22 Dis.2009 – Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja (KWSP) hari ini memperkenalkan Skim Simpanan Persaraan 1Malaysia bagi menangani ketidakcukupan simpanan semasa bersara bagi golongan yang bekerja sendiri.
Cadangan Skim Simpanan Persaraan 1Malaysia yang diumumkan oleh Perdana Menteri ketika pembentangan Bajet 2010 pada Oktober lalu, sebagai satu tanggungjawab sosial untuk mengambil berat kebajikan semua peringkat rakyat yang bekerja sendiri iaitu kategori individu yang tidak mempunyai skim simpanan persaraan secara formal.
Skim itu yang mula ditawarkan 3 Januari ini, bertujuan memberikan perlindungan kewangan kepada individu yang tidak mempunyai pendapatan tetap apabila mereka mencapai usia tua.
Menurut Jabatan Perangkaan, bilangan rakyat Malaysia yang berkerja sendiri adalah seramai kira-kira 2.5 juta.
Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif KWSP, Tan Sri Azlan Zainol berkata, kerajaan sentiasa prihatin terhadap ketidakcukupan simpanan sewaktu persaraan yang menjadi kebimbangan sebahagian besar rakyat Malaysia terutamanya golongan bekerja sendiri tanpa pendapatan tetap bulanan.
“Skim Simpanan Persaraan 1Malaysia menawarkan golongan terpilih berkenaan fleksibiliti dalam menentukan berapa jumlah yang mampu disimpan untuk simpanan persaraan mereka,” kata beliau dalam kenyataannya di sini hari ini.
Beliau berkata, tidak seperti skim simpanan KWSP yang biasa, jumlah yang dicarumkan ke dalam Skim Simpanan Persaraan 1Malaysia bergantung kepada tahap kemampuan pencarum.
Beliau menjelaskan, ahli boleh memilih untuk mencarum jumlah minimum antara RM50 dan RM5,000 sebulan sebagai simpanan persaraan mereka.
“Caruman adalah secara sukarela dan pencarum juga tidak perlu membayar caruman setiap bulan, ia bergantung kepada tahap kemampuan mereka.
“Bagaimanapun, ahli digalakkan untuk mencarum sejumlah wang secara berterusan tidak kira berapa jumlahnya ke dalam skim persaraan ini kerana disiplin amat perlu apabila menyimpan untuk persaraan,” ujarnya.
Simpanan di bawah skim itu akan menerima dividen tahunan mengikut kadar yang diumumkan KWSP sebagai tambahan kepada sumbangan kerajaan sebanyak lima peratus dan tertakluk kepada jumlah maksimum sebanyak RM60 setahun, selama lima tahun bermula dari tahun depan hingga 2014.
Skim itu terbuka kepada individu bekerja sendiri seperti penjaja, peniaga pasar malam, ejen hartanah, deejay, pengajar di pusat kesihatan dan kecergasan, penyanyi dan pelakon, serta pemilik perniagaan dalam talian.
Individu yang berminat menyertai skim itu perlu mengisi Borang KWSP 16G(1M) yang boleh diperoleh di cawangan KWSP seluruh negara atau memuat turun borang itu menerusi laman web myEPF di www.kwsp.gov.my mulai 3 Januari tahun depan dan mengembalikannya ke cawangan KWSP yang berhampiran atau melalui serahan mel.
Bagaimanapun, individu yang berminat tetapi bukan ahli KWSP perlu berdaftar sebagai ahli terlebih dahulu dengan mengisi Borang KWSP 3 dan mengemukakannya sebelum memohon untuk menyertai skim itu.
Simpanan boleh didepositkan secara tunai atau cek menggunakan Borang KWSP 6A(2) di kaunter bayaran KWSP seluruh negara.
Ahli KWSP sedia ada yang bekerja sendiri juga layak menyertai skim baru tersebut.
PANDU CERMAT, SAYANGKAN NYAWA
INGAT ORANG YANG TERSAYANG
INGAT ORANG YANG TERSAYANG
PASTIKAN ANDA DAN SEMUA PENUMPANG MENGGUNAKAN TALI PINGGANG KELEDAR
20091223
24-hour JPJ operation in Sibu from Jan 4
SIBU: It’s round-the-clock operation for Road Transport Department (JPJ) enforcement officers from Jan 4 next year, an intensified effort to curtail the number of road accidents.JPJ Sibu chief Rosilan Md Sari said the new arrangement would hopefully bring down the number of traffic offenders as well.
