we see now is our Prime Minister is always flanked by Chinese, Indian and Malay leaders, all from the Peninsular. We missed pictures like Tun Temenggung Jugah or Tuan Fuad Stephens seen beside the Premier,” he said. Muada however pointed out that it is not so much only about position but the sincerity to acknowledge the inseparable two lands, which in 1963 came together to agree to form a federated states called Malaysia. “Despite this, the Barisan Nasional (BN) managed to convince East Malaysian voters to give it almost 100 per cent seats in the recent election, unlike in Peninsular where the BN lost in six states, including the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur. “I support the view of PKR Vice President Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan that Sabah BN leaders must use this opportunity to be united to get more for Sabah and not be contented with a raw deal by the central leadership,” he added.

WEDNESDAY-2 APRIL 2008-SABAH ENJOYING ROBUST ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: CM

Sabah enjoying robust economic development: CM

This is proven from successful issuances of many capital market

KOTA KINABALU:

The successful issuances of many capital market by credible local companies shows Sabah is enjoying a robust economic development driven by a strong and stable business environment, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman. Musa pointed out that many capital market issuances had successfully been completed by Sabahan companies in recent years as the State continued to produce numerous mature and sophisticated home-grown businesses. “In 2006, we saw the issuance of RM500 million bonds by Sabah Development Bank (SDB), which was its third private debt securities issuance. “In 2007, Sabah Ports instituted a RM150 million Islamic programme whilst Sabah Credit Corporation had put in place a RM500 million Commercial Papers/Medium Term Notes (CP/MTN) programme. “Later in the year, Hap Seng Plantation Berhad was successfully listed on the Main Board of Bursa Securities, to date the largest Sabah-based listed plantation company with a market capitalization of over RM2. 2 billion,” he said at the signing ceremony between AmInvestment Bank and CIMB Bank in relation to the launching of SDB Commercial Paper (CP) and Medium Term Notes (MTN) Programme to finance and support development activities in Sabah for the next 20 years. Thanks to the open and investor- friendly business environment in Sabah, Musa said many local and home-based companies had flourished in their respective business undertakings and had developed themselves to be active players not only in the local market place but also in the international arena. Musa said he was confident that the State would continue to have a stable and conducive economic climate to allow for more business and investment growth. He said Sabah has both political and economical vibrancy and stability, which are the essential aspects needed for pacing rapid development and creating a conducive investment environment. The implementation of the Sabah Development Corridor (SDC), he added, will excitingly bring sustainable growth and wealth to the Sabahan people and the State Government would ensure this will happen by providing the facilities required to catalyze both physical and economic growth. Amlnvestment and CIMB are the joint lead arrangers and joint principal advisers for the RM500 million Nominal Value CP programme and RM1 billion Nominal Value MTN programme. Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Musa said launching o the SDB debt programme not only augurs well for SDB itself but also the overall development of the State. “We are very happy and thankfu that our partners — Amlnvestment Bank and CIMB Investment Bank are very supportive of our effort t further develop the State by signing this agreement with SDB today. The fund will be channelled into some of our development activities and help continue the programmes that we have planned. “SDB is our vehicle to develop our State as they will be playing important role in the financial aspect of the development activities in Sabah. They are doing well as shown by the P1 and AA1 rating given to them by the RAM Rating and are confident of positive and continuing growth,” he said. He added the agreement would help facilitate the realization of the State’s holistic development vision through its SDC which emphasises on equitable development for all of Sabah. As a development financial institution in Sabah, SDB has been an important catalyst for the State’s economic development, playing the crucial role of financial intermediary since its inception in 1977. The bank functions as a disbursement arm for the State’s socio-economic development projects and provides financial and investment advisory advices to the State Government and its agencies. Meanwhile, SDB Chairman Peter Siau Wui Kee said the bank would use the proceeds from the issuance of its commercial papers/medium-term notes (CP/MTN) programmes to help support the development activities in the State for the next 20 years. He said the RM500 million CP and RM1 billion MTN would also be used to refinance its existing borrowings and to fund its working capital requirements. Amlnvestment Bank Bhd and CIMB Investment Bank Bhd are jointly lead arrangers and joint principal advisers. Siau signed for the SDB while AMMB Holdings Bhd Deputy Chairman Datuk Azlan Hashin and CIMB Investment Bank Bhd Deputy Chief Executive Charon Wardini Mokhzani for their respective companies at the ceremony, witnessed by Musa.

WEDNESDAY-2 APRIL 2008-LAHAD DATU POWER PLANT MAY BE CANCELLED: MUSA

Lahad Datu power plant may be cancelled: Musa
Govt will re-look into project due to complaints

KOTA KINABALU:

The Lahad Datu coal-fired power plant project may be cancelled due to persisting objections from various parties concerned over possible negative environmental impacts. Following numerous complaints and requests for the project to be stopped, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said he would re-look into the project’s approval and reconsider whether the State Government should continue with “I will visit the power plant and see whether we need to advise the developer to continue with the project or not,” he said to reporters yesterday. He added the Government would re-study the whole project and further scrutinize all aspects before making any decision. On the suggestion by Sepanggar Member of Parliament Eric Majimbun to revive the Special Affairs Ministry at Federal level which was set up when Sabah and Sarawak joined Malaysia, Musa said the proposal would be looked into. The same goes to the call to scrap the quota system for nominations to contest party positions in the Umno election in December. Musa said the matter would be discussed and decided by the Umno Supreme Council, the Party’s highest decision-making body. “Being a democratic Party, Umno will provide the opportunity and avenue to members to express their views on the proposal. “After hearing members’ opinions, the Supreme Council will deliberate on the matter thoroughly before making a decision,” said Musa, who is also a Supreme Council member.

WEDNESDAY-2 APRIL 2008-SALLEH,BUNG MOKHTAR TELL YAHYA TO STOP INSINUATING OVER PM MEET

Salleh, Bung Mokhtar tell Yahya to stop insinuating over PM meet

KOTA KINABALU:

