Latest news with #Sarawak-level
Borneo Post
6 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
SMEC25 to welcome 600 influential thinkers, communicators from Malaysia, overseas
Abdullah (left) and Awang Putrayusrie seen during the press conference. KUCHING (June 24): The Sarawak Media Conference 2025 (SMEC25) will bring together around 600 influential thinkers and communication practitioners from both within Malaysia and abroad, says Datuk Abdullah Saidol. According to the Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) the conference will feature diverse perspectives on the evolving landscape of journalism, technology, and digital transformation. 'SMEC25 will serve as an important platform for collaboration between the government, media professionals, and other key stakeholders,' he added during a press conference today. He also emphasised that the Sarawak government recognises the vital role of the media as a catalyst for development, a trusted source of information, and a bridge between the government and the people. The government, he added, will continue to support efforts that strengthen professionalism, ethics and innovation in the media industry. 'The conference is scheduled to take place on July 2 and 3, 2025 at Sheraton Hotel in Kuching. It will be organised by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) in collaboration with Angkatan Zaman Mansang (AZAM) Sarawak,' he said. He also revealed that the theme for this year's edition is 'Artificial Intelligence (AI): Shaping the Future of Media and Journalism,' reflecting current concerns and opportunities arising from the digital age. Apart from that, he said SMEC25 will feature prominent speakers such as Shelly Bryant from Singapore and the United States, known for her work in cross-cultural narrative strategy, and Steve Saerang, Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications at Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and a prominent youth communications leader in Indonesia. 'Also speaking will be Soh Wan Wei, CEO of AI Visionary Society in Singapore, who is known internationally for exploring the intersection of AI, the metaverse, and digital journalism,' he said. From Malaysia, the lineup includes Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman, Director-General of Broadcasting Malaysia and a key figure in transforming the national news landscape, and Dr Jun-E Tan from the Khazanah Research Institute, who authored a major policy report on AI governance. Professor Dr Patrick, CEO of the Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre, will also speak about AI development and knowledge transfer efforts within Sarawak. 'A two-day exhibition will run alongside the conference, featuring participation from UKAS, AZAM, SAIC, TEGAS, CENTEXS, UNIMAS and Affin Bank. The exhibition is aimed at showcasing digital innovation, AI research and communication-related initiatives in the state,' he said. In conjunction with SMEC25 and the Sarawak-level celebration of National Journalists Day (HAWANA), Abdullah also said that a gala dinner will be held on July 2 at Riverside Majestic Hotel. The dinner will be attended by Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Sri Fadillah Yusof, members of the Sarawak Cabinet, political secretaries, heads of departments, and representatives from the Indonesian and Bruneian consulates. Around 700 guests are expected. 'The evening will feature performances by local artists including Karen Libau, Firdaus Materang, Ng Chien Chien, and Roxy Ixzy. 'There will also be a modern dance and hip hop segment by Kinate Dance Studio and a theatrical performance titled 'Kampung Sik Berasa' by Persatuan Anak Seni Sarawak, continuing the story presented during last year's conference,' he said. A key highlight of the dinner is the Premier's Special Appreciation Award, which will be presented to 10 media professionals in various categories including editors, journalists, newsreaders, radio presenters, photographers and special recognition figures. Each recipient will receive a plaque, certificate and a cash prize of RM3,000. Abdullah said the award is intended to honour outstanding achievements, dedication and sacrifices made by members of the media who have made a positive impact in Sarawak. Separately during the press conference, he revealed that the Sarawak Media Sports Carnival (KASUMeS) 2025 will be held for the first time this year, with competitions organised in three zones. Sibu hosted events for pickleball and futsal on May 15, while Miri held pickleball and darts on May 24. 'The Kuching leg will take place on June 24 and 25, featuring pickleball, tenpin bowling and badminton. The opening ceremony will be officiated by Abdullah himself at MUSC Sarawak, and the closing ceremony will be led by Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datu Hii Chang Kee at Stadium Perpaduan Kuching,' he said. Abdullah ended the press conference by thanking media representatives and expressing hope that these efforts will further strengthen the role of the media in building a progressive and inclusive Sarawak. Also present during the press conference was Ukas director Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan. Abdullah Saidol journalism lead Sarawak Media Conference
The Sun
7 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Embrace diversity as a strength, not a source of division
KUCHING: Racial diversity should be embraced as a strength to enhance national unity, rather than as a battleground for rivalry or a means to showcase superiority and ego, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. He said that in many other countries, such diversity has led to racial and religious hostility, eventually burdening the nation and negatively affecting the people. 'Unity within our multiracial society is increasingly essential to ensure that Malaysia remains strong amid the current uncertain global geopolitical landscape. 'Never underestimate the potential problems if you are disunited. The geopolitical conditions are so challenging and alarming. The future is never certain. But what we can ensure is a united Malaysia,' he said. Anwar was speaking at the 2025 Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak celebration dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here tonight, which was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi were the guests of honour at the event. Anwar said as prime minister, he feels proud in showcasing the country's cultural and racial diversity, especially as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship this year and when receiving foreign dignitaries and corporate leaders. He said this was exemplified during a recent meeting with ConocoPhillips Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Lance, where he wore a traditional Iban outfit gifted to him earlier by Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. 'So I told him (Ryan) about Sarawak, about the beauty of the culture, that's what we have to do. And I take great pride as a Malaysian to speak to one of the great multi-billion dollar companies, probably one of the biggest oil companies in the world and number one in the United States,' he said. Meanwhile, Anwar also announced that he will meet with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto this Friday to discuss a proposal for Sarawak to be positioned as a hub for the ASEAN Power Grid (APG). He said Sarawak, with its strengths in hydroelectric, gas and hydrogen energy, has the potential to spearhead the APG, not only by linking to Sabah and Indonesia's Kalimantan, but also extending to the southern Philippines.