“Towards this goal, our enforcement ought to be carried out 24 hours a day and on seven-day weeks,” he said, adding that enforcement on festive season only was not enough.
“Our operations include setting up of roadblocks and patrolling,” he told reporters after the launching of a road safety campaign near the Lanang bridge yesterday.
The campaign, organised by the Resident’s Office and the National Road Safety Council, was officiated by Resident Sim Kok Kee and witnessed by, among others, traffic police chief ACP Vincent Tang.
Rosilan said his officers would be working on shifts to overcome the problem of manpower shortage.
For this year until Dec 11, JPJ Sibu has issued some 8,600 summonses for various traffic offences.
Offenders who settled their compound fines promptly were given discount up to 30 per cent.
“Those who paid up within the 15 days after the issuance of the summonses got 30 per cent discount while those who paid up within the next 15 days got 15 per cent discount.
“No more discount after the 31st,” he said.
On pirate taxi operation, Rosilan said his men were still going after these illegal operators though the number of pirate taxi operators seemed to be dwindling.
Under Section 33 of the Road Transport Act 1987 and/or Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board Act 1987, a convicted pirate cabby is liable to a fine not exceeding RM10,000 or one year’s imprisonment or both.
More than 100 goody bags were distributed to motorists during the campaign yesterday.
“Towards this goal, our enforcement ought to be carried out 24 hours a day and on seven-day weeks,” he said, adding that enforcement on festive season only was not enough.
“Our operations include setting up of roadblocks and patrolling,” he told reporters after the launching of a road safety campaign near the Lanang bridge yesterday.
The campaign, organised by the Resident’s Office and the National Road Safety Council, was officiated by Resident Sim Kok Kee and witnessed by, among others, traffic police chief ACP Vincent Tang.
Rosilan said his officers would be working on shifts to overcome the problem of manpower shortage.
For this year until Dec 11, JPJ Sibu has issued some 8,600 summonses for various traffic offences.
Offenders who settled their compound fines promptly were given discount up to 30 per cent.
“Those who paid up within the 15 days after the issuance of the summonses got 30 per cent discount while those who paid up within the next 15 days got 15 per cent discount.
“No more discount after the 31st,” he said.
On pirate taxi operation, Rosilan said his men were still going after these illegal operators though the number of pirate taxi operators seemed to be dwindling.
Under Section 33 of the Road Transport Act 1987 and/or Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board Act 1987, a convicted pirate cabby is liable to a fine not exceeding RM10,000 or one year’s imprisonment or both.
More than 100 goody bags were distributed to motorists during the campaign yesterday.
20091221
FACE BOOK CRAZE - ITS THE TREND AND COMMUNICATION BRIDGE TODAY
I am on Facebook, therefore I am?
OK. This is a youth talking. If you ain’t got no Facebook account, go live in a cave. With more than 200 million strong followers worldwide and still counting, Facebook has and continue to entice just about any men and women, old or young, working adults or even school children. Currently ranked as the leading social networking site, Facebook is a force to be reckoned with.What is so compelling about Facebook is its entertaining Features that offers everything under the sun.
Feel the need to proclaim your love to someone today? Status Update is just what you need.
Long to reunite with your high school clique? Then invite them for a spanking good night out through Events.
Want to share some Kodak moments with your distant relatives or long lost friends? Uploading yesteryears or current photos into Photos would be both nostalgic and fun at the same time.
You know those games Applications? I’m not averse to all those. I don’t get the whole brouhaha about people’s fascinations for these Applications.
Are you one of those games addicts who are guilty as charged? Squander all your time on harvesting, levelling up or feeding, getting completely engrossed with the adventure that these games have to offer?
There’s FarmVille for the failed farmer gone awry.
There’s also Mafia Wars. No, we’re not talking about the first high-profile conflict between Mafia clans in post-war Italy. We’re talking games that offer inspiring Mafia to play Don Vito Corleone at the comfort of their home or workplace.
For those with ultra deep motherly instinct, Baby Adopter trains you to become a good mother in the future. We do hope virtual training helps.
Apart from the youth, the Facebook community today includes professionals, politicians, celebrities, businesses, and just about any sector of the society.
The plus points are that constituents are getting more connected with their Yang Berhormats, as so are fans with their favourite Idols, students with their teachers and, clients with their service providers. It’s also been amazing to witness old schoolmates who have been out of touch for decades suddenly updating each other on just about any aspect of their lives; cousins who barely had the time of day for each other in real life suddenly have tonnes to say to each other. The possibilities seem endless.
