High-tech cameras to nab speedhogs

Police here and in Tawau will soon be armed with high-tech cameras to nab speedhogs and other criminal elements.

Traffic Bukit Aman Technical Procurement head, DSP Ahmad Adnan bin Basri said the two devices which cost RM250,000 each are very useful for police work.

"The launching of this high-tech camera was done in the peninsula few months ago and the Bukit Aman police headquarters decided to supply two of these each to Sabah and Sarawak.

"For Sabah, one will be handed to Sabah Police Contingent in Kepayan here and another one to Tawau Police Station," he said after the closing ceremony of a three-day course in handling the new 'Trucam' device.

A total of 33 police personnel including 12 from Selangor participated in the course.

Ahmad said the device can be used manually or automatically round-the-clock and can withstand any weather condition.

"This high-tech camera produces clear pictures in colour that can be also sent through email and it has a touch screen for better and faster handling of the device.

"The pictures also enclose details of the time and speed of vehicles including the face of the drivers or any perpetrators, which can be used as reliable evidence," he said.

Ahmad said with the Chinese New Year round the corner this device would be suitable for use during the police 'Ops Sikap' and crime prevention efforts.

Picture: Google Image

Racial tension if RCI call denied

Racial tension may flare up in Sabah if the people's call for a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) on illegal immigrants and the Project IC is turned down by the government, said the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP).

Its Adviser Datuk Mohd Noor Mansur said contrary to what certain people believe the likelihood of a racial tension in Sabah would be greater if the government continues to ignore this matter (setting up of RCI) because "the natives in Sabah are already not very happy with it (the huge presence of illegal immigrants in the State)."

"This is my sincere opinion on this matter. I also would like to stress here that our party's intention in saying this, or our call for the setting up of a RCI, is not because we are against any race, but because of the fact that we must follow the law, even in becoming a citizen of this country," he said in a press conference held at the party's headquarters in Bornion Centre, Luyang, here Friday.

Deputy President Haji Amde Sidek, Vice President Dullie Haji Marie and other leaders representing about 10 different ethnic communities throughout Sabah were also present.

Mohd Noor said the party has since several years ago demanded together with various non-governmental organisations and political parties in Sabah the setting up of the said RCI.

"The demand has nothing to do with or does not involve the question of any race or religion at all, as it is only focused on the law of this country, rules and regulation and sovereigntyÉit does not touch on the sensitivity of anyone especially Malaysians in Sabah. So one should not dare to make any statement to frighten the people in the State on the formation of RCI," he said.

The party's stand is that everyone has the right to apply for a Malaysian identity card (IC) but this must be through a legal and transparent process, he said.

He said the party's petition campaign has collected more than 50,000 signatures from Malaysians in Sabah who wanted the Federal Government to set up the said RCI to end the problem of illegal immigrants in the State whose figures have already reached at alarming hundreds of thousands.

He said the signed petition letter has already been submitted to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak and Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in Parliament by the party's delegation led by Deputy President and Sepanggar MP Datuk Eric Majimbun.

A copy of this letter had also been handed over to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.

Mohd Noor said the party demanded the government set up the said RCI because it wants it to do a comprehensive study on the illegal immigrant influx in Sabah, the drastic population increase and growth in the State as well as to clean up the State's electoral roll and investigate thoroughly the so-called "Project IC".

He said the government as reported has set up several investigation bodies like a Lab on Illegal Immigrants, a Parliamentary Select Committee and launched the 5P and 6P programmes, but all of these seem to have no follow up action and ineffective in solving the long-standing illegal immigrants problem in the State.

Because of this he said it is most appropriate for the government to set up the RCI in Sabah, so as to get an ultimate solution to this mother of all problems in the State.

Sources: Daily Express Newspaper

Picture: Google Image

Minimum Wages- Need a clear clarification

Sabah employers on Friday called for transparency on the imminent implementation of the minimum wage policy by the government in the country.

"We support the minimum wage policy but what we find is that there is no transparency in how the minimum wage has been set," said Federation of Sabah Manufacturers (FSM) Secretary General, Yap Cheen Boon.

He made the point during a joint media conference with the majority of chambers of commerce and trade associations in Sabah here.

Yap said generally employers have no qualms about paying higher wages for higher levels of productivity in return but cautioned against imbalances in wage levels and productivity.

"Perhaps, the government could give us a grace period or timeframe to introduce this once it is properly implemented," he said, calling on the government to delay the implementation in Sabah by three years.

Towards this end he said they would submit a joint memorandum pertaining to the matter to the State government and to the Human Resource Ministry by January 2012. They called for transparency and involvement in how wage floors were deliberated, factoring in the different costs of living between Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah.

"We do not know what the minimum wage is, so we are frustrated because we think that the process is not transparent and we are not involved in the process.

"There should not be a blanket standard minimum wage that applies across the board. The rates should take into account structural differences within respective industries and sectors.

"Significant structural differences exist among different industries that need to be properly considered and addressed."

Yap said they believe the principle of introducing a minimum wage is to make sure workers are not exploited and that they earn wages that will allow them to have a decent living standard.

"That is the declared objective of the minimum wage by the government and as employers we support this principle, however we are just not sure how it is being set or formulated. However, we are frustrated because we are not being properly involved," he said.

"We view this matter very seriously because it is something that will have impact on the cost of doing business here in Sabah and we think that the government should give us the opportunity to be involved."

