Latest news with #LoKhereChiang
Borneo Post
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Dayak traditions foster unity in Sarawak, says Batu Kitang rep
Lo (right) strikes the gong ten times as a symbolic gesture to officiate the Tematu Ethno Fest 2025, accompanied by (from right) Atok, Geofrey, and John. KUCHING (June 28): The customs and traditions of the Dayak community can contribute to the spirit of unity in Sarawak, said Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang. Speaking at the launch of Tematu Ethno Fest 2025, held in conjunction with the Gawai Dayak celebration at Kampung Tematu's multipurpose hall last night, Lo highlighted that harmony is possible when all communities embrace and respect each other's unique cultural practices. 'The diversity of cultures, ethnicities, and religions is not a barrier for us to become a united and harmonious society, as long as we uphold mutual respect,' he said. 'We in Sarawak are very fortunate because religion and ethnicity have never been sources of conflict in the spirit of unity that has long been established.' An opening performance by participants of the Sindok Gawea Tematu 2025 competition. He also commended the event's organising committee, led by chairman John Pata James Jumin, for continuously improving the event's organisation with each passing year. Formerly known as Karnival Gawai & Bitanding Dayung Gawea Tematu, the event has been rebranded as Tematu Ethno Fest. This year marks a decade of the event's organisation. The evening also featured the introduction parade of finalists for the Onak Dayung Gawea Tematu 2025 and Sindok Gawea Tematu 2025 competitions, along with a talent and contemporary dress showcase by the Dayung Gawea Tematu 2025 finalists. During the event, Lo announced an allocation of RM200,000 for road repair works in Kampung Tematu, specifically from Lorong Tematu 13 to Lorong Tematu 17. A captivating dance performance by a Dayung Gawea Tematu 2025 contestant (right) and her partner during the talent showcase. Lo also presented a cheque for RM3,000 to the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) of Kampung Tematu, which was received by village chief Geofrey Tahang during the event. Also present were Kuching Division Bidayuh Temenggong Atok Derop, along with other invited guests and attendees. Dayak community lead Lo Khere Chiang Tematu Ethno Fest
Borneo Post
15-06-2025
- Borneo Post
Have self-discipline to stay free from drugs, says Batu Kitang rep
Lo (centre) cutting the Father's Day celebration cake at Kampung Haji Baki Community Hall today. KUCHING (June 15): Self-discipline plays a crucial role in shaping strong character and responsible behaviour, which in turn helps families and society stay free from the destructive influence of drugs. Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang said that disciplined youths are more likely to work hard and develop a sense of responsibility. 'When they work to earn a living, for example, they will develop a sense of responsibility, ownership, and belonging. 'This discipline will help reduce crime and eliminate wrongdoings,' he told reporters when met at the Drug-Free Community Empowerment Programme held in Kampung Haji Baki today. Earlier, when asked whether the village was still classified as a red zone for drug cases and related substances, he explained that it had now transitioned to a yellow zone (moderate level). According to statistics from the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), young people are the most vulnerable group in the country when it comes to drug and substance abuse. 'The red zone is severe, and about 3-5 years ago, this village was at that level. However, Kampung Haji Baki is now in the yellow zone,' he revealed. He added that drug-related cases in several other areas within the Batu Kitang constituency are also not considered alarming, as they remain in the yellow zone. 'Nevertheless, before the situation worsens, we need to double our efforts to combat drugs by conducting various awareness programmes starting at the school level. 'Schools are crucial, teachers are important, and parents play a vital role. Children often have curiosity and a desire to experiment, and that is when they may fall into drug-related issues,' he said. Lo, who was also honoured at the event in conjunction with the Father's Day celebration, expressed joy at seeing many local youths actively participating in rugby, futsal, and badminton competitions held during the programme. drugs Lo Khere Chiang youths
Borneo Post
23-05-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Community work in Semeba out to protect Sarawak's geo-heritage
The volunteers conduct clean-up works on a section of Syis Tuang Semeba surrounding the 250-million-year-old rock formation in the area. KUCHING (May 24): A 'gotong-royong' (work party) involving over 100 volunteers at Syis Tuang Semeba (formerly known as Kampung Semeba) near here recently, culminated in the collection of rubbish weighing more than 200 kilogrammes. Organised by Kuching Resident's Office and the Geopark Community, in collaboration with a non-governmental organisation (NGO) Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the clean-up initiative focused on sections surrounding a 250-million-year-old rock formation in the area, believed to be the oldest of its kind in the region. Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, who officiated at the programme's opening ceremony, emphasised the significance of the site. 'We are happy and proud to have the oldest rock, 250 million years old, in Semeba. 'We are expecting that it will be recognised by Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) and become a Unesco Heritage Geological Geopark. 'The status would ensure that it would be preserved for everybody to see, study and admire, and also for it to promote tourism,' he said in a brief speech. In her remarks, HWPL volunteer Ning Bong hailed the 'gotong-royong' as not only a practical environmental initiative, but also as a symbol of civic unity and pride in Sarawak's natural history. 'We're truly grateful to YB Lo for giving us this opportunity. 'It allows us not only to contribute, but also to learn and discover the treasures of our land. Kuching Resident Dayang Joanita Azizah Abang Morshidi (third left) presents a memento to Lo, as Ning (left) and others look on. 'Through this 'gotong-royong', we have come to see that even a small act of service can help protect something so ancient and meaningful. 'The HWPL hopes to continue reaching out and serving communities with love and peace. 'This 'gotong-royong' reflects the strength of community spirit, where unity and shared effort create a lasting impact. 'Together, participants not only cleaned the site but also helped protect its heritage for future generations,' said Ning. geopark gotong-royong lead Syis Tuang Semeba
Free Malaysia Today
21-05-2025
- Business
- Free Malaysia Today
GPS man calls on Sarawak to build its own oil refineries
Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang said Sarawak should emulate Singapore and better harness its resources for a better future. (Facebook pic) PETALING JAYA : A Gabungan Parti Sarawak assemblyman has proposed that the state emulate Singapore and build its own oil refineries. Lo Khere Chiang said Sarawak would be able to reduce crude outflow, boost revenue and create thousands of skilled jobs for locals if it had its own refineries, the Dayak Daily reported. 'The time has come to harness our resources for our own future,' the Batu Kitang assemblyman from Sarawak United People's Party was quoted as saying. Singapore's oil refining sector is primarily concentrated on Jurong Island. Its three main refineries have a refining capacity of 1.5 million barrels per day. Lo's call for Sarawak to build its own refineries comes amid the state's push for greater control over its oil and gas resources. Earlier this evening, the federal and Sarawak governments reaffirmed the respective roles of national oil company Petronas and Sarawak's state-owned Petros in developing the state's oil and gas industry. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Anwar said the joint statement issued with Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg recognised Sarawak's growing capabilities and its rights under the Petroleum Development Act (PDA) and the Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO), while preserving Petronas's strategic role at the national level. Separately, Lo claimed that there was growing discontent over how the PDA and Territorial Sea Act 2012 (TSA2012) had been imposed 'without consultation, consent or fairness on Sarawak'. He said for the past 50 years, Sarawak had surrendered more than RM1 trillion worth of oil and gas while receiving disproportionately little in return. 'This is being used to attack the GPS government.'
Borneo Post
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Bukit Assek rep: Increase of councillors reflects growing complexity of urban issues, need for broader representation
Joseph Chieng – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (May 21): The Local Authorities (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which was passed yesterday, increased the number of councillors from 30 to 33 to reflect the growing complexity of urban issues and the need for broader representation in Sarawak's councils, said Joseph Chieng Jin Ek. The Bukit Assek assemblyman said having more councillors would allow for greater inclusivity and effectiveness, where different segments of society including the youth, women, professionals, and grassroots leaders could be better represented. 'This will ultimately improve the responsiveness and accountability of our local authorities,' he said when debating the Bill at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting yesterday. Chieng, who served as a Sibu Municipal Council councillor for seven years, said councillors are the frontline of the government, serving as the most immediate and visible form of public service delivery to the community. 'Local councillors must be well-equipped with knowledge, not only of local issues, but also of broader government policies and the various financial assistance schemes available to the people. 'Councillors must be trained and empowered to act as effective bridges between the government and the rakyat, ensuring that communities are aware of, and benefit from, the support systems in place. A well-informed council is a more proactive and effective council,' he said. Datuk Lo Khere Chiang – Ukas photo Separately, Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang said the amendment of the Bill formally recognises Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), Miri City Council (MCC), and Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS), thus removing any ambiguity and reinforcing their legal status as single municipal authorities. 'It is important that we reflect the current realities of governance on the ground. These councils have long been operational, serving growing urban populations, and managing increasing responsibilities. 'Formal recognition in the Ordinance ensures that their authority is not only administrative but statutory. This provides greater legitimacy, governance clarity, and paves the way for more efficient public service delivery. 'As a former chairman of MPP, I know firsthand how important statutory clarity is to the day-to-day operations of a local council — from planning approvals to waste management and infrastructure development,' said Lo.
