Latest news with #RM7mil
The Star
28-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Sabah leads the way with community-based tourism expo, says state minister
KOTA KINABALU: Community-based tourism (CBT) is more than just a travel model, it is a dynamic movement that preserves culture, protects nature, and creates economic opportunities for local communities. "In a world searching for sustainable and inclusive solutions, Sabah is ready to lead by example," said Datuk Seri Christina Liew when launching the Community-Based Tourism Conference and Expo 2025 here on Saturday (June 28). The Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said the event marks the state's first full-scale Community-Based Tourism Conference and Expo, signalling a shift towards quality-driven, sustainable tourism that uplifts rural livelihoods. The expo featured 40 booths and 87 exhibitors, showcasing community-based tourism from across Sabah, along with participation from Penang, Thailand, Taiwan, and Indonesia. "Tourism should focus on value rather than volume. We do not want over-tourism," she said, adding that overpromising tourism packages could damage local culture and the environment. Liew highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to improve tourism infrastructure across Sabah. Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chief executive officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit outlined the developmental goals of CBT. "In 2023, our 18 active districts generated about RM6mil. We estimate around RM7mil in 2024. Our goal is to raise community incomes above the poverty line," he said. Jimit noted that CBT is aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 4 (quality education), and SDG 11 (sustainable communities). He stressed that CBT cannot succeed without a shared vision and cooperation from all stakeholders. Liew encouraged delegates to participate actively during the two-day event and apply what they learn in their own communities. "Engage deeply, network widely, and return home inspired," she said, emphasising that this movement preserves culture, protects nature, and empowers communities. The conference is part of Sabah's lead-up to the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and the Explore Sabah 2026/27 campaigns, underscoring CBT's role in shaping the future of the state's tourism industry. Also present was Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister and STB chairman, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
The Star
25-06-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Decision on Ismail Sabri's case expected in a month, says MACC
PUTRAJAYA: Criminal charges against Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob ( pic ) have yet to be decided, says the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). Chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said that the investigation into the case involving the former prime minister has concluded. "The investigation papers have been submitted to the deputy public prosecutor (DPP). "We have been told that they have agreed to file for the asset forfeiture on the monies seized, amounting to about RM170mil in the coming two weeks. "It is up to him to challenge our application. "On criminal charges, we have not decided and are waiting for the DPP's instruction. I believe a decision will be made within a month," he told a press conference on Wednesday (June 25). When asked about the role of the former prime minister's former son-in-law Datuk Jovian Mandagie in the course of the investigation, Azam said that Jovian is a witness in the case. On March 3, Azam said Ismail Sabri is a suspect in an ongoing corruption and money laundering investigation, following the discovery of approximately RM170mil in cash at a safe house during a raid. The cash, held in numerous currencies such as Baht, Riyal, Pound sterling, Won, Euro, Swiss franc and Yuan, was seized alongside 16kg of pure gold bars valued at nearly RM7mil. Additionally, 13 bank accounts containing over RM2mil have been frozen as part of the probe. The investigation focuses on funding sources and expenditures related to promotional and publicity activities during Ismail Sabri's tenure.
The Star
20-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Property portfolio, data centres to lift SimeProp
CGSI Research said there would be a number of income streams for SimeProp. PETALING JAYA: Sime Darby Property Bhd 's (SimeProp) accelerating growth on the back of recurring income from the significant expansion of its investment property portfolio has CGS International Research (CGSI Research) reiterating its 'add' call on the stock with an unchanged target price of RM1.90. CGSI Research said there would be a number of income streams for SimeProp, including the recent acquisition of two double-storey logistics warehouses in Bandar Bukit Raja in Selangor that cost RM232mil. The research house said it estimates that the acquisition could contribute between RM7mil to RM8mil in net profit annually, assuming there is a 7% net property income yield. 'Furthermore, we gathered from management during the first quarter (1Q25) results briefing that the group has retained some of their commercial and industrial units to lift rental income,' the research house said. Among them is the KLGCC Mall in Kuala Lumpur that is set to open to the public in the second half of this year (2H25), further boosting the group's portfolio of retail assets. The property developer's commencement of built-to-lease data centres at Elmina Business Park in Selangor is also set to boost recurring income from next year (FY26) onwards. 'Phase one and two of the data centre assets are on track for completion by end-FY26 and 1H27, respectively. We project the investment property portfolio to contribute about RM119mil in net profit by FY27, making up 11% of the group's net profit,' CGSI Research said. However, the research house expects SimeProp to be negatively affected by the 6% sales and service tax (SST) on construction services, as it directly leads to higher construction costs for its commercial and industrial products. On a more promising note, construction as well as rental and leasing services for residential buildings, which account for over 50% of SimeProp's sales are exempted under the expanded SST, thus limiting the overall impact. This could result in SimeProp's profit margins remaining intact in the short term. 'Nevertheless, we do not rule out the risk of softer sales in its commercial and industrial segments as elevated property prices may temper buyer sentiment, potentially leading to deferred purchases or weaker property demand,' CGSI Research said. The research house said following a weaker 1Q25 for SimeProp, it now continues to anticipate stronger quarterly earnings for the group for the rest of FY25 as progress billings pick up pace. 'The valuation has also reverted to a palatable FY26 price-earnings of 15 times, which we deem compelling given the encouraging FY25 to FY27 earnings growth trajectory,' it said. The research house added downside risks include wider losses from the Battersea Power Station development in Britain and slower property launches, while re-rating catalysts were stronger sales growth and further expansion of SimeProp's data centre business. SimeProp's shares closed at RM1.42 in yesterday's trading.
