On Today Show
— Nicholas Mujah-Secretary General of the Sarawak Dayak Iban Organization (SADIA) – Politicians got rich 24 hours after selling PL
— Abun Sui, Senator of PKR Sarawak – Misinformation Alert: GPS should provide accurate information

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Nicholas Mujah, Setiausaha Agung Pertubuhan Dayak Iban Sarawak (SADIA) – Ahli Politik Menjadi Kaya 24 Jam Selepas Menjual Tanah NCR
— Abun Sui, Senator PKR Sarawak – Amaran Maklumat Palsu: GPS Perlu Memberi Maklumat yang Tepat

• Read More

  Special Randau
  1. Politicians can become rich within 24 hours after being awarded PL by the Sarawak state government. This is a bad practice and should be stopped. SADIA secretary general Nicholas Mujah said. Nicholas was interviewed by RFS regarding the new case of customary land encroachment that was reported to have occurred in Kampung Merakai- Serian.

  2. The United States has returned RM6.6 billion of 1MDB funds over the past few years. Last Tuesday, the American ambassador to Malaysia confirmed the return of RM721.4 million of embezzled 1mdb funds. This is the fourth phase of the return of 1mdb funds to Malaysia.

  3. PMX once again asserted that his administration will not compromise with the corrupt. He urged the enforcement to take firm action regardless of status in order to uphold justice.
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  Nicholas Mujah-Secretary General of the Sarawak Dayak Iban Organization (SADIA).

  Politicians got rich 24 hours after selling PL

  Since its establishment 50 years ago, SADIA has played a role in safeguarding the rights of the Dayak Iban people in Sarawak. According to Nicholas Mujah. Cases of land encroachment, environmental crimes and human rights reported to SADIA are increasing every year. Of course this is due to the ruling government's policy not being in line with the wishes and rights of the indigenous people. Lately - the cases reported to SADIA are more and more diverse - the effects of laws that are not in favor of indigenous people passed in the Sarawak State Assembly. Today SADIA received a case of land encroachment by Melor Gemilang Plantation Sdn.Bhd against the land of the Iban community in Kampung Merakai-SERIAN. Merakai villagers have been prevented by the Melor Gemilang company from entering their garden land for the past 3 months. It is said that the land has been given PL by the Sarawak government to Melor Gemilang for commercial oil palm cultivation. The total land area is 2000 acres - involving 96 Merakai house doors. SADIA has two options to help. First take the case to court and second by way of certification. The option of taking a case to court takes a lot of time, energy and money. Then the second option will be preferred. Based on the Sarawak constitution. Written law cannot abolish customary law. Therefore, if the Melor Gemilang company obtains their PL through the Sarawak land code. It does not mean that they can remove the rights of the people to their land that has been inherited by custom. If followed by certification. Any oil palm plantation company cannot encroach or seize the land of the villagers. If not follow the certification. Then the palm oil products will not be able to be sold. Merakai villagers must prepare complete reports and documents. When asked if this case involved politicians. Mujah Binkkas replied that the PL was given by politicians. Rich politicians within 24 hours of selling the PL given to them to rich taukeh. This is a bad practice and needs to be stopped - Mujah said.
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  Abun Sui, Senator of PKR Sarawak
  * Misinformation Alert: GPS should provide accurate information*
  Abun comment on targeted subsidies only for WM (West Malaysia), not for EM (East Malaysia)... Because certain parties are spreading false information that these targeted subsidies will also be applied to Sarawak... Therefore, in his recent speech in the Dewan,he made the government exempt Sabah and Sarawak from these targeted subsidies... Particularly in Sarawak, the rural population relies entirely on diesel fuel, and almost everyone owns a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Therefore, please do not spread inaccurate information that misleads the public... It must be remembered that Sabah and Sarawak are exempt from these targeted subsidies. The Sarawak government should also provide accurate information, as GPS is also part of the coalition that leads Malaysia at the federal level.

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On Today Show
— Thomas Jalong, Human rights and environmental activist – Thomas Raises Alarm on Poverty and Health in Malaysia's SDG Agenda
— Matek, social activist – Sarawak MPs Under Fire: Lack of Progress Despite Election Promises
— Zulhaidah Suboh, the PKR Sibuti branch chief – Community Development Prioritized Over Political Gain

Topik Pada Hari Ini
- Thomas Jalong, aktivis hak asasi manusia dan alam sekitar - Thomas Menaikkan Isyarat Bahaya tentang Kemiskinan dan Kesihatan dalam Agenda SDG Malaysia
- Matek, aktivis sosial - Ahli Parlimen Sarawak Ditembak: Kurangnya Kemajuan Walaupun Janji Pilihan Raya
- Zulhaidah Suboh, ketua cawangan PKR Sibuti - Pembangunan Komuniti Diprioritikan Berbanding Keuntungan Politik

• Read More

  Special Randau

  1. SDG- The Malaysian government's target to achieve optimal development in all areas by 2030. The SDG is a joint effort by all parties to develop policies and laws to achieve balanced development.

  2. Proton apologized to the people of Sabah and Sarawak for making a mistake in labeling the map on the screen display during the launch of Malaysia's first electric vehicle (EV).

  3. Hydro energy to ensure food safety. Surplus water from hydropower will be used for irrigation of rice cultivation.  Sarawak is also trying to tackle the climate problem by planting 35 million trees and it has been achieved. Said the Premier of Sarawak. The Premier of Sarawak is indeed a good entertainer and promoter. The negative effects of dams on river life such as fish should be considered and even if there is a tree planting program. The felling of trees by logging companies has not yet stopped.
  -----------------------------

  Thomas Jalong, Human rights and environmental activist

  Thomas Raises Alarm on Poverty and Health in Malaysia's SDG Agenda

  Thomas represented SAVE Rivers at the SDG-Sustainable Developmet Goal Forum at Hotel Raia Kuching on 8-9 June 2024. It was attended by almost all NGOs in Sarawak. The SDGs are efforts and initiatives at the international level to achieve sustainable development for each country.  The development of each country will be measured through different areas such as health, education, environment, human rights, indigenous people's rights, poverty, basic facilities, land, food and so on. As a result of the data collected and analyzed, from some aspects Malaysia is still far behind and there are some aspects that are quite good and moderate. However, the Malaysian government's target to achieve the SDGs is 2030, which is less than 6 years from now. Hence the efforts of the government, NGOs and all parties to develop good policies and laws to ensure that the SDG goals for Malaysia are achieved by 2030. Thomas stressed that Malaysia is still far behind in terms of eradicating poverty and health facilities.