A total of 24 Chambers of Commerce and trade associations were present, among them the Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Sabah Timber Industries Association.

Sources: Daily Express Sabah

Picture: Google Image.

New mykad available Jan 3, 2012

The National Registration Department (NRD) will be issuing the new MyKad with the latest security features in stages from Jan 3, said NRD Director-General Datuk Jariah Mohd Said.

She said the issuing of the new MyKad would begin at the NRD offices in Putrajaya and Shah Alam on Tuesday and would be extended to other branch offices throughout country after Feb 15.

"The new MyKad is more durable as it is made of tougher polycarbonate material as well as a new and longer lasting chip.

'Apart from that, the MyKad has a "ghost image" which uses a new laser technology on the surface to prevent forgery," she told reporters at a media conference here, Friday.

Jariah said NRD was confident the new MyKad would meet international standards as it had improvements over the existing version.

"Members of the public are encouraged to change to the new MyKad but it is not compulsory," she said.

Jariah said NRD branches in other states such as Kluang and Ipoh would be issuing the new MyKad on Jan 10, Johor Baru (Jan 14), Kuantan (Jan 15), Melaka (Jan 17), Kuching and Kota Baru (Jan 20), Kuala Terengganu and Penang (Jan 29).

Apart from that, she said the NRD office in Alor Setar would also issue the new MyKad on Feb 2, Miri (Feb 6), Kota Kinabalu and other branches on Feb 7 and branches in the Federal Territory on Feb 15.

"NRD will take one day to issue the latest MyKad in the NRD branches stated.

"Other NRD branches will take 10 working days in the Peninsula and a maximum of 30 days in Sabah and Sarawak," she said.- Bernama

Aids for Sabah's needy

The Federal Government, through the Women, Family & Community Development Ministry, will increase its allocation for welfare aid next year.

Announcing this Friday, its Minister, Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil, said:

"I told Sabah Welfare Services Director Etong Terang to spend more next year (2012). To assist needy groups, we will increase the allocation from RM207 million this year (2011) to RM215 million for 2012.

"The number of recipients will also be raised by 5pc," she said at the Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) Wanita Christmas Celebration with the Rakyat held at Dewan Masyarakat Menggatal, here.

According to Shahrizat, the Ministry spent RM207,038,395.00 for six welfare assistance schemes in assisting the State Government this year.

The breakdown is as follows : - Old Age Assistance (BOT): RM137,572,000.00 (38,533 recipients) - Children's Aid (BKK): RM40,645,865.00 (9596 recipients) - Disabled Worker's Allowance (EPC): RM1,942,200.00 (603 recipients) - Disabled Persons (OKU) who are chronically ill or bedridden: RM13,707,000.00 (3808 recipients) - Non-Working Disabled Persons (OKU): RM77,700.00 (59 recipients) - Majlis Tindakan Ekonomi Negara (MTEN) (Orphan Aid & General Assistance): RM13,093,530.00 (18,776 recipients)

"Departments and agencies under the Sabah BN Government also work very hard to provide social services to the poor and needy," she noted.

Also present were Etong, Deputy Director of Public Welfare Services, Said Hj Sidup and Senior Assistant Director, Jais Asri.

The inaugural Christmas celebration, attended by more than 1,000 people, was jointly hosted by Karambunai Assembly-woman Datuk Hjh Jainab Ahmad and Inanam Assemblyman Datuk Johnny Goh.

Of the figure, 540 underprivileged individuals (senior citizens, disabled persons, single mothers, among others), received a RM100 cash gift each and Christmas goodies (bag, 4-metre material, food items and health products) from Shahrizat who is also Chairperson of Barisan Nasional Wanita Malaysia.

The recipients were recommended by seven BN component parties - PBS, UPKO, PBRS, MCA, LDP, MIC and Gerakan.

Retired teacher Ann from Likas said: "This is truly 1Malaysia Spirit and should be promoted yearly. We have Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazandusun and other ethnic groups in our midst today."

Pensioner Jimmy Gomidong of Kg Kokol, Menggatal said the Christmas celebration was conducive to social interaction in uniting the multi-racial people of Sabah.

The cash gifts were contributed by Yayasan Kebajikan Negara, a government agency under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, while the goodies were sponsored by the Ministry.

Among those who attended were BN Wanita Malaysia Secretary-General, Datuk Raja Ropiaah, Sabah BN Wanita Chief, Datuk Hjh Armani Hj Amiruddin and Deputy Chief, Datuk Jamilah Sulaiman, CEO of Yayasan Kebajikan Negara, Dato' Sayed A. Rahman Sayed Mohd and Dato' Rafek Reshidullah, a member of the Board of Trustees.

Sayed said Yayasan Kebajikan Negara has a programme to promote good values (example, looking after the well-being of elderly citizens) during major festivals like Hari Raya Puasa, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas.

In her address, Shahrizat conveyed Christmas greetings from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak.

"I am so happy to be in Sabah. We are like a big family in line with the concept of 1Malaysia, irrespective of race, religion or culture.

"Christmas is all about love, forgiveness, giving and charity.

One old tale is that Santa Claus came down from the chimney but today, Santa Claus comes from our heart with love for people.

"Aanangan oku dikoyu (Dusun), I love you all. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year," she said.

Earlier, Jainab described the occasion as historical although it is a norm for all races in Sabah, regardless of their religion, to join in the Christmas celebration every year.

