On Today Show
—【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】 Roland Engan, President of PEWARIS Baram – The Role of the Native Court: Seeking Justice for Improper Tribal Leader Appointments
—【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】Elia Bit, Social Activist on Citizenship issue – The Importance of MyKad: A Message to the Youth
— Barnie Lasimbang, activist and resident in Penampang – Penampang's Worst Flood in Years: Inadequate Planning and Mitigation to Blame

Topik Pada Hari Ini
—【FORUM：SUARA KOMUNITI】 Roland Engan, Presiden PEWARIS Baram – Peranan Mahkamah Adat: Mencari Keadilan bagi Pelantikan Pemimpin Suku yang Tidak Wajar
—【FORUM：SUARA KOMUNITI】 Elia Bit, Aktivis Sosial mengenai Isu Kewarganegaraan – Kepentingan MyKad: Pesanan untuk Generasi Muda
— Barnie Lasimbang, aktivis dan penduduk di Penampang – Banjir Terburuk di Penampang dalam Tahun-tahun: Perancangan dan Mitigasi yang Tidak Mencukupi untuk Dipersalahkan

• Read More

  Special Randau

  1. Sarawak is heading towards state autocracy with GPS interference in the appointment of tribal leaders and community leaders. In the state administration, GPS controls 79 state assembly seats, 1 independent and 2 DAP.

  2. The drug syabu is sold like fried bananas in Kinabatangan - Sabah Umno leader said - Bung Mokthar Radin - BN - Kinabatangan. The drug syabu can be bought for as low as rm30 in the city or in the countryside. The disclosure was made by Bung in Parliament today.

  3. The UK royal attorney (Steven Perian) will represent former PM Muhyiddin Yassin in the trial next week. Muhyiddin in an effort to apply for a review to cancel 4 charges of misuse of power and 3 charges of money laundering of the RM232.5 million Jana Wibawa program.

  4. The Sungai Nadi Kehidupan project during the Najib Razak administration with a cost of RM3.9 billion failed. The project failed to be completed and the project did not achieve its objectives, said the Auditor General's Department.

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

  【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】

  Roland Engan, President of PEWARIS Baram

  The Role of the Native Court: Seeking Justice for Improper Tribal Leader Appointments

  Roland describes Sarawak as heading towards an autocratic state administration. Not only is the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) almost entirely controlled by GPS, but the procedures for appointing tribal and community leaders are fully controlled by the state government. For hundreds of years, the appointment of tribal leaders in Sarawak was done by consensus by the longhouse residents themselves.

  On August 2, 1980, the Sarawak government issued a circular outlining the procedure for appointing tribal leaders through negotiations between the penghulu and the district office. In 2004, the Ordinance of Tribal Leaders and Community Leaders was drafted but not enforced, and in 2021, the ordinance was withdrawn. However, since 2011, the Sarawak government circular stipulated that the appointment of tribal leaders must go through the Resident Office of the Division and must pass through the tribal leader appointment committee, whose permanent members include the local YB/ADUN. This has sparked excessive political interference in the appointment of tribal leaders in Sarawak. Moreover, once a village chief is appointed, he has the absolute power to appoint the list of JKKK (Village Development and Security Committee) members under his administration. This completely stifles the democratic process in villages and longhouses.

  Roland Engan brought three cases of improper appointments of tribal leaders to court, and one of them was won. In the Long Bedian case, the High Court judge ruled that the procedure for appointing the tribal leader was incorrect. The other two cases/judicial reviews were not allowed, with the judge stating that government appointments could not be challenged in court as it was a government policy. However, Roland advises village communities to bring their cases back to the Native Court. Roland was particularly affected by the directive on the certificate of appointment for tribal leaders, which reads, "the duty of the tribal leader/community leader is to do what is directed by the government." This means that the tribal leader merely follows the GPS government's wishes, whether right or wrong.

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

  【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】

  Elia Bit, Social Activist on Citizenship issue

  The Importance of MyKad: A Message to the Youth

  During the Suara Komunity forum, Elia raised the issue of citizenship. She established an NGO called PENA to advocate for the rights of indigenous people who do not have MyKads. Before Elia became active in this cause, she emphasized to young people the importance of having a MyKad.

  Initially, Elia did not prioritize land issues because she believed that having money to buy a house in the city made land ownership less important. However, she realized that when we eventually return to our hometowns, it becomes crucial to have legitimate identification to claim land that has belonged to our ancestors. This also extends to the issue of education.

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

  Barnie Lasimbang, activist and resident in Penampang
  *Penampang's Worst Flood in Years: Inadequate Planning and Mitigation to Blame*

  Last Saturday, a massive flood hit areas such as Tuaran, Sipitang, and Papar districts, with the worst impact in Penampang. In Donggongon town, the floodwaters reached a height of 1.2 meters. This flood was different from previous ones, being the largest and most sudden. Most car owners were unable to save their vehicles, and hundreds of cars were submerged, as reported in newspapers.

  The situation was particularly dire at the Tonibong create centre. Most of the staff were either outstation or on leave, and the flood occurred over the weekend when no one was at the center. One staff member tried his best to save the equipment, but he failed due to the high water level, resulting in significant losses for Tonibong. Today marks the fourth day of the cleaning process, and a lot of effort is still needed. Fortunately, many volunteers have come forward to help.