These are all acceptable and within the norms of Facebooking. But what happens when Facebookers, particularly as employees, cross the boundary of work ethics conventions?
Addiction to social networking has never been so pronounced. It is the cutting-edge kind of addiction, if I could put it that way that has caused the enslavement of our society, so much so that for many, everything but Facebook has taken a back seat in their lives. People are spending less quality time with their family and friends; forget how important it is to socialise outside of the virtual world, neglecting outdoor activities and worse still, paying less attention to work.
England’s top Catholic bishop once issued a warning on the downsides of social networking sites. It could lead to the decrease in work productivity, damage relationships between family members and friends.
The challenge at the workplace is that we have two personas. One is our personal persona and the other, a work persona. Managing this in online networking is tricky.
While some establishments banned ‘Facebooking’ at the workplace, there are those who chose to invest in the positive potentials of the facility for larger and longer term goals of the organisation. The issue is whether the staff has the integrity to ensure that the facility is utilised to create added value to the work of the organisation. After having taken the position to allow online networking at the workplace, employers cannot entertain the illusion that it will be used for work-related activities 100 per cent of the time. While employers need to exercise some flexibility, the onus is on each employee to ensure that the trust given is justified through at least high work productivity.
Ultimately Facebook may follow Friendster, and other early online social networks that have become saturated and stale. Whatever the next new thing may be, the rules of engagement will remain similar and there will always be pitfalls. Although online networks and their influence on the modern society are here to stay, genuine happiness cannot be pursued through such networking alone. I’m sure too much Face
booking can leave one feeling jaded and lethargic. So, be smart in managing your virtual life, and get in touch with reality. Get a life already!
By Marcella Gider and Rosalind Yang
OK. This is a youth talking. If you ain’t got no Facebook account, go live in a cave. With more than 200 million strong followers worldwide and still counting, Facebook has and continue to entice just about any men and women, old or young, working adults or even school children. Currently ranked as the leading social networking site, Facebook is a force to be reckoned with.What is so compelling about Facebook is its entertaining Features that offers everything under the sun.
Feel the need to proclaim your love to someone today? Status Update is just what you need.
Long to reunite with your high school clique? Then invite them for a spanking good night out through Events.
Want to share some Kodak moments with your distant relatives or long lost friends? Uploading yesteryears or current photos into Photos would be both nostalgic and fun at the same time.
You know those games Applications? I’m not averse to all those. I don’t get the whole brouhaha about people’s fascinations for these Applications.
Are you one of those games addicts who are guilty as charged? Squander all your time on harvesting, levelling up or feeding, getting completely engrossed with the adventure that these games have to offer?
There’s FarmVille for the failed farmer gone awry.
There’s also Mafia Wars. No, we’re not talking about the first high-profile conflict between Mafia clans in post-war Italy. We’re talking games that offer inspiring Mafia to play Don Vito Corleone at the comfort of their home or workplace.
For those with ultra deep motherly instinct, Baby Adopter trains you to become a good mother in the future. We do hope virtual training helps.
Apart from the youth, the Facebook community today includes professionals, politicians, celebrities, businesses, and just about any sector of the society.
The plus points are that constituents are getting more connected with their Yang Berhormats, as so are fans with their favourite Idols, students with their teachers and, clients with their service providers. It’s also been amazing to witness old schoolmates who have been out of touch for decades suddenly updating each other on just about any aspect of their lives; cousins who barely had the time of day for each other in real life suddenly have tonnes to say to each other. The possibilities seem endless.
These are all acceptable and within the norms of Facebooking. But what happens when Facebookers, particularly as employees, cross the boundary of work ethics conventions?
Addiction to social networking has never been so pronounced. It is the cutting-edge kind of addiction, if I could put it that way that has caused the enslavement of our society, so much so that for many, everything but Facebook has taken a back seat in their lives. People are spending less quality time with their family and friends; forget how important it is to socialise outside of the virtual world, neglecting outdoor activities and worse still, paying less attention to work.
England’s top Catholic bishop once issued a warning on the downsides of social networking sites. It could lead to the decrease in work productivity, damage relationships between family members and friends.
The challenge at the workplace is that we have two personas. One is our personal persona and the other, a work persona. Managing this in online networking is tricky.
While some establishments banned ‘Facebooking’ at the workplace, there are those who chose to invest in the positive potentials of the facility for larger and longer term goals of the organisation. The issue is whether the staff has the integrity to ensure that the facility is utilised to create added value to the work of the organisation. After having taken the position to allow online networking at the workplace, employers cannot entertain the illusion that it will be used for work-related activities 100 per cent of the time. While employers need to exercise some flexibility, the onus is on each employee to ensure that the trust given is justified through at least high work productivity.