Goh, meanwhile, said the special gathering was a meaningful event, besides providing the opportunity for the rakyat to rub shoulders with leaders.

Daily Express Online.

Ucapan Perdana Menteri Malaysia Sempena Tahun Baru 2012.

Ini adalah perutusan Tahun Baru 2012 oleh YAB Perdana Menteri Malaysia, Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak yang dipetik dari blog rasmi beliau :

Alhamdullilah syukur ke hadrat Allah SWT kerana kita dapat menyaksikan tertutupnya tirai tahun 2011 dan menyinsingnya fajar baru 2012. Sesungguhnya 2011 merupakan tahun yang amat monumental kepada negara kerana ia telah menyaksikan lengkapnya “roll out” inisiatif dasar kerajaan di bawah payung Dasar Transformasi Nasional (2011-2020) dan dengan itu juga pengenalan siri keempat Rangka Rancangan Jangka Panjang Negara (RRJP) semenjak ia mula diperkenalkan pada tahun 1971. DTN merupakan komponen terakhir dalam usaha merealisasikan Wawasan Kebangsaan untuk menjadi sebuah negara maju berpendapatan tinggi menjelang tahun 2020.

DTN mempunyai permulaannya dengan pelancaran Program Transformasi Kerajaan (GTP) diikuti Program Transformasi Ekonomi (ETP) serta pelancaran Model Baru Ekonomi (NEM), Program Transformasi Politik (PTP) dan Program Transformasi Luar Bandar (RTP). Kesemua inisiatif dasar ini bukanlah sekadar pengumuman kosong mahupun tidak berpijak pada bumi yang nyata kerana jika dilaksanakan dengan betul dan mengikut jadual akan menyaksikan kemunculan sebuah Malaysia Baru. Sebuah negara yang bukan sahaja maju dari segi ekonomi dengan kemakmuran yang dikongsi setiap strata dan segmen rakyat tetapi juga sebuah watan dengan tradisi demokrasi serta perbezaan pendapat yang membina dan membugar.

Kerajaan tetap komited dengan program islah dan pembaharuan dalam semua bidang dan aspek kehidupan bernegara kerana inilah kehendak dan aspirasi rakyat yang mahukan kehidupan yang lebih baik untuk mereka dan anak-anak mereka. Inilah usaha demi Generasi masa depan Malaysia yang berhak membesar dalam suasana harapan bukannya kemuraman. Kita tidak akan tunduk kepada tekanan mana-mana pihak yang mahu menggagalkan matlamat mulia ini.

Di bawah PTP bagi mengimbangkan Keselamatan Kebangsaan dan Kebebasan Individu seperti yang terjamin dalam Perlembagaan Negara misalnya kita telah memansuhkan tiga proklamasi darurat yang berkuatkuasa semenjak lebih empat dekad yang lalu kerana kerajaan percaya kita tidak mampu membina sebuah Malaysia yang baru jika kita masih teperangkap dengan bebanan sejarah lampau. Dengan semangat yang sama kerajaan juga telah mengumumkan pemansuhan beberapa Akta yang berkaitan Keselamatan dan Ketenteraman Awam seperti Akta Keselamatan Dalam Negeri, Akta Kediaman Terhad, Akta Buang Negeri dan Seksyen 27 Akta Polis yang telah digantikan dengan Akta Perhimpunan Aman 2011 yang menjamin kebebasan individu untuk berhimpun secara aman seperti yang diperuntukkan undang-undang tertinggi negara Perlembagaan Persekutuan. Usaha ini akan diteruskan dalam sessi Parlimen seterusnya pada tahun 2012 bagi memansuhkan ISA dan membentang rang undang-undang baru yang akan menggantikannya serta meminda AUKU serta Akta Mesin Cetak dan Penerbitan.

Melalui bajet rakyat 2012 pula yang baru diluluskan Parlimen kerajaan hari ini juga telah meneruskan tradisi negara berkebajikan yang telah menjadi amalan kerajaan yang memerintah semenjak merdeka lagi. Kita tidak pernah melupakan nasib warga luar bandar mahupun warga bandar, golongan berpendapatan rendah mahupun kelas pertengahan serta mereka yang berpendapatan tinggi, kita akan sentiasa membela untung nasib seluruh rakyat Malaysia dan akan terus prihatin terhadap denyut nadi dan aspirasi mereka.

Marilah kita bersama-sama kerajaan dan rakyat merealisasikan masa depan yang lebih baik untuk bumi tercinta ini. Ia bukannya sebuah mimpi malahan ia dalam rangkulan kita jika kita sanggup merancang dengan teliti dan bekerja keras bagi mencapainya. Tidak ada yang mustahil jika kita mampu mengimpikannya, sesungguhnya hari-hari yang terbaik kita masih berada di hadapan kita bukannya sudah tinggal dalam lipatan sejarah. Selamat tahun Baru 2012, Dirgahayu Malaysia.