  ---------------------------

  Matek, social activist from Balingian Mukah
  *Sarawak MPs Under Fire: Lack of Progress Despite Election Promises*
  Issues related to MPs in our country have been posted on social media, with the public labeling some MPs as "longkang MPs," implying that only 30% of them are actually working. Matik shares the same opinion. From his observations, he questions what is happening to our communities, especially in Sarawak, where many problems and deficiencies are faced by the people. Particularly concerning is the lack of development progress, which seems to remain stagnant year after year. Promises made during election campaigns were vibrant, but post-election, there has been little to no implementation. Even with changes in power among MPs, there has been no improvement. For example, in the interior areas, a significant issue is the lack of proper roads. Not to mention the challenges with electricity and clean piped water supply. During the Gawai festival, people in the interior have to travel along bad or slippery roads due to rain. Usually, this time of year is supposed to be the dry season. However, due to climate change, heavy rain continues even during the Gawai festival. MPs have a responsibility to address these needs of the people. There are other issues as well, but to sum up, the Dayak areas are still far behind in terms of development.

  ---------------------------

  Zulhaidah Suboh, the PKR Sibuti branch chief
  *Community Development Prioritized Over Political Gain*
  Zulhaidah stated that the issue of invisible hands during the appointment of community leaders has long been practiced by politicians to strengthen their political support. However, what every community leader should do is focus on development and unity among the people they lead. All assistance from the federal government should be distributed evenly, not just among those of the same political ideology, because what is happening is favoritism in dividing government projects.

  Hopefully, the MADANI government can appoint a special Unity officer to monitor the progress of villages to ensure that no one is left behind.

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On Today Show
— Garak Jalong, the Village Chief of Long Lawen Village, Murum – Two Dams, Two Decades of Struggle: The Story of Long Lawen
— Shakila of Borneo Komrad – From Semporna to Inanam: A Wave of Demolitions Hits Sabah
— Romuald Siew from Tahabas – Romuald Siew Speaks Out on Political Interference in Longhouse Leadership

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Garak Jalong, Ketua Kampung Kampung Long Lawen, Murum - Dua Empangan, Dua Dekad Perjuangan: Kisah Long Lawen
— Shakila dari Borneo Komrad - Dari Semporna ke Inanam: Gelombang Pembongkaran Melanda Sabah
— Romuald Siew dari Tahabas - Romuald Siew Membangkitkan Isu Campur Tangan Politik dalam Kepimpinan Rumah Panjang

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1. "SEB still owes us Long Lawen residents, so we don't have to pay the electricity bill," said Village Chief Long Lawen Garak Jalong. "The land of the Tegulang resettlement area belongs to the residents of Long Lawen, and SEB has not yet paid us compensation. A lawyer's letter has been sent to SEB to demand payment of the compensation." According to Garak, building a dam does bring a lot of profit to the government, but environmental damage and conflicts among the community increase. "So I advise the Sarawak government not to build any more dams."

  2. In the Rosmah Mansor case, 1MDB and 10 companies filed a Mareva injunction against Rosmah to prevent her from withdrawing or disposing of any of her assets amounting to RM1.6 billion. The application was a follow-up to a suit filed against Rosmah and another individual in relation to luxury goods worth RM1.6 billion allegedly bought with embezzled 1MDB money.

  3. The attorney general will submit an objection regarding the application of Daim, his family, and some companies to return and cancel the action of freezing their bank accounts.

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  Garak Jalong, the Village Chief of Long Lawen Village, Murum

  *Two Dams, Two Decades of Struggle: The Story of Long Lawen*

  When the residents of Long Gang moved to the new Sungai Asap settlement in 1998 to make way for the construction of the Bakun Dam, some Long Gang residents refused to move and decided to stay in a higher plateau called Long Lawen. He explained that when the Murum Dam was built in 2013, the Penan residents of Murum (seven longhouses) were relocated within the NCR land of Long Lawen. Thus, they faced dam-related problems twice. This is how difficult their lives have been due to the state government's decision to build two mega dams near their village.

  Even after more than 26 years, the residents of Long Lawen still use logging roads to get to Bintulu, with a one-way trip costing RM800 and a round trip costing RM1600. They have pleaded, but the government's promise to pave the 17 km road from their home to the SK Tegulang junction has not yet been fulfilled. Long Lawen Longhouse, with 75 doors, was connected to electricity by SEB in 2023. But to this day, they haven't paid the electricity bill. The reason, he said, is that SEB still owes them. The land involved in building the Tegulang resettlement area has not been compensated by SEB and the Sarawak government. SEB must pay their debt to them first, only then will they pay the electricity bill.

  Although the government says that building more dams will generate more money for the country, the social and environmental impacts make Garak Jalong disagree with building more dams in Sarawak. They refused to move when the Bakun Dam was built. But when the Murum Dam was built, the Penan Murum residents came/relocated to their place, which felt like an invasion of their forest and land. This, he noted, caused conflicts within the community.

  ------------------

  Shakila of Borneo Komrad

  *From Semporna to Inanam: A Wave of Demolitions Hits Sabah*

  A shocking incident happened in Kota Kinabalu around the coastal area of Kampung Manga Inanam, where the Borneo Komrad received a picture from the local community yesterday showing that some residents were forced to vacate their homes. The enforcement teams demolished houses.

  Last week, the Sabah Parks agency demolished and burned some houses in Semporna, and this week, just two days ago, the same thing happened to communities in Kampung Kalan Kanan, Kota Kinabalu. Around 30-40 houses were demolished by approximately 50 enforcement officers.

  What started as an ordinary monitoring operation for undocumented communities turned into the demolition and burning of houses. The saddest part was that pregnant women and elderly people were inside the houses during the incident, while the men were out at work. As a result, they didn't manage to save their belongings.

  Yesterday, Borneo Komrad was told by the community that some residents are hiding in the jungle. Fourteen out of the 40 houses were dismantled by enforcement officers, but it is not clear which agency they were from. That area is mainly a mangrove site.

  ------------------

  Romuald Siew from Tahabas

  *Romuald Siew Speaks Out on Political Interference in Longhouse Leadership*

  Romuald Siew shared his views on the issue of appointing community leaders, which is becoming increasingly concerning as the tradition of appointing community leaders is more inclined towards political interests. As a result, too many longhouses in the interior, especially those of the Dayak community, often become divided due to the strong differentiation of political ideologies, disregarding the harmony of the longhouses.

  Politicians are also the main cause of division and disunity in the longhouses, and this is very worrying. If the matter of appointing longhouse chiefs is not addressed, the new generation will likely follow suit and politicize the position of community leader in the future.

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On Today Show
— Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation Malaysia – Green Hydrogen Development in Sarawak: Environmental Considerations
— Paul Nungang from Ulu Baram – Protecting Our Land: The Fight Against Unnecessary Dam Projects
— Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz, Chairman of BERSIH 2.0 – The Need for Electoral Reform: Bersih's Perspective


Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Chang Lih Kang, Menteri Sains, Teknologi, dan Inovasi Malaysia – Pembangunan Hidrogen Hijau di Sarawak: Pertimbangan Alam Sekitar
— Paul Nungang dari Ulu Baram – Melindungi Tanah Kami: Perjuangan Menentang Projek Empangan yang Tidak Perlu
— Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz, Pengerusi BERSIH 2.0 – Keperluan untuk Reformasi Pilihan Raya: Perspektif Bersih

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1. Accounts Frozen - Daim and Family Drag PMX and MACC to Court.