Former Chief Minister Datuk Seri Salleh Tun Said and Kinabatangan MP Datuk Bung Moktar Radin have clarified their meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, along with four other senior Sabah Umno leaders, last Saturday as a normal matter. In separate statements, both said it was a normal meeting between Abdullah and leaders at various levels nationwide to update the Prime Minister on various current issues and developments on the ground. They dismissed an insinuation by Sabah Umno Liaison Secretary Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin that the purpose of their meeting with Abdullah was for their own interests only. The other four Umno leaders were Kalabakan MP Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh, Umno Kota Marudu Division Chief Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia, Pantai Manis Assemblyman Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail and former Sipitang MP Datuk Dr Yusof Yaacob. Yahya said Monday that whatever was discussed by the six leaders and Abdullah did not represent the official views of Sabah Umno or Sabah BN. “Whatever was voiced to the PM was done in their own capacity, and not the official stand of Umno or BN here,” he said. Salleh said they met with the Prime Minister in their individual capacity and, as such, the issue of their group representing Umno or Sabah BN did not arise. “What’s important is that we gave our views on various matters including the issue of Sabah’s bigger representation in the Federal Administration,” he said, adding that they echoed the feelings and sentiments of the people from grassroots level to the Prime Minister. “Nevertheless, the matter (our meeting with the PM) has become the focus of the media, maybe because of the various current political developments in Sabah.” Salleh appreciated the Prime Minister for accepting their courtesy call as it gave them the opportunity to discuss and exchange views and opinions, including on current issues that followed the outcome of the recent general election. “During the meeting, the Prime Minister not only listened, but also took down notes from our discussions in his small notebook,” he recalled. Bung Moktar said what transpired during their meeting with Abdullah was for the benefit of the people, and not for their own personal gains. “As such, don’t make any insinuation or bare speculation if you have no knowledge about our discussion with the PM. “It was unwise for Datuk Yahya to make any insinuation as it could jeopardise unity in the pay. If he wants to know about the details of our dis4ission with the PM, then he should personally me the PM, instead of making an irresponsible statement,” he said. Bong Moktar reckoned that Yahya should not be unduly worried or felt under pressure when they vere called by the Prime Minister for their feedback. As he Umno Kinabatangan Division Head, Bung Moktar also pledged his undivided support to Abdu1lah as the Umno President and Prime Minister.

TUESDAY-1 APRIL 2008-SIX LEADERS MET PM IN THEIR PERSONAL CAPACITY

Six leaders met PM in their personal capacity

Yahya says they do not represent official views of Sabah Umno

KOTA KINABALU:

The meeting six Sabah Umno leaders with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi recently was done, in their personal capacity. Sabah Umno Liaison Secretary Datuk Yahya Hussin said whatever discussed by the leaders and Abdullah did not represent the official views of Sabah Umno or Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN). “Whatever was voiced to the PM as done in their own capacity and not the official stand of Umno or BN here,” he said in a statement here yesterday. Yahya who is also the Deputy Chief Minister cum Agriculture and Food Industry Minister, said he was making the matter clear to avoid confusion. In his one-page statement, the Petagas Assemblyman said ie had to comment on the matter as many people asked him why the six Umno leaders met the PM to air their grouses, giving the impression that they were representing the official views of Sabah BN. “Why them? After all the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman had already met the Prime Minister during the Umno meeting recently and the latter has agreed to come here to hear the views and feelings on the political situation in Sabah,” he said. “I don’t want to have any confusion. I have to make it clear that they are not official envoys and hence do not represent BN or Umno in Sabah,” he said. Yahya was referring to six State Umno leaders including two MPs and an Assemblyman who were recently invited for a breakfast meeting by the PM in Putrajaya to discuss feelings at the grassroots in Sabah. They were former Sipitang MP Datuk Dr Yusop Yacob, former Kota Belud MP Datuk Salleh Tun Said and former Tempasuk Assemblyman Tan Sri Pandikar Amin, all who were not fielded in the recent general election. The other three were Kinabatangan MP Datuk Bung Mokhtar Raden, Kalabakan MP Datuk Ghapur Salleh, who just recently resigned as Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment and Pantai Manis Assemblyman Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail who was dropped as State Agriculture and Food Industry Minister, a portfolio now held by Yahya. It was said that the PM met the leaders to find out if there was a sense of restlessness among BN leaders and the Coalition’s supporters in Sabah but all six were reluctant to reveal what transpired during the discussion. Abdul Rahim, who is Papar Umno Division Chief, only said the discussion was like a father-and-sons meeting to discuss current political situation in general. Yahya also said Sabah Umno would continue to give undivided support and cooperation to Abdullah as the BN Chairman and Umno President.

TUESDAY-1 APRIL 2008- JEFFREY INVITES STATE BN LEADERS TO SWITCH TO OPPOSITION CAMP

Jeffrey invites State BN leaders to switch to Opposition camp

KOTA KINABALU:

Parti Keadilan Rakyat Vice-President Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan yesterday openly invited the State Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders to become part of the country’s political “wind of change”. He said State BN leaders are now “singing the same song” calling for fairer and better treatment of Sabah by the Federal Government, adding that the time is ripe for them to make a difference. “ I’m glad that Sabah BN leaders are now singing the same song that I am singing. The issues they are raising are the same things I have - been saying all this while,” he said at a press conference at the 66 Memorial in Sembulan here yesterday. “They are all saying the same thing, that the State has been given a raw deal and that we are not getting fair treatment in the Federal Cabinet. “I urge them to continue, and not only to go on but to also create history for Malaysia and Sabah by considering also the oil situation and not just demanding for positions at Federal level. “Positions at Federal level are only one part (of the equation), it is not enough... what they need to do is be part of the wind of change. If Sabah leaders become part of the wind of change, they will be heroes,” he said. When asked if there are any and the number of BN leaders who have indicated interest in switching camp, Jeffrey admitted that there were discussions but declined to elaborate. “Yes (there is interest) in both Sabah and Sarawak. I am just trying to help them rationalise (switching camps). “Generally the trend is like that (support for the Opposition), and their minds are like that, but they have to act like that. If they don’t, then they are only in it (politics) for selfish purposes and only want position,” he said. To a question as to when they expect to see any movement from State BN leaders to switch camps as rumoured, Jeffrey gave little away, saying only that it will be akin to a domino effect. “If even just one leader moves, the rest will move. Be it because they are forced to or voluntarily, they will eventually have to move and it would be better if they decide themselves to strengthen the wind of change. “PKR is open ... Sabah is known as the Land Below The Wind and still we were hit by (typhoon) Greg, so I am confident we will be affected by the wind of change,” he said, referring to the 1997 storm that devastated Keningau and various parts of Sabah’s interior. Earlier before the press conference, Jeffrey laid a wreath of flowers at the memorial in what he said was in honour of the sacrifice and patriotism of the leaders who died in the tragic plane crash on June 6, 1976, which included the then Chief Minister Tun Fuad Stephens and several members of the State Cabinet. At the same function, Jeffrey also launched the controversial book “007 Lelaki Malaysia Terakhir?” by Mutalib MD, which already prompted two police reports against the author for alleged defamation. “Even before it was launched there were already two police reports against the book, but until now the police have yet to take action. However if the police want to take action, they can refer to the book because there is a lot of proof (on alleged wrong-doings) by some of our current leaders,” Jeffrey said.