Happy New Year 2012

New Year Delegation From: Harry George - www.tamparulisabah.com

Thank to GOD for this opportunity that we as a Tamparulian still can enjoy the peacefulness in our country of Malaysia. Living in harmony among with different people with different culture in the surrounding society living inside Tamparuli area. My expectation for next year resolution is, I want to commercialize my website Tamparulisabah.com to become one of the well known blog through the global eye. I really like to blog and hopefully I can carry on this hobby next year and the year after. A simple motivation "always work for the society and do what is good for the society"

For all Tamparulian wish you all good luck in everything you do, may all your wish come true, your ambition achieve and your goals and objective in life accomplish. let us not forget the poor and help them. For Tamparulian authority, keep up the good work and wish all of you all the best!! For Tamparuli Assembly Person, Thanks Datuk Jahid Jahim for such a remarkable work and achievement in the 2011 and hopefully we can get more next year 2012. For the neighboring area Tuaran and Kiulu, all the best for all the village head, local authority and the representative person for this area. Last but not least, let us pray together without looking at our religion background for the peacefulness of Tamparuli, Tuaran, Kiulu, Sabah and Malaysia for a better place to stay. Stay healthy and keep on exercise. Do not drinks too much alcohol and stop smoking.

"Good Health, Good Business and God Bless" Harry George

31.12.2011 - 11.53pm

Tambatuon Homestay Kota Belud

Recently I joined my In-law family for an engagement ceremony at Kg Tambatuon Kota Belud. The ceremony was held at Tambatuon Homestay which located near the Kadamaian river of Kg Tambatuon. This homestay can be reached by road from Ranau Bypass. It will take about 45 minutes from the main road (Tamparuli-Ranau) and 30 minutes from the Ranau Bypass Road to Kota Belud. If you travel from Kota Kinabalu you need to stop at the Kota Belud Junction about 28KM from Tamparuli Town and need to travel about half and hour before you reach Kg Tambatuon Homestay. Here are some picture to be shared...

" Tambatuon River Dam"

Have you ever heard about the Tambatuon River Dam "Million Ringgit" project by the government? well for me I heard it before and feel pity for the villagers if this project continued by the government. The Tambatuon River Dam was proposed to be built and will be flooded the 25000 hectare of land and will effected the 900 villagers living here at Tambatuon Village. I have spoken to some of this villagers during my brother in law engagement and they will fight no matter what happen they said to me. Where will the villager go? if this so-called Tambatuon River Dam Project continue by the government? The Paddy Field and the primary school building will be disappeared flooded by the river. There are so many memorable thing will be lost because of this river dam. I hope the authority will found the solution as soon as possible which not one-sided to any particular person or party. The local here at Tambatuon Village were mainly from the Dusun origin and communication between them was not a big problem because my mother tongue is same with them. The Kadamaian River was so beautiful and I feel really impress of it. I hope that you guys out there can enjoy the same experience with me when you Tambatuon Village soon. During my hey day with some of the charismatic activist in Sabah, I used to travel around Sabah to hunt for injustice story such as land fighting with Mr Tom Sunduvan at Kudat, Moyog River Dam and many more. I love to write about the injustice story and posted it inside my blog so that people can aware about it. So this day I have a chance to write about the Tambatuon River Dam, it lovely village scene and it Beautiful Homestay. Continue reading for more information about Tambatuon River Dam..

Against the Dam Petition for Tambatuon 2011-Glamiva Blogspot.

Dear friends, whether you’re local or overseas, I’m sure we all will feel the same thing when the government wants to wipe out your hometown. Here’s a plea for you to read, take it to your heart and react to it. We Sabahans, Malaysians, especially the people from the Tambatuon village will be very grateful.

http://glamiva.com/against-dam-petition-tambatuon-2011/

My Son and I

Dora Disoni-The Photographer

My Wife and I

Stop The "Tambatuon River Dam project"

Owner of the Tambatuon Homestay

The Exact location for the River Dam to be built.

The road needed to be upgrade

 Picture By: Dora Disoni, Jennifer Disoni and Harry George
Article By: Harry George and Glamiva Blogspot
Sources: Sabah Kini and Glamiva Blogspot.

Superstar Virgo

Star Cruise has earmarked US$25 million (about RM79 million) to refurbish SuperStar Virgo which will further strengthened its cruise holiday products for regional and international passenger.

Chief Executive Officer, William Ng, said the investment underpins the company's continuous drive to grow Asia's cruise industry.

"The Asia-Pacific cruise industry is expected to grow in leaps and bounds, and Star Cruises is well-positioned to take the lead in further developing and expanding the industry," it said in a statement Wednesday.

During the three-week dry-dock renovation from Jan 2, the 76,800-tonnage, 1,870-passenger SuperStar Virgo will undergo a facelift with a new hull design, as well as, a makeover to its cabin, restaurants, entertainment, body-care, shopping, sports and recreation venues.

The rejuvenation programme follows the refurbishments of Star Pisces and SuperStar Aquarius in February and April, respectively, with a combined cost of US$13.6 million. - Bernama

Nigeria Church Bombing, No Malaysian Hurts

Foreign Minister Datuk Anifah Aman confirmed that no Malaysians were affected in the bombing of two churches in Nigeria on Christmas Day.

"Upon receiving the tragic news, we were worried about the safety of our countrymen there.

"Due to time differences, I only received a report from our embassy in Nigeria this morning (Wednesday) stating no Malaysians were affected by the bombing incident.

"Nonetheless, we are working closely with the Nigerian government departments and agencies to receive any latest developments in regards to Malaysians there," Anifah said.

Anifah, who is also Kimanis MP, said this to Daily Express after presenting agriculture infrastructure, water tanks and canopies to recipients at Kg.Babagon Baru in Mandahan area, near here on Wednesday.

He said there were not many Malaysians in Nigeria.