  Former Finance Minister Daim Zainuddin, his family, and 23 others filed an application at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on June 6. Besides Daim, his wife, and children, the list includes 18 other companies. According to Daim, they have been negatively impacted on both micro and macro scales due to the decisions and actions of the respondents to seize and freeze their accounts. Daim and Naimah face charges at the Kuala Lumpur High Court for allegedly failing to comply with MACC's notice to declare their assets.

  2. The Wealthy Must Contribute to Society - PMX.

  The wealthy have a moral responsibility to contribute back to society. PMX assured under his administration, the wealthy would no longer receive special treatment but would be demanded to contribute their wealth to help the poor. He made this statement during the monthly gathering of the Prime Minister's Department in Putrajaya.

  3. Production of Green Hydrogen Must Adhere to International Standards.

  Sarawak must be cautious and seek balance in exploring the field of green hydrogen. The ultimate goal of green hydrogen production is for environmental sustainability and zero carbon emissions by 2050.

  ------------------

  Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation Malaysia

  *Green Hydrogen Development in Sarawak: Environmental Considerations*

  YB Chang is in Sarawak for two days on an official working visit. Yesterday, YB Chang attended the Asia-Pacific Green Technology Conference and Exhibition in Kuching. Current general observations indicate that Sarawak is a leading state in the field of green hydrogen, even ahead among ASEAN countries.

  Producing green hydrogen requires a lot of electricity. In this context, Sarawak needs electricity from solar or hydro dams. Could this potentially trigger conflicts over land acquisition, human rights, or environmental pollution? Chang emphasized that an international standard has been developed for producing green hydrogen and must be adhered to. Any party that violates this standard will not have their hydrogen energy considered sustainable.

  This means that building more dams that could harm the environment and involve land acquisition processes that violate human rights will also determine whether the produced hydrogen can be marketed. Green hydrogen is not only a renewable clean energy source but also contributes to Malaysia's goal of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050. If the aim is to save the environment, then there should be no projects that pollute the environment in the process of producing green hydrogen, said Chang Lih Kang.

  The Sarawak government must act carefully and balance their actions. Sarawak is expected to export 249,000 tons of hydrogen to Japan and Korea by 2028, with 9,000 tons for local use. Since green hydrogen technology is still new, the government will implement several initiatives to encourage its use.

  ------------------

  Paul Nungang from Ulu Baram

  *Protecting Our Land: The Fight Against Unnecessary Dam Projects*

  Paul Nungang shared about his meeting with a former civil servant, who is also his relative, where he informed the villagers that the government does not intend to build a dam but to lay pipes underground. However, since the government has not yet publicly disclosed the details of the dam, it raises suspicion as to how this retired civil servant would know. This inevitably leads to speculation about whether there is a deliberate effort to provide incorrect information to the indigenous people, misleading them about the dam.

  Paul Nungang's sharing that no matter how big the dam is, it cannot be built in Baram because it is certain that one day the government will instruct the indigenous people to move elsewhere because once the dam is built, the indigenous people cannot live near the government's property, which is the dam. Therefore, there is no need to bring in the dam to Baram because what already exists, the Mega Dam, is sufficient for Sarawak. We must defend our land because we do not want one day when we no longer have land, our descendants will have to live under bridges and as squatters.

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  Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz, Chairman of BERSIH 2.0

  *The Need for Electoral Reform: Bersih's Perspective*

  Bersih thanks the current government for its efforts in constitutional reform, particularly in the separation of tasks between the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor, as well as the review of the Parliament Act. Overall, there has been progress, albeit slow, under the leadership of Anwar Ibrahim. However, Bersih's focus today is on specific electoral reforms.

  Bersih is frustrated by the apparent lack of commitment to implementing electoral reforms by Datuk Sri Azalina or the relevant ministry. One key issue is the appointment of the Chairman of the Election Commission, which remains vacant. Bersih refers to the earlier manifestos of both PH and Barisan National, which stated that the appointment of such an important position should involve discussion in Parliament. Bersih suggests that a Parliamentary Select Committee should table and discuss the candidate for Chairman of the Election Commission, and then submit the nomination to the King and the Council of Malay Rulers. Additionally, reforms regarding election offences are also needed.

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On Today Show
— Panting Anak Baling, Residents of Sungai Batin Batu Village 11 Bintulu – Eviction Notice Sparks Outcry Among Bintulu's Farming Community

— Mukmin Nantang, founder of Borneo Komra – Displaced and Discriminated: The Plight of Bajau Laut Communities in Semporna
— Diog Dios, retired teacher from Puncak Borneo – Community Voices Silenced: The Impact of Political Interference on Rural Development

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Panting Anak Baling, Penduduk Kampung Sungai Batin Batu 11 Bintulu – Notis Pengusiran Menimbulkan Kemarahan di Kalangan Komuniti Petani Bintulu
— Mukmin Nantang, pengasas Borneo Komra – Tersingkir dan Didiskriminasi: Nasib Komuniti Bajau Laut di Semporna
— Diog Dios, guru bersara dari Puncak Borneo – Suara Komuniti Dilenyapkan: Kesan Campur Tangan Politik Terhadap Pembangunan Luar Bandar

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1) PMX Anwar Ibrahim- no promotion if corruption is not reported. The president of the Congress of Workers' Unions in the public sector CUEPACS supports the prime minister's recommendation that there be no promotion for department heads who do not report cases of corruption committed by staff under them. CUEPACS president Adnan Mat said the prime minister's recommendation should be viewed positively. On May 1, the government promised to increase the salaries of civil servants starting in December 2024.

  2) MACC arrested a former Bank manager in Kelantan to help investigate a corruption case. The 50-year-old man was charged with asking for and accepting a bribe of RM50,000 from a bank customer on the pretext of financing a program involving the bank.

  3) The Sarawak government should provide employment and economic opportunities. Not driving people away. This is the statement of Panting anak Baling from Tukau Bintulu Agricultural Heritage Village, when 420 residents of the village who farm in the area near Similajau National Park were evicted by the SFC on the grounds that the area had been gazetted as an additional area / expansion of Similajau National Park. Today Panting visited the SADIA office to ask for SADIA's help in that regard.

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  Panting Anak Baling, Residents of Sungai Batin Batu Village 11 Bintulu

  *Eviction Notice Sparks Outcry Among Bintulu's Farming Community*

  The residents of the Batin river village are people from the countryside who migrated to the city of Bintulu to find work. Because they could not afford to rent a house in the city center, they built a house at Batu 11 Jalan Bintulu Coastal Coast. Not so far from Similajau National Park. This village is categorized as an urban slum.

  During the administration of Chief Minister Adenan, he helped the people in this village by giving them garden land and agricultural seeds such as oil palm and coffee seeds to be cultivated (just given a title deed). Currently, the plantations of 420 families in this village have been successful. But what surprised them recently, the Sarawak state government through the SFC issued a notice to evict them from the village and fenced off the plantation area and did not allow anyone to enter the area on the grounds that the area had been gazetted as an additional Similajau National Park Forest area.

