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Winnipeg Free Press
12-07-2025
- General
- Winnipeg Free Press
Chiming in with chorus of caring
Forty years ago — on July 13, 1985 — Live Aid rocked the world to raise funds for millions of starving people in Ethiopia. And a Manitoban helped make it happen. That Manitoban was William Rew. He was the pilot who flew a BBC film crew into what was considered the epicentre of the famine in the fall of 1984 so they could provide the world with its first view of the terrible suffering unfolding in that country. It was that coverage which led to Live Aid. At the time, Rew was on a voluntary year's leave as a pilot from Air Canada, which had a surplus of pilots at the time. Rew, who had always wanted to spend time in Africa, took the offer and signed up with Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), an international Christian organization that provides aviation and communication services for remote communities in the Global South. SUPPLIED William and Leona Rew 'MAF needed pilots to help with flying relief supplies in Ethiopia,' said Rew, 72, who grew up in a devout Plymouth Brethren family. 'They had four criteria for pilots: We had to give a year, be single, have experience on de Havilland Canada Twin Otter aircraft and be a person of faith. I checked all the boxes.' Rew went to Ethiopia in the fall of 1983 with MAF to fly food to starving people in remote parts of the country. 'It was difficult flying,' he said of how he made five or six trips a day to isolated communities with only grass or dirt landing strips. 'The airplanes took a real pounding.' The BBC trip came near the end of his year there. Together with co-pilot Keith Ketchum, another Canadian, they flew the reporting crew to Korem in the northern part of Ethiopia on Oct. 19, 1984. 'It was just another day at work in Ethiopia,' Rew said, adding he had never been to Korem, as it was too dangerous — it was in the heart of the nation's civil war. They dropped off the BBC crew, including TV reporter Michael Buerk, camera operator Mohammed Amin and radio reporter Mike Wooldridge, then flew on to another remote town before returning a day later to pick them up. SUPPLIED William Rew (right) with a co-pilot in Ethiopia. After flying back to the capital, Addis Ababa, Rew and Ketchum said goodbye to the BBC crew and went back to their regular work. Shortly after, Rew completed his time with MAF and went on an extended and news-free holiday in Europe before returning to Canada in mid-November. When he arrived back in Winnipeg, he was surprised to find the Ethiopian famine all over the news because of that BBC report, which aired on Oct. 23, 1984. The graphic reporting showed what BBC radio reporter Wooldridge described as 'Hell on Earth,' a place where thousands were dying every week due to drought, war and neglect by the country's then Marxist government. It was only then that Rew understood the impact of what he had been part of. 'There was a firestorm of media attention about it when I got home,' he said. 'The media was lining up to hear my story.' It was a significant contrast to six months earlier, when Rew had come home to Winnipeg on furlough. At that time, nobody was talking about the millions of people starving in Ethiopia. 'It was very obvious there was a big change as a result of that BBC report,' Rew said. One of the people who saw that report was Bob Geldof, then a member of Irish band the Boomtown Rats. Galvanized by what he saw, Geldof, along with musician Midge Ure, came up with the idea for Band Aid, which found some of the decade's biggest musical stars joining together to record Do They Know It's Christmas? to raise money for famine relief. SUPPLIED Food being unloaded from an MAF plane in Ethiopia As a followup, they organized Live Aid, which took place nine months later in London and Philadelphia, and was broadcast to more than 150 countries where it was seen by 1.5 billion people. Bands and musicians who participated included U2, Queen, Dire Straits, the Who, Elton John, Black Sabbath, Run-D.M.C., Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Judas Priest, the Beach Boys, Bryan Adams and many others. Altogether, Band Aid and Live Aid raised more than US$150 million for famine victims in Ethiopia. Now, at the 40th anniversary of that historic event, Rew is reflective. 'I ended up flying to the perfect place in Ethiopia to shock the world into doing something about the famine,' he said. 'It's a huge part of my memory. I remember it every time Oct. 19 rolls around.' He also recalls the many experiences he had in Ethiopia while flying in life-saving food. Sundays Kevin Rollason's Sunday newsletter honouring and remembering lives well-lived in Manitoba. 'That was the only time in my life when I kept a diary,' Rew said, adding he didn't take many pictures. 