TUESDAY-1 APRIL 2008-MCA WARNS OF DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS

MCA warns of detrimental effects

KOTA KINABALU:

The declining number of East Malaysians in the Federal Cabinet is a cause of concern that could have detrimental effects to the Barisan Nasional (BN). National Central Youth MCA Committee Member cum Deputy State Youth Chief MCA Sabah, Wilfred Yong, yesterday pointed out that the number of East Malaysians holding senior ministerial portfolios in the Federal Government has declined since the 12th general election. Yong who stated this in a statement yesterday, was commenting on a statement made by State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datik Masidi Majun. “Whilst not wishing to add to the Prime Minister’s woes, I have to endorse and add to the comments made by Datuk Masidi Manjun,” he said. According to Yong, Masidi’s remarks was on the paucity of representation of Sabah BN at the highest levels of Government but pointed out that the same comments applied to the whole of East Malaysia. He said it is a fact that the number East Malaysians appointed to senior ministerial portfolios has actually declined since the election. “In Sabah and Sarawak people supporting BN candidates showed a strength of force on March 8 and in many cases, the majorities garnered by the candidates in these two States increased substantially compared with their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia where there were disturbing losses of support,” he said. Yong lamented that even on a pro rata basis, Sabah had lost out, in the ‘reward’ of senior posts, especially when put alongside Umno’s home State of Johore. “Even though I accept that when drawing up his Cabinet, the Prime Minister has a difficult task to create an effective balance but I have to humbly express that he is running a serious risk of alienating loyal BN East Malaysians,” he stressed. “Many workers from all the BN component parties had put in incredible efforts prior to the election and Sabah particularly, had received scant reward of recognition for their work or loyalty,” he said. “By any measure East Malaysia is now the national bastion of BN and neither Umno nor any of the other parties should, by default, squander the vital 24 parliamentary seats. “Perhaps it is time the BN leadership break out from their KL-centric mindset and show by their actions that East Malaysians are really fully paid-up members and citizens of equal paramount of the nation. “Therefore, I call upon the central leadership to address ihis issue urgently and to really consider the well-being of Sabahans since it has become one of the poorest States in the country. I fear that failure to do so may result not only in a disillusioned electorate but an eventual catastrophe far worse than the March 8 general election,” Yong said.

TUESDAY-1 APRIL 2008-GHAPUR SAYS WON'T RETRACT RESIGNATION

Ghapur says won’t retract resignation

TAWAU:

Kalabakan Member of Parliament Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh said yesterday he will not retract his resignation as Deputy Natural Resources and Environment Minister even after meeting the Prime Minister last Saturday. Abdul Ghapur who is also Kalabakan Umno Chief, said the meeting with Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was only to explain his reasons for resigning and to voice out the grassroots’ concerns. “There was no issue on retracting the resignation. I have explained my decision to the Prime Minister in my letter earlier,” he told Bernama. Abdul Ghapur and six other Sabah Umno leaders met Abdullah last Saturday to discuss the recent political scenario in Sabah. The leaders were former Chief Minister Datuk Seri Salleh Tun Said, former Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia, former Sabah Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail, Kinabatangan MP Datuk Bung Moktar Radin and former Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Yusof Yaacob.

TUESDAY-1 APRIL 2008-MP URGES REVIVAL OF SPECIAL AFFAIRS MINISTRY

MP urges revival of Special Affairs Ministry

KOTA KINABALU:

Sepanggar MP Datuk Eric Majimbun has proposed that the Ministry of Special Affairs for Sabah and Sarawak be revived to help look after the interests of the two vast states. I urged the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to seriously consider restoring the Ministry arguing Sabah and Sarawak are too big and need to be given more attention. “These two states are too big; so why not we revive this Ministry again? I think they (Federal Government) need to view this seriously,” he said yesterday. The Ministry was created when Sabah and Sarawak joined Malaya to form Malaysia during the Berjaya era. Its objective was to look after the interests of the two states at the Federal level. Later, the Ministry was put under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development. “Even though the role of the Rural and Regional Development Ministry is to provide development for the whole country, but overall I see no concentration is given to Sabah and Sarawak,” said Eric. The Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) leader also voiced concern over the weak control on the part of the State Government over immigration matters. “The State Government should tighten Immigration controls and practise the autonomy it has over this particular aspect as enshrined in the Constitution,” he said. He added the Government needs to seriously look into claims of immigrants having obtained Mykad documents and Malaysian citizenship status in Sabah. The issue, if left unchecked could pose a great threat to the security and sovereignty of the State and the country, he said. “I know there are a lot of suspected illegal immigrants operating their business in the Inanam open market but we cannot do anything because they have permits and possess genuine Mykad documents. “As a local I think most of us know how to distinguish between locals and foreigners based on their cultures, lifestyles and accents. “Therefore I think it is high time the State Government do something to really scrutinize these suspected foreigners who have obtained genuine Mykads,” Eric pleaded. On the forthcoming visit of the Prime Minister to Sabah, he urged State leaders to highlight to Abdullah the predicament of the Chinese vernacular and mission schools in Sabah which suffer from lack of financial support

TUESDAY-1 APRIL2008-CHURCH FIRE KILLS BOY; INJURED DAD AND BROTHER

Church Fire kills boy; injured dad and brother

BELURAN:

A 11-year-old boy was killed when a fire broke out in a church at Kampung Iran, Jalan Kolapis here on Sunday night. El Frince Lee’s charred remains were found in a room of the church where he was staying with his family. His father, Lee Pui Yong, 43, and elder bother, El Jiran Lee, 12, were seriously injured in the fire and are currently warded in the Intensive Care Unit of the Duchess of Kent Hospital in Sandakan. Another of El Frince’s younger sibling sustained minor injuries while his mother and his sister escaped unhurt. Lee and El Jiran were believed to have been injured while trying to save El Frince, the second child in the family from the burning building, District Police Chief DSP Fadril Mohd Au said. According to Fadzil, the fire broke out about 9.05pm and was believed to have been sparked off by a candle. “The electricity to the town was cut off about 3pm on Sunday and the blackout lasted into the night,” he said, adding that Lee was the caretaker of the church and lived there with his family. Fadzil also said the police, who were informed of the fire, reported it to the Sandakan Fire and Rescue Services Department which dispatched a fire engine with seven firemen to the town located 90 kilometres away. “As the firemen were heading to the village, they received another call reporting of a fire that broke out at the stalls owned by the Beluran District Council,” Fadzil said, adding that the second fire broke out about 10pm. The second fire which destroyed 10 stalls, was also believed to haven been started by a candle, he said. However, no one was hurt in the second incident and the fire was prevented from spreading and causing damage to the other stalls.