  The flood situation in Penampang is critical. The flood mitigation project in this district has been ongoing for ten years but has yet to be implemented due to several issues. One major issue is the land required for widening the Moyog River and creating a new canal bypass from Moyog River to Putatan River, which is taking time and affecting many houses and villages. This reflects weak town planning. Donggongon town needs a special plan to prevent such issues, like ensuring low-lying areas are designated as sustainable flood mitigation zones. For instance, paddy farms along the Moyog River should not be converted into housing areas.

  Another contributing factor is the construction of the Pan Borneo highway, which was not based on proper research and planning. This construction has disrupted natural waterways that release water to the sea, exacerbating the flooding problem.

---

On Today Show
—【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】Empowering Sarawak's Dayak Communities: Key Discussions
—【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】Gebriel Atong from Punan Pah Belaga – From Activism to Advocacy: A Journey in Punan Bah Belaga
— Jeffery Baudi, Resident Representative of SFI Housing Park – Empowering SFI: Fun Run to Secure Clean Water
— Chong Yee Shan, central committee of Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) – Access Denied: Kantan Farmers' Struggle Against Restrictions


Topik Pada Hari Ini
—【FORUM: SUARA KOMUNITI】Memperkasakan Komuniti Dayak Sarawak: Perbincangan Utama

—【FORUM: SUARA KOMUNITI】Gebriel Atong dari Punan Pah Belaga – Dari Aktivisme ke Advokasi: Perjalanan di Punan Bah Belaga
— Jeffery Baudi, Wakil Residen Taman Perumahan SFI – Memperkasakan SFI: Larian Amal untuk Mendapatkan Air Bersih
— Chong Yee Shan, Ahli Jawatankuasa Pusat Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) – Akses Ditolak: Perjuangan Petani Kantan Menentang Sekatan

• Read More

  Special Randau

  1. House Arrest - Court Rejects Najib's Judicial Review Application. Najib failed to obtain permission to proceed with a judicial review allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest. Judge Amarjeet Singh ruled that all affidavits claiming the existence of the relevant addendum were hearsay.

  2. Participants in the "Voice of the Community" forum organized by RFS in collaboration with the Tering Miri Association concluded that 10 actions must be implemented immediately, including allocating RM1 billion annually to the Dayak Development Fund and establishing the Sarawak Dayak Custom Council (MADAS) to coordinate the appointment of tribal chiefs and have full authority over Dayak customs, culture, land, and natural resources - John Brian. Lawyer Harrison Ngau demanded significant compensation be paid to the Dayak community for decades of discrimination, injustice, and suffering since Malaysia's formation. Meanwhile, lawyer Roland Engan urged the government to recognize and ratify UNDRIP and grant autonomy to districts and villages to determine their natural resources, land, forests, and make decisions independently

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

  【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】

  Empowering Sarawak's Dayak Communities: Key Discussions

  The two-day "Community Voice" forum in Miri, Sarawak on June 29th and 30th, 2024, sparked vibrant discussions on land rights, indigenous rights, and development issues. PBDSB's Dr. John Brian, activist lawyer Iswady Morni, land rights lawyers Roland Engan and Harrison Ngau, and Muda Sarawak Chairman Jeffrery Ngui led attendees in addressing concerns and aspirations of indigenous communities.

  The forum highlighted demands including:

  1. An annual RM 1 billion federal allocation to the Dayak Development Fund.

  2. Adoption of UNDRIP principles for dealing with Dayak and indigenous communities.

  3. End to political interference in tribal leader appointments.

  4. Salary increases for village and tribal heads.

  5. Establishment of the Sarawak Dayak Custom Council (MADAS).

  6. Creation of an Indigenous Council to oversee state projects on customary land.

  7. Recognition and respect for Dayak culture and traditional rights.

  8. Inclusion of direct benefit programs in state projects on customary land.

  9. Compensation for historical injustices faced by Dayak and Orang Asal communities.

  10. Transparency in state licensing and contracts.

  11. Legal aid for traditional communities to defend their rights.

  12. Reform of police procedures regarding rights violations.

  13. Ensuring free and fair elections and combating corruption.

  14. Enhanced enforcement against illegal logging and encroachments on public and customary lands.

  15. Return of a percentage of project revenues to Dayak communities.

  16. Full district and village autonomy over natural resources and development projects.

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

  【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】

  Gebriel Atong from Punan Pah Belaga
  *From Activism to Advocacy: A Journey in Punan Bah Belaga*

  Gebriel Atong, an activist from Kpg Punan Bah Belaga, a lesser-known ethnic group often mistaken for Penan, has been involved in activism since 2006. He has faced numerous struggles, including lodging complaints of misconduct against authorities and even approaching SUHAKAM, but with little outcome. He prioritizes resisting corruption in his community. Since 2006, despite attempts to negotiate with companies for essential services like clean water and education, they were asked to surrender their land, which they have occupied for 16 generations, spanning 400 years. Legal action was initiated against the company, initially led by Harrison Ngau and later by Paul Raja, awaiting a court decision.

  Gebriel faces internal community divisions, with some siding with the company and government, creating rifts. He belongs to the middle class and has confronted higher-class factions in his village before leading his group against Samling and the government. He has been active in politics, initially with PKR, influenced by stories like Nekodimus, where justice is overlooked despite voting. Projects in the village are often kept secret from him due to his opposition. Gebriel emphasizes community mapping using GPS, advocating for self-sufficiency and highlighting the disparity between Sarawak's wealth and its people's poverty.