  According to Panting, all this time we were given encouragement, we were promised to be given land deeds and during the administration of adenan satem we were given help with tools and agricultural seeds. But now during the administration of Prime Minister Abang Johari we were kicked out. We are poor people who migrated to the city in search of economic opportunities and to educate our children. We hope that the Sarawak government and SCF will remove our garden area from being included in the addition of the Similajau National Park area. If the government can give thousands of hectares to palm oil plantation companies, why can't the land that we have worked on and succeeded in be given to us. This is our appeal to the premier of Sarawak. Panting said. Panting and 66 others came to the SADIA office in Kuching to get advice from SADIA secretary general Nicholas Mujah.

  -----------------------

  Mukmin Nantang, founder of Borneo Komra

  *Displaced and Discriminated: The Plight of Bajau Laut Communities in Semporna*

  Bajau Laut communities have seen their houses demolished and burnt down, forcing them to squat on surrounding islands and in villages near the small town of Semporna. Some have no place to stay, while others are sheltered in the homes of relatives or friends.

  According to observations by Borneo Komrad, as of yesterday, some houses had their walls and roofs stripped off, leaving only the floors and main structures intact. Families continue to live in these houses without roofs and walls, enduring both the heat and the rain.

  Mukmin stated that a special task force comprised of relevant ministries, legal bodies, academics, organizations, NGOs, and the affected communities needs to be established to initiate discussions and develop strategies to address the long-term issues faced by the Bajau Laut.

  Before engaging in discussions with other countries, Malaysia must develop a collaborative and final decision that respects the Bajau Laut communities, their laws, and human rights. Only then can Malaysia effectively discuss the matter with the Philippines and Indonesia, where these communities freely roam the surrounding seas of Sulu-Philippines and Sulawesi-Indonesia. However, in the surrounding Sulu-Sabah seas, the Bajau Laut are being suppressed, impacting their livelihoods. Mukmin believes that Malaysia is using security reasons to justify discrimination against the Bajau Laut communities.

  Mukmin also opines that the Bajau Laut communities are not encroaching on national boundaries.

  -----------------------

  Diog Dios, retired teacher from Puncak Borneo

  *Community Voices Silenced: The Impact of Political Interference on Rural Development*

  The Borneo Post reported that Julau MP Larry Sng emphasized the significance of cooperation between the people and community leaders to ensure smooth and inclusive development processes. However, Diog commented that in many interior villages, village chiefs often face political pressure and interference, compromising their ability to represent the true interests and needs of their communities.

  This political manipulation leads to a situation where villagers' voices are not adequately heard, and their genuine concerns and needs are not effectively communicated to higher authorities. Instead, village chiefs, influenced by political agendas, may prioritize the interests of political parties over the well-being of their communities.

  As a result, villagers' requests for essential developments, such as infrastructure improvements, healthcare access, and educational facilities, often go unheard or are significantly delayed due to the chiefs' political biases. This creates a cycle of neglect and underdevelopment, perpetuating the struggles faced by these communities.

  Furthermore, villagers' frustrations are compounded by the chiefs' reluctance to support initiatives that do not align with their political affiliations. This not only stifles community-driven projects but also undermines the trust between the villagers and their leaders. Consequently, the envisioned cooperation and unity become increasingly difficult to achieve.

  To address this issue, it is imperative to ensure that village chiefs operate independently of political influence. By doing so, they can genuinely represent their communities and work towards their development needs without external pressures.

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On Today Show
— Dennis Along, Resident of Long Terawan, Mulu, Sarawak – Cascading Concerns: The Impact of Dam Projects on Rural Communities
— Shakila of Borneo Komrad – Struggle for Survival: Bajau Laut Communities in Crisis
— Jeffry Ngui, chairman of MUDA Sarawak – Silenced Voices: Rural Neglect in Sarawak Media
— Madam Agnes from Selangau – Left Behind: The Rural Neglect under GPS Leadership

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Dennis Along, Penduduk Long Terawan, Mulu, Sarawak – Kebimbangan Berturut-turut: Kesan Projek Empangan ke atas Komuniti Luar Bandar
— Shakila dari Borneo Komrad – Perjuangan untuk Bertahan: Komuniti Bajau Laut dalam Krisis
— Jeffry Ngui, pengerusi MUDA Sarawak – Suara-suara yang Terpinggir: Pengabaian Luar Bandar dalam Media Sarawak
— Puan Agnes dari Selangau – Ditinggalkan: Pengabaian Luar Bandar di bawah Kepimpinan GPS

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1. Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Johari Abdul, has not yet received official notice regarding the vacancies involving 6 BERSATU Members of Parliament whose memberships were recently revoked. "As long as I haven't received official notice, I consider it just noise," he said. The BERSATU Secretary-General previously stated that they would send a notice to Parliament to inform about the vacant seats of their 6 Members of Parliament who were expelled for supporting PMX.

  2. The passport of the wife of the former Finance Minister, Daim Zainuddin, Naimah Abdul Khalid, has been temporarily released by the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court. This is to allow Naimah to attend the Art Exhibition in Basel, Switzerland, as well as a work meeting in Singapore. The criminal court previously held Naimah's passport as part of the RM250,000 bail conditions after she was charged in court for failing to disclose her assets.

  3. Premier Sarawak's funny and crazy idea to produce electricity from hydrogen using electrolyser machines for rural residents to replace diesel. Dennis Along stated, "Why not use the excess energy generated from the Bakun Dam?" Currently, GPS is actively using village heads and community leaders to campaign for the construction of a dam in Tutoh, Sarawak.

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  Dennis Along, Resident of Long Terawan, Mulu, Sarawak

  *Cascading Concerns: The Impact of Dam Projects on Rural Communities*

  The rural/remote area electricity supply project using hydrogen power is another extraordinary imagination of Premier Sarawak Johari Openg, said political and environmental activist Dennis Along. Premier Sarawak Johari Openg mentioned that Sarawak wants to explore mobile hydrogen as a replacement for diesel for electricity supply in remote areas. He said this while inaugurating the Sarawak Electrolyser Assembly and Distribution Facility (SEA-DF) in Demak Laut. SEA-DF is the first equipment of its kind in ASEAN capable of converting water molecules into hydrogen. It is the result of a collaboration between SEDC Energy and PETRONAS subsidiary Lestari H2Gaas.

  According to Dennis, "Currently, my village, Long Terawan, and other rural villages in Sarawak use the Sarawak Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES). It supplies 3000 watts of electricity per day per family, which is only enough to light three bulbs. Other electrical appliances cannot be used. I wonder why the excess energy from Bakun is not sent to us in rural areas. Also, how much will the electrolyser cost? We, the poor rural residents, cannot afford it if it is expensive. Abang Johari seems to be talking without thinking."

  The campaign to build a cascading dam in Baram continues, said Dennis. This time, GPS is using community and village leaders to persuade the villagers. The idea of a cascading dam was opposed by 12 associations on May 23, 2024. For us in Long Terawan, we will be greatly affected because our village is downstream of the Tutoh River. We will be at risk and face polluted river water.