TUESDAY-1 APRIL 2008-ROUNDING MECHANISM ON ONE SEN COINS FROM TODAY

Rounding mechanism on One Sen coins from today

KOTA KINABALU:

Effective today, April 1, all over-the-counter payments will be subjected to the rounding mechanism vis a vis the One Sen coins. The total amount of a bill which ends in 1, 2, 6 and 7 sen will be rounded down while 3, 4, 8 and 9 will be rounded up to the nearest multiple of five sen. Those who prefer not to use the one sen coins to pay for their purchases can exchange them at the Bank Negara building here from 9.3Oam to 3pm. Bank Negara Malaysia Kota Kinabalu Branch Manager Ahmad Abd Rahim said although the one sen coins are still legal tender, for the convenience of the public who do not want to carry them around, they can exchange the coins into other denominations. “Those who want to get rid of their one sen coins can come to our office here during the specified hours to exchange them,” he said. Ahmad was commenting on queries from the public as to what will happen to the one sen coins in their possession and what they can do about them in terms of convenient payment transactions once the rounding mechanism is fully implemented. According to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumers Affairs, the rounding mechanism only applies to the total amount of a bill and not on individual items. According to the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, the implementation of the rounding mechanism brings benefits to both businesses and customers as businesses would be able to save on handling costs and for customers, it would make payments faster and more convenient. Ahmad, when asked for the reason of the introduction of the rounding mechanism, said: “I have no comment because it is under the authority of the Domestic Trade and Consumers Affairs Ministry.” He added that the public can obtain more details or information about the mechanism by calling the Ministry’s hotline number 1- 800-88-6800 and 1300-88-5465. Ahmad further said that those with damaged or torn Ringgit notes can also exchange them at the Bank Negara counters for new ones.

TUESDAY-1 APRIL 2008-LDP TO ACT ON 'REBEL'S'

LDP to act on ‘rebel’s’
Few divisions face suspension for working against Party and BN in election

KOTA KINABALU:

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is expected to suspend a few of its divisions whose leaders and members were found to have gone against the Barisan Nasional in the March 8 general election. According to the Party Deputy President Datuk Chin Su Phin, who also heads the LDP Disciplinary Committee, a few leaders and members would inevitably be facing disciplinary action for working against the party and the BN Coalition. During the election, Chin said it was discovered that BN components, including the LDP, were not only racing the Opposition but also challenges from fellow BN parties. The drastic, disciplinary actions would be part of an exercise to restructure the party to ensure the LDP would become stronger within the BN Coalition, he said yesterday. Chin said LDP President Datuk V K Liew had delegated the powers to implement those tasks, which would be carried out after the Party’s Supreme Council meeting on April 12. “During the meeting, the Supreme Council will delegate the powers to the Disciplinary Committee to carry out the task of restructuring the party as soon as possible,” he said. Chin recalled that the worse thing was that LDP also faced opposition from own party members, and that is why it had to take action immediately. Such drastic action is necessary to ensure LDP would remain strong, according to him. “We have already submitted our report on the matter to the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi during the recent BN Supreme Council meeting in Kuala Lumpur. “We strongly believe the BN leadership will look into the matter seriously. Drastic action must be taken, otherwise in the next general election, we might lose to ourselves (fellow BN members),” said Chin, who called on Liew, who is the Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister, at the latter’s office in Kuala Lumpur recently. Chin, who was accompanied by LDP Vice-President Isaac Pang and the Party’s Publicity Officer Albert Kok, said one of the objectives of meeting with Liew was to learn about the new activities and programs of MITI. According to him, MITI is a very important portfolio as it deals with matters that are related to both domestic and international trade and the industrial sector. As the Prime Minister had done away with the Parliamentary Secretary posts in the new Federal Administration, Chin said the duties of Deputy Ministers would be heavier and more demanding as compared to in the previous administration. In his new job, Liew is required to travel overseas more often to carry out his duties in promoting Malaysia, according to Chin. Nevertheless, he said Liew had given his assurance that the latter would try his level best to come back to Sandakan to visit his constituents. Liew will set up his Service Centre in Sandakan and will meet people personally once a month and try his best at both the state and national levels to assist the people in addressing their problems, he said, adding that during their meeting they also discussed party matters, including issues related to Sandakan. “The LDP will be setting up a Special Committee soon to assist Liew in rendering services and to bring in more development and progress to the district and the people,” said Chin.

MONDAY-31 MARCH 2008- BE WARY OF FAKE UK QUALIFICATIONS

Be wary of fake UK qualifications

Bogus institutions offering dubious degrees, claim

KOTA KINABALU:

Malaysians seeking UK qualifications, either offered in the UK or in Malaysia, should be wary of bogus institutions that claim to offer so-called ‘certified UK degrees’. There are irresponsible parties operating in Malaysia that use various means to entice students to enrol for programmes that claim to offer UK qualifications, according to a press release in conjunction with the tour of the Education UK exhibitions organized by British Council in four Malaysian cities. The first exhibition was held on March 18 where Penang became its first venue followed by Kuala Lumpur (March 22 and 23) and Kuching on March 26. Kota Kinabalu was its last venue and it was held at Le Meridien Hotel yesterday. The people could get up-to-date and accurate information about UK study at this exhibition, said Guy Perring, the British Council project manager, transnational education, when met at the Education UK exhibitions held at the Le Meridien Hotel from 1pm to 7pm. “This program provides Malaysians with accurate and reliable information about UK qualifications and more choices for those interested to further their studies,” Guy said. “They can also meet the representatives from the UK institutions which also enable them to get the information they need about studying in the UK,” he added. Guy said more than 800 people attended the expo. “The response from the public is very encouraging,” he said, adding that a total of 15 institutions from the UK participated in this exhibition. Among them were University of Hull, University of Portsmouth, University of Reading, Bellerbys College, BPP College of Professional Studies and Bosworth Independent College. These institutions providing several programmes such as for postgraduate student, undergraduate student and A-levels. Idora Imran, 22, and Alvina Damit, 22, both final year students of Universiti Malaysia Sabah said the expo had given them a lot of information. “It is good to be here at this expo as it gives us much information that we want,” said Idora who is pursuing a degree in Banking and Finance. “We can also learn about the cost of living in the UK,” said Alvina, who is pursuing a degree course in Hotel Management. “We have still not decided what programs we want to take. We are just look around and getting information as much as we can,” Idora said. Asked what courses interest them in a foreign university, they said they want to take management courses.
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MONDAY- 31 MARCH 2008- LET US WORK TOGETHER, MP URGES OPPOSITION SUPPORTERS

Let us work together, MP urges Opposition supporters

KOTA BELUD:

Kota Belud Member of Parliament Datuk Abdul Rahman Datuk Dahian has urged those who had supported the Opposition in the recent 12th general election to join hands with the BN supporters in developing the district. Speaking at the Kota Belud BN thanksgiving at the community hail here yesterday, Rahman said unity among the people should not be sacrificed, and it is for the good of everyone to work together anti fully support development projects to be implemented here. “I sincerely hope the Opposition supporters would discard any prejudice and cooperate with BN; we would be able to find common grounds to work together in developing our town,” he said. “I am opening my door to the Opposition supporters and I hope we can exchange views and work things out together.” Abdul Rahman, who is also Umno Youth secretary, said the mandate given by the people here is a heavy responsibility which he would strive to carry out. He thanked all BN members and supporters for supporting him in the recent e1ection

MONDAY- 31 MARCH 2008- MUSA TELLS REPS TO SERVE PEOPLE HUMBLY

Musa tells reps to serve people humbly

SANDAKAN:

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman has warned elected representatives in Sabah not to let pride go to their heads to the extent that they neglect the people. “We were chosen by the rakyat to be their elected representatives, therefore we must give them the best service we can and carry out our responsibilities,” said Musa, who is also Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) Chairman. Speaking at Libaran Umno thanksgiving here on Saturday, he said he wants all the elected representatives in Sabah to always make time to visit the people in their respective constituencies and hear out their problems and grouses. This, he said, is the way to express their gratitude to the people for giving them the mandate to represent them, he said, adding that elected representatives must not be proud and haughty when meeting the people. “Elected representatives must be humble and responsible. We must also fulfill all promises made during the election campaign as we don’t not want the rakyat to accuse BN Assemblymen and Members of Parliament of lying,” he stressed. Musa said resounding victory of the Barisan Nasional (BN) in Libaran is proof that the people want the overall continued development by the coalition. “BN’s victory in Libaran is the people’s victory,” he said at the gathering which was attended by more than 5,000 people. He said more thorough development will be implemented in the State for the benefit of the people. “I an very grateful to the rakyat of Sabah for supporting the BN candidates in the State and for giving BN the mandate again,” he said, adding that the loss of one parliamentary constituency and a State constituent will make the coalition work harder to regain the seats. “This is a repeat of the 2004 scenario but it does not mean we were defeated. BN will continue to provide the best service for the rakyat,” he said, adding that he will not disappoint the constituents in Libaran as he will ensure the area will develop alongside with other constituencies.

MONDAY-31 MARCH 2008- REVISE RM150 PENSION, CALL

Revise RM150 pension, call
Amount way below poverty line: Association

KOTA KINABALU:

In the face of escalating prices of goods, many members of Sabah Government Pensioners Association (PPKS) who receive as little as RM150 pension a month are struggling to stay afloat and have asked the Association to appeal to the Government to revise their pensions. Pointing out that the RM150 pension is well below the poverty line, PPKS President Dr Florentius Epin Banaik said he hoped the Government would seriously take into consideration the changing situation and adjust the pension payments made to many pensioners. Florentius, who was returned unopposed at the annual general meeting of the Association here on Saturday, noted that repeated pledges had been made by the Government in the past to eradicate poverty among Malaysians and provide a minimum pension of RM500 to those who receive very low pensions. But to date, there is still no sign of the pledges being fulfilled, he said. “How could one survive on this meagre RM150 monthly pension even after the latest adjustment was made in 2007 with today’s spirailing cost of living?” he asked. Florentius also urged the Government to look into the plight of those few hundred government employees who have served for between 30 and 40 years, and consider absorbing them into the permanent and pensionable establishment. “Many of those affected have come to PPKS to ask for our assistance. Unfortunately we feel so helpless and sad for being unable to help them,” he lamented. “All we could do now is to appeal to the Government to find ways to assist them via a pension or retirement allowance to end the suffering of these employees who had dedicated the most productive time of their lives of some 30 to 35 years serving the Government and the nation.” The AGM saw all the incumbent committee members returned unopposed while the vice- president, assistant secretary and treasurer posts were earlier also returned unopposed at the close of nominations. The new line-up comprises Dr Florentius Epin Banaik (President), William Tham Peng Loi and Ms Wang. Tsai Siah (Deputy Presidents), Jemon bin Jali, Pang Kon Hin and Philip Wong Kui Fah (Vice Presidents), Dennis H. L. Lim (Secretary), Fredoline Bilison (Assistant Secretary), Michael Ng (Treasurer), Liew Kim Fatt (Assistant Treasurer), Joseph Jominol, Aloysius Labi, David Lo, Catherine Lee Moey, Hj Matarsad bin Ibrahim, Fredoline Moris Sipaji and Charles Andau (committee members).

MONDAY- 31 MARCH 2008- UNFAIR POLICIES MAKE SABAH POOR

Unfair policies make Sabah poor

Palm oil export via Peninsular ports causes. State to lose RM300 mm revenues a year, says Tham

KOTA KINABALU:

It is high time for the Federal Government to review some of the current policies that are extremely unfair and impoverishing Sabah. This includes the present requirement for Sabah to export its major changes in the demand and commodities such as cocoa and palm oil through ports in Peninsular Malaysia besides paying higher prices for consumer goods, said’ Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) State Science Adviser Datuk Tham Nyip Shen. He said the State is currently estimated to be losing about RM300 million in revenues from palm oil export of an estimated six assumed the million tons per annum, based on the current market price of between RM40 and RM50 per ton. “ With such an unfair policy, how can we not be poor?” Speaking to reporters yesterday, Tham pointed out that the revenues that are lost are enough to increase the development fund for each MP in the State to RM3 million for them to help improve facilities in their constituencies. While welcoming the recent statement made by Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahir Ahmad that consumers in the country can expect major changes in the demand and supply mechanism, including the scrapping of price in control on essential goods, he reiterated his previous call to implement a ‘uniform pricing policy’ for goods across the nation in order to be fair to the people of Sabah and Sarawak. Tham, who is a former Deputy Chief Minister, said : “ When Datuk Shahrir assumed the post of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister, he made a few interesting announcements and this certainly gives new hope to Malaysians, Sabahans included. This, I say syabas! ( well done) to Datuk Shahrir. But, I am particularly keen to pursue an old topic – uniform national pricing policy acroos the nation. It is never the fault of Sabahans and Sarawakians that we are being separated by the largest sea in the world – the South China Sea. “Unfortunately, we are severely punished as a result i.e. paying a higher price of between 20% — 50% for consumer goods.” He cited the case of America, which is about 28 times larger than the size of Malaysia, to further illustrate his point. “To put it in perspective, travelling from the east to west of the United States of America requires five hours compared to just 2+ hours in Ma1aysia,he said. “Yet, there is no price differences in most items between New York and Los Angeles when they are 2,462 miles apart compared to that of only 1,000 miles between Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur. “I can quote a few other countries having no price difference. In Malaysia, even national newspapers are more expensive in Sabah, compared to Kuala Lumpur.” Tham said the renewal of his call for a ‘uniform pricing policy’ is timely, especially when the people of Sabah and Sarawak have given so much support to the BN Government. “Sabah is still being recognized as the poorest State in Malaysia, we are not asking for special privileges, what we want is not much, we just want a fair price, the same price that a Malaysian should pay! We hope to live like a Malaysian,” he said. “I am confident that something positive can be done to give fair treatment to Malaysians residing in Sabah. I would also like to reiterate my call for the Federal Government to equal the export price of commodities from Sabah too. “Without a fair treatment and a level playing field, Malaysians in Sabah would always be at the losing end and perhaps it is also part of the reasons why today Sabah is still being widely recognized as the poorest State in Malaysia. Why must we suffer all these injustices?” Tham also expressed utmost regret that Shahrir’s predecessor, Datuk Shafie Apdal who hails from Sabah had failed to champion such a pressing cause when he was in position to do so.

