Latest news with #JohnnyPang
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Jepak Bridge a monument of Sarawak's visionary leadership, says Tanjong Batu rep
Pang greets a runner during the Jepak Bridge Run 2025. BINTULU (July 21): The newly-completed Jepak Bridge is a powerful symbol of Sarawak's forward-thinking leadership, said Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang. He said the bridge was more than a physical link, and represented a bold step forward in transforming the rural landscape and catalysing economic growth in Bintulu and beyond. 'The bridge is not just an infrastructure — it is the manifestation of the GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) government's commitment to rural transformation and inclusive development. 'It proves that when we say no one is left behind, we mean it,' he told The Borneo Post yesterday when asked about the bridge's significance ahead of its official opening on Wednesday by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Earlier, Pang joined Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas for the Jepak Bridge Run 2025. He said the Jepak Bridge ends decades of relying on ferry services — a daily challenge for thousands of residents in Jepak. 'With the bridge, transportation between Jepak and Tanjung Batu is faster, safer and more reliable. This is a change that brings direct improvements to the locals' quality of life. 'Residents now enjoy better access to education, jobs and healthcare. This has a real impact on the ground, not just figures on paper,' he said. He said the bridge, which strategically links Jepak, Samalaju and Bintulu Port, enhances logistics efficiency and accelerates industrial expansion in the northern region. Uggah receives his finishing medal from JKR Sarawak director Dr Cassidy Morris as Pang (left) looks on. 'The bridge is also poised to redefine Bintulu's urban boundary, paving the way for population growth, new job opportunities, and expanded economic zones on both sides,' he said. As Sarawak's first double tower, double cable-stayed bridge with a dual four-lane carriageway, he said the project is a landmark achievement. He said it showcases the Sarawak government's technical capacity and unwavering commitment to infrastructure development. 'Let's be honest, this project was not a dream. It was delivered through strong political will, long-term planning, and Sarawak-centric governance.' He added Bintulu's strategic geographic position, deep-water port, natural gas reserves, and vast land availability make it an ideal hub for integrated development. Pang believed that the bridge adds momentum to Sarawak's green energy agenda, a vision championed by the premier. 'With our Premier's visionary leadership, I firmly believe that Sarawak is on the path to becoming a high-income state by 2030,' he added. Jepak Bridge Jepak Bridge Run johnny pang Sarawak leaders
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Sarawak Day car-free event draws over 400 in Bintulu
Pang joins participants in an aerobics session during the Sarawak Day edition of the BCFM. BINTULU (July 19): More than 400 people took part in the Sarawak Day edition of the Bintulu Car-Free Morning (BCFM) held at Tanjung Batu Beach here today. The event kicked off with an aerobics session, followed by a plogging activity and a Fun Hunt Run. Participants of all ages also enjoyed traditional games and various family-friendly activities throughout the morning. Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang, who joined the event, said programmes such as BCFM should continue in the coming months as they promote a healthy lifestyle and foster community engagement. 'BCFM is a meaningful initiative that benefits both the physical and mental well-being of the community. It provides a positive platform for people to come together and stay active,' he said. A symbolic marker was also placed to designate a 5-kilometre route, which will serve as a permanent feature for future BCFM events. Pang expressed hope that the dedicated route will encourage more members of the public — including children, students, youths and senior citizens — to take up jogging and cycling regularly. He also extended his appreciation to all parties involved, especially Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), the main organiser of the event. 'I'm pleased to take part in today's BCFM. It not only promotes a healthy lifestyle, but also helps reduce carbon emissions and supports our vision for a Low Carbon Industrial Hub by 2030,' he added. Bintulu Car-Free Day johnny pang sarawak day
Borneo Post
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
More assembly seats vital to strengthen Sarawak's voice in federation, says SUPP Bintulu
SUPP Bintulu branch chairman Johnny Pang (seated fourth right) takes a group photo with the party's committee members. BINTULU (July 10): All parties should assess the increase in assembly seats to 99 objectively, as it will bring long-term benefits to Sarawak not only in politics but also economics, culture and education. In voicing their strong support for the move, the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) Bintulu branch believed the increase in seats would further solidify Sarawak's position within the Malaysian federation. Highlighting the disparity in representation, it said Peninsula currently has 505 state seats while Sarawak, with a vast landmass, would only be increased to 99. 'This adjustment is not just fair, but necessary, to ensure balanced representation. Sarawakians must understand the broader implications of the decision and not be misled by political rhetoric from opposing parties. 'This is about ensuring Sarawak's voice is heard, and our rights are protected – an increase in state seats will empower the state to advocate more effectively for the constitutional provision that Sabah and Sarawak collectively hold one-third of parliamentary seats,' it said, adding this was essential for safeguarding the region's autonomy within the federal structure. It also described this as a sign of political awakening in the state, and would provide more platforms for youth involvement in politics and open the door for a new generation of leaders to emerge. 'With Sarawak's population and economy continuing to grow, redelineation is necessary to address the widening urban-rural development gap. More seats would ensure that both remote communities and rapidly developing areas have appropriate representation.' It said the addition of seats would lead to fairer and more accurate electoral boundaries, ensuring all voices regardless of geography were effectively represented. 