Latest news with #Zainal
The Sun
16 hours ago
- General
- The Sun
Sejahtera MADANI initiative transforms Malaysia's poverty eradication strategy
PUTRAJAYA: The Sejahtera MADANI initiative marks a new chapter in Malaysia's social justice landscape as it combines policy strength, data precision, and sincerity of implementers in a holistic effort to eradicate poverty in a dignified and effective manner, based on local values and culture, said academics. According to Prof Dr Zainal Abidin Sanusi, a lecturer at the Department of Political Science and MADANI Studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), the initiative reflects more than just financial assistance; it represents a transformational approach that addresses structural, emotional, and human dimensions of poverty. 'Sejahtera MADANI is not merely another welfare policy. It's a systemic shift in how we understand and address poverty, not merely in statistics, but also in realities that require structural reform and strategic unification,' he told Bernama. Zainal, who also heads IIUM's Sejahtera Centre for Sustainability and Humanity, said the strength of Sejahtera MADANI lies in its integration of existing aid programmes such as the Rakyat Sejahtera Housing Programme (PPRS), Amanah Ikhtiar, and Tekun, along with national databases like eKasih and MyKasih, which lacked coordination. 'With Sejahtera MADANI, we now see clearer structural alignment, especially through a household-based approach focusing on Heads of Households (KIR) and Household Members (AIR) and guided by four key areas of focus, namely income, education, housing, and welfare,' he explained. Zainal said this strategy views poverty as a structural issue, not merely a lack of income, which aligns with the principles of inclusivity and social justice that form the backbone of the Malaysia MADANI framework. He also welcomed the emphasis on local-level implementation, noting that many past programmes failed not due to poor policy design, but because of weak micro-governance and outdated data. 'Sejahtera MADANI empowers grassroots implementers as development enablers, not just aid distributors. It also brings together initiatives such as Sekolah Angkat MADANI, Kampung Angkat MADANI, Komuniti@UniMADANI, and Bakti MADANI into a mutually reinforcing ecosystem,' he said. A key feature of the initiative is a more transparent and responsive impact monitoring system, designed to adapt to changing socio-economic conditions, demanding not just policy restructuring, but a shift in execution culture. Zainal also emphasised the need for remapping poverty hotspots, using micro-level community assessments rather than relying solely on macro data. At the same time, Zainal lauded the government's move to upgrade the eKasih database, calling it a vital step to ensure fairer aid distribution because poverty, he said, is deeply interconnected with educational access, mental health, aid dependency, and the absence of community voices in development processes. 'Sejahtera MADANI presents a forward-thinking, holistic strategy, including the development of self-worth and financial literacy among poor communities,' he remarked. As a direct contributor to the Sekolah Angkat and Kampung Angkat programmes, Zainal urged for all MADANI-branded initiatives to be strategically consolidated under the Sejahtera MADANI umbrella, to avoid duplication and fragmented implementation. 'We need a comprehensive execution plan, backed by a robust ecosystem of data, implementers, and shared monitoring,' he said. The professor also stressed that the success of Sejahtera MADANI hinges on consistent political commitment, efficient implementation, and a culture of integrity and empowerment at every level. Launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on July 24, Sejahtera MADANI has already raised over RM120 million, underscoring the government's commitment to eliminating poverty through focused and integrated national efforts. The programme is coordinated by the Implementation Coordination Unit under the Prime Minister's Department (ICU JPM), and targets registered poor and hardcore poor households within the eKasih database. - Bernama
Barnama
16 hours ago
- General
- Barnama
Sejahtera MADANI Initiative A New Holistic Strategy To Eradicate Poverty
By Samantha Tan Chiew Tieng PUTRAJAYA, July 29 (Bernama) -- The Sejahtera MADANI initiative marks a new chapter in Malaysia's social justice landscape as it combines policy strength, data precision, and sincerity of implementers in a holistic effort to eradicate poverty in a dignified and effective manner, based on local values and culture, said academics. According to Prof Dr Zainal Abidin Sanusi, a lecturer at the Department of Political Science and MADANI Studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), the initiative reflects more than just financial assistance; it represents a transformational approach that addresses structural, emotional, and human dimensions of poverty. 'Sejahtera MADANI is not merely another welfare policy. It's a systemic shift in how we understand and address poverty, not merely in statistics, but also in realities that require structural reform and strategic unification,' he told Bernama. Zainal, who also heads IIUM's Sejahtera Centre for Sustainability and Humanity, said the strength of Sejahtera MADANI lies in its integration of existing aid programmes such as the Rakyat Sejahtera Housing Programme (PPRS), Amanah Ikhtiar, and Tekun, along with national databases like eKasih and MyKasih, which lacked coordination. 'With Sejahtera MADANI, we now see clearer structural alignment, especially through a household-based approach focusing on Heads of Households (KIR) and Household Members (AIR) and guided by four key areas of focus, namely income, education, housing, and welfare,' he explained. Zainal said this strategy views poverty as a structural issue, not merely a lack of income, which aligns with the principles of inclusivity and social justice that form the backbone of the Malaysia MADANI framework. He also welcomed the emphasis on local-level implementation, noting that many past programmes failed not due to poor policy design, but because of weak micro-governance and outdated data. 'Sejahtera MADANI empowers grassroots implementers as development enablers, not just aid distributors. It also brings together initiatives such as Sekolah Angkat MADANI, Kampung Angkat MADANI, Komuniti@UniMADANI, and Bakti MADANI into a mutually reinforcing ecosystem,' he said.