Ultimately Facebook may follow Friendster, and other early online social networks that have become saturated and stale. Whatever the next new thing may be, the rules of engagement will remain similar and there will always be pitfalls. Although online networks and their influence on the modern society are here to stay, genuine happiness cannot be pursued through such networking alone. I’m sure too much Face
booking can leave one feeling jaded and lethargic. So, be smart in managing your virtual life, and get in touch with reality. Get a life already!
By Marcella Gider and Rosalind Yang
‘Panic buying’ of sugar goes on
SIBU: There seems to be no end to ‘panic buying’ of sugar here as several supermarkets had their stock gone barely hours after getting their fresh supply.
A brief market survey yesterday observed that several outlets in town had their stock of the commodity had run out as early as 11am.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a staff of a supermarket here told thesundaypost that their stock of sugar was gone shortly after getting the supply.
“There seems to be a lot of demand for sugar these days and I have not seen anything like this before - not even during festive celebrations,” she said.
She added that their stock of sugar was gone in a matter of hours.
Meanwhile, a bulk shipment of 586 metric tonnes of sugar arrived here earlier this week. Asked for clarification on the situation, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism here figured that this could be due to the panic buying spree spawned by the fear of possible sugar shortage.
“Wholesalers here had distributed their stock of sugar to supermarkets, retailers and so forth for public consumption.
“My guess is that people here are still worried despite the repeated assurance given about the availability of
the commodity in the market.
“This perhaps, prompted them to stock up sugar at their homes,” he said.
Towards this end, he advised the public to refrain from panic buying as there was no need to purchase sugar in bulk.
He reiterated that this would deprive others of the opportunity to obtain their supply of sugar. He also warned traders from manipulating the situation through
hoarding, refusing to sell or even hiking the price of sugar.
“We will not hesitate to mete out stern action against them if they are found to be guilty of such an offence,” he cautioned.
bp21/12/09
A brief market survey yesterday observed that several outlets in town had their stock of the commodity had run out as early as 11am.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a staff of a supermarket here told thesundaypost that their stock of sugar was gone shortly after getting the supply.
“There seems to be a lot of demand for sugar these days and I have not seen anything like this before - not even during festive celebrations,” she said.
She added that their stock of sugar was gone in a matter of hours.
Meanwhile, a bulk shipment of 586 metric tonnes of sugar arrived here earlier this week. Asked for clarification on the situation, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism here figured that this could be due to the panic buying spree spawned by the fear of possible sugar shortage.
“Wholesalers here had distributed their stock of sugar to supermarkets, retailers and so forth for public consumption.
“My guess is that people here are still worried despite the repeated assurance given about the availability of
the commodity in the market.
“This perhaps, prompted them to stock up sugar at their homes,” he said.
Towards this end, he advised the public to refrain from panic buying as there was no need to purchase sugar in bulk.
He reiterated that this would deprive others of the opportunity to obtain their supply of sugar. He also warned traders from manipulating the situation through
hoarding, refusing to sell or even hiking the price of sugar.
“We will not hesitate to mete out stern action against them if they are found to be guilty of such an offence,” he cautioned.
bp21/12/09
20091218
SUGAR PRICES GONE UP TO RM1.80 PER KILO??
Sugar are getting scared in Sibu town and most shops are known to be out of stocks. But some who have are selling only 2 kilos per customers but at a 'special price'that is RM1.80 per kilo. Is this a 1Malaysia price or had the sugar price gone up or government fixed new price ??
Elektrik percuma bawah RM20 dilanjut Disember 2010
17 Dis. - Berita baik untuk rakyat berpendapatan rendah apabila kerajaan bersetuju melanjutkan program pengecualian pembayaran bil elektrik berjumlah RM20 dan ke bawah untuk tempoh setahun lagi iaitu sehingga Disember 2010.
Menteri Tenaga, Teknologi Hijau dan Air, Datuk Seri Peter Chin Fah Kui berkata, secara purata seramai 1.05 juta pengguna domestik yang kini menikmati pengecualian itu setiap bulan terus menerima manfaat.
Jelasnya, program itu sepatutnya tamat pada hujung bulan ini, namun disebabkan kedudukan ekonomi yang belum pulih selain keprihatinan kerajaan terhadap rakyat berpendapatan rendah, ia dilanjutkan setahun lagi.