He said the government has condemned the tragedy that claimed the lives of at least 40 people celebrating Christmas inside the churches.

He added that Malaysia has also extended its condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families and those who were injured.

Daily Express Online Sabah.

Flight To Japan suspended again!!!

Malaysia Airlines is suspending direct KK-Tokyo and Osaka flights just as traffic is set to grow, said Reiko Tsunone, Manager of Borneo Trail that caters for the Japanese market.

"We are quite surprised why MAS decided to suspend the flights because we are expecting this market to grow, " said Reiko, who has worked in Sabah for nearly a decade.

She noted that 26,000 Japanese tourists visited Sabah as of 31 October.

"Actually Sabah is becoming the most popular spot for the Japanese market in Malaysia, much more than Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi.

"The reason is nature, beach resorts, mountain, jungles, wildlife and diving. Japanese are getting more interested in nature, unlike before," Reiko said.

"In the past, we traveled for shopping, more on cities but now the trend is changing towards nature and sports as well.

"Sports tourism may be new but we see it coming," Reiko noted, citing the arrival of former Japan national player and All Japan Inter-College Champion and now Professor of Sports, Prof Chikako Ikarugi, who led four top student players of the Konan University, Kobe, for a three-day international exchange for youth, under the Asean-Japan Centre Sports Project, last Tuesday.

The four are Yuya Tadokoro, 21, Masato Ichii , 20, Jumpei Ikada, 19, and Tsukasa Chigira, 21, along with Ms Machiko Sakaki, Director of Promotion with Holiday Club Co Ltd and Takamasa Hashitomi, press and information office manager.

"Even though this is a small number, we start slowly and we are expecting this market will grow especially because Malaysia is very strong in badminton, stronger than Japan and Japanese players can learn from Malaysian players, " Reiko said.

"Since Malaysia Airlines has disappointed all of us, we are going to work very hard to bring even more tourists from Japan via Air Asia through Hong Kong," said KL Tan, Managing Director of Borneo Trail.

Immediately after their arrival in Kota Kinabalu Tuesday afternoon, the Japanese group headed for the Sabah Sports Complex to spar with the top State players Nurdin Mohd Said (State champ '03, '04, '05, '07 and 2010), Nurfadli Mohd Said ( State champ 2010); Datu Amirdin Moksin (State cham '05, '07), Marcel Simon (Current national junior player), Timy Foo (State champ 08), Andy Jr Fabian (State U-16 champ '09, U-18, '09, '10, '11), Mohd Syafig Saide (State player '08) and Anthony Saimim (Current State U17 champ).

On Wednesday, State coach Yapp Su Chiew gave the Japanese a coaching session before they played against both the State team and top student players of the Universiti Malaysia Sabah.

Another playing session with the State team for Thursday before the Japanese fly home on Friday.

Daily Express Sabah Online.

Sabah activists meet barred lawyer in Labuan

United Kingdom-based Human Rights Foundation Malaysia Adviser Daniel John Jambun said he and others who want a change in the way the Federal Government treats Sabah and Sarawak, had in principle agreed to support the peninsula-based ABU (Anything But Umno) movement.

"We held a series of talks with one of the ABU leaders, lawyer-activist Haris Ibrahim, in Labuan on Tuesday," he said.

However, he said, more is to be fine-tuned by the two major stakeholders in Sabah's current opposition front, the United Borneo Front (UBF) and Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP).

"We agreed in principle to support this ABU campaign because Umno has shown that it has been making bad decisions and policies against Sabahans and Sarawakians in the past 48 years we are in this Federation," he said.

"The very fact that both Sabah and Sarawak are the poorest states now speak volumes of what Umno-led Barisan Nasional has done to our gas and oil resources.

"So we agree that Umno must go at this coming general election," said Jambun. Local singer-activist Atama was also present.

Haris was barred from entering Sabah, as well as Sarawak before, as the state authority deemed him to be a threat to its own security.

"At this moment we might have a slight refinement on the name ABU for East Malaysia.

Some of us had wanted "UBA" which could mean "change" but also stands for United Borneo Alliance to underline that we want a restoration of the way the Federal Government treats us, as equal partners and not wanting us more and more as merely subservient to the majority party in the peninsula," he said.

"So, it is not just "Anything But Umno" but we want a real change, a restoration of the special rights and position of Sabah and Sarawak within the Federation, including our autonomy power," he said.

Jambun also said ABU organisers in the peninsula are set to throw their support behind Pakatan Rakyat, but that opposition leaders in East Malaysia, especially Sabah, who support ABU are more keen to support state-based parties.

Sources: Daily Express Online Sabah.

Two Sabahan lose money to coneman.

Member of Parliament Hiew King Cheu said many people have fallen for the telephone confidence tricksters.

"Many hundred thousand ringgit have been voluntarily banked by victims into some unknown and untraceable bank accounts for the conmen.

"It is surprising that there are many people who had fallen for it and this time it's the 'big lucky draw' with huge sums of money.

"In the past, many people did receive such phone calls regarding them winning the big prize but they chose to ignore them," he said.

Hiew recently mentioned that there is a group of telephone conmen who used the telephone and the Internet computer system to con large sums of money via the credit card from the people who believed in them and banked in money for them.

Despite him asking the public to be very careful and be aware of this type of tricks, the MP came to know of two big cases conducted over the telephone from Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong.

The victims came to see the MP crying that their money was gone and that there is no way that they could recover the money back.