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  Shakila of Borneo Komrad

  *Struggle for Survival: Bajau Laut Communities in Crisis*

  Shakila of Borneo Komrad shared with RFS that the issue may appear to be a local one since it occurred in Semporna, but it is, in fact, a humanitarian crisis. The operation lasted for three days, from June 4th until yesterday, during which houses were dismantled and burnt down, residents were chased out, and they have nowhere to stay. The official notice issued by Sabah Parks stated that these Bajau Laut communities were residing on land belonging to others. However, the reality is that these communities have been living in these areas long before Sabah Parks were gazetted, or even before the formation of Malaysia in 1963. They initially lived on boats and later built houses using wood from the jungle and zinc purchased from small towns, settling permanently in the middle of the sea. They were not informed or aware that these areas belonged to anyone. Being illiterate, they have no land titles or legal documents. The notice, dated May 2nd, was delivered to the communities, but within that short period, they were not able to prepare themselves. They were in a state of panic and unable to take any action. At the same time, the authorities did not compensate them or provide any alternative. Such situations are usually seen in other countries, but now it is happening in our own backyard. It is unclear what the authorities' intentions are, whether they aim to cleanse this ethnic group or commit genocide. In the seven islands, there were not many houses, but each house accommodated 7-10 occupants. According to Borneo Komrad's grassroots observation, they have raised this issue long ago, but the government has not taken any long-term comprehensive initiative. These communities were the guardians of the sea and were an attraction for tourists. Their way of life, their skin color, their diving skills, and the food they obtain from the sea are all important to us.

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  Jeffry Ngui, chairman of MUDA Sarawak

  *Silenced Voices: Rural Neglect in Sarawak Media*

  Jeffrey Ngui recently raised concerns regarding the lack of coverage of rural areas in Sarawak by TVS (an initialism of its former name, TV Sarawak), the state-owned television station. He questions why TVS, and other government-controlled media channels, have been reluctant to report on rural issues, citing reasons such as infrastructure deficiencies and the perceived backwardness of rural communities.

  According to Ngui, there appears to be a narrative that portrays rural areas as problem-free zones, which he believes is far from the truth. He notes that platforms like TikTok and social media have become instrumental in showcasing the real conditions of rural life, including issues such as dilapidated roads and bridges. These challenges hinder the rural population from effectively marketing their products outside their communities.

  Despite changes in government, Ngui contends that media freedom in Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak, has not seen significant improvement. He argues that true media freedom goes beyond criticizing the government; it should serve as a tool for public awareness and empowerment. Ngui emphasizes the need for media autonomy, where directors have the freedom to report without political constraints.

  In conclusion, Ngui calls for a reevaluation of media practices in Sarawak, urging TVS and other media outlets to fulfill their role as not just government mouthpieces but also as platforms that serve the interests of all segments of society. He believes that only through genuine media freedom can the public be accurately informed and empowered.

  -----------------

  Madam Agnes from Selangau

  *Left Behind: The Rural Neglect under GPS Leadership*

  Madam Agnes shared her observations on the development of villages in Julau and Selangau during the Gawai celebration. She expressed her concern over the apparent lack of significant progress by the Sarawak government in advancing these rural areas. According to Ms. Agnes, the majority of the community is now taking matters into their own hands and actively working towards progress.

  In Selangau, she highlighted the pressing issue of many villages lacking access to treated water. This is particularly crucial in modern times, as the community no longer relies on river water for daily use due to contamination concerns. Ms. Agnes emphasized the importance of the government, particularly the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), not just making statements in the media but taking concrete actions to address the development needs of rural areas. She urged GPS to fulfill its promises and ensure that rural development is not neglected.

---

On Today Show
— Robert Muyang, Ex-Priest of the Catholic Church, Sebauh – Failures in Rural Infrastructure Blamed on GPS
— Ngeow Chow Ying, Convenor of Project SAMA – Calls for Transparency and Action on Human Rights from Madani Government
— Florence from Tamin, Dalat – Tamin Residents Struggle with Flooding and Poor Infrastructure

Topik Pada Hari Ini
- Robert Muyang, Mantan Paderi Gereja Katolik, Sebauh - Kegagalan Infrastruktur Luar Bandar Dituduhkan kepada GPS
- Ngeow Chow Ying, Pengerusi Projek SAMA - Seruan untuk Ketelusan dan Tindakan mengenai Hak Asasi Manusia dari Kerajaan Madani
- Florence dari Tamin, Dalat - Penduduk Tamin Bergelut dengan Banjir dan Infrastruktur Buruk

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1. The Election Commission (EC) has announced a budget of RM2.1 million, with polling day set for July 6, 2024. The by-election follows the death of the Sungai Bakap State Assemblyman from PAS, Nor Zam Latiff, 56, on May 24, prompting the by-election. This time, PAS will be contested by PKR representing Pakatan Harapan (PH).

  2. The President of Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK), Voon Lee Shan, has challenged the Sarawak United Peoples' Party (SUPP)/Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to propose a constitutional amendment for Sarawak to prevent Peninsular Malaysia-based parties from contesting in Sarawak. This suggestion follows a statement by Batu Kitang Assemblyman Lo Khe Ching (SUPP), who urged Sarawakians to support individuals or groups aligned with Peninsular parties, claiming they have long hindered Sarawak's progress and harmony. Meanwhile, Sarawak PKR Chairman Roland Engan stated that there is no need for a constitutional amendment in Sarawak. Both the Sarawak Constitution and the Federal Constitution guarantee democratic freedom for all Malaysians.

  3. Robert Muyang criticized GPS for failing to advance rural areas in Sarawak despite the establishment of numerous development corridors with budgets of hundreds of millions of ringgit. Many projects have been abandoned, the quality of projects is very low, and there is corruption and misappropriation in the implementation of these projects.

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  Robert Muyang, Ex-Priest of the Catholic Church, Sebauh

  *Failures in Rural Infrastructure Blamed on GPS*

  During the Gawai celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) hosted by Sarawak Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah Embas, Uggah urged the Dayak community to continue cooperating and supporting GPS in advancing the Dayak community in Sarawak. According to Uggah, the Sarawak government has established nine regional agencies to help develop the Dayak community in rural areas. These nine development agencies are the Highland Development Agency (HDA), Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA), Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA), and Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (IRSDA). Additionally, there are the Sri Aman Development Agency (SADA), Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), Rejang Delta Development Agency (RADDA), Rajang Area Security Command Development Agency (RADA), and Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA).

  According to Robert, the Dayak community has always supported GPS, as evidenced by the coalition winning 80 out of 82 seats in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly. Despite the establishment of many development agencies supposedly to advance rural areas, the projects implemented by these agencies are mostly abandoned, and the quality of the projects is very poor. "From what is mentioned, it sounds like a lot, but the results are very little," said Robert Muyang.

