Latest news with #Liwan
Daily Express
18-06-2025
- General
- Daily Express
What began in 1986 must continue, Madius on preservation of Kadazandusun language
Published on: Wednesday, June 18, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 18, 2025 Text Size: Madius presenting appreciation certificates to Kadazandusun language teachers. Tuaran: Tuaran MP Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau welcomed efforts to strengthen the preservation of the Kadazandusun Language through initiatives such as the Kadazandusun Language Carnival for the Nabalu Zone held at SK Tomis, here. He said events like these are vital in raising public awareness about the importance of safeguarding the mother tongue from extinction, particularly among the younger generation. Advertisement 'This carnival is very important as it reminds us of the need to use our mother tongue in communication. If we do not act now, our language may one day disappear,' he said when officiating the event, recently. Madius said studies by Unesco revealed there are around 7,000 indigenous languages at risk of extinction, which may eventually become dead languages due to the absence of speakers. By the year 2050, 90 per cent of these languages are expected to be extinct – much like Sanskrit and Latin. He also shared his long and challenging journey in advocating for the Kadazandusun language, which began in 1986 when he was first elected as a Supreme Council Member of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA), later becoming Chairman of the KDCA Language and Literature Committee. Among the main efforts initiated during that time was the development of the Kadazandusun Language Dictionary and the selection of a standard dialect to be used within the Malaysian education system. 'We began in 1986, but it was no easy task. Eventually, the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) Sabah appointed a Research Officer – my colleague Alice Jekop – in 1988 to lead the research team. 'Many contributed their efforts, including Ben Topin, Rita Lasimbang and others. The dictionary was only published in 1995, nearly 10 years later and thanks to everyone involved. 'The dictionary was based on the Kadazan dictionary by Fr Antonissen, with the support of various parties, especially the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL). Although it took a long time, it was finally completed,' he said. The Kadazandusun Language Symposium held at Perkasa Hotel, Kundasang – supported by Canadian University Students Overseas (Cuso) – also laid the foundation for unifying the Bundu and Liwan dialects, which today form the basis of the Kadazandusun Language. 'It's quite remarkable that in the same year the Kadazan dictionary was printed – 1995 – an agreement was reached between KDCA and USDA to formalise the combination of the 'Bundu' and 'Liwan' dialects into what is now known as the 'Bunduliwan' dialect, officially branded as the Kadazandusun Language. 'Today, Kadazandusun is taught as a subject within the national education system. Many have graduated with specialisations in the language at PhD, Master's and Bachelor's levels, and thousands of students are currently learning it from kindergarten and Year One right up to SPM level,' said Madius. He expressed full support for efforts of teachers in the district to establish Tinimungan Manampasi Boros Kadazandusun (Timbok) – an initiative to strengthen the teaching and learning of the language, while also providing opportunities for retired Kadazandusun language teachers to remain actively involved in writing, research, and other activities to preserve the language. He said this year's carnival theme Apasi Boros, Apasi Tinaru (Appreciate Language, Appreciate Culture), was highly appropriate in nurturing a love for one's own language and culture. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Orang Ulu heritage shines at 2025 Datun Julut, sape competition in Miri
Liwan strumming a Sape to mark the start of the competition, witnessed by others present. MIRI (June 13): The rich cultural heritage of the Orang Ulu community was on full display last night during the 2025 Datun Julut and Traditional Sape Competition. Held at the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Sarawak Malaysia (Forum) Cultural Centre, the event was part of the two-day Gawai Tradition Carnival. Sarawak Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunications, Datuk Liwan Lagang in his officiating address, underscored the importance of preserving traditional art forms such as the Datun Julut dance and the melodious sounds of the Sape, which he described as vital symbols of the Orang Ulu identity and legacy. 'These are not just artistic performances. Datun Julut is a symbolic dance of gratitude, with graceful movements adorned in bird feathers, accompanied by the Sape, a soulful voice of tradition that stirs our spiritual being,' he said. He emphasised that the preservation of such cultural expressions is a shared responsibility, particularly for the younger generation, who will inherit both the land and its traditions. 'The beauty of Orang Ulu culture reflects the uniqueness of Sarawak, with its rich ethnic diversity and deeply rooted traditions. These must be safeguarded with deep respect, lest they fade with time,' he added. Liwan also highlighted that celebrations like Gawai are more than festive occasions. 'They serve as bridges of unity, bringing people of all backgrounds together through mutual appreciation of culture. 'Through this competition, we ignite the spirit of Segulai Sejalai – walking together in unity,' he said. The event saw participation from 20 groups competing in both the Datun Julut and Traditional Sape categories. In the Datun Julut category, team Julut Abung Apau Julan emerged as the champion, followed by Telang Usan Mada Lasan as first runner-up and Liwang Edang in third place. In the Traditional Sape competition, the duo of Garry Sandom Raymond and Aaron Alan Robert claimed the top prize. The sibling pair Robin Jalong Lusat and Yosua Lenjau Lusat secured second place, while Batu Emang and Logan Suli finished third. Also present at the event were the carnival's joint chairmen, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala; Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau, and Baram MP Dato Anyi Ngau. Datun Julut miri Orang Ulu sape