FRIDAY- 28 MARCH 2008- ANOTHER WAKE UP CALL TO NATIONAL LEADERSHIP : YONG

Another wake-up call to national leadership: Yong

KOTA KINABALU:

The sudden resignation of Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh as Deputy Natural Resources and Environment Minister should serve as another wake-up call to the national leadership to re-look at Sabah and Sarawak’s representation in the central administration, said SAPP President Datuk Seri Panglima Yong Teck Lee yesterday. He said that the veteran politician from Sabah who won the Kalabakan parliamentary seat uncontested in the recent general election, must have good reasons for quitting from his post. Yong recounted that when .Ghapur was a Deputy Chief Minister cum Minister of Finance in the State Cabinet in 1996-1998 when the former was the Chief Minister, Ghapur also abruptly resigned. Although Ghapur did not announce the reasons (which in that case was not related to governmental duties), Yong said that Ghapur normally had good and sound reasons for resigning. “Although he latter retracted his resignation from the State Cabinet then after meeting the then Prime Minister, this time it looks like Datuk Ghapur will not retract his resignation. “I guess that he also has good reasons. He has served in various capacities in the State Government and is a veteran and senior politician, having been an assemblyman ever since the Berjaya era in the 1970s. In Parliament, although he is a second term MP, he commands much attention from other MPs,” said Yong. According to the former Chief Minister, Ghapur’s resignation reiterates the growing view even in Kuala Lumpur and among Umno circles that Sabah deserves more recognition and respect from the national leadership and the BN. “Although it is sad to see Datuk Ghapur resign, and hence Sabah has lost yet another post in the Federal Government, I hope this latest resignation will be another wake-up call to the national leadership to relook Sabah and also Sarawak. “This is a once in a life time for Sabah and Sarawak to prove themselves in the national coalition,” Yong added.

FRIDAY-28 MARCH 2008- SURVEYORS DELEGATE WORK TO FREELANCERS

Surveyors delegate work to freelancers

MP urges Board to revoke licences of registered surveyors

KOTA KINABALU:

Putatan Member of Parliament Datuk Dr Marcus Mojigoh yesterday urged the Sabah Surveyors Board to revoke the licences of surveyors registered with the Board but are no longer operating in Sabah. He said the situation is akin to cheating, as the surveyors are delegating the work to “freelance technicians” when they are supposed to personally oversee whatever work they were engaged to carry out. “These people are not here but their plans are already signed. It is doubtful that they are signing the plans, so my question is who is signing the plans?” he said when met at the First Surveyors Congress at Pacific Sutera here yesterday. “This situation is not fair to their clients because when the clients go to their office seeking advice, they are not around and are instead referred to whoever has been assigned to handle the work. “These people are also depriving the local practitioners of contracts, which are becoming scarce,” he said. Marcus, a former chairman of the Board, explained that the Board’s constitution states that a surveyor must have a minimum of six months of residency in Sabah every year before the issuance or renewal of a licence to operate here. “However we find surveyors who are no longer based here but are still getting contracts. I am not happy with what the Board is doing at the moment, giving licences to people who are not operating in Sabah. “There is a need for corrective measures and for the Board to do its job in ensuring the licences are issued to surveyors who are truly qualified and meet the residential requirement,” he said. Marcus believes that nine out of the 22 surveyors registered with the Board are no longer operating within Sabah. “All surveyors must make a statutory declaration before a Commissioner of Oaths saying that they have fulfilled the six months residency before they can be issued with a licence. “The onus is on the surveyors to prove to the Board that they have fulfilled the residential requirement. These people (surveyors) are my friends, but my contention here is that they must be, professional and not cheat… it is a crime to cheat,” he said

FRIDAY-28 MARCH 2008- UMNO SENDING SIGN AS IF BN SHIP SINKING: THAM

Umno sending sign as if BN ship sinking: Tham

KOTA KINABALU:

Umno’s move to send a recee team to Sabah and Sarawak to spy on the Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Barisan Nasional (BN) is not only an insult, but also sending a panic sign as if the ‘BN ship’ is fast sinking, according to a senior leader from Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP). Datuk Tham Nyip Shen, who heads the SAPP’s think-tank, said that the recent statement by Umno Secretary- General Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor to send a recce team to the two States to check on. the MPs inevitably reminded one of the dramatic scenes in the blockbuster epic movie — “Titanic”, where its crew started fleeing as it sank. “While I cannot guarantee this (jumping ship) will not happen, I presume there are many ways to prevent this from happening, but definitely not by sending spies as this is no different from telling others that our own friends and allies are deserting us like the crew fleeing the Titanic. What about the voters who are the ‘passengers’ of the ship? How can we convince them to continue to support us?” he asked. The former Deputy Chief Minister also contended that there should be no such fear of BN MPs in Sabah and Sarawak defecting, if the Central Leadership treated Sabah and Sarawak with more respect and fairness. He added that BN should perhaps take a cue from the just-concluded Taiwan Presidential Election in which the once very powerful ruling party, Kuomintang which was voted out of power in 2000, was overwhelmingly voted back into power again by the people of Taiwan. In the recent election inTaiwan, Tham said the KMT won 2.21 million votes which were more than the ruling DPP, representing 58.45 per cent and 41.55 per cent respectively. “BN has much to learn from the Taiwan Koumintang. A temporary setback is normal but first and foremost, BN should take its poor performance in the last general election seriously as a wake-up call. It must work hard to bounce back stronger at another time,” he said. Tham reckoned that the BN should immediately organize itself, set up committees and sub-committees to study every issue that affects the nation and its people. Every single step taken must be carefully thought out and every statement made must be ‘politically and emotionally’ correct. “The BN should work hard to win back all that has been lost. The leadership should really make an effort to lead, at the same time groom new, young leaders to continue,” he asserted. Tham also reckoned that the BN component parties must strive to strengthen the BN spirit, stressing that it must be seen to be done. He explained that this was because apart from Umno, MCA and MIC, the rest of the component parties are treated as mere “followers” — or associate, members — who really have no say in major issues. While noting that the BN power sharing is a good concept worth keeping, he nonetheless reiterated that it must be practiced in its true spirit.