'I felt uncomfortable taking photos of people who were suffering. It didn't seem right.' Today Rew is retired after a 41-year career with Air Canada and lives in the city with his wife, Leona. They are members of St. Margaret's Anglican Church. Looking back, he thinks about how small acts, like being the pilot for that world-changing flight, can have a big impact. Rusty Kennedy / The Associated Press files Tina Turner and Mick Jagger perform together at the Live Aid concert in Philadelphia in July 1985 which raised funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. 'Maybe it can provide hope to others who think change isn't possible,' he said. 'No matter how hopeless it looks to us, change can happen. And when the world puts its mind to it, which they did after the BBC documentary, things like famines can be overcome.' Faith@ The Free Press is committed to covering faith in Manitoba. If you appreciate that coverage, help us do more! Your contribution of $10, $25 or more will allow us to deepen our reporting about faith in the province. Thanks! BECOME A FAITH JOURNALISM SUPPORTER John LonghurstFaith reporter John Longhurst has been writing for Winnipeg's faith pages since 2003. He also writes for Religion News Service in the U.S., and blogs about the media, marketing and communications at Making the News. Read full biography Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Borneo Post
25-06-2025
- Borneo Post
Bario STOLport upgrading project ahead of schedule
(From fourth left) Lee, Gerawat and others give their thumb-up to the progress of the upgrading project for the STOLport. MIRI (June 25): The upgrading project for the Bario Short Take-Off and Landing Airport (STOLport) has reached 30.46 per cent completion as of May this year, surpassing its original schedule of 26.63 per cent by 3.83 per cent, said state Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. Lee, who conducted a working visit to the project site yesterday, said the project is scheduled for completion by March 3, 2026, and is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety levels of the STOLport. 'Once completed, the upgraded facility will allow Twin Otter aircraft to operate at full capacity, carrying up to 19 passengers per flight,' he said. 'Currently, due to safety regulations set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), flights are restricted to carrying only nine passengers.' The ongoing upgrade includes runway extension and resurfacing, which will support higher passenger load and improve the aircraft's weight-bearing capability. 'This will significantly benefit the rural community in Bario, particularly by improving air connectivity and service capacity,' Lee added. However, he acknowledged that unpredictable weather remains a major challenge for flight operations in Bario, with all flights restricted to departure before 4pm daily due to cloud cover. 'To accommodate more passengers during festive seasons such as Pesta Nukenen and Christmas, we will be discussing possible solutions with local assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala, including increasing flight frequency,' he said. Adding on, Lee noted that the STOLport remains a vital lifeline for the highland region, providing access to healthcare, education, essential goods, economic activities, and tourism, especially given the limited road access. 'Hence, it is the priority of the ministry and elected representatives to ensure that this facility remains safe, efficient, and responsive to the people's needs at all times.' The project is being implemented with over RM20 million in funding from the federal government through the federal Ministry of Transport. The main scope of work involves extending the current 671-metre runway to 930 metres with a width of 18 metres, allowing for full-load take-offs including baggage. Other components include resurfacing the original runway to enhance durability, constructing a new clearway to improve take-off performance, installing a new perimeter fence, wind direction indicator, and an Automated Weather System (AWS) for better weather monitoring and flight planning. Minor repairs to the terminal building are also being carried out. 'These upgrades are expected to boost the safety, reliability, and continuity of flight operations in highland areas like Bario, especially in challenging weather conditions,' said Lee. He added that his ministry has also submitted a proposal for additional federal funding to construct a dual-use aircraft parking apron capable of accommodating two DHC6 Twin Otters and two EC175 helicopters, as well as a new connecting taxiway. He said further proposals include resurfacing the parking area in front of the terminal building to improve user convenience and enhance the airport's appearance. 'These enhancements are crucial to ensuring the STOLport meets higher operational standards and offers better comfort to users.' Lee also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in the project, particularly the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak as the implementing agency for their commitment to timely and safe project execution. He also thanked CAAM for ensuring regulatory compliance and certification, along with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) for overseeing daily operations at the STOLport. Air travel Bario STOLport lead Lee Kim Shin rural community
Borneo Post
25-06-2025
- Borneo Post
Minister: Bario STOLport upgrading project ahead of schedule
(From fourth left) Lee, Gerawat and others give their thumb-up to the progress of the upgrading project for the STOLport. MIRI (June 25): The upgrading project for the Bario Short Take-Off and Landing Airport (STOLport) has reached 30.46 per cent completion as of May this year, surpassing its original schedule of 26.63 per cent by 3.83 per cent, said state Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. Lee, who conducted a working visit to the project site yesterday, said the project is scheduled for completion by March 3, 2026, and is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety levels of the STOLport. 'Once completed, the upgraded facility will allow Twin Otter aircraft to operate at full capacity, carrying up to 19 passengers per flight,' he said. 'Currently, due to safety regulations set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), flights are restricted to carrying only nine passengers.' The ongoing upgrade includes runway extension and resurfacing, which will support higher passenger load and improve the aircraft's weight-bearing capability. 'This will significantly benefit the rural community in Bario, particularly by improving air connectivity and service capacity,' Lee added. However, he acknowledged that unpredictable weather remains a major challenge for flight operations in Bario, with all flights restricted to departure before 4pm daily due to cloud cover. 'To accommodate more passengers during festive seasons such as Pesta Nukenen and Christmas, we will be discussing possible solutions with local assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala, including increasing flight frequency,' he said. Adding on, Lee noted that the STOLport remains a vital lifeline for the highland region, providing access to healthcare, education, essential goods, economic activities, and tourism, especially given the limited road access. 'Hence, it is the priority of the ministry and elected representatives to ensure that this facility remains safe, efficient, and responsive to the people's needs at all times.' The project is being implemented with over RM20 million in funding from the federal government through the federal Ministry of Transport. The main scope of work involves extending the current 671-metre runway to 930 metres with a width of 18 metres, allowing for full-load take-offs including baggage. Other components include resurfacing the original runway to enhance durability, constructing a new clearway to improve take-off performance, installing a new perimeter fence, wind direction indicator, and an Automated Weather System (AWS) for better weather monitoring and flight planning. Minor repairs to the terminal building are also being carried out. 'These upgrades are expected to boost the safety, reliability, and continuity of flight operations in highland areas like Bario, especially in challenging weather conditions,' said Lee. He added that his ministry has also submitted a proposal for additional federal funding to construct a dual-use aircraft parking apron capable of accommodating two DHC6 Twin Otters and two EC175 helicopters, as well as a new connecting taxiway. He said further proposals include resurfacing the parking area in front of the terminal building to improve user convenience and enhance the airport's appearance. 'These enhancements are crucial to ensuring the STOLport meets higher operational standards and offers better comfort to users.' Lee also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in the project, particularly the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak as the implementing agency for their commitment to timely and safe project execution. He also thanked CAAM for ensuring regulatory compliance and certification, along with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) for overseeing daily operations at the STOLport. Air travel Bario STOLport lead Lee Kim Shin rural community
Barnama
17-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Tanjung Manis Airport To Be Upgraded To Accommodate Larger Aircraft
SIBU, May 17 (Bernama) -- The Sarawak government will upgrade the Tanjung Manis Airport in the Mukah Division, about 112 kilometres (km) from here, to enable larger aircraft to land. The Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (PUSAKA) said today that the airport, which was opened in 2001, is currently only able to accommodate light aircraft like the Twin Otter and the upgrading project is estimated to cost between RM300 million and RM800 million, subject to the results of a feasibility study that is being carried out. 'With better facilities, the Tanjung Manis Airport is expected to be the main entry point to the Central Region, thus spurring economic growth and opening job opportunities for the locals,' it said in a statement today. The airport upgrading project involves the construction of a new terminal and air traffic control tower, runway extension as well as immigration, Customs and safety facilities. The airport upgrading project launch ceremony was officiated by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Dewan IKS PUSAKA, Tanjung Manis today. PUSAKA said the project is a key incentive in the development planning for the central region, comprising the divisions of Kapit, Sibu, Sarikei and Mukah, that is aimed at stimulating economic growth and improving the living standards of local communities. Under this initiative, the construction of the Rajang-Jalan Pasi Bridge has already been completed and was officiated by Abang Johari today, whereby this infrastructure cuts down the travel distance from Tanjung Manis to Sarikei from 122 kilometres (km) to just 53km. In addition, the Kampung Tanjung Manis Expansion Scheme, involving the construction of 69 semi-detached houses on a 6.92-hectare site, has also been planned to improve rural living standards by providing comprehensive basic amenities. The Sarawak government will also develop the 'Anjung Usahawan' project, which will feature seven double-storey commercial shoplots as modern business premises for local entrepreneurs, particularly small and medium enterprise (SME) operators.
New Straits Times
17-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
RM400mil upgrade for Tanjung Manis airport to accommodate bigger aircrafts
SARIKEI: Tanjung Manis Airport will be upgraded to accommodate larger aircraft at an estimated cost of RM400 million for the first phase, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg announced at the launch of the project in Tanjung Manis today. He said the upgrading works will include the construction of a new terminal, runway extension, air traffic control tower, as well as immigration, customs, and security facilities. "The project aims to enable larger aircraft to land at the airport, which currently only accommodates Twin Otter light aircraft," he said. Abang Johari added that the actual cost would only be determined after the completion of a RM5 million feasibility study currently being undertaken by the Sarawak Timber Development Authority (STIDC). Under the first phase, the airport runway will be extended from 1,200m to between 1,500m and 1,790m to accommodate ATR72 aircraft. This phase is expected to be completed within five years. In the second phase, the runway will be further extended to 2,500m to accommodate larger aircraft such as the Airbus A320. With the enhanced facilities, the airport is anticipated to become the main gateway to the central region of Sarawak, thereby spurring economic growth and creating job opportunities for local residents. "The Sarawak government is committed to ensuring that this development is carried out in a sustainable and balanced manner, taking into account environmental and community interests," he added. Abang Johari said the project is a key initiative in Sarawak's development plans, particularly for the central region encompassing the Kapit, Sibu, Sarikei, and Mukah Divisions. "The central region has been identified as a strategic development centre that will serve as a catalyst for the state's socio-economic progress in line with Sarawak's Prosperity Vision and the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030)," he said. He added that the Sarawak government, through the Rajang Delta Development Authority (Radda), will continue to strengthen infrastructure development in the central region. "This includes the construction of roads, water and electricity supply, housing infrastructure, digitalisation projects, as well as industrial and commercial areas to stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life for the local population," he said. Among the notable projects already implemented is the construction of the Batang Rajang Bridge and Pasi Road, which were inaugurated earlier today. Abang Johari said the Pasi Road has reduced the travel distance between Tanjung Manis and Sarikei from 122km to just 53km. He said that the opening of the bridge is expected to serve as a catalyst for the development of eco-tourism, agriculture, new investments, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, he said the Tanjung Manis Village Expansion Scheme (SPK), which involves the construction of 69 semi-detached houses on a 6.92-hectare site, is also being planned to enhance the quality of life for rural residents by providing comprehensive basic facilities. The airport, operated by STIDC, was opened in 2001 to facilitate logistics management for investors in the Tanjung Manis Economic Growth Area (T-Mega), formerly known as the Tanjung Manis Halal Hub.