The Star
19-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Tourism sector still big earner for Sabah, says Hajiji
KOTA KINABALU: Tourism continues to be a pillar of Sabah's economy, contributing significantly to both state revenue and rural community development, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. The sector, the Chief Minister added, generated RM13.1bil for Sabah in 2023, accounting for 15% of the state's gross domestic product (GDP). 'Yet, statistics alone do not tell the whole story. Behind each number lies a livelihood, a family and individuals who have contributed to the tourism economy,' he said in his speech at the launching of the Asean Travel Exchange (Atex 2025) here on Thursday (June 19). His speech was delivered by state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew. Hajiji highlighted that the real strength of Sabah's tourism lay in its expanding community-based tourism sector, which had seen impressive growth, particularly in rural districts. 'In 2024, revenue from this sector reached RM7mil, spanning 18 districts. These initiatives are led by local individuals and families, crafting experiences that are authentically Sabahan,' he said, saying that the state government views tourism not just as an economic engine but as a tool for uplifting communities. To support the sector's growth, he said Sabah was investing in infrastructure improvements, including ongoing upgrades at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, better road access to rural areas and improved digital platforms to promote visitor experiences. 'We are laying the groundwork for a resilient, future-ready tourism economy. Our strategy includes embracing green principles, pushing digital transformation, and strengthening Sabah's role as a premier host of international tourism events,' he said. He also envisioned Sabah as a 'peace hub', a harmonious space where business, nature, culture and heritage thrive side-by-side through sustainable development. 'We aspire to be a model showing how tourism can flourish while preserving the very things that make us unique … our environment, our cultures, and our communities,' he said. Hajiji also described Atex 2025 as a significant milestone that allowed Sabah to position itself not only as a top destination but also as a strategic partner in shaping Asean's tourism future. 'Hosting Atex 2025 is an honour, but more importantly, it is an opportunity. A chance to spark connections, explore business ventures, and collectively shape a more inclusive and sustainable tourism future for the region,' he said. Meanwhile, Liew described Atex 2025 as a golden opportunity for Sabah. 'This is a wonderful programme. Just imagine, top tourism leaders from all 10 Asean countries gathered here in Sabah, with over 500 delegates. I truly thank the organisers for making this possible,' she told the media after the launch ceremony. She added that this was likely the first time all 10 Asean nations had convened for a tourism-focused event in Kota Kinabalu. 'This is our moment to showcase Sabah as a strategic and unique tourist destination. I believe it will open new doors for collaboration and regional promotion,' she said. Liew also shared encouraging tourism statistics for 2025, where so far, Sabah has welcomed over one million tourists between January and April, an 18% increase from the same period last year, generating more than RM2bil in revenue. She expressed optimism that Sabah would meet its target of 3.5mil visitors by year-end. When asked if Sabah would consider hosting Atex again, she responded positively: 'If there is a request, we are more than willing. Let's make it a signature event for Sabah, and maybe our guests can stay an extra week or two to explore our beautiful destinations.'
The Star
03-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Govt sets aside RM7mil for rice irrigation during drought
BAGAN SERAI: The government has allocated RM7mil for infrastructure upgrades to minimise the impact of drought on key rice production areas, according to Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup. The Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister said the focus will be on irrigation systems, the primary water source for crops. 'It is mainly done to ensure that the water channels are functioning and can deliver water to padi plots, even if the water volume is slightly lower than usual. 'This is also one of our ways to minimise the potential negative effects on farmers' income, especially during the drought season,' he said after launching the 2025 Perak state-level Agricultural Machinery and Equipment handover ceremony at Dewan Dato' Zainal Abidin Zin here yesterday, Bernama reported. On Monday, the Meteorological Department said six areas in Peninsular Malaysia would be at Level 1 status for three days due to the ongoing hot weather. The affected areas include Larut and Matang, Kuala Kangsar, Perak Tengah in Perak; Machang and Kuala Krai in Kelantan; and Bandar Baharu in Kedah. In a separate matter, Arthur said that his ministry will strengthen collaboration with relevant enforcement agencies to curb cattle smuggling activities from Thailand, which are believed to threaten the country's food security. He said enforcement actions against individuals involved in unethical activities are under the jurisdiction of the respective state governments. 'Therefore, a comprehensive engagement session between the state and federal governments is essential to harmonise laws and prevent conflicts, which could undermine the nation's food biosecurity,' Arthur said.