The amount of money involved in the first case is RM225,000 and the second, RM244,550.

"In both cases, the victims believed themselves to be the winners of some 'big lucky draws' from Hong Kong, and the prize money is more than RM500,000 each."

He said the conmen would usually use some women speaking in Mandarin.

They normally congratulate the victim for having been drawn the winner of a big prize, and that they are required to remit some money in order to process the prize money.

Later, they will persuade the victim to invest their prize money in bigger draws or they say they will invest for them, but more cash investment from the victim is needed.

The victim usually falls for this trick and remits more cash into some untraceable accounts. The bank-in slips that were shown to MP were shocking enough, and the money being remitted is a huge sum of RM50,000 to RM70,000 at one go.

Both the victims had remitted and banked the amount as requested in a hurry.

The victims were advised to make police reports to facilitate police investigations into the overseas con jobs.

Hiew called on the police to immediately start tracking the conmen and to recover the huge sums of money.

"Interpol must be brought in to help the investigation because this seems to be involving an international crime ring."

Hiew wondered why in view of so many con jobs involving large sums of money, people are so easily trapped by these simple con jobs.

"The public must stay sensible and alert and must not be greedy because there is no such 'good fortune'," he said.

Daily Express Sabah.

Nigeria Church Bombing, No Malaysian Hurts

Foreign Minister Datuk Anifah Aman confirmed that no Malaysians were affected in the bombing of two churches in Nigeria on Christmas Day.

"Upon receiving the tragic news, we were worried about the safety of our countrymen there.

"Due to time differences, I only received a report from our embassy in Nigeria this morning (Wednesday) stating no Malaysians were affected by the bombing incident.

"Nonetheless, we are working closely with the Nigerian government departments and agencies to receive any latest developments in regards to Malaysians there," Anifah said.

Anifah, who is also Kimanis MP, said this to Daily Express after presenting agriculture infrastructure, water tanks and canopies to recipients at Kg.Babagon Baru in Mandahan area, near here on Wednesday.

He said there were not many Malaysians in Nigeria.

He said the government has condemned the tragedy that claimed the lives of at least 40 people celebrating Christmas inside the churches.

He added that Malaysia has also extended its condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families and those who were injured.

Daily Express Online Sabah.

Merry Christmas 2011 and Happy New Year 2012

In celebrating Christmas 2011 let us not forget the poor people and we pray for a peaceful nation and a wonderful life forever. Let us pray and ask GOD for his forgiveness and blessing. For all Malaysian, Sabahan and Tamparulian Happy Merry Merry Christmas 2011 and Happy New Year 2012. Have a blessed, prosperous 2012 new year ahead. For my wife and children, Happy Christmas 2011 and all my fellow friends and family thanks for the support and God Bless You Alll............ Don't Drink and Drive... Harry George

Give with you heart not give with your hand..HG

Hundreds of teachers found playing truant

Remember what you promise... You Must know the philosophy of Education in Malaysia and uphold your responsibilities as a Teacher. A Teacher must know, what his/her responsibilities? What his/her duty to the nation, public and the society? and believe in God and always help the poorer. Teacher is a blessing career... Harry George

The Education Department views the incidence of teachers absenting from duty as serious, said Director, Datuk Dr Haji Muhiddin Yusin.

He said the findings of the school Inspectorate and Quality Assurance on Feb. 22, 2010 showed that 117 teachers from 11 schools did not turn up for work while on May 25, 2010 some 157 teachers from 14 schools were found to be absent.

"The State Education Department is disappointed and viewed the matter seriously.

"Although the incidents might be isolated, it cannot continue to go on because it might cripple the country's education system if not addressed," he said, when launching the AKUN Programme at SMK Ranau here Wednesday.

In this respect, he said the department would be implementing the AKUN (Amal Kewajipan Untuk Negara) programme beginning next year in order to empower education in the State.

The five-year programme (2012-2016) is a mechanism in the form of document control that allows the Education Department to monitor the District Education Office and schools in general.

According to Muhiddin, the four-thronged programme would emphasise on strengthening the service quality at the school level that would be yardstick for the actual education success and achievement through strategies like e-hadir (present), e-cerap (observation), integrated monitoring and cross monitoring.

With the theme of "Attitude Transformation Towards Integrity" the programme gives room for the Education Department personnel to change towards becoming more responsible, committed and with integrity.

Also on hand were State Education Deputy Director, Hajah Maimunah Haji Suhaibul and School Management Sector Head, Raisin Saidin.

Daily Express Online. 22.12.2012

RCI

The statement by Pekida Sabah head, Datu Akjan Ali Muhammad that the proposed Royal Commision of Inquiry (RCI) will cause racial tension among the various ethnic groups in Sabah is not only irresponsible but scandalous, ridiculous and a treason to all genuine Sabahans, said UBF Deputy Chairman, Awang Ahmad Sah.

He said all ethnic groups in Sabah, including local Suluks and Bajaus, have been living together and working hand in hand since Independence in 1963 and have even formed the State Government together and shared the power.

"Our concern on the wrongful issuance of IC, MyKad and citizenship to the illegal immigrants is genuine as these foreigners have numbered almost equal to the local population," he said in a statement Wednesday.

Awang Ahmad said the giving of citizenships to unqualified illegal immigrants is a serious offence and an act of treason and threatens the national security not only of Sabah but of the country.