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

  Jeffery Baudi, Resident Representative of SFI Housing Park
  *Empowering SFI: Fun Run to Secure Clean Water*

  Jeffrey Baudi and the residents of SFI Sabah will announce a Fun Run event on 08.08.2024 aimed at raising funds from the public, politicians, and NGOs to build a tube well at the SFI housing site for basic water needs. For 1 year and 2 months, they have not had access to clean water and 24-hour electricity. Jeffrey Baudi has discussed with the SFI residents to construct this tube well and has received support from all residents of SFI. This is because they feel sorry for seeing mothers having to fetch water from the river and some having to buy water from shops. This Fun Run is one way to raise funds to build the tube well.

  To get a bite of rice and continue their lives, SFI residents have to work as security guards and some work in shops. However, what is saddening is that in the past year, Jeffrey Baudi's friends had to leave their wives because they could no longer cope with the loss of income...

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

  Chong Yee Shan, central committee of Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM)

  Access Denied: Kantan Farmers' Struggle Against Restrictions

  Last Friday night, Kantan farmers discovered that PKNP had installed steel bars at all four entrances to their gardens, preventing them from accessing their farms. They also found that not only the main entrance but also alternative entrances were blocked with iron bars and large holes dug to obstruct their passage. With over 100 farmers affected, PSM and the farmers held discussions with PKNP, resulting in an agreement that farmers can enter the area but must register at checkpoints each time they wish to access their farms. These checkpoints are only open from 7 AM to 5 PM.

  Secondly, what is PKNP's motive now? This seems like a provocation, reminiscent of historical British invasions. The farmers and PSM plan to submit a memorandum to the state government and to Datuk Sri Annuar Ibrahim, the MP of Tambun constituency.

  Forceful evictions have occurred several times in this area. PMX had promised during the election to address this issue, but two years have passed without any action being taken.

---

On Today Show
— Special Randau
— Gabriel Atong, Resident of Punan Ba Longhouse, Belaga – Electricity Woes in Punan Ba: Questioning Sarawak's Allocation
— Nur Mohd Syafiq Dendi Abdullah, Chairman of the Customary Land JKOAK – Harvesting Destruction: Logging's Impact on Forest Ecosystems

【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】
—Nekodemus Singai, activist from Sebauh Gedong – Who else but us, if not now, then when?
— Stem Liau, activist from Bakun – Resettlement Scheme Failures: Voices from Bakun and Murum


Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Randau Khas
— Gabriel Atong, Penduduk Rumah Panjang Punan, Belaga – Masalah Elektrik di Punan Ba: Mempersoalkan Peruntukan Sarawak
— Nur Mohd Syafiq Dendi Abdullah, Pengerusi Tanah Adat JKOAK – Pemusnahan Hasil: Impak Penebangan ke atas Ekosistem Hutan

【FORUM: SUARA KOMUNITI】
— Nekodemus Singai, aktivis dari Sebauh Gedong – Siapa lagi kalau bukan kita, kalau bukan sekarang, bila lagi?
— Stem Liau, aktivis dari Bakun – Kegagalan Skim Pemindahan Semula: Suara dari Bakun dan Murum

• Read More

  Special Randau
  1. RM5.5 Billion Lawsuit Against Najib Razak: The RM5.5 billion lawsuit filed by SRC International Sdn. Bhd. against Najib Razak will resume in the High Court on July 29. According to Najib's lead lawyer, Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, Najib will be called as a witness. The civil action against Najib is linked to allegations of misappropriation of RM4 billion and RM3.6 billion from loans received from the retirement fund between 2011 and 2012.

  2. Reduction of Punishment and Fine Against Najib: The Board of Pardons reduced Najib's sentence from 12 years to 6 years. The court allowed Najib to respond to a judicial review by the Bar Council.

  3. Sarawak’s Wealth and Electrical Supply Issues: Sarawak, a state with RM40 billion in reserves, and SEB, a fully government-owned company, have faced criticism for not channeling electricity from the Bakun Dam to local villages. Gabriel Atong questioned Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg, asking why the GPS government still relies on federal assistance to provide electricity to the people when the state government is financially capable. Gabriel believes this is a way to grant contracts to cronies.

  4. Radio Free Sarawak hosted a two-day forum in Miri last weekend, on June 29 and 30. Lawyers, social activists, politicians, and villagers from Sarawak's interior gathered to discuss various topics, including politics, the environment, land rights, and basic infrastructure. The discussions over these two days were lively and engaging. Starting today, we will be adding a new segment: Forum-Community Voice, where we will be broadcasting the content of the forum. Stay tuned!
  -----------------------

  Gabriel Atong, Resident of Punan Ba Longhouse, Belaga

  Electricity Woes in Punan Ba: Questioning Sarawak's Allocation

  Punan Ba Longhouse is located approximately 50 km from the Bakun Dam. Gabriel attended the Community Voice Forum organized by RFS on June 29 and 30, 2024, in Miri. During the forum, Gabriel mentioned that his village, Punan Ba, is only about 42 km from the Bakun Dam but is not connected to the national grid by the Sarawak government and SEB. Punan Ba relies on a solar hybrid system for electricity supply, but residents often experience power outages because the solar hybrid system frequently breaks down.

  Two days later, on July 1, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Zahid visited Punan Ba and announced a RM4.2 million allocation to replace the often problematic solar hybrid batteries in Punan Ba. According to media reports, solar hybrid batteries need to be replaced every seven years. Gabriel is puzzled as to why the Sarawak government has not connected Punan Ba and the longhouses downstream of Bakun to the national grid, so as not to waste public funds on the costly maintenance and replacement of solar hybrid batteries. Connecting us to the national grid would benefit not only Punan Ba but also all villages, including the health clinic and primary school along the Rajang River, said Gabriel.

  Moreover, SEB is a wholly state-owned company, and the Sarawak government has announced reserves of up to RM40 billion. My question is why are we still relying on federal assistance. Gabriel believes that this decision is to secure contracts and projects for GPS cronies. And indeed, during Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi's visit, contractors hoping for contracts from GPS gathered in large numbers to welcome Zahid Hamidi.

  During this visit, Zahid also approved an allocation of RM21 million for the construction of a water treatment plant in Belaga, the construction of a 20 km road connecting Punan Ba to Bintulu, the installation of street lights in Belaga, and the upgrading of KEMAS offices and preschools under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW). All these allocations will be requested in the 2025 budget.

  Punan Ba Longhouse is the longhouse of the wife of Hulu Rajang MP, Wilson Ugak Kumbong, who is currently the Deputy Minister of Digital Malaysia.
  -----------------------

  Nur Mohd Syafiq Dendi Abdullah, Chairman of the Customary Land JKOAK
  *Harvesting Destruction: Logging's Impact on Forest Ecosystems*

  Last week, Dendi led a group of Orang Asli from Gua Musang, Kelantan, to Parliament to meet with the Parliamentary Special Task Force. The most critical agenda was the crisis of wildlife and human conflict.

  Recently, another Orang Asli man was trampled to death by an elephant while tapping rubber in his garden. The entire Orang Asli community in Gua Musang is affected. Not only are elephants their enemies, but tigers and bears also live in the same area. This is due to logging, and the latest issue is tin and copper mining, which is now operating in the area, although the process is still ongoing. Their situation is becoming worse as their gardens are destroyed by elephants, leaving most Orang Asli in the interior without food. They have to travel for hours to town to obtain food.
  -----------------------

  【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】
  Nekodemus Singai, activist from Sebauh Gedong

  Who else but us, if not now, then when?

  Before the forum began, Nikodemus shared his experiences of decades spent with villagers fighting against logging companies and the Sarawak state government. He recounted being arrested overnight once for obstructing logging activities. He emphasized that the resistance against logging companies encroaching on their land has always been a grassroots effort by the villagers.

  In 2023, after years of struggle, the villagers finally saw closure. The case involved villagers from multiple longhouses who had sued a company and individuals for trespassing on their native customary rights (NCR) land. The Federal Court's decision upheld earlier rulings from the High Court and Court of Appeal, confirming the villagers' rights over the disputed land. This legal victory is significant for indigenous communities asserting their land rights amidst ongoing disputes over land use and ownership in Sarawak.

  Summing up at the forum, Nikodemus concluded with the words, "Who else but us, if not now, then when?", inspiring attendees to persevere in their efforts.

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

  【FORUM：COMMUNITY VOICE】

  Stem Liau, an activist from Bakun

  Resettlement Scheme Failures: Voices from Bakun and Murum

  Stem Liau explained that the problems in the resettlement scheme are merely empty promises. No victims of Bakun and Murum have become wealthy as promised by the Sarawak leaders when Bakun Dam was initially built. Each family was only given 3 acres of land, which is insufficient. The land given is swampy, rocky, and steep. How are we supposed to manage such small plots of land? The wooden houses are deteriorating. Everyone feels betrayed by the promises of development through the Bakun Dam project.

  However, the main mistake of the Bakun community was agreeing to surrender their land for the dam project. After the dam was completed, some land did not get submerged. However, at that time, our community leaders did not support us returning to the old village. Now, the community leaders have started to support us going back to our original village. But how can we return when our land has been gazetted under government land, Section 6?

  Now, our rights as indigenous people have been eradicated by the authorities.

---

On Today Show
— Ricklend, the spokesperson for PACOS (Partners of Community Organisations Sabah) – Potential Scandal in Sabah's Carbon Trading: Indigenous Rights at Risk
— Nick Kelesau, Penan Activist – Crony Companies Still Threaten Indigenous Land Rights in Sarawak, Says Activist
— Paulus Jahin of JOAS Sabah – Nine-Year Struggle Ends in Triumph for Tongod's Land Rights

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Ricklend, jurucakap PACOS (Rakan-rakan Organisasi Komuniti Sabah) – Skandal Potensi dalam Perdagangan Karbon di Sabah: Hak Asasi Orang Asal Terancam
— Nick Kelesau, Aktivis Penan – Syarikat Kroni Masih Mengancam Hak Tanah Orang Asal di Sarawak, Kata Aktivis
— Paulus Jahin dari JOAS Sabah – Perjuangan Sembilan Tahun Berakhir dengan Kemenangan untuk Hak Tanah Tongod

• Read More

  Special Randau
  1. The Dayak Forum organized by RFS in collaboration with the Tering Association will be held on June 29 and 30, 2024, at Mayymall Miri. Everyone is invited to attend. Communities from all over Sarawak will be present to voice their opinions. See you there.

  2. Jok Jau Ivong-SAM warns the Sarawak government that large-scale mining will damage Sarawak's environment. The Sarawak government plans to bring Canadian mining technology to mine metals worth RM1.25 trillion from the depths of Sarawak. A few months ago, the Sarawak government also announced the construction of 10 more hydroelectric dams in Sarawak. Even now, severe environmental damage is evident in Sarawak, said Jok Jau, as quoted by The Vibers.

  3. Members of Parliament receive a pension reaching RM30,000 per month for life. It's shameful and disproportionate to their contributions, said former Bersih chairperson Ambiga. Previously, the Prime Minister stated that, morally, a Member of Parliament is only entitled to one pension. There are Members of Parliament who have served only one term but enjoy a lifelong pension, and if they hold positions as ministers or speakers, they will receive multiple pensions.

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

  Ricklend, the spokesperson for PACOS (Partners of Community Organisations Sabah)
  *Potential Scandal in Sabah's Carbon Trading: Indigenous Rights at Risk*

  Ricklend raised concerns about the upcoming Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) bill that will be presented in parliament at the end of this year, stating that it will not apply to Sabah, according to Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Jeffery Kitingan. He emphasized that there is a clear separation in the constitution that places land and forests under the state's jurisdiction. Ricklend questioned how carbon trading agreements are signed, whether they involve government-to-government (G2G) transactions or if they are open to anyone. If it involves G2G trade, it is impossible for CCUS not to be referenced when Sabah enters into agreements with foreign countries or companies.

  Ricklend also questioned the Sabah state government's actions of hiding carbon trading agreements that have been signed secretly without involving the state government of Sabah, with only representatives from the government present. He stated that this is a suspicious beginning for carbon trading. If our land and forests are to be used for carbon trading, we must be officially informed, and Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) must be implemented first. We also want to know the economic benefits for our community. So far, the Sabah government has talked about carbon trading, but the people in the villages know nothing about it. We want detailed information and explanations to be given to the people of Sabah. To implement carbon trading, permission must be obtained from the indigenous communities who own the land, and agreements must be signed with their consent.

  The Sabah state government must resolve land ownership issues in Sabah, which have not been settled until now. If these issues are not resolved, it is highly likely that carbon trading will become a fraudulent scandal that will disadvantage the people of Sabah. Both the state and federal governments must respect the rights of the people and adhere to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

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

  Nick Kelesau, Penan Activist

  Crony Companies Still Threaten Indigenous Land Rights in Sarawak, Says Activist

  Every August, the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is celebrated, and this year at the national level, the celebration will be held in Bau, Kuching. According to Mr. Nick Kelesau, an indigenous person from Sarawak who often participates in the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples events, this program allows us to voice the demands and rights of the indigenous people. Until now, indigenous rights have not been preserved by the government due to the ongoing problem of NCR land seizures for crony companies that continue to rob the rights of the indigenous people. Mr. Nick believes that this is because crony licenses are still being issued for logging and plantation projects. What can the indigenous people do? Because the licenses approved by government agencies empower these crony companies, making them feel invincible and allowing them to continue their activities on indigenous land.

  Additionally, the system for documenting indigenous people is also not given attention, which is why so many indigenous people still do not have identification cards, and their rights as citizens are often denied. For example, when an indigenous couple wanted to register their marriage certificate at the Baram Long Lama District Office, they were told to go to Miri. Upon arriving in Miri, they were directed to Marudi, and upon arriving in Marudi, there was no data in the system. This has made their lives difficult as it feels like they have no rights in their own state.

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

  Paulus Jahin of JOAS Sabah

  Nine-Year Struggle Ends in Triumph for Tongod's Land Rights

  In 2016, Paulus Jahin led the Tongod community in a legal battle over their Native Customary Rights (NCR) land. In 2018, the Tongod community was granted a communal land title for an area designated as a campsite for the construction of a main road. While the community was waiting for the land to be surveyed for individual lots, a company entered the area without their consent in 2021. The community wondered why the company built a basecamp there. Paulus led the community to discuss the matter with the company, which claimed to have been appointed by the state government via JKR to construct the road. Despite the community already winning their NCR land in 2016, the company proceeded to build the basecamp.

  The company insisted that the area belonged to the government and that the government could reclaim the land for public purposes at any time. The company, Lestari Sdn Bhd, actually has ties with politicians. The communities were not objecting to the construction but questioned why the rentals were given to someone else. The 2,000 acres belong to three villages, so why did other people receive the rentals? As a result, the communities took legal action against the company via Mr. Kong's legal firm last year. The trial took place last February, and the decision was made yesterday in favor of the communities.

  This victory marks the end of a nine-year struggle for the Tongod community to reclaim their land rights. The court's decision validates their claim and ensures that the community's rights are recognized and respected. It is a significant achievement for the villagers, who can now look forward to securing their land and receiving the benefits they deserve. The case highlights the importance of protecting indigenous land rights and ensuring that any developments or agreements involving such lands are made transparently and with the consent of the rightful owners.

---

On Today Show
— Dr John Anthony Brian, Sarawak Political Analyst – The Real Cost of Resource Extraction: A Call for Fair Revenue Sharing in Sarawak

— Nicholas Mujah, Secretary General of SADIA – Empowering Communities: The Significance of Celebrating Indigenous Rights

Di Rancangan Hari Ini

— Dr John Anthony Brian, Penganalisis Politik Sarawak – Kos Sebenar Ekstraksi Sumber: Seruan untuk Perkongsian Hasil yang Adil di Sarawak

— Nicholas Mujah, Setiausaha Agung SADIA – Memperkasakan Komuniti: Kepentingan Merayakan Hak-hak Orang Asal

• Read More

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

---

On Today Show
— Nicholas Mujah, Secretary General of SADIA – Sarawak's Resource Riches: The Disconnect Between Government Promises and Reality
— Barnie Lasimbang, Founder of Tonibung, environmental activist – Uncovering the True Hardcore Poor in Sabah
— Robert Muyang, Social activist from Bintulu – Democracy in Community Leadership: Ensuring Transparency and Fairness

Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Nicholas Mujah, Setiausaha Agung SADIA – Kekayaan Sumber Sarawak: Perbezaan Antara Janji Kerajaan dan Realiti
— Barnie Lasimbang, Pengasas Tonibung, aktivis alam sekitar – Mengenal Pasti Golongan Miskin Sebenar di Sabah
— Robert Muyang, Aktivis sosial dari Bintulu – Demokrasi dalam Kepimpinan Komuniti: Memastikan Kejelasan dan Keadilan

• Read More

  Special Randau
  1. Sarawak's natural resource wealth - Follow the way developed countries distribute wealth to the poor and indigenous people. Don't just imitate mining methods and technology, but also follow how they distribute the wealth and resources - said Nicholas Mujah.

  2. The Speaker of the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly has declared the vacancy of the Nenggiri State Assembly seat after the assemblyman was expelled from the PPBM party for supporting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Therefore, Wan Saiful (a member of the PPBM supreme council) said the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Johari Abdul, should also follow suit as shown by the Speaker of the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly. The Speaker of the House of Representatives should declare the vacancy of the 6 parliamentary seats.
  --------------------------------

  Nicholas Mujah, Secretary General of SADIA

  Sarawak's Resource Riches: The Disconnect Between Government Promises and Reality
  Sarawak plans to bring in the latest mining technology from Canada to extract valuable metal resources from beneath Sarawak’s earth. This was stated by the Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. According to Awang Tengah, studies by the Sarawak Geological Department show that there are deposits of gold, mineral ores, bauxite, and rare earths worth RM1.25 trillion. Awang Tengah made this statement to the media after returning from a visit to the Micassa Gold Mine located in Kirkland, Toronto, Canada.

  Nicholas Mujah believes this is good news for the people of Sarawak, similar to the positive news when natural gas and oil were discovered in Miri and Bintulu some time ago. He hopes that such visits by Sarawak leaders to foreign countries become more frequent. They should not only imitate the sustainable and advanced mining technology and methods but also adopt transparent and fair governance practices.

  He emphasizes that the Sarawak government should also emulate how developed countries distribute wealth so that it can be enjoyed by all groups and ensure infrastructure facilities reach even the interior areas. Nicholas, hailing from Sri Aman, observes that there are indeed many natural resources in his hometown. However, because the people are less politically aware and choose irresponsible representatives from GPS who do not strive to develop the Sri Aman area, it remains backward.

  Nicholas asserts that even though Sarawak's resources will increase in the future, if the representatives in an area do not strive to help the poor, the people will remain poor and left behind. He insists that Sarawak leaders must also adopt the right way of returning mining revenues to the local population, similar to how Canada collaborates with the indigenous Red Indian communities.
  --------------------------------

  Barnie Lasimbang, Founder of Tonibung, environmental activist
  *Uncovering the True Hardcore Poor in Sabah*

  On May 31, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim revealed that hardcore poverty in Sabah had dropped from 20,000 to 9,000 households. Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said he planned to eradicate hardcore poverty in the state by the end of July.

  Barnie agreed with what the former Chief Minister voiced, stating that the statistic cited by the PM does not reflect the real situation. One of the main factors is that, in Sabah, we must look not only at the situation of Indigenous Peoples but also at the broader aspect of undocumented communities, including immigrants who are mostly at the hardcore poor stage. The problems faced by these populations also impact the state economy, so we must consider holistic measures.

  Secondly, we need to address the best means to tackle the hardcore poor index. Currently, the programs run by the federal government via ministries such as KPLB and other agencies aim to reduce these hardcore poor communities. However, these programs are mostly handouts, such as cash and food distributions. Barnie believes this is not the way to help the poor. We must look into a long-term and holistic approach. One way to help these poor communities is to engage them in agriculture and food processing, among other initiatives. We all know that one of the factors causing hardcore poverty is related to the destruction of forest products after the timber industry dominated all the forest resources. The destruction of forests has reduced the natural resources used by communities for their socio-economic activities. The timber industry initially provided jobs for the communities, but now it has almost disappeared in Sabah, causing roads to deteriorate.
  --------------------------------

  Robert Muyang, Social activist from Bintulu
  *Democracy in Community Leadership: Ensuring Transparency and Fairness*
  Robert shared information about the appointment of community leaders and JKKK (Village Development and Security Committee) in his area of Sebauh, Bintulu. There is a lot of political interference in the selection process for political gain. This is because the appointed community leaders or JKKK members are from active political party members who work for the interests of the State Assemblyman or Member of Parliament in his area. This is very concerning if this system continues to be practiced without considering the interests of the community in choosing their leaders through democratic principles.

  Robert called for a reevaluation of the appointment process for community leaders and JKKK members. He urged for a system that prioritizes democratic principles and the genuine needs of the community. According to him, it is essential to implement a transparent and fair election process where community members have the power to choose their leaders freely. This would ensure that those who are elected are truly representative of the community’s interests and are committed to working for the betterment of all.

---

On Today Show
— Dominic Langat, Penan from Long Tungan, Baram – Penan Community Faces Isolation Due to Collapsed Logging Roads in Baram
— Paul Wan from Long Lama – Contrasting Achievements: Michael Teo in Miri vs. Anyi Ngau in Baram
— Sivarajan, Secretary General of PSM – PSM Condemns Arrest of Borneo Komrad School Teacher and Students

Topik Pada Hari Ini
- Dominic Langat, Penan dari Long Tungan, Baram - Komuniti Penan Menghadapi Pemencilan Akibat Jalan Balak Runtuh di Baram
- Paul Wan dari Long Lama - Pencapaian yang Berbeza: Michael Teo di Miri vs. Anyi Ngau di Baram
- Sivarajan, Setiausaha Agung PSM - PSM Mengutuk Penahanan Guru dan Pelajar Sekolah Borneo Komrad

• Read More

  Special Randau
  Opening and Randau, 18 June 2024.

  1. Cash rewards will be given for reporting corruption cases. The Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) stated that 514 public servants were rewarded with a total of over RM1 million between 2012 and 2023 for reporting corruption cases that led to convictions.

  2. The government will review the implications of the proposal to place the MACC under the purview of Parliament, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

  3. The Sarawak GPS government has announced hundreds of millions of ringgit in allocations for repairing logging roads. However, when residents sought emergency assistance due to road/landslides, there was no help from the state government. Is it true that there are projects or allocations for repairing logging roads as promoted by the state government? Dominic Langat stated that there are no such projects in Baram.
  -----------------------------------------------

  Dominic Langat, Penan from Long Tungan, Baram

  Penan Community Faces Isolation Due to Collapsed Logging Roads in Baram

  An NGO named the National Dayak Congress is working to help the interior residents of Baram repair the collapsed logging road in the Long Lelang and Long Nen settlements in Baram. Following the incident, residents in the affected areas have been cut off from the outside world and are unable to go to town to buy food or visit the Long Lama clinic. The residents have sought emergency assistance from the state government. However, their appeals for help have gone unanswered. Dominic confirmed that a landslide indeed occurred in the area, which is located deep in the interior of Baram. According to Dominic, road collapses and impassable conditions have become commonplace in Baram. However, today, the media reported a statement by Sarawak's Deputy Premier and Minister of Infrastructure Development and Ports, Douglas Unggah, stating that Sarawak will repair 14 logging roads throughout the state at a cost of RM543 million. Of these 14 roads, four are currently being repaired and 10 are still in the pre-contract stage. Unggah also announced that 16 Jiwa Murni roads, costing RM928 million, have been completed, covering a distance of 461 km and including 82 bridges.

  Dominic criticized Unggah's statement as being too general. He asked for specifics about which logging roads are being repaired and which have been completed. As a transport operator in Baram, Dominic stated that he has not seen any logging road repair projects in progress. In fact, just a week ago, a logging road in his village collapsed, and they sought assistance. A Tan Sri who was previously involved in road repair work has not received payment from the state government for a long time. The Sarawak state government easily mentions hundreds of millions of ringgit for road repair projects, but in reality, none of the mentioned projects have been executed. We, the residents of Baram, request that instead of repairing logging roads and building Jiwa Murni roads—which are all lies and a waste of resources—quality roads be constructed for us, even if they take longer to complete, so long as they can be used safely.
  -----------------------------------------------

  Paul Wan from Long Lama

  Contrasting Achievements: Michael Teo in Miri vs. Anyi Ngau in Baram

  Miri Hospital is on track to expand its healthcare services with a new hospital block scheduled to be fully operational next year. This was achieved through the efforts of former Miri MP, Michael Teo, providing a slight sense of security and believed to alleviate the current shortage of medical facilities in Miri.

  Paul Wan praised the dedication of Dr. Michael Teo, who successfully developed a hospital in Miri that has been completed. During Dr. Teo's two terms as MP, despite being in the opposition, he managed to bring a hospital to the people of Miri. Paul believes that there were other initiatives Dr. Teo advocated for the people of Miri during his tenure as MP, although not all were approved. Therefore, with his successor YB Chiew, Paul hopes to see further development in Miri City.

  In contrast, over two terms as MP for Baram, Anyi Ngau has not brought about any significant changes for the indigenous people of Baram. Issues such as healthcare clinics in the interior of Baram remain unresolved. Since becoming MP for Baram, Anyi Ngau has often been aligned with the government but has not brought much change to Baram.
  -----------------------------------------------

  Sivarajan, Secretary General of PSM

  PSM Condemns Arrest of Borneo Komrad School Teacher and Students

  The incident in question involves a teacher and students from Borneo Komrad Alternative School in Sabah, who were arrested while traveling to Kota Kinabalu last week. The group was en route to participate in a program organized by university students focused on water issues. The event was unrelated to the activities of the Alternative School group.

  Sivarajan said that PSM is concerned about what happened to the teacher and pupils of Borneo Komrad Alternative School of Sabah, who were arrested while traveling to Kota Kinabalu last week. PSM urges the Sabah government to stop intimidating these vulnerable communities. Friends in Borneo Komrad are championing the education of undocumented children in the coastal area of Sabah. This is actually an old issue. But why was this group detained while going for a program organized by others from the university to voice out water issues, which had nothing to do with the Alternative School group? Why were they detained?

---

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. Tragic Boat Accident Downstream of Bakun Dam in Belaga: Two victims are still missing while three are reported safe, according to a statement from the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department's operations center. Five employees of Clinroom Sdn. Bhd., the maintenance company for the Bakun Dam, rented a boat for a leisure trip before their boat capsized and was swept away by strong currents.

  2. Prime Minister Announces a 3 Sen Price Drop Per Egg Starting Today: This is an effort to return the savings from targeted subsidies to the people. Meanwhile, the government is still bearing RM7 billion in diesel subsidies.

  3. BN/GPS Government Has Damaged the Environment for 50 Years: Through logging, palm oil plantations, and hydro dam projects. To save the environment, logging must stop and no more mega dams should be built, says Dennis Along.

  4. Sarawak is Actively Attracting Investments from China: Particularly in the clean energy sector, public transportation system development, and hydro energy, says Sarawak Premier Johari Openg. However, local residents' observations indicate that China's involvement in the construction of Bakun and Murum hydro dams, as well as the development of aluminum smelting plants, has significantly polluted the environment and resulted in low-quality work. For your views, contact RFS at 0135515219.

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

  Dennis Along, Tering community from Mulu

  The Cost of Development: Logging and Hydro Dams in Sarawak Under Fire

  Premier Sarawak Johari Openg, last Wednesday, during his speech at the inauguration of the United States-Malaysia Clean Energy Forum 2024 at BCCK Kuching, said that the Sarawak government will use excess hydroelectric production to ensure food security in Sarawak. Sarawak has many rivers that serve as water sources for generating hydroelectric power, which also produces a large surplus of water. This surplus water will be used for the irrigation of paddy fields in Sarawak. This means Sarawak can solve two problems with one action.

  The arguments presented by the Sarawak Premier aim to justify the construction of hydro dams. Before the Premier promises food security for the people of Sarawak, what is the guarantee of electricity supply to the residents of Bakun and Murum who have sacrificed their land, forests, and rivers for electricity generation? Why are there still many longhouses in Bakun and Murum that have not been supplied with electricity? Why is the excess electricity from Bakun and Murum not given to them for free?

  Surplus water for the irrigation of paddy fields in Sarawak? Can the Sarawak Premier show where the commercial paddy fields in Sarawak are? What is commonly known is that there are no commercial paddy fields in Sarawak, and even if there were, there is no need to build hydro dams for their irrigation.

  Concerning the Premier's argument that Sarawak is trying to solve the climate change problem by planting 35 million trees by 2025. This objective was achieved four days ago, and Sarawak achieved it a year earlier. The Premier must realize that it is indeed the government's duty to care for and protect the environment.

  But does the Sarawak Premier realize that BN/GPS has been the biggest destroyer of the environment in Sarawak? The Sarawak government has consistently granted logging licenses to hundreds of logging companies for the past 50 years, and logging activities in Sarawak are still aggressive. To protect the environment, GPS should launch a zero logging campaign as suggested by PKR Baram a few years ago. By stopping logging and combined with tree-planting efforts, that is the correct way to protect the environment.

  The trees planted by the Sarawak Premier will be cut down when they are mature enough to be sold. What we mean is that trees should be planted and cared for over hundreds of years for future generations - says Dennis Along.

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

  Jacklyn Simo, youth activist from Kamppung Nyegol Bengoh
  *Bengoh Dam Impact: Villagers Turn to Eco-Tourism for Sustainable Livelihoods*
  After the completion of the Bengoh Dam and its impoundment in 2016, three villages were submerged, and some communities resisted relocation and moved further up. Among these are the communities of Kampung Nyegol, Sting, and Muk Ayung. Before the Bengoh Dam was constructed, these communities had to walk around 2-4 hours to go to or sell their products at the nearest shop.

  Now, they have to travel by boat, which requires them to buy petrol. These communities have initiated eco-tourism programs, such as mountain hiking and waterfall tours. They also offer homestay accommodations, though most visitors prefer day trips. Many youths prefer to stay in the village because they can earn a living by planting ginger, lemongrass, turmeric, and other crops.

  Jacklyn herself, during weekends, goes back to the village to help with eco-tourism activities.

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

  George Laeng from Uma Akeh

  Solar Projects Fail to Deliver Lasting Solutions for Baram's Remote Villages

  The people of Baram are determined to reject the construction of the dam, even though some parties are trying to twist the narrative that cascading dams do not harm the environment and indigenous people.

  Kampung Uma Akeh in Baram has not seen any progress, such as 24-hour electricity, let alone solar projects.

  Kampung Uma Akeh in Baram is close to the town of Long Lama, only 15 kilometers away, yet it still has no electricity. They are forced to use their own generators and low-capacity solar panels that they bought themselves for their use. This is unfair because, despite the people frequently requesting electricity facilities from the government, all they receive are empty promises, and this is unjust.

  Why does the government's intention to supply electricity to neighboring countries continue while its own people are still in darkness in their own state? This is considered a development deceit against the people.

  There are also villages that have been given solar projects costing millions of ringgit, but the results did not last long. Why can't they draw cables from Bakun Dam, Murum, or Batang Ai for the people in the interior?

  The people do not want free electricity; we are willing to pay the bill because we want 24-hour electricity.

---

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.
  ----------------------------------

  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.
  ----------------------------------

  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.

---

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.

---