FRIDAY- 28 MARCH 2008- HARIS DEMANDS APOLOGY, COMPENSATION FROM IRB

Harris demands apology, compensation from IRB
Board has allegedly published defamatory statements on ex-CM

KOTA KINABALU:

Former Chief Minister Datuk Harris Mohd Salleh has demanded for a public apology and compensation from the Inland Revenue Board (IRB) for allegedly publishing defamatory statements relating to the disposal of his property in Labuan. A letter containing the demand for an apology and compensation from the IRB was made through his solicitors, Messers Maringking & Co, two days ago to the Board. Senior lawyer Yunof Maringking, a senior partner from the legal firm, has confirmed that they were acting for Harris and had written to IRB, demanding for a public apology and compensation from the Board. Harris has also given a standing instruction to institute legal action against the IRB for alleged negligence and defamation, he said when contacted yesterday. It is reliably learnt that Harris, who was the Chief Minister of Sabah during the Berjaya Government from 1976 to 1985, is asking for RM10 million compensation from the IRB. The IRB has allegedly issued an order through the Kota Kinabalu IRB office early this year, barring Harris from leaving the country until he has paid a sum of RM419,715.62 in Real Property Gains Tax to the Board. A certificate dated Feb 22, 2008 purportedly signed by the Kota Kinabalu IRB Principal Assistant Director (Collection) Shahril Jalinus had been issued under Section 22(1) of the Real Property Gains Tax Act, 1976 to compel Harris to fully settle the amount or furnish security to the satisfaction of the Director—General. Copies of the certificate and ban letters had been extended to the Inspector- General of Police and Immigration Director-General requesting them to take necessary action to prevent Harris from leaving the country unless he has settled the tax arrears. On Wednesday, Harris said he had been served with the ban letters both in Bahasa Malaysia and English and described the whole matter as a mistake on the part of the authorities which bordered on malice or was politically-motivated. He said the matter had been referred to his lawyers and instructed them to convey his demand for a public apology and appropriate compensation from the IRB. Harris clarified that he vas not liable to pay the Real Property Gains Tax and the IRB had issued him a letter in 2005 stating that the land involved in the transaction was not subjected to tax. It was stated that the letter of demand for apology and compensation from the IRB that submission of forms with all relevant particulars for tax assessment on the disposal of Harris’ property in Labuan was done professionally through a firm of accountant. In fact one officer from the IRB branch in KualaLumpur had expressly confirmed in a letter dated Oct 24, 2005 that the disposal of the said property is not subject to any tax under the Property Gains Tax.

FRIDAY-28 MARCH 2008- BETTER TO HOLD UMNO POLLS THIS YEAR : MASIDI

Better to hold Umno polls this year: Masidi

KOTA KINABALU:

It would be better for Unmo to hold its party elections sooner than later to ensure the party can get back on track as soon as possible, said Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun. He said whether the party elections will be held this year or the next, whatever perceived problems within the party will still be present until a move is made towards finding solutions. “Whether we have it now or later, we will still need to make our selection. We cannot deny that something is wrong (in the party). Something is seriously wrong and it would be better to settle these problems now,” he said yesterday. Masidi, who is also Umno Ranau Chief, said he understands the fears of division within the ranks if the party elections are held as scheduled this August but expressed his faith in the maturity of the party members. “There are some whose views are perceived as going against the party leadership, but I don’t think we should interpret their views as such. I interpret every opinion as a manifestation of the desire to see the party get better. “We should look at it positively, rather than just looking at the negative aspects. I believe the party should sit down, discuss the problems and weaknesses that we obviously saw in the past elections and take brave steps towards solving these problems,” he said. When asked to comment on calls by former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah for an EGM in May, Masidi said it may not be needed. “If we are going to have the elections this year, I believe there is no necessity to have an EGM because all issues can be exhaustively discussed at the normal AGM. “Perhaps what they may want to do is to have a longer period for the AGM to give ample time for everyone to air their views,” he said. Masidi added that Umno leaders and members should wait until the AGM to make their opinions known as it would be the proper forum for any discussions regarding party matters. “As far as possible, we should not wash our dirty linen in public. There is a proper forum for Umno members to discuss ... if you have an opinion, keep it and say it out in the normal forum provided for in the party,” he said.

FRIDAY-28 MARCH 2008- GIVE UMNO TIME BEFORE POLLS : YAHYA

Give Umno time before polls: Yahya

KOTA KINABALU:

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin said Umno should be given time to examine its weaknesses and regain its strength before holding its party elections. In supporting a suggestion to postpone the party elections to next year, Yahya said there is no need for Umno to rush into holding its elections when it should be giving attention to more urgent issues. “The rationale is that we just concluded the general election and are busy establishing the new Governments both at the Federal and State levels. Moreover, we feel that there are some weaknesses in Umno as seen in the election results,” he told reporters after presenting assistance to SRJK Hwa Shiong and Hwa Shiong Kindergarden in Putatan near here yesterday. The State Umno Liaison Secretary argued that the shocking setback in the general election showed there are some weaknesses in Umno that must first be rectified. However, he said Umno and BN remained strong in Sabah as it won all the contested seats except for Kota Kinabalu and Sri Tanjung which was lost to the DAP. But, Umno as a whole needs to emphasise on understanding and resolving these weaknesses first before having its elections, according to him. “We could wait for calm and a more appropriate time to hold the elections. There should be no problem on that,” he said. Yahya who is also the new Agriculture and Food Industry Minister presented electrical equipment comprising 10 units of computers, a projector, LCD and printer to the schools. “The Supreme Council has decided to have an 18-month extension period and there should be no problem for the Party to hold the elections next year which is still within the extended period. The Council has the right and it is up to it to decide the date for the meeting.” On Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah’s proposal for Umno to hold a special extraordinary general meeting (EGM) this May, he said if the motive is for the good of the party then it should be considered but if it is more towards worsening the situation, then it is inappropriate and should be rejected. “This is a country that upholds the freedom of expression which gives people the right to express their thoughts and make suggestions. “If we think what we are about to do could split the party then we maybe we should think about it,” he said. He urged all Umno members to ensure that whatever action they take would only further strengthen the Party and not the opposite. Tengku Razaleigh in proposing his idea said the EGM is for members to discuss the Party’s poor performance in the general election. He has received support from many quarters including former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who strongly backed his suggestion saying the meeting would give all parties opportunities to voice their opinions and resolve the problems face by Umno.

FRIDAY-27 MARCH 2008- FOCUS ON PROJECTS THAT IMPROVE LIFE OF RURAL CITIZENS

Focus on projects that improve life of rural citizens: Yong

KOTA KINABALU:

The Government will continue to place emphasis on projects that increase the quality of life for rural citizens and are education related as well as to improve the Government’s service delivery system. This is to build capacity and increase the resilience of the nation’s economy, Assistant Local Government and Housing Minister Edward Yong Oui Fah said when officiating the Home and Decor Sabah and Buildcon Sabah Exhibition 2008 at the Sabah Trade Centre here yesterday. It is forecasted that more contract works for the construction industry will be awarded in the early stages of the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP) which is expected to unveil many growth plans involving physical and non- physical developments aimed at preparing Malaysia to become a developed nation by 2020. A ceiling expenditure of approximately RM150 billion for 2006-2010 is expected from 9MP, he said. “In the past, to boost the Malaysian construction industry, the Government had used the construction sector as an instrument to pump prime the economy. However, the construction industry in Malaysia has matured and our nation is about to enter into the next stage of economic development in facing the current economic challenge,” he added. Yong said the Government is devising a separate economic strategy to promote growth giving priority to new potential sectors, but not lessening the importance of construction to sustain growth in a highly competitive market. He also urged the industry players to be proactive in managing their construction business by becoming less reliant on Government projects. Instead, they are encouraged to initiate viable private driven projects. The exhibition is a one-stop sourcing hub for buyers, contractors, developers, interior designers and building professionals in the building business. It offers a wide range of products and services from building material, construction, equipment, interior furnishing products and building intelligent technology.