"The mass issuance of MyKad to the illegals has indirectly encouraged the influx of illegal immigrants from the Southern Philippines and Indonesia.

If left unchecked, Sabah's local population will be outnumbered.

"Ironically, instead of protecting Sabah from being "invaded" by Indonesia or the Plilippines as promised by Tunku Abdul Rahman, immigrants are resulting in a reverse takeover of Sabah," he claimed.

"This is the problem that we are talking about."

In this respect, he said the RCI is the best body to investigate how the illegal immigrants obtained their identity cards and who were responsible.

He said only the RCI can independently investigate the roots of the problems and offer remedies to be taken to resolve the problem of illegal immigrants and the granting of citizenships to them who are unqualified.

"It is Sabahans that are threatened and not those in the Peninsular.

The threat affects all sectors especially employment, education, politics, business and land as well as the creation of rising crime and social problems.

Awang Ahmad said already, the public transportation such as taxis and buses are dominated by these immigrants or new Sabahans, while enrolment at public universities and colleges were seriously affected.

In Kinabatangan alone, for example, he said locals were being outnumbered by five fold with a reported population of 117,689 foreigners and 32,638 locals in 2010.

He said state seats in the East Coast and West Coast especially Muslim majority seats and mixed-seats are already filled with thousands of voters with dubious MyKad. Towards this end, he said the resolution of the illegal immigrants problem requires a strong political will.

"The dependence on these "foreign voters" have weakened Sabah Umno leaders."

For example, he said illegal immigrants were occupying road reserve land at Putatan, but the Government doesn't have the guts to chase them out for fear of losing their votes come the next elections.

However, if it involves the locals, the Government would promptly demolish their houses.

"This is not politicising the issue nor it is politically motivated.

"Due to the fact that the Federal and State Governments have failed to act, it has now become a political issue that must be solved by the Federal Government and establishing the RCI is a must. All Sabahans including those in Umno must support the RCI," he said.

"As native Sabahans, we should look forward above religion and race.

Who will look after us when our oil are exhausted and Sabah becomes a 'liability' to the Federal Government?" he asked.

"All Sabahans must unite to ensure a better future for our future generations. The Federal leaders should make Sabahans proud to be Malaysians by practising justice and respecting the feelings of Sabahan Malaysians," he said.

Daily Express Online. 22 Dec 2011

Update for: Six Brunei Tourist Died near Kg Koporingan

Kota Kinabalu: Tuesday's tragedy where a bus carrying Bruneian tourists slammed into a tree at Km 8.9 at Kg.Kopiringan, along the Ranau-Tamparuli road, claimed a seventh victim when the tour leader died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH1).

Hj. Awang Tarsad bin Hj. Damit, 58, succumbed to his injuries at 12.15am on Wednesday. He was among 33 Bruneian tourists aboard the stage bus that was heading to the State Capital here from Tawau before it lost control and slammed into the tree at 3.05pm.

The other six Bruneians who lost their lives - four women and two men - were also senior citizens.

They were Hj. Abdul Manan bin Ishak, 50, and Hjh Hasnah Binti Hj. Yusof, 62, who died on the spot while Pangeran Hjh. Zaharah Binti Pangeran Hj. Zainal, 61, Hjh Dayang Norhayati Binti Hj. Abd Hadi, 61, Hjh Noor Faridah Binti Hj. Husin, 62, and Hj. Abdul Ghani Bin Muhamad, 66, passed away at the Tuaran hospital.

"The 44-seater bus ferried 31 Bruneian tourists and two drivers including a 26-year-old Indian man.

The 31 Bruneian tourists aged between seven and 78 comprised 20 women and 11 men including five children aged between seven and 15.

"Of the figure, seven died, 12 sustained minor injuries, nine seriously injured and four are critically injured," State Deputy Police Commissioner Datuk Tan Kok Liang told a press conference at the Sabah Police Contingent, Wednesday. Also present was Tuaran District Police chief DSP Zaharuddin Rasip.

Tan said the Sultan of Brunei dispatched a Royal Brunei Airline (RBA) Airbus with 20 government officials, including two Ministers and a medical team, to collect the bodies. They arrived at Terminal 2 at 1am on Wednesday.

Tan also confirmed that the stage bus had grazed a mini bus at the scene before it crashed into the tree. The mini bus driver, who was heading to Ranau, escaped injury.

The wreckage was sent to Puspakom Sabah to determine if brake failure was the cause. All the seven bodies and some of the Bruneian tourists warded at the QEH 1 returned to Brunei via the RBA plane and Brunei military aircraft.

Members of the Fifth Infantry Brigade at Lok Kawi helped to prepare the bodies as well as perform funeral rites before the bodies were handed over.

Meanwhile Brunei Consul-General here Hj. Daud bin Hj. Tahir, told reporters that two Brunei Ministers and top army brass were among those dispatched to Sabah.

The two ministers were Minister of Finance II under the Prime Minister's Office, Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj. Abdul Rahman and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Orang Kaya Pekema Laila Diraja Dato Paduka Hj, Hazair Hj. Abdullah.

"All the seven bodies were on board the RBA plane together with 13 Bruneians who sustained minor injuries and the two ministers as well as senior officials. They departed at 12.30pm.

"Half an hour later, a Brunei military aircraft touched the runway of Terminal 2 to transport some of the injured citizens who can return home," he said.

The military aircraft transported four Bruneians who are seriously injured on the first flight that departed at 2.30pm and another four left at 5pm.