Zawya
11-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Alma launches new residential development at Dubailand
UAE-based Alma Developments has unveiled its new residential development, Alma Gardens, at Liwan within Dubailand, featuring 71 turnkey homes spread across nine residential floors, offering a combination of one- to three-bedroom apartments along with other key amenities. Surrounded by landscaped parkland and situated within one of Dubai's most promising residential corridors, the development blends functional design, green spaces, and community-focused amenities. Alma Gardens comprises 71 turnkey homes spread across nine residential floors, offering a combination of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with dedicated maids' and laundry rooms, said the statement. According to Alma, a luxurious penthouse completes the offering. Each residence comes with a private balcony or terrace overlooking the adjacent landscaped parkland, blending indoor comfort with access to green outdoor space. All units also offer dedicated storage that typically provides 55–75% more capacity than the average Dubai apartment of comparable size, it stated. Alma Developments said all the homes at Alma Gardens are delivered fully fitted and move-in ready, with interiors, joinery, kitchens, and built-in cabinetry completed by Al Meera, a major player in the UAE fitout sector. Prices at Alma Gardens start from AED1.08 million ($294,021) onwards for a one-bedroom apartment with study, while for a two-bedroom with maid's room it is worth AED1.71 million and AED2.82 million for a three-bedroom with maid's and laundry room. A single penthouse unit is also available, priced at AED4.44 million, it added. "Alma Gardens reflects everything we've learned through decades of experience in design, manufacturing, and residential delivery. By managing every detail internally, we can provide homes that are not only thoughtfully designed, but truly ready to live in," stated Sara Aji, Managing Partner at Alma Developments. According to her, residents of Alma Gardens will get to enjoy a curated lifestyle centred on wellbeing, community, and convenience. Its amenities include a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic skyline views, a fully equipped gym and sauna, a multipurpose studio, children's play areas, barbecue zones, and a Zen garden. These facilities are designed to foster balance, encourage healthy living, and create a warm and inclusive neighbourhood environment, she stated. Ideally positioned within Liwan, part of the wider Dubailand district, Alma Gardens offers convenient access to Academic City, Silicon Oasis, and several of Dubai's leading schools and universities, explained Aji. The community is located just 18 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 19 minutes from Downtown Dubai. Connectivity to the rest of the city is expected to improve further with the upcoming extension of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, she added.- TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Trade Arabia
10-06-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Alma launches new residential development at Dubailand
UAE-based Alma Developments has unveiled its new residential development, Alma Gardens, at Liwan within Dubailand, featuring 71 turnkey homes spread across nine residential floors, offering a combination of one- to three-bedroom apartments along with other key amenities. Surrounded by landscaped parkland and situated within one of Dubai's most promising residential corridors, the development blends functional design, green spaces, and community-focused amenities. Alma Gardens comprises 71 turnkey homes spread across nine residential floors, offering a combination of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with dedicated maids' and laundry rooms, said the statement. According to Alma, a luxurious penthouse completes the offering. Each residence comes with a private balcony or terrace overlooking the adjacent landscaped parkland, blending indoor comfort with access to green outdoor space. All units also offer dedicated storage that typically provides 55–75% more capacity than the average Dubai apartment of comparable size, it stated. Alma Developments said all the homes at Alma Gardens are delivered fully fitted and move-in ready, with interiors, joinery, kitchens, and built-in cabinetry completed by Al Meera, a major player in the UAE fitout sector. Prices at Alma Gardens start from AED1.08 million ($294,021) onwards for a one-bedroom apartment with study, while for a two-bedroom with maid's room it is worth AED1.71 million and AED2.82 million for a three-bedroom with maid's and laundry room. A single penthouse unit is also available, priced at AED4.44 million, it added. "Alma Gardens reflects everything we've learned through decades of experience in design, manufacturing, and residential delivery. By managing every detail internally, we can provide homes that are not only thoughtfully designed, but truly ready to live in," stated Sara Aji, Managing Partner at Alma Developments. According to her, residents of Alma Gardens will get to enjoy a curated lifestyle centred on wellbeing, community, and convenience. Its amenities include a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic skyline views, a fully equipped gym and sauna, a multipurpose studio, children's play areas, barbecue zones, and a Zen garden. These facilities are designed to foster balance, encourage healthy living, and create a warm and inclusive neighbourhood environment, she stated. Ideally positioned within Liwan, part of the wider Dubailand district, Alma Gardens offers convenient access to Academic City, Silicon Oasis, and several of Dubai's leading schools and universities, explained Aji.