  "We also recently learned about the existence of RADA - the Rajang Area Security Command Development Agency. However, a few days ago, TR Siling anak Rabing reported to RFS that residents of 21 longhouses in the RESCOM area still use logging roads to return to their villages during the recent Gawai celebration. The Premier of Sarawak likes to boast that Sarawak has a lot of money, but rural infrastructure facilities are still far behind."

  Robert also disagrees with the interference of politicians or elected representatives (YB) in the appointment of village chiefs and believes that elected representatives should not be involved in the handing over of appointment letters to village chiefs, as it seems like the YBs are the ones appointing the village chiefs. Robert advised longhouse residents not to be afraid of threats from their local YBs, as they can remove those YBs through the power of voting.

  -----------------------------------------

  Ngeow Chow Ying, Convenor of Project SAMA

  *Calls for Transparency and Action on Human Rights from Madani Government*

  On the current human rights situation in Malaysia after the change of government, Chow Ying opined that other than the abolition of the death sentence, there has been no progress in other areas. Malaysia still retains draconian laws such as the Prevention of Crime Act (POCA), emergency laws, the Sedition Act, and certain sections of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) Act. There has been a lot of misuse of power under these laws. The freedom of expression is now under threat from entities like the MCMC. Marginalized groups such as the LGBT community, people with disabilities, and women's communities have seen no progress in their rights and protections.

  This state of human rights is disappointing, especially since the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition, which consists of PKR, DAP, and Amanah, promised in their manifestos to improve human rights conditions in Malaysia. They pledged to abolish draconian laws such as the Sedition Act, but these promises have not materialized.

  Yesterday, in a Malaysiakini news report, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (PMX) stated in his meeting with the Human Rights High Commissioner that a country needs to base its recent values on creating a harmonious and peaceful society without forgetting compassion and human rights. However, this statement alone is not sufficient. The Madani government needs to go further and explain to us the concrete actions and plans they have to improve the human rights situation in Malaysia.

  There is an urgent need for the government to outline specific steps and timelines for the abolition of draconian laws, the protection of freedom of expression, and the advancement of rights for marginalized communities. The people of Malaysia deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders on these critical issues.

  -----------------------------------------

  Florence from Tamin, Dalat

  *Tamin Residents Struggle with Flooding and Poor Infrastructure*

  Residents of the villages along Jalan Batang Oya in the Tamin constituency have long shared the problems of poor road conditions and lack of treated water supply under the GPS government. They frequently face flooding, which forces them to stay in hotels during the Gawai celebration because the road to their longhouses in Batang Oya, DUN Tamin, is flooded.

  The severely damaged and unpaved road is neglected by the government despite the numerous residents living along it and the presence of a primary school. Their representative, assemblyman Christopher Gira from Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS)-GPS, excuses the lack of road funding by claiming that previous allocations were used up by the former representative, YB Joseph Entulu, and that reports have been submitted by the former YB.

  However, according to Ms. Florence, it is unreasonable for Christopher Gira to keep using the same excuse when they (GPS) have the political will to make decisions that would bring development to the people.

---

On Today Show
— Gabriel Atong, Resident of Punan Ba, Belaga – Grassroots Struggles: Abuse of Power in Village Leadership Appointments
— Michael Kong Feng Nian, Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth Kuching chief – Strengthening Democracy: Inclusion of Opposition in Sarawak Committees
— Arveent Kathirtchelvan, PSM of Gombak Selangor – Forgotten Families: The Housing Crisis in Gombak's Kampung Sri Makmur


Topik Pada Hari Ini
- Gabriel Atong, Penduduk Punan Ba, Belaga - Perjuangan Akar Rumput: Penyalahgunaan Kuasa dalam Penamaan Pemimpin Kampung
- Michael Kong Feng Nian, Ketua Pemuda Parti Tindakan Demokratik Sosialis Kuching - Memperkukuh Demokrasi: Penyertaan Pembangkang dalam Jawatankuasa Sarawak
- Arveent Kathirtchelvan, PSM Gombak Selangor - Keluarga Terlupakan: Krisis Perumahan di Kampung Sri Makmur, Gombak

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1. Muhammad Faisal Hamzah, son of the Secretary-General of Parti BERSATU, Hamzah Zainuddin, was charged in the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court today for allegedly receiving a RM100,000 bribe. Muhammad Faisal is accused of receiving the bribe from Azmir Abd Hamid as payment for Heitech PADU to appoint Rimba Merpati Sdn.Bhd and Per MY Solution as marketing consultants.

  2. The Kuala Lumpur High Court has set July 3 to decide whether to allow Najib Razak to proceed with a judicial review regarding the alleged directive addendum permitting Najib to serve the remaining six years of his sentence at home.

  3. Tiong King Sing has warned all parties in Sarawak not to interfere in the appointment of village heads/tuai rumah, or else face an SPRM investigation. Tiong should suggest to GPS and the Premier of Sarawak to ensure that no politicians are involved in the appointment panel for community leaders. Has Tiong just realized that GPS's policy has been wrong all along?

  ------------------

  Gabriel Atong, Resident of Punan Ba, Belaga

  *Grassroots Struggles: Abuse of Power in Village Leadership Appointments*

  The Borneo Post today reported the Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Tiong King Sing, who is also the president of the PDP Party (GPS), warned that there should be no political interference in the appointment of village leaders and community leaders, or they will face a MACC investigation. Tiong said that he received many complaints that certain individuals interfered in the appointment of village heads. There are certain triggers that veto the decisions of longhouse residents.

  Tiong also informed that he had discussed the issue with the deputy premier of Sarawak, and they agreed that no political party should interfere in the appointment of village heads or tribal heads. Due to the interference of certain people, 83 letters appointing village heads in Sibu have not yet been handed over. If this situation continues, the people below will suffer because of the struggle for political power. According to Tiong, anyone who has the ability, is trusted, and has the support of the people can be appointed as village head.

  Gabriel very much agrees with Tiong's suggestion, even though he is from GPS. But Gabriel pointed out that a member of the Tiong party, Marudi Peguang Manggil assemblyman, some time ago, in a video clip that went viral, threatened not to re-appoint the village chief who fought or did not vote for him in the election.

  "I don't just agree with the SPRM investigation because of political interference and abuse of power. In fact, I want any village head who breaks trust and misuses village money to be investigated by MACC. We at the grassroots have been satisfied with reporting cases of abuse of power and misappropriation of village money. But because the heads of these villages are supported by YB/GPS assemblymen, they are immune from investigation and action by the police."

  Meanwhile, Sarawak Justice Chairman Roland Engan gave a brief response to Tiong's statement by suggesting three things:

  1. The process of appointing village heads and community heads should be returned to the villagers or longhouses themselves.

  2. The panel appointing village heads and community leaders should not have politicians (YB area) as it is now.

  3. The 2004 Clan Head and Community Leader Ordinance should be repealed immediately.

  Rumah Panjang Punan Ba was split in two because one side did not agree with their village chief, who cooperated and handed over the Punan Ba NCR land to Samling for logging and oil palm plantation. They are led by Gabriel Atong, who is trying to build his own longhouse, but there is still no letter of appointment of the village head from the District Office.