FRIDAY-28 MARCH 2008- GHAPUR QUITS BUT STAYS PUT IN BN

Ghapur quits but stays on in BN

TAWAU:

Kalabakan Member of Parliament Datuk Ghapur Salieh has relinquished his post as Deputy Natural Resources and Environment Minister. He told Bernama yesterday that he submitted his resignation letter to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in Putrajaya on Wednesday morning. He said he had also informed Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman about his resignation. He dismissed talks that he would be hopping over to the Opposition, which is said to be trying to lure several MPs from Sabah and Sarawak since the conclusion of the 12 general election which saw the Barisan Nasional (BN) lose its two-thirds majority in Parliament, and five states to the Opposition. Ghapur, who won the Kalabakan seat unopposed in the March 8 polls, said he would continue to be the elected representative and Kalabakan Umno division head. “All that talks are not true as I have my own principles. Even before, when Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) came into power (1985), all the State Assemblymen from Parti Berjaya (which was then a BN component) except me, crossed over to PBS. So based on this, people should be able to gauge my stand,” he said. Ghapur is the second MP from Sabah and the third person to resign as a Federal Deputy Minister in the aftermath of the BN’s election debacle. Immediately after Abdullah announced the Cabinet line-up on March 18, Kimanis MP Datuk Anifah Aman rejected his appointment as Deputy Transport Minister while Datuk Seri Tengku Azian Sultan Abu Bakar, the MP for Jerantut, turned down the post of Deputy Foreign Minister. Asked why he decided to quit eight days after accepting the post, Ghapur, 64, said: “I don’t want to be tied down to the duties of a Deputy Minister because I want to concentrate fully on the residents of Kalabakan.” He has many children studying overseas and being a Deputy Minister would curtail his time to visit them, according to him. Earlier, Ghapur told reporters at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport that in his resignation letter, he thanked the Prime Minister for selecting him as a candidate in the recent general election and for appointing him as a Federal Deputy Minister. “Initially, I did not want to accept any Federal post, including a minister’s post, but since I got to know about the appointment from the TV, I did not have the chance to inform about my intention of not accepting any Federal post. “On that announcement, I respected the Prime Minister’s decision and after having taken the of office) I forwarded my resignation letter.” Asked whether Abdullah accepted his resignation, Ghapur, a former Sabah Deputy Chief Minister, said he had explained at length why he resigned and believed that the Prime Minister would accept it. “But my decision is final, and I did it in the interest of my family, especially, my children who are studying overseas. “I feel the Deputy Minister’s post carries a huge responsibility and I do not want to be tied down to Government regulations where I cannot be actively involved in business and do a lot of other things ... so I think it’s better for me to be a Government supporter instead,” he said. On the Kalabakan people’s reaction to his resignation, Ghapur said it was not a problem because “what is important to them is development for the benefit of the people”. Asked whether he would be replaced by another Umno MP from Sabah, he said it is up to the Prime Minister. Ghapur’s resignation added pressure on Abdullah in this politically difficult time for the BN and Umno. Sarawak ensured BN’s cling to power in the elections, which gave Umno the fright of its life. De facto Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told Reuters last week that ruling-party lawmakers were willing to defect to the Opposition, threatening to drag down the Government. The Opposition said it was not certain why Ghapur resigned. “One reason might be that he is dissatisfied with the post. What other plans he has I really don’t know,” said Syed Husin Ali, the Deputy Chief of Anwar’s People’s Justice Party (Keadilan). “So far he has not applied.”.

FRIDAY-28 MARCH 2008- FATHER AND DAUGHTER DROWN,THREE RESCUED AS VEHICLE FALLS INTO RIVER

Father and daughter drown, three rescued as vehicle falls into river

PENAMPANG:

A father and daughter were found drowned while three others survived when the four-wheel drive vehicle they were in fell into the Mahandoi River here, on Wednesday night. The driver, Justin Diit, 49, and his nine- year-old daughter, Adriana Dositin, wet missing in the 9.30pm incident after the vehicle ended in the river, while his three sons, aged between five and 11, were rescued by villagers. District Police Chief DSP Madang Usat, in disclosing this, said thevictims were on their way home to Kampung Mahandoi after visiting relatives from the same village. “It was learnt that Justin had lost control of the vehicle before it skidded and fell “However, three of his four children were saved by villagers,” he said. Justin’s body was found still intact in the vehicle, which was washed away 30 metres from where the car had dropped, close to midnight while search and rescue operation for the daughter went on until yesterday. The girl’s body was recovered at 9. 30am yesterday, close to where the vehicle was found. Madang said the three survivors are being treated at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Their conditions are reported to be stable. Both bodies were sent to the hospital for a post-mortem.

THURSDAY-27 MARCH 2008- HARBOUR TOWN TO TRANSFORM LAHAD DATU

Harbour Town to transform Lahad Datu

KOTA KINABALU:

Despite being the gateway to the world renowned Danum Valley Conservation Area, the abundant flora and fauna of Tabin’s wildlife reserve and the mysterious Madai Caves, for a long time there has been little public interest in the east coast town of Lahad Datu, especially as a retail and commercial hub for Sabah East Coast. At present, the township of Lahad Datu is lacking of a popular venue for leisure or shopping activities due to the absence of a suitable environment that encourages the trendsetting lifestyle enjoyed by residents of the West Coast. All this is about to change with the emergence of a new retail and commercial development, called Lahad Datu Harbour Town, which is poised to transform Lahad Datu into the prime destination for avid shoppers and trendsetters residing on Sabah’s East Coast. This new development promises not only to buoy Lahad Datu up to par with other up market retail and commercial development in Sabah, but will also introduce Sabahans to a brand new form of shopping experience and lifestyle. According to Datuk Chin Kain Sim, one of the Directors of Tower Lodge Sdn Bhd, the developer of the development project, the name Harbour Town was coined as a tribute to the origins of Lahad Datu and the maritime exploits of the early seafarers who came to settle in this area. “The origins of Lahad Datu’s settlement as a early trade port and the past maritime activities of the locals, was the impetus for our idea. We wanted to incorporate an appealing brand name for a retail and commercial development that relates back to Lahad Datu’s history, but with a modern and contemporary feel for the 21st century,” he explained. Tower Lodge Sdn Bhd is managed by Chin, and his two other partners, Datuk Christopher Lim and Fong Sin Lon. It is a subsidiary of the Seng Group of Companies based in Kuala Lumpur led by Datuk Dr Lim Lee Seng. The Group has recently expanded its interests in Sabah through its subsidiaries, Tower Lodge Sdn Bhd and KOPORIM Marketing Sdn Bhd, whose most recent project has been the development of KK Taipan Commercial Centre in Inanam New Township, a 14-acre commercial development comprising of 117 units of shop-office. It is currently under construction and is slated for completion in the end of 2008. The official launching of the Lahad Datu Harbour Town project is at 9am today at the project site office.