Latest news with #ChimonUpon
Borneo Post
9 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
S Pay Global records RM5.21 bln in transactions, marks cashless growth
Syed Mohamad Fauzi delivers the keynote address. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (July 1): Sarawak's financial technology platform, S Pay Global, recorded over 138 million transactions worth RM5.21 billion as of June 15, 2025, reflecting the state's accelerating transition toward a cashless digital economy. Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the mobile application, formerly known as Sarawak Pay, has registered 1.59 million users and 94,700 merchants, marking steady growth in digital payment adoption. 'This platform, managed by SiliconNet Technologies and accredited by Bank Negara Malaysia, enables users to make digital payments for bills and purchases, with top-up options via online banking, credit or debit cards, and BSN agents. 'It supports a comprehensive cashless ecosystem with key features including QR code payments, bill splitting, fund transfers, eGifts, loyalty rewards, discount coupons, insurance services, study loan payments, food ordering, donations, parking payments, and more,' he said. His remarks were delivered by his ministry's deputy permanent secretary Syed Mohamad Fauzi Shahab during the Digital Technology Nexus 2025 (DigitalNEXUS) organised by Universiti Sarawak Malaysia (Unimas) at Hilton Hotel here today. Julaihi emphasised that as Sarawak deepens its digital footprint, a robust data governance structure is essential to support emerging technologies and public service transformation. 'We need to ensure that we have a comprehensive Data Governance and Management Framework focusing on People, Processes and Technology to maximise the value of Big Data,' he said. 'Since mid-2024, the Sarawak Multimedia Authority has been leading the development of a comprehensive Data Governance Framework for Sarawak.' He added that the final report outlines recommendations including legislative reforms, governance structures, and a phased roadmap for policy development, capacity building, and rollout. 'A phased roadmap which highlights the next steps in policy development, capacity building, and operational rollout will commence this year,' he said. cashless payment julaihi narawi s pay global Syed Mohamad Fauzi
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Putrajaya should continue providing funding for S'wak's NCR land survey initiative, says Awg Tengah
Awang Tengah speaks to reporters when met at PBB HQ today. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 28): The federal government should continue providing funding for the Native Customary Rights (NCR) land survey initiative in Sarawak if it is genuinely concerned about the issue, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. 'If she (Nurul Izzah) is truly concerned about this issue, I hope the federal government will continue to provide funding,' he told reporters at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) headquarters here today. Awang Tengah was commenting on PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar's recent statement urging the federal government to expedite NCR land surveys and ownership approvals, and to halt the issuance of new licences on disputed land. He said Sarawak has made significant strides in surveying NCR land since the introduction of the New NCR Land Survey Initiative in 2010. 'Perhaps she is unaware of the developments and the successes we have achieved. Since 2010, we have implemented the NCR land survey through a new initiative carried out in two stages — first, perimeter surveying, and second, individual lot surveying. All of this is based on applications from the communities,' he said. To date, more than 1.2 million hectares of NCR land have been surveyed under the initiative. 'Almost one million hectares have been issued documentation under Section 6 of the Sarawak Land Code,' he added. He said the second phase, which involves surveying individual lots, begins once the land is gazetted under Section 6 and applications are submitted by the landowners. 'We have already implemented this, and the success has been significant. This is a much faster method.' Awang Tengah noted that before the 2010 initiative, various approaches were used to carry out land surveys, including through resettlement programmes dating back to the 1960s. 'Over more than 50 years, we managed to survey only around 260,000 hectares. Compare that to what we have achieved since 2010 — the results have increased many times over,' he said. He stressed that the Sarawak government is fully committed to continuing the initiative and has already allocated RM40 million to support it. 'This funding can be applied for if needed. In addition, we have deployed over 370 officers to carry out the survey work, all funded by the Sarawak government,' he said, adding that annual spending on the initiative amounts to no less than RM30 million. 'This is an ongoing effort. We continue to receive applications, and each is considered accordingly.' He also underscored the importance of cooperation from landowners, especially for individual surveys. 'They must be present on the ground to verify their boundaries. This is not something we do haphazardly,' he said. 'Once approval is granted, we engage directly with the communities involved. We hold dialogues, verify evidence and boundary claims, and everything is done transparently. With agreement and cooperation, the process can be accelerated.' Touching on legal disputes involving NCR land, Awang Tengah advised claimants to either wait for court rulings or withdraw their cases if they wish to join the survey initiative. 'If they are interested in joining the programme, they should withdraw the case from court and submit their applications. Everything is based on voluntary application,' he said. Awang Tengah Land Survey NCR nurul izzah