  ------------------

  Michael Kong Feng Nian, Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth Kuching chief

  *Strengthening Democracy: Inclusion of Opposition in Sarawak Committees*

  Michael Kong, also special assistant to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, has urged the Sarawak government to include opposition members in various committees to enhance governance quality. He expressed disappointment over the exclusion of opposition representatives in the recently announced committees: the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), House Committee, Public Petition Committee, and Committee of Privileges.

  Kong highlighted that during Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) tenure, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) had representation in the federal parliamentary PAC, demonstrating a tradition of opposition participation in governance. He noted that opposition members previously served in the Sarawak PAC, with DAP’s Chiew Chiu Sing contributing.

  Kong stressed that past PAC findings on state project management underscored the need for diverse perspectives to ensure accountability and transparency. He argued that opposition members provide essential checks and balances, fostering thorough oversight and preventing mismanagement.

  By including opposition voices in committees, Sarawak can strive for more transparent, accountable, and democratic governance, benefiting all citizens.

  ------------------

  Arveent Kathirtchelvan, PSM of Gombak Selangor

  *Forgotten Families: The Housing Crisis in Gombak's Kampung Sri Makmur*

  Arveent Kathirtchelvan has raised concerns about the housing situation in Kampung Sri Makmur, Gombak, Selangor, where 9 out of 23 families have not been offered housing under the new scheme. Kampung Sri Makmur is situated on land owned by the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS), which is now being developed for condominiums through a joint venture with a private developer. This development has led to the demolition of the village.

  The Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM) has been involved in this issue since 2020, but the main parties include the Menteri Besar, PKNS, and the developer. There are two groups of residents on this land: one group chose to remain, while another group of 23 families agreed to move out in 2020.

  Arveent emphasized that forced evictions of urban settlers should not occur and that replacement housing must be provided. Out of the 23 families ready to relocate, 14 were offered houses by the Selangor government, while the remaining 9 were not given any offers. The process for the 14 families to obtain keys to their new homes is still ongoing. Meanwhile, all 23 families had their homes demolished and are now camping under a bridge near their former village.

  These families have occupied the land since 1986. Arveent advocates for these families to be given the chance to acquire homes under the Rumah Selangorku (RSKU) scheme at affordable prices, with some settlers even eligible for free housing. He stresses that proper housing solutions must be provided to ensure these families do not continue to suffer from displacement and homelessness.

---

On Today Show
— Desmond Laing, Resident of Tukau Jaya Traditional Village – Tukau Jaya's Struggle: Villagers Seek Fair Compensation from Syarikat Parabena
— Thomas Fann, Chairman of Engage – Civil Society Calls for Code of Conduct to Prevent Corruption in Government Contracts
— Mrs. Mag from Long Bemang, Baram – Indigenous Baram Residents Demand Land Rights and Infrastructure Improvements

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Desmond Laing, Penduduk Kampung Tradisional Tukau Jaya – Perjuangan Tukau Jaya: Penduduk Kampung Meminta Pampasan yang Adil daripada Syarikat Parabena
— Thomas Fann, Pengerusi Engage – Masyarakat Sivil Menyeru Kod Etika untuk Mencegah Rasuah dalam Kontrak Kerajaan
— Puan Mag dari Long Bemang, Baram – Penduduk Asal Baram Menuntut Hak Tanah dan Penambahbaikan Infrastruktur

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1. The 1MDB case faced by Najib Razak - abuse of power and the creation of illegal money of RM 2.27 billion may last until 2026 if Najib is ordered to defend himself. Judge Colin Lawrence Sequerah ordered the prosecution and defense to present oral arguments on August 19 to 22. If the court finds that the prosecution has failed to prove a prima facie case against Najib, he will be acquitted of all 26 charges. Because of that, Najib's lawyer Shafee Abdullah requested the postponement of another criminal breach of trust case involving RM6.6 billion related to payment to IPIC.

  2. The construction of mega dams in Sarawak only benefits the rich Towkay and foreign industrial companies said the Secretary General of SCRIPS - Micheal Mering Jok. While residents near the dam still fail to be supplied with 24-hour electricity supply.

  3. 10 residents of Kampung Tradisional Tukay Jaya, led by Desmond Laing, took their case to court demanding compensation for houses, gardens and land.

  --------------------------

  Desmond Laing, Resident of Tukau Jaya Traditional Village

  *Tukau Jaya's Struggle: 10 Villagers Seek Fair Compensation from Syarikat Parabena*

  Desmond Laing gave the latest update regarding the traditional village of Tukau Jaya which was ordered to be relocated by Syarikat Parabena. Parabena won the land dispute case in Kampung Tukau Jaya and all residents were ordered to demolish their houses and receive the SPS- Resettlement Scheme. Before the houses in SPS are ready to be built, residents are instructed to rent elsewhere first. The majority of the population had to agree to the SPS Scheme offered because they were powerless to fight in Court. Residents who accept to move to SPS cannot make any claims for compensation.

  But Desmond Laing and 9 others took their case to court. Because they do not agree with the way Parabena does not want to pay the price of their garden, house and land.

  We have instructed a lawyer to act on our behalf and so far Parabena has not demolished our house until our case is settled. Surrendering to the SPs scheme means we lose everything. But by filing our case in court we still have hope to get payment from the price of our house, land and garden. I will give further updates when the date of the trial in court - Desmond Laing said - the villagers of Tukau Jaya. Parabena is linked to the younger brother of Taib Mahmud. Former TYT Sarawak.

  --------------------------

  Thomas Fann, Chairman of Engage

  *Civil Society Calls for Code of Conduct to Prevent Corruption in Government Contracts*

  Thomas Fann emphasized the importance of transparency and investigations in the awarding of government contracts, particularly when there is a perceived conflict of interest involving politicians or ministers.

  He highlighted the necessity for public funds to be managed with the utmost integrity, stating that "when it comes to the awarding of government contracts, it is always about the process, the merits, and the level of transparency." He underscored the need for investigations to ensure that contracts are free from any form of political influence, especially when the heads of companies are related to government officials.

  Thomas believes that the level of transparency should be increased in such cases to maintain public trust. He stressed that thorough investigations are crucial to either confirm wrongdoings or exonerate the parties involved, using the example of the pilot phase of Selangor's Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) project awarded to Asia Mobiliti, which is run by Ramachandran Muniandy, the husband of Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh.

  As co-founder of Projek Sama (Stability and Accountability for Malaysia) and chairman of Engage, Thomas Fann advocates for citizen participation in democracy and human rights. He believes that establishing a code of conduct to handle conflicts of interest is essential for the government to prevent corruption and cronyism.

  Thomas Fann's stance reflects a broader call for accountability and ethical governance in the allocation of government contracts, urging for measures that ensure fairness and transparency in the process.