Zawya
10-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Alma Gardens launches in Liwan, with up to 75% more storage than typical Dubai apartments
Backed by 40+ years of interior craftsmanship and expertise from Al Meera Strategically located in Liwan, close to major highways and newly announced metro line Offers 71 spacious one- to three-bedroom apartments with projected yields of 9–10% Dubai, UAE, Alma Gardens, a new residential development located in Liwan, Dubailand, has officially launched, introducing a collection of fully fitted apartments designed for modern living. Surrounded by landscaped parkland and situated within one of Dubai's most promising residential corridors, the development blends functional design, green spaces, and community-focused amenities. Alma Gardens comprises 71 turnkey homes spread across nine residential floors, offering a combination of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments with dedicated maids' and laundry rooms. A luxurious penthouse completes the offering. Each residence comes with a private balcony or terrace overlooking the adjacent landscaped parkland, blending indoor comfort with access to green outdoor space. All units also offer dedicated storage that typically provides 55–75% more capacity than the average Dubai apartment of comparable size. Prices at Alma Gardens start from AED 1,080,000 for a one-bedroom apartment with study, AED 1,710,000 for a two-bedroom with maid's room, and AED 2,820,000 for a three-bedroom with maid's and laundry room. A single penthouse unit is also available, priced at AED 4,440,000. Developed by Alma Developments, all homes at Alma Gardens are delivered fully fitted and move-in ready, with interiors, joinery, kitchens, and built-in cabinetry completed by Al Meera. Al Meera comes with over 40 years of experience in high-end interior craftsmanship and has supplied joinery for some of the region's most prominent residential projects. By managing all aspects of construction and interior fit-out in-house, Alma Developments ensures a smooth delivery process and consistent focus on quality. Each unit is also covered by a five-year warranty on all joinery and interiors, reducing the risk of delays or the need for post-handover refurbishments, ensuring the homeowners' peace of mind. Commenting on the launch, Sara Aji, Managing Partner of Alma Developments, said: 'Alma Gardens reflects everything we've learned through decades of experience in design, manufacturing, and residential delivery. By managing every detail internally, we can provide homes that are not only thoughtfully designed, but truly ready to live in.' Residents of Alma Gardens will enjoy a curated lifestyle centred on wellbeing, community, and convenience. Amenities include a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic skyline views, a fully equipped gym and sauna, a multipurpose studio, children's play areas, barbecue zones, and a Zen garden. These facilities are designed to foster balance, encourage healthy living, and create a warm and inclusive neighbourhood environment. Alma Gardens is ideally positioned within Liwan, part of the wider Dubailand district, offering convenient access to Academic City, Silicon Oasis, and several of Dubai's leading schools and universities. The community is located just 18 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 19 minutes from Downtown Dubai. Connectivity to the rest of the city is expected to improve further with the upcoming extension of the Dubai Metro Blue Line. In a market dominated by generic developments that lack thoughtful planning and focus solely on returns, Alma Gardens provides a smart, design-led alternative for families and investors seeking long-term value. With projected rental yields ranging between 9-10%, Alma Gardens offers a compelling opportunity for both investors and end-users seeking high-quality, ready-to-live-in homes. For more information, visit About Alma Developments Alma Developments is a property developer based in Dubai, redefining modern living through expert craftsmanship, sustainable luxury, and timeless design. Alma delivers thoughtfully designed homes that balance form, function, and long-term value by integrating eco-conscious practices, smart technologies, and premium finishes into every project, setting new benchmarks in residential living. For more information on Alma Development's innovative turnkey projects, visit Media Contact: Natasha Tourish at Q Communications Natasha.t@