Borneo Post
20-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Malaysia timber trade hits RM9.95 bln in Q1 2025, eyes RM4 bln furniture exports by 2030
Zainal (seated centre) joins members of the newly installed SFIA 2025-2028 committee for a group photo. KUCHING (July 20): Malaysia's total trade value for timber and timber products, including exports and imports, reached RM9.95 billion in the first four months of this year, said Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) general manager Zainal Abidin Abdullah. He said exports contributed RM7.18 billion, signifying a strong demand for Malaysian timber products, while imports stood at RM2.767 billion, reflecting healthy domestic use and a well-connected supply chain. Wooden furniture took the lead in exports, bringing in RM3 billion, followed by plywood (RM742.5 million), sawn timber (RM582.5 million), and fibreboard (RM210 million). 'Last year, our timber exports reached RM22.9 billion, a solid 4.9 per cent increase from the previous year. This steady growth shows how resilient and adaptable our industry truly is,' Zainal said during the Sarawak Furniture Industry Association's (SFIA) 17th committee installation dinner held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Friday. He said Sarawak's timber export earnings reached RM2.84 billion last year, a slight decrease from RM3.14 billion in 2023. 'More than numbers, these achievements underscore the timber industry's important role not only in driving Malaysia's economy but also in creating jobs and supporting communities, especially in rural areas,' he said. According to Zainal, innovation in design remains vital as Sarawak adapts to changing market trends, while efforts to expand market access through trade fairs and export programmes are opening doors worldwide. However, he pointed out that material shortages are a significant hurdle, with Malaysia importing up to 60 per cent of its raw materials like timber, hardware, and fabrics. 'Sarawak, despite its rich timber resources, often exports raw wood rather than finished products, limiting value-added opportunities. 'In addition, our industry relies heavily on foreign workers, which affects skills retention and innovation. Locally, there is a shortage of skilled craftsmen and designers, which slows productivity and the adoption of new technologies,' he added. Zainal also said Sarawak faces competition from emerging markets, such as China and Vietnam, while limited access to advanced technology and a small domestic market restrict growth. He added that environmental regulations and concerns about deforestation add further complexity, requiring sustainable practices that can be costly and difficult to implement. 'Despite these challenges, there is great potential for Sarawak's furniture industry, which can carve out a stronger position in the global market by investing in skills development, innovation, and sustainable practices,' he emphasised. On STIDC, Zainal said a comprehensive Furniture Industry Blueprint has been developed to map out a clear, strategic pathway for the sector's growth, encompassing product development, supply chain strengthening, and market expansion. 'In collaboration with the SFIA, STIDC is actively compiling a detailed database of member companies and their offerings, which will serve as a foundation for this blueprint. 'Through joint brainstorming sessions, we aim to establish a robust and integrated supply chain that supports our ambition to achieve RM4 billion in furniture export revenue by 2030,' he added. Meanwhile, SFIA president Leo Chiang said the furniture industry in Sarawak is facing an increasingly complex landscape, shaped by global and local shifts. 'Challenges – including the US tariffs affecting exports, Malaysia's expanded SST (Sales and Services Tax) raising operational costs, and the introduction of FWTA (Foreign Workers Transformation Approach) in Sarawak – add intense pressure and demand closer collaboration with stakeholders. 'Now, more than ever, we must work together to stay resilient and competitive,' he stressed. Chiang also said they look forward to even closer cooperation with STIDC in shaping policies, facilitating training, supporting innovation, and promoting Sarawak-made furniture on the global stage. 'We must also remain committed to developing our SMEs (small and medium enterprises), uplifting design capabilities, embracing sustainable practices, and grooming the next generation of industry players,' he added. *Editor's note: This article has been amended for accuracy. lead stidc timber trade Zainal Abidin Abdullah
Borneo Post
19-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak timber trade hits RM9.95 bln in Q1 2025, eyes RM4 bln furniture exports by 2030