  --------------------------

  Mrs. Mag from Long Bemang, Baram

  *Indigenous Baram Residents Demand Land Rights and Infrastructure Improvements*

  Mrs. Mag questions the form of progress that GPS often boasts to the people. Baram, which is as large as the state of Pahang, is struggling for GPS to bring about progress. For example, communication coverage is getting worse by the day, making it difficult to connect with the outside world. If the government finds it difficult to build roads, why is it also challenging to establish internet or telephone networks for the people? It seems like the government is restricting the flow of information to the people. They talk about having 5G, but we can't even get 1G.

  The NCR issue Mrs. Mag wants to share is that if the government wants to help the people, we, as the indigenous people of Baram, want the NCR land status to be measured and granted titles to the original owners. The MADANI government has allocated a significant budget for land surveying purposes, but where has the surveying gone? All NCR lands in Baram have yet to be surveyed, and this situation is very dangerous for the future of the Ulu people's inheritance because the government is only good at issuing PLs to cronies. Why are the rights of the indigenous people of Baram being denied?

  Mrs. Mag eagerly awaits a change in Sarawak's political system so that the state can be managed by a new government. Royalty payments are not being channeled to the people, even though Baram's resources are often exploited. We want our land to have titles because we, the indigenous people of Baram, have inhabited these lands for generations. Before any government existed, we, the indigenous people, had already settled in Baram. No more continuous oppression for the indigenous people.

---

On Today Show
— Siling ak Rabing, Head of the Village Settlement Center (RESCOM) Nanga Jagau, Kanowit – Longhouse Joys and Logging Road Woes: A Gawai Festival Reality Check
— Nicholas Mujah, Environmental Activist and Secretary General of SADIA – Encouragement Without Action? Dayaks Urged to Contribute Despite Policy Failures
— Apai Mei from Sg Tangap Suai Niah –Flooded Roads, Broken Promises: The Reality of Rural Development in Sarawak

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Siling ak Rabing, Ketua Pusat Penempatan Kampung (RESCOM) Nanga Jagau, Kanowit – Kegembiraan di Rumah Panjang dan Kekecewaan Jalan Balak: Tinjauan Realiti Perayaan Gawai
— Nicholas Mujah, Aktivis Alam Sekitar dan Setiausaha Agung SADIA – Galakan Tanpa Tindakan? Kaum Dayak Didesak Menyumbang Walaupun Polisi Gagal
— Apai Mei dari Sg Tangap Suai Niah – Jalan Banjir, Janji Kosong: Realiti Pembangunan Luar Bandar di Sarawak

• Read More

  *Special Randau*

  1. The Youth Chief of BERSATU Party, Wan Fayhsal, announced that the party will inform the Speaker of Parliament regarding the expulsion of 6 party members who declared their support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This includes 2 Selangor State Assembly members - Abdul Rashid Asari (Selat Klang) and Mohd Azizi Abu Naim (Nenggiri). If these vacancies are confirmed, the Election Commission (SPR) will hold 6 parliamentary by-elections and 2 state assembly by-elections.

  2. The Gawai festival is lively, but our family faces the risk of accidents when traveling through logging roads on our way back to the village. This was stated by TR. Siling anak Rabing from the RESCOM resettlement center in Nanga Jagau, Kanowit. This resettlement center of 21 longhouses was established in 1973 to combat the communist threat. However, to this day, there is still no proper road. The residents rely on logging roads, and the prices of daily necessities are very high.

  3. Today, a video went viral on TikTok showing a nurse accompanying a patient receiving drip treatment. They were being transported in a longboat, believed to be from a remote clinic in Kapit to Kapit Hospital. Although Sarawak is considered a high-income state, the majority of rural residents are still poor and lack basic facilities.

  -----------------------------------------------

  Siling ak Rabing, Head of the Village Settlement Center (RESCOM) Nanga Jagau, Kanowit.

  *Longhouse Joys and Logging Road Woes: A Gawai Festival Reality Check*

  Siling informed RFS that the Gawai festival was celebrated joyfully in all 21 longhouses in the RESCOM settlement established in 1973. These 21 Iban longhouses were centralized to combat the communist threat at that time. However, what saddens the residents here is that they still rely on logging roads to reach their longhouses. We have water and electricity but no road connecting our settlement to the outside world. This makes it difficult for our children and in-laws to return home during the Gawai festival. Due to the lack of roads, the prices of daily necessities are very high. Although the journey to the Kanowit market is only 1 hour and 30 minutes, we appeal to the Minister of Public Works (JKR) and the Prime Minister to expedite the construction of a safe road to our longhouses. We have been using logging roads for a long time, and this situation always threatens our lives, especially during rainy and slippery weather. We hope that by the Gawai festival in 2025, our children will be able to return to the village with the convenience of paved roads - TR. Siing anak Rabing.

  -----------------------------------------------

  Nicholas Mujah, Environmental Activist and Secretary General of SADIA

  *Encouragement Without Action? Dayaks Urged to Contribute Despite Policy Failures*

  Members of the Dayak community have been called on to contribute to the development of Sarawak. Deputy Premier Amar Douglas Uggah Embas emphasized that Dayaks must participate in various development initiatives, regardless of their occupation, whether they are students, farmers, businessmen, and so on.

  While Douglas Uggah's statement encouraging Dayak participation in state development is positive news, it is important to note that the Dayaks have long been ready to support the government, especially in Sarawak. Many young Dayaks are well-educated, with some becoming lawyers, engineers, doctors, and other professionals.

  However, Nicholas opined that there is still a lack of favorable policies for the Dayaks in Sarawak. Despite the implementation of the six regional government agencies mentioned by Uggah, the impact of the development remains insufficient, and policy reforms are needed. For instance, the Land Custody and Development Agency (LCDA), despite its development objectives, has policies that are not beneficial for the communities in terms of implementation.

  In summary, while the encouragement for Dayak involvement in state development is commendable, it must be accompanied by policy reforms that truly benefit the Dayak communities to ensure they are not left behind.

  -----------------------------------------------

  Apai Mei from Sg Tangap Suai Niah

  *Flooded Roads, Broken Promises: The Reality of Rural Development in Sarawak*

  Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, the Deputy Premier, emphasized that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government has always been fully committed to advancing rural development. He stated that GPS has never neglected rural development, and under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the government has recognized the development gap between rural and urban areas.

  Despite this commitment, Apai Mei from Sg Tangap Suai Niah highlighted a pressing issue faced by their community during the Gawai celebration. Many of their relatives were unable to reach the longhouse due to recurring floods that rendered the roads impassable, even for small cars or 4x4 vehicles. This situation is particularly disappointing as their longhouse serves as a focal point for local and international tourists visiting Niah Cave, a world heritage site. Apai Mei called on the government to address this issue promptly to ensure the well-being of the community and to maintain tourism activities.

  Apai Mei also criticized the Sarawak state government, suggesting that statements about rural development may be seen as mere rhetoric. Despite decades of independence, there has been a failure to address fundamental issues like recurring floods, indicating a lack of genuine concern for the welfare of rural communities. The government is urged to prioritize the welfare of its citizens by taking decisive action to resolve the longstanding issue of floods, which not only disrupt local activities but also deter tourism.

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