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Seat increase must uphold MA63, strengthen Sarawak's representation, says Kota Sentosa rep
Yap reiterates that the people of Sarawak deserve transparency and clarity in the process, not decisions made behind closed doors. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 27): Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap has called for any move to increase Sarawak's state or parliamentary seats to be guided by the principle of 'Sarawak First' and grounded in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). He stressed that such measures must not be reduced to a 'mere numbers game' but should instead reflect a sincere commitment to strengthening Sarawak's voice in Parliament and ensuring fair and accurate representation of its people. 'This cannot be just a numbers game. It must be a step towards strengthening Sarawak's voice in Parliament and ensuring our people are more fairly and accurately represented,' he said in a statement. He reiterated that the people of Sarawak deserve transparency and clarity in the process, not decisions made behind closed doors. 'Sarawak must come first in any seat increase – uphold MA63 and protect our future,' he asserted. Yap, a lawyer by training, made these remarks ahead of the one-day special sitting of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) slated for July 7. Although the official agenda has yet to be announced, speculation suggests that the session may address issues of redelineation or increasing the number of seats at the state or parliamentary level. Yap emphasised that any changes made in this regard must aim to uphold Sarawak's constitutional rights and enhance its representation within the Federation. 'Let's not forget that the last seat increase in 2015 involved proper legal channels through the Election Commission and constitutional amendments. 'We must insist on the same level of accountability this time,' said the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) Kota Sentosa branch chairman. Yap further stressed the need to rebalance electoral representation in response to rapid urban population growth, particularly in areas like Kota Sentosa. 'Neglecting urban constituencies risks marginalizing large segments of Sarawak's population,' he cautioned. 'Every Sarawakian deserves to have their voice heard. Fair representation is not only a constitutional matter – it is a matter of justice and equity for our people,' he emphasised. Calling for unity across political lines, Yap urged all parties -regardless of affiliation – to prioritise Sarawak's rights and autonomy. 'If this special sitting is indeed about reinforcing our place under MA63, then it is a step in the right direction and deserves full public support. 'Our collective mission must be to build a stronger, more empowered Sarawak,' he said. Reaffirming his unwavering stand, Yap said: 'I will always speak up for what matters to Sarawakians- whether it's MA63, fair representation, or the development of our state. 'The people of Sarawak must always come first. Let us remain vigilant, united, and committed to a better future.'
Borneo Post
21-06-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Over 3,000 join colourful Gawai Dayak 2025 Parade in Kuching
Abang Johari (fourth left) with Uggah (third left), Dr Sim (third right) and other local dignitaries march their way from the Tun Jugah Building to the Kuching Waterfront. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 21): More than 90 contingents and 12 decorated floats, featuring over 3,000 participants from the Orang Ulu, Bidayuh, and Iban communities, brought vibrant colour and cultural significance to the Gawai Dayak 2025 Parade, much to the delight of both locals and visitors. The day began with the traditional Orang Ulu 'Upacara Mamat' ceremony, held at the Tun Jugah Building lobby. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officiated the ritual, which was conducted by the Sarawak Council for Customs and Traditions and led by Pemanca Tony Kulleh from the Belaga Kenyah community. The ritual sought blessings and permission from ancestral spirits to commence the parade. A contingent representing the Iban community at the parade. – Photo by Chimon Upon Following the ceremony, Abang Johari and other dignitaries joined the 1.2-km parade from Tun Jugah Building to the Kuching Waterfront. Among those in attendance were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, along with the main organising committee chair of the state-level Gawai Dayak celebration, Datuk Gerawat Gala. The 'Upacara Mamat' ritual remains symbolic as a celebration of unity and a means of passing down the spirit of courage and togetherness to younger generations. It reflects values of gratitude, shared achievement, and harmony – ideals at the heart of Gawai. The two-hour parade also featured contingents and special guests from outside Sarawak, including members of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Sarawak Branch. A women contingent showcasing their costumes at the parade. – Photo by Chimon Upon The Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, was present as a special guest. Also in attendance were delegates from North Kalimantan, led by Vice Governor