Zainal (seated centre) joins members of the newly installed SFIA 2025-2028 committee for a group photo. KUCHING (July 20): Sarawak's total trade value for timber and timber products, including exports and imports, reached RM9.95 billion in the first four months of this year, said Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) general manager Zainal Abidin Abdullah. He said exports contributed RM7,183 billion, signifying a strong demand for Malaysian timber products, while imports stood at RM2.767 billion, reflecting healthy domestic use and a well-connected supply chain. Wooden furniture took the lead in exports, bringing in RM3,083.4 million, followed by plywood (RM742.5 million), sawn timber (RM582.5 million), and fibreboard (RM210 million). 'Last year, our timber exports reached RM22.9 billion, a solid 4.9 per cent increase from the previous year. This steady growth shows how resilient and adaptable our industry truly is,' Zainal said during the Sarawak Furniture Industry Association's (SFIA) 17th committee installation dinner held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Friday. He added that Sarawak's timber export earnings reached RM2.84 billion last year, a slight decrease from RM3.14 billion in 2023. 'More than numbers, these achievements underscore the timber industry's important role not only in driving Malaysia's economy but also in creating jobs and supporting communities, especially in rural areas,' he said. According to Zainal, innovation in design remains vital as Sarawak adapts to changing market trends, while efforts to expand market access through trade fairs and export programmes are opening doors worldwide. However, he pointed out that material shortages are a significant hurdle, with Malaysia importing up to 60 per cent of its raw materials like timber, hardware, and fabrics. 'Sarawak, despite its rich timber resources, often exports raw wood rather than finished products, limiting value-added opportunities. 'In addition, our industry relies heavily on foreign workers, which affects skills retention and innovation. Locally, there is a shortage of skilled craftsmen and designers, which slows productivity and the adoption of new technologies,' he added. Zainal also said Sarawak faces competition from emerging markets, such as China and Vietnam, while limited access to advanced technology and a small domestic market restrict growth. He added that environmental regulations and concerns about deforestation add further complexity, requiring sustainable practices that can be costly and difficult to implement. 'Despite these challenges, there is great potential for Sarawak's furniture industry, which can carve out a stronger position in the global market by investing in skills development, innovation, and sustainable practices,' he emphasised. On STIDC, Zainal said a comprehensive Furniture Industry Blueprint has been developed to map out a clear, strategic pathway for the sector's growth, encompassing product development, supply chain strengthening, and market expansion. 'In collaboration with the SFIA, STIDC is actively compiling a detailed database of member companies and their offerings, which will serve as a foundation for this blueprint. 'Through joint brainstorming sessions, we aim to establish a robust and integrated supply chain that supports our ambition to achieve RM4 billion in furniture export revenue by 2030,' he added. Meanwhile, SFIA president Leo Chiang said the furniture industry in Sarawak is facing an increasingly complex landscape, shaped by global and local shifts. 'Challenges – including the US tariffs affecting exports, Malaysia's expanded SST (Sales and Services Tax) raising operational costs, and the introduction of FWTA (Foreign Workers Transformation Approach) in Sarawak – add intense pressure and demand closer collaboration with stakeholders. 'Now, more than ever, we must work together to stay resilient and competitive,' he stressed. Chiang also said they look forward to even closer cooperation with STIDC in shaping policies, facilitating training, supporting innovation, and promoting Sarawak-made furniture on the global stage. 'We must also remain committed to developing our SMEs (small and medium enterprises), uplifting design capabilities, embracing sustainable practices, and grooming the next generation of industry players,' he added. lead stidc timber trade Zainal Abidin Abdullah
The Sun
11-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Harimau Malaya aims for top 100 FIFA ranking, says Zainal
KUALA LUMPUR: National football legend Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan is optimistic that the Harimau Malaya squad can achieve a top 100 FIFA ranking in the coming years. Speaking after the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and Bank Islam strategic partnership signing ceremony, Zainal credited Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail for sparking a revival in Malaysian football. 'Alhamdulillah, this is a proud achievement for the Malaysian footballing fraternity. We pray that the Harimau Malaya squad can continue to improve their world ranking,' said Zainal, who serves as FAM Competitions Committee deputy chairman. He stressed the importance of sustained support for the national team, which has struggled internationally for years. The Harimau Malaya recently climbed six spots to 125th in FIFA's latest rankings, matching their best position from February 2006. Strong performances, including a 1-1 draw with Cape Verde and a 4-0 victory over Vietnam in Asian Cup qualifiers, contributed to the rise. Thailand remains Southeast Asia's highest-ranked team at 102nd, followed by Vietnam (113th) and Indonesia (118th). FAM Marketing and Sponsorship Committee deputy chairman CP Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri praised Bank Islam's long-term commitment, noting their partnership since 2013. 'This collaboration strengthens football development and inspires a sustainable ecosystem,' he said. Bank Islam's Mizan Masram expressed gratitude for the renewed two-year agreement, reinforcing their role in national football growth. - Bernama