''Program ini telah diperkenalkan pada Oktober 2008 iaitu semasa pembentangan Bajet 2009,'' katanya dalam satu kenyataan yang dikeluarkan di Parlimen, hari ini.
Menurutnya, sejak program itu diperkenalkan kerajaan telah menanggung kos purata sebanyak RM11.95 juta setiap bulan.
''Sehingga September tahun ini, sebanyak RM143.4 juta telah dibayar oleh kerajaan untuk menampung kos pengecualian bil ini.
''Dengan persetujuan kerajaan melanjutkan program ini, ia bermakna kerajaan akan menanggung sejumlah kos tambahan iaitu sebanyak RM143 juta lagi," katanya.
Menteri Tenaga, Teknologi Hijau dan Air, Datuk Seri Peter Chin Fah Kui berkata, secara purata seramai 1.05 juta pengguna domestik yang kini menikmati pengecualian itu setiap bulan terus menerima manfaat.
Jelasnya, program itu sepatutnya tamat pada hujung bulan ini, namun disebabkan kedudukan ekonomi yang belum pulih selain keprihatinan kerajaan terhadap rakyat berpendapatan rendah, ia dilanjutkan setahun lagi.
''Program ini telah diperkenalkan pada Oktober 2008 iaitu semasa pembentangan Bajet 2009,'' katanya dalam satu kenyataan yang dikeluarkan di Parlimen, hari ini.
Menurutnya, sejak program itu diperkenalkan kerajaan telah menanggung kos purata sebanyak RM11.95 juta setiap bulan.
''Sehingga September tahun ini, sebanyak RM143.4 juta telah dibayar oleh kerajaan untuk menampung kos pengecualian bil ini.
''Dengan persetujuan kerajaan melanjutkan program ini, ia bermakna kerajaan akan menanggung sejumlah kos tambahan iaitu sebanyak RM143 juta lagi," katanya.
Police identify mastermind behind prostitution ring
SIBU: The police have identified the mastermind behind a prostitution ring that they smashed on Tuesday.When contacted yesterday, acting police chief Supt Zamani Hamdan said the man is a foreigner.
He also disclosed that this was the first time they came across such a ring whose members were all foreigners.
He said the leader brought young women from his country to work as prostitutes here.
The police stormed his den on Tuesday at Jalan Tuanku Osman where a pimp and 10 foreign call girls in their 20s were arrested.
“But the ring leader was not there because he was taking his pregnant wife back to his country.”
Zamani said police would launch a hunt for the leader using information they had received.
He confirmed that when the foreign call girls were brought in using social visit passes, the leader hid them on the upper floor of a shop where the women were placed under the care of an elderly foreign woman.
He further confirmed that the pimp, a local youth in his early 20s, was hired by the ring leader.
He was arrested together with the 10 call girls.
The police are expected to charge the pimp and the call girls, but Zamani would not confirm what possible charges would be at this stage of the investigation.
“After our investigation is completed, we shall hand the case to the deputy public prosecutor.”
Zamani said the police did not regard the case as human trafficking because the women were not forced to come.
“They willingly followed the ring leader into Sarawak and willingly got involved in the flesh trade. They were not smuggled in.”
He said the police were also investigating the allegation that these women had violated their social passes.
It is said that when the women arrived here, they would stay at a rented place in Jalan Tuanku Osman, and the pimp would take them to meet their clients in budget hotels.
Chinese dailies reported yesterday that the pimp charged the clients RM60 each for an encounter with one of the women.
On whether there were other foreign call girls in Sibu, Zamani said some had been arrested before.
“But we have not arrested such foreigners in a group like what we did on Tuesday.”
On complaints by women in Sibu about their husbands having relationships with call girls from China, he said the police were looking into the matter.
“On cases like this, we must establish the evidence of their involvement in immoral activities, like what we are doing in the current investigation.”
He also disclosed that this was the first time they came across such a ring whose members were all foreigners.
He said the leader brought young women from his country to work as prostitutes here.
The police stormed his den on Tuesday at Jalan Tuanku Osman where a pimp and 10 foreign call girls in their 20s were arrested.
“But the ring leader was not there because he was taking his pregnant wife back to his country.”
Zamani said police would launch a hunt for the leader using information they had received.
He confirmed that when the foreign call girls were brought in using social visit passes, the leader hid them on the upper floor of a shop where the women were placed under the care of an elderly foreign woman.
He further confirmed that the pimp, a local youth in his early 20s, was hired by the ring leader.
He was arrested together with the 10 call girls.
The police are expected to charge the pimