Latest news with #MohammadFakhruddinMohdAriff
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Climate
- New Straits Times
Authorities warn against open burning amid rising API readings in Pahang
KUANTAN: The public is reminded not to carry out open burning to avoid further deterioration in air quality, in the wake of worsening Air Pollutant Index (API) readings at two monitoring stations in Pahang. As of 6pm, the API readings in Temerloh and Balok Baru were both recorded at 152, compared to 100 and 75, respectively, yesterday. Pahang Local Government, Housing, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman, Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff, said the current hot and dry weather could exacerbate the haze affecting the state. "Due to the hot weather, the public, especially plantation workers, must refrain from conducting open burning. In the past, there were incidents where anglers discarded cigarette butts in forested areas, sparking fires. "Peat and bush fires occur almost every year, so there are some concerns that similar incidents may happen again. Therefore, we must take all necessary precautions," he told reporters after presenting 'Inisiatif Makmur Pahang' aid at Kampung Padang Garuda here today. Fakhruddin was commenting on the deteriorating air quality reported at the two API monitoring stations in Pahang earlier today. Meanwhile, he said the Department of Environment would step up monitoring and patrols to prevent open burning, and offenders might face action under the Environmental Quality Act 1974. On the potential closure of schools, Fakhruddin said premises would be ordered to shut down if the haze situation reached a 'very unhealthy' API level. "To my knowledge, the government will issue closure instructions once the air quality reaches a critical level," he said.
Barnama
3 days ago
- Climate
- Barnama
Haze: Melaka Gov't Activates District Disaster Management Committees With Immediate Effect
MELAKA, July 21 (Bernama) -- The Melaka government, through the State Disaster Management Committee, has instructed that all District Disaster Management Committees be activated with immediate effect after several states in the country were affected by haze recently. The Melaka Chief Minister's Department's corporate communications division also said that the committees were required to take proactive measures according to guidelines set by the National Haze Action Plan. 'The Melaka government takes note of the haze that has hit several areas in the state, which is believed to be cross-border haze carried by south-westerly winds. 'Continuous monitoring of the Air Pollution Index (API) is being conducted by the Melaka Diaster Operations Control Centre with the help of the Melaka Environment Department (DOE) and the National Disaster Control Centre under the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA),' the department said in a statement today. The highest API readings recorded in Melaka as of 2 am were Alor Gajah (Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 with a reading of 157), Bukit Rambai (PM2.5 with a reading of 94) and Bandaraya Melaka (PM2.5 with a reading of 86), indicating that Alor Gajah API was at unhealthy level, while Bukit Rambai and Bandaraya Melaka were at medium levels. The state government also advised the public to take precautionary measures in ensuring their general health. 'High risk groups like children, the elderly and individuals suffering from respiratory problems are advised to reduce outdoor activities for the time being. The public is also advised not to carry out any open burning,' it said in a statement today. In PEKAN, the Pahang government said it is prepared to implement school closures in the state if the API readings exceed the very unhealthy threshold. State Local Government, Housing, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff said this in response to reports of haze affecting two areas —Temerloh and Balok Baru in Kuantan — which recorded unhealthy API readings today.
New Straits Times
10-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Platinum Business Awards 2025 roadshow gathers 100 entrepreneurs in Kuantan
KUALA LUMPUR: Nearly 100 entrepreneurs gathered in Kuantan today as the 2025 Platinum Business Awards (PBA) National Roadshow continued its push to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) expand beyond local markets. The roadshow is part of a nationwide initiative to raise awareness of the annual awards and encourage SMEs to explore growth opportunities beyond their immediate markets. Bebar assemblyman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff said the arrival of PBA in Kuantan underscores the city's status as a vital economic hub on the East Coast. He added that this city is home to resilient and forward-thinking entrepreneurs who continue to grow and transform from traditional trades to technology-driven sectors. "PBA is not just about celebrating success, it serves as a powerful platform to boost visibility, expand networks, and stimulate nationwide SME collaboration," he said in a statement. Meanwhile, SME Association of Malaysia president Dr Chin Chee Seong said the association continuously strengthens its engagement with the government and relevant agencies to secure greater resources and policy support for SMEs. He added that through its extensive network of branches across the country, it has built a strong service infrastructure that is truly connected to businesses and closely supports its members. He also said that the greatest value of the association lies in its ability to provide members with practical and tangible support—not merely information but becoming a trusted partner in their growth journey. Pahang SME Association president Datuk Simon Wong said the PBA roadshow aims to boost awareness and participation among East Coast businesses. "For a business to remain sustainable, it must continuously grow, innovate, and transform. In today's rapidly changing environment, we cannot wait for a crisis to take action. "Entrepreneurs must step out of their comfort zones, embrace new ideas, adopt new technologies and business models, and drive transformation and innovation continuously," he added. Wong further noted that as we move deeper into the 21st century, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an undeniable force of change. He said businesses must actively embrace AI and integrate it into all aspects of operations from production, logistics, and sales to finance and management. He added that the AI transformation is no longer an option but a necessary path for the future of business. According to PBA 2025 organising chairman Dennix Yeow Wah Fuong, this year's awards include 21 categories, covering sectors such as manufacturing, technology, services, and green transformation. He encouraged businesses from all industries to take part, adding that it helps them stand out in a competitive market, enhances credibility and reputation, and opens doors to both local and international opportunities. Guests at the event included Alliance Bank vice president Titan Lee Wen Chieh and Media Prima Bhd business development director Roche Chew.
Rakyat Post
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Rakyat Post
Cameron Highlands' Traffic Mess: Grand New Roads Planned, But Still No Parking In Sight
Subscribe to our FREE A new chapter in the ongoing traffic saga is unfolding in the misty heights of Cameron Highlands. The recently unveiled comprehensive road development project, which will span from 2025 to 2029, has reignited debates about the effectiveness of infrastructure solutions in this environmentally sensitive tourist hotspot. It came in the wake of last year's That project, announced by Pahang Local Government chairman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff, focused on upgrading the McDonald's roundabout to the Brinchang junction stretch and implementing a one-way system at Kea Farm. The New Master Plan The newly proposed project is significantly more ambitious in scope. Major infrastructure works: 3.3km new two-lane road from Royal Lily to Golf Course Dual carriageway expansions across multiple sections One-way loop systems near Padang Golf Four bridge replacements on FT59 and FT434 2km four-lane expansion from Time Tunnel to Kea Farm An additional 1km four-lane expansion to Section 70.8 Supporting infrastructure: Pedestrian walkways and motorcycle shelters Street lighting improvements Drainage systems Geotechnical works Environmental protection measures Project Timeline: Planning phase: December 2024 – September 2026 Construction: September 2026 – March 2029 Total duration: 4.25 years A detailed project timeline document reveals Cameron Highlands' ambitious road expansion plan from 2024 to 2029. (Pix: REACH) Road Plan Misses the Parking Plot While the extensive road works might appear impressive on paper, community leaders argue that the fundamental problem remains unaddressed: insufficient parking at key tourist spots like Kea Farm. Regional Environmental Awareness for Cameron Highlands (REACH) president Dilip Martin emphasises, 'It's deeply disappointing that authorities continue to propose elaborate road networks while overlooking the basic need for adequate parking facilities.' While included in the scope, the project's environmental protection measures have done little to allay fears about its impact on the highland ecosystem. The extended construction period of nearly four years raises additional concerns about prolonged environmental stress on this fragile environment. A Google Map image shows the proposed loop road route (marked in green) around a densely forested area, highlighting the environmental impact concerns raised by locals. (Pix: REACH) Are Simpler Solutions Being Overlooked? REACH's alternative proposal remains straightforward and potentially more effective: Multi-story parking facilities at key tourist locations Covered pedestrian bridges Enhanced public transport options While the total project cost hasn't been officially announced, the extensive scope suggests a significant increase from the previous RM122 million allocation. This raises questions about value for money and whether simpler, more targeted solutions might better serve the community's needs. Local businesses and residents would also face the prospect of nearly four years of construction-related disruptions. Hence, the question remains whether the end result justifies the extended inconvenience and environmental impact. An aerial drone shot reveals extensive earthworks and land clearing operations in Cameron Highlands. As development continues to push against forest boundaries, each new project potentially adds to the region's notorious traffic problems. (Pix: Fernando Fong) Four Years, Multiple Road Expansions, and Millions In Spending As Cameron Highlands stands at this crucial juncture, the debate continues about whether to pursue extensive infrastructure development or more focused, immediate solutions. While the authorities proceed with their comprehensive road development plan, the community's call for simpler, more direct solutions to the parking crisis continues to echo through the highland valleys. The success of this massive undertaking will ultimately be judged not just by its completion but by its actual effectiveness in solving the region's persistent traffic and tourism challenges. As construction begins in late 2026, only time will tell if this elaborate solution will finally bring relief to Cameron Highlands' long-standing traffic woes. READ MORE : READ MORE : READ MORE : READ MORE : Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
New Straits Times
23-04-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Second Malayan gaur sanctuary to be set up in Temerloh
KUANTAN: After the Jenderak Selatan Wildlife Conservation Centre in Kuala Krau, the Pahang government is looking at setting up a second endangered seladang or Malayan gaur sanctuary in Lanchang, Temerloh. Local Government, Housing, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff said the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) is in the midst of submitting an application for funds under the 13th Malaysia Plan for the project. "The Pahang government through Perhilitan plans to build a gaur conservation centre to complement the existing ones at Jenderak Selatan and the wildlife conservation centre in Sungai, Perak. The surrounding areas near Bukit Rengit and Kuala Gandah currently have two conservation centres, namely the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary and Malayan Tiger Conservation Centre. "If the sanctuary in Lanchang gets the nod, Pahang will have two gaur conservation centres and this will further strengthen the ex-situ conservation efforts for the animal," he said in his winding-up speech at the state assembly sitting at Wisma Sri Pahang here today. Meanwhile, Pahang Public Works, Transport and Health Committee chairman Razali Kassim said upgrading Jalan Pos Sinderut in Lipis are among the seven projects, worth RM858.7 million, approved by the Federal government at five districts across Pahang. He said the RM320 million road works at the Orang Asli settlement will be among the five projects carried out by the Rural and Regional Development Ministry while the remaining two projects were under the Works Ministry. Razali said all the seven projects were in the design stages by the Public Works Department. Meanwhile, State Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man said the Pahang State Parks Corporation has begun preparations to recognise the Lipis district as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) Global Geopark next year. She said the corporation was in the midst of preparing the dossiers for Lipis, which is the country's current largest National Geopark, to be part of Unesco's list in 2026. The Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah had proclaimed Lipis with the National Geopark status early last year when serving as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