He said one of the stage bus drivers and another Bruneian who are seriously injured would be heading home using the military aircraft that will depart on Wednesday night.

The remaining three still warded at the QEH 1, Daud said comprised two Bruneian tourists who are critically injured and the other stage bus driver who will facilitate police investigations into the tragedy.

Also present at the airport were the top brass of the Fifth Infantry Brigade and Sabah police officials including State Deputy CP Tan.

Daily Express Online-22 December 2011

GMART Open Now at Tamparuli Town.

I have maintain my website for the past three year and my focus is to write all the changes and development inside Tamparuli town. My aim is to promote Tamparuli Sabah and sometime I will amend something about my town if there is a problem from my own perspective view regarding to this matter. I have written inside my blog about the commercial bank in Tamparuli and I'm happy when the one and only bank in Tamparuli, BSN upgraded it's facility recently. Earlier than my post about the commercial bank in Tamparuli was, I would like to see if there a  big shopping mall at Tamparuli for the convenience for it people. Now the Shopping Mall is exist now and the so-called GMART was officially open yesterday 23.12.2011. I'm happy for the development of my town. I will continue my support to the hardworking respected person, Datuk Jahid Jahim for his effort to develop Tamparuli.. 

To see whether the development of any town in Sabah has been develop or not, we must look at the facility inside the town,  Education, Healthy, Safety and anything relevant that we can call it as a development. Thanks to the authority of Tamparuli Sabah for on going hard work and seriousness to take care the public interest and the development of Tamparuli town and it district. Next I want to see a road light from round about Kg Berungis to Tamparuli Town be installed soon. 

Merry Christmas 2011 and Happy New Year 2012... Harry George and Family. 

Result For PMR 2011 In Sabah Increase

Education is important for the people, in order to support the nation we must have good style of Education spread throughout the country of Malaysia. Thanks to all Teachers, Parents, Government and the society of Malaysia. For SMK Tamparuli, Congratulation for the 6% increase in PMR result. Congrats to the Principal and all the student... Happy Festival season, Merry Christmas 2011 and Happy New Year 2012. All the best. Harry George.

PUTRAJAYA: A total of 34.271 out of 441.137 students who sit for the Lower Secondary Assessment (PMR) in 2011 obtained a grade A in all subjects, compared to 30.863 in 2010.

The Director General of Education Datuk Seri Abdul Ghafar Mahmud said this was an increase of 0.75 percent.

"On the whole, the achievement of PMR candidates in 2011 in 17 subjects are the best in four years on the National Average Grade (GPN), which is 2.71 points," he said at a press conference to announce the results PMR 2011, here today.

He said the ministry was grateful to the teachers and students and all parties concerned for their efforts this year to help improve the GPN.

Abd Ghafar said the number of candidates who obtained a grade E in all subjects decreased from 386 persons in 2010 to 346 this year.

Candidates who obtain a minimum grade of D increased by 61.88 percent to 272.966 against 265.388 last year, he said.

For the achievement of rural candidates, who obtained a grade A in all subjects increased to 6.474 persons compared to 5.825 last year, while in the city candidates who receive all A jumped 0.86 percent to 26.189 compared to 24.084 last year.

Candidates who receive all grades of E is continuing to decline in both urban and rural areas, which the city is only 216 people compared to 249 last year, while in rural areas decreased to 121 compared to 132 people in 2010.

"The city candidates GPN decreased by 0.04 points compared to rural candidates of 0.03 points. But on the whole, the achievement of the candidate city is better than rural candidates, "he said. -BERNAMA

Dunia Pendidikan Khas Blogspot.

Sabah catat peningkatan 3.92% kelulusan PMR

RANAU 22 Dis. - Peratusan calon Sabah lulus Penilaian Menengah Rendah (PMR) tahun ini meningkat kepada 63.06 peratus berbanding 59.14 peratus pada tahun lalu. Pengarah Pelajaran Negeri, Datuk Dr. Muhiddin Yussin berkata, tahun ini peratusan kelulusan meningkat sebanyak 3.92 peratus melibatkan 23,782 calon berbanding 21,928 calon pada 2010. ''Jumlah calon mendapat gred A dalam semua mata pelajaran juga meningkat 2.72 peratus atau 1,025 orang berbanding 2.39 peratus tahun lalu atau 870 orang. ''Sementara itu, calon yang mendapat gred E dalam semua mata pelajaran menurun kepada 0.06 peratus atau 26 orang berbanding 0.09 peratus tahun lalu atau 32 orang," katanya ketika mengumumkan keputusan PMR di Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Datuk Panglima Mat Salleh, di sini hari ini.

Muhiddin berkata, Gred Purata Negeri (GPN) tahun ini menunjukkan peningkatan iaitu 3.03 berbanding 3.06 tahun lalu. Beliau menambah, seramai 37,714 calon yang menduduki peperiksaan itu tahun ini mencapai kelulusan 100 peratus. Katanya, Sekolah Menengah (SM) Sains Lahad Datu mencapai kelulusan 100 peratus dengan GPN 1.05, diikuti SM Sains Sabah dengan memperolehi GPN 1.13. Sekolah Menengah Agama (SMA) Kota Kinabalu mencatat kelulusan 98.44 peratus dan memperoleh GPN 1.44 untuk menduduki tempat ketiga sekolah terbaik dalam PMR tahun ini.

Sumber: Utusan Online