Borneo Post
7 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
PM Anwar: Embrace diversity as strength, not source of division
Anwar speaking at the 2025 Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak celebration dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here last night. – Bernama photo KUCHING (June 23): Racial diversity should be embraced as a strength to enhance national unity, rather than as a battleground for rivalry or a means to showcase superiority and ego, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. He said that in many other countries, such diversity has led to racial and religious hostility, eventually burdening the nation and negatively affecting the people. 'Unity within our multiracial society is increasingly essential to ensure that Malaysia remains strong amid the current uncertain global geopolitical landscape. 'Never underestimate the potential problems if you are disunited. The geopolitical conditions are so challenging and alarming. The future is never certain. But what we can ensure is a united Malaysia,' he said. Anwar was speaking at the 2025 Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak celebration dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here last night, which was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi were the guests of honour at the event. Anwar said as prime minister, he feels proud in showcasing the country's cultural and racial diversity, especially as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship this year and when receiving foreign dignitaries and corporate leaders. He said this was exemplified during a recent meeting with ConocoPhillips Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Lance, where he wore a traditional Iban outfit gifted to him earlier by Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. 'So I told him (Ryan) about Sarawak, about the beauty of the culture, that's what we have to do. And I take great pride as a Malaysian to speak to one of the great multi-billion dollar companies, probably one of the biggest oil companies in the world and number one in the United States,' he said. Meanwhile, Anwar also announced that he will meet with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto this Friday to discuss a proposal for Sarawak to be positioned as a hub for the ASEAN Power Grid (APG). He said Sarawak, with its strengths in hydroelectric, gas and hydrogen energy, has the potential to spearhead the APG, not only by linking to Sabah and Indonesia's Kalimantan, but also extending to the southern Philippines. – Bernama anwar ibrahim geopolitical lead multi-racial national unity
The Sun
7 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Abang Johari praises Malaysia's global recognition under ASEAN Chairmanship
KUCHING: Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Cabinet for elevating Malaysia's stature while chairing ASEAN this year. He said Malaysia's leadership at the regional level has earned recognition from ASEAN member states as well as external partners who appreciate Malaysia's approach as a multiracial and multi-religious nation living in harmony. 'We have seen several recognitions given by our ASEAN partners who observe how we develop our country with people of different races and religions living under one roof as one big family. 'In this regard, we in Sarawak certainly give our full support towards positioning Malaysia as a nation respected by the world today,' he said. He was speaking at the 2025 Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak celebration dinner held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here last night. With the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Abang Johari said the state government is committed to realising the ASEAN Grid project, which has great potential and would enable Sarawak to play a strategic role as a major energy hub in the region. 'I had a brief discussion with the Prime Minister earlier, and I hope that one of the strategies we adopt will help realise your vision for the ASEAN Grid, which will provide an economic development boost to ASEAN, particularly through Malaysia's contribution,' he said. The Premier also said the presence of Anwar and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi at the cultural event reflected the strong relationship between the Federal Government and Sarawak. 'In fact, I was informed that the Prime Minister had another engagement scheduled for tonight. But he said, 'No, I want to go to Sarawak'... This reflects the close bond of brotherhood,' he added. Themed 'Peji Kenep Panau Pegep', which means 'United We Progress' in the Kayan ethnic language, the event featured traditional performances by the Orang Ulu, Bidayuh and Iban communities. The celebration was graced by the presence of Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi. Also in attendance, among others, were Dewan Negara President Senator Datuk Awang Bemee Bin Awang Ali Basah, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, and Gawai Dayak celebration main organising committee chairman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
The Sun
7 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Abang Johari praises Malaysia's global recognition
KUCHING: Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Cabinet for elevating Malaysia's stature while chairing ASEAN this year. He said Malaysia's leadership at the regional level has earned recognition from ASEAN member states as well as external partners who appreciate Malaysia's approach as a multiracial and multi-religious nation living in harmony. 'We have seen several recognitions given by our ASEAN partners who observe how we develop our country with people of different races and religions living under one roof as one big family. 'In this regard, we in Sarawak certainly give our full support towards positioning Malaysia as a nation respected by the world today,' he said. He was speaking at the 2025 Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak celebration dinner held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here last night. With the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Abang Johari said the state government is committed to realising the ASEAN Grid project, which has great potential and would enable Sarawak to play a strategic role as a major energy hub in the region. 'I had a brief discussion with the Prime Minister earlier, and I hope that one of the strategies we adopt will help realise your vision for the ASEAN Grid, which will provide an economic development boost to ASEAN, particularly through Malaysia's contribution,' he said. The Premier also said the presence of Anwar and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi at the cultural event reflected the strong relationship between the Federal Government and Sarawak. 'In fact, I was informed that the Prime Minister had another engagement scheduled for tonight. But he said, 'No, I want to go to Sarawak'... This reflects the close bond of brotherhood,' he added. Themed 'Peji Kenep Panau Pegep', which means 'United We Progress' in the Kayan ethnic language, the event featured traditional performances by the Orang Ulu, Bidayuh and Iban communities. The celebration was graced by the presence of Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi. Also in attendance, among others, were Dewan Negara President Senator Datuk Awang Bemee Bin Awang Ali Basah, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, and Gawai Dayak celebration main organising committee chairman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