Ingkong Ala and the Republic of Indonesia Senator Dr Marthin Billa, who is also the President of the National Dayak Customary Council. The Orang Ulu community was represented by groups such as the Sarawak Kayan Association Kuching Branch, Sarawak National Kenyah Association, Sarawak Bisaya Association, Sarawak Lahanan Association, Punan National Association, Serian Orang Ulu Association, Sarawak Kayan Women Association, and the Orang Ulu National Association. Contingents from the Bidayuh community included branches of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) from Serian, Lundu, Urban Kuching, Central Kuching, Siburan, Serapi, Penrissen, Padawan, Bau, Samarahan and Tebedu, as well as the Kuching Biperoh Association, Kuching Biya Association, and the Jagoi Area Development Committee. Representing the Iban community were the Tun Jugah Foundation, Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU), Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak, Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry, several SDNU branches, the Anak Borneo Semenanjung Association, Sarawak Pribumi Intellectual Association, Dayak Kuching Community Culture and Charity Club, and Sarawak Dayak Iban Association. One of the contingents making their way to the Kuching Waterfront. – Photo by Chimon Upon Speaking to reporters after the parade, Uggah said it served as a platform for Sarawak's diverse ethnic groups to showcase their rich culture and traditions. 'It is also to enlighten the non-Dayak community of the traditions and customs practised by the Dayaks,' he said. He also expressed appreciation to the Premier Abang Johari and Raja Muda of Perlis for attending the cultural celebration. abang johari Gawai Dayak parade Kuching Niti Daun
Borneo Post
20-06-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Gawai Dayak Parade in Kuching to begin with traditional Orang Ulu ritual Upacara Mamat
Participants rehearse for the Gawai Dayak Parade 2025. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 20): The traditional Orang Ulu ritual Upacara Mamat will be a key ceremonial highlight ahead of the Gawai Dayak 2025 Parade tomorrow here. State-level Gawai Dayak Celebration Main Organising Committee chairman Datuk Gerawat Gala said preparations are complete for the main event, which will be attended by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, with briefings conducted for all contingent leaders and 50 experienced marshals. 'Today, we briefed all contingent leaders and the marshals, who are mainly police and army veterans, on the dos and don'ts, and the overall procession order,' he told reporters before today's final rehearsal. The Upacara Mamat, a traditional Orang Ulu ritual, will be held in the Tun Jugah Building lobby at 1.40pm prior to the parade, which is scheduled to start at 2.10pm. Conducted by the Sarawak Council for Customs and Traditions and led by Belaga Kenyah community Pemanca Tony Kulleh, the ritual will seek blessings and permission from ancestral spirits to commence the traditional and cultural parade. Historically, the thanksgiving ritual was performed ahead of headhunting expeditions or to invoke blessings for the paddy planting season. A key element of the ritual is the Tungun Belawing, a carved ceremonial wooden pole adorned with traditional Orang Ulu motifs such as the bunga kerbu. Atop the pole sits a hornbill sculpture, symbolising honour and cultural identity. While the Mamat ritual is no longer carried out in its original form based on traditional beliefs, its core values remain preserved, expressed today through prayers, thanksgiving ceremonies, and cultural celebrations. Reviving and showcasing this tradition is seen as a meaningful way to preserve the cultural identity of the Orang Ulu, particularly the Kenyah community in Sarawak. Gerawat explained that although no longer widely practiced, Mamat remains symbolic as a celebration of unity and a way of passing down the spirit of courage and togetherness to the younger generation. Gawai Dayak Cultural Parade Organising Committee chairman and Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon said the ritual reflects gratitude, shared achievement, and unity, which are values that Gawai continues to celebrate. There will be 91 contingents and 12 floats for tomorrow's parade, which will involve over 3,000 individuals. All contingents will be evaluated by a special panel to determine the best contingent in each of the three main categories: Orang Ulu, Iban, and Bidayuh. Cash prizes of RM10,000, RM5,000, and RM3,000 will be awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners respectively, with consolation prizes of RM1,000. Despite the event coinciding with the Rainforest World Music Festival, Gerawat and Chukpai are hopeful for a strong turnout. 'We understand the date clash is unavoidable due to the availability of our VIP guests and the venue. We hope the public will attend both. Come here in the day and enjoy the festival at night,' Gerawat said. The parade will also feature special guests and contingents from outside Sarawak including Sabahans from the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Sarawak Branch. Also joining the celebration is a delegation from North Kalimantan led by Vice Governor of North Kalimantan Ingkong Ala and Senator of the Republic of Indonesia and President of the National Dayak Customary Council Dr Marthin Billa. Chukpai added that the Raja Muda of Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail is expected to attend the parade as a special guest. Gawai Dayak parade gerawat gala lead Upacara Mamat