'It is a step towards a more inclusive and responsive democratic system – more constituencies mean closer ties between elected representatives and voters, which could lead to more effective handling of local issues and better governance. 'The increased bargaining power the new seat structure would bring to Sarawak within the federal system could potentially lead to greater allocations for development, infrastructure and public services,' it said. On the economic front, it said new constituencies would allow for more targeted allocation of development funds, especially for roads, utilities, education and healthcare, and boost investment potential and narrow the urban-rural divide. It also expressed its disappointment over a certain political party's decision to oppose the bill during the sitting, calling it a 'regrettable act of emotional opposition over rational governance'. 'The state needs pragmatic, people-centred policies rather than baseless resistance. Increasing the number of seats is not just a solution for today's challenges – it is a strategic step towards building a fairer, stronger and more prosperous Sarawak. This is the direction all who care about the future of our state should support,' it said. assembly seats increase Federation of Malaysia Sarawak voice SUPP Bintulu
Borneo Post
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Tanjong Batu rep urges federal update on flood aid for Bintulu victims outside PPS
File photo of rescuers looking for stranded victims at Taman Jason Bintulu during the Jan 29 flood. KUCHING (May 23): Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang has called on the relevant federal authorities to provide updates on flood relief assistance for Bintulu residents affected by the recent floods who did not stay in temporary evacuation centres (PPS). Speaking during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today, Pang said that while many victims who sought shelter at PPS had received aid under the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), others who stayed with relatives or friends are still waiting. 'My service centre has helped many of these victims prepare and submit their applications. We ask that the relevant ministry give this matter its due attention, and update us on the status of these applications,' he said. Pang noted that the January floods were among the most devastating in Bintulu's recent history, displacing thousands and causing widespread property damage. 'Thousands of families were affected, homes were damaged, and hundreds of vehicles were lost in just a matter of hours,' he said. He also referenced an earlier visit to Bintulu by the Deputy Prime Minister during the floods, during which assurances were made that all victims – including those who did not stay in PPS – would receive assistance. 'But until now, nearly four months later, they are still waiting silently, and with growing concern,' he said. 'There are cries from the people of my kawasan, asking: 'What happened to the assistance mentioned? What is the status of our application?'' he added. Pang stressed that the appeal was not to assign blame but to seek clarity and ensure that those who suffered losses receive the aid they were promised. 'Even a small amount of bantuan can help ease their burden, give them dignity, and restore a little bit of hope after such hardship,' he said. He further urged the government to look into long-term solutions for Bintulu's flood mitigation and drainage issues, monitor landslide-prone areas, and address sewerage and road maintenance problems. 'The severe flood has also highlighted the need to upgrade outdated drainage systems in Bintulu, particularly in older residential areas,' he said, urging for a comprehensive flood mitigation plan to be developed. On traffic issues, Pang also raised concerns over the slow progress of the Medan Flyover Project, calling for tighter supervision from the Public Works Department (JKR) and more permanent solutions for pothole-ridden roads under Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) and JKR jurisdiction. Bintulu DUN federal flood aid johnny pang
Borneo Post
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Tanjong Batu rep proposes 'sub-committee system' for BDA to enhance grassroots representation
Johnny Pang KUCHING (May 20): Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang has proposed for the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) to explore the establishment of a formal sub-committee, structured to function in a role similar to councillors. He said the sub-committee could be structured by area to represent major zones within Bintulu town and its surrounding areas. It would be composed of community leaders, civil society representatives, and relevant stakeholders. The proposed body would be empowered to receive, investigate, and recommend solutions to local complaints and act as a bridge between the BDA and the community. 'If necessary, a policy paper or subsidiary regulation may be issued to formalise this under BDA's operational mandate since Section 5 of the BDA Ordinance empowers the Authority to form committees for specific purposes,' he said when debating the Local Authorities (Amendment) Bill 2025 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today. Pang told the august House that the BDA is presently not structured with councillors as provided under the Local Authorities Ordinance, which creates a governance gap, especially on the ground level. 'Unlike municipalities where appointed councillors represent zones, handle local issues, and engage residents directly, constituencies under BDA lack this grassroots machinery. 'This means that when public complaints arise, from blocked drains to license disputes to development matters, residents turn directly to the local elected representatives, and by extension, our service centres, for every issue, big or small. 'While we continue to serve diligently, a more structured community-based governance mechanism would greatly improve responsiveness,' he said. Noting that the amendment Bill focuses on councils governed under the Local Authorities Ordinance, he urged that the same spirit of inclusivity, representation and structured local input be extended to areas under statutory bodies like BDA. 'Let me be clear, this proposal does not aim to undermine or discredit the commendable work already carried out by BDA. 'On the contrary, it is intended to complement and support BDA's existing efforts by strengthening its connection with communities on the ground. 'By introducing a more structured local feedback mechanism, we can ensure that the voices of the public are channelled more effectively and consistently, thereby enhancing the responsiveness and reach of BDA's services,' said Pang. Bintulu Development Authority councillors DUN sitting johnny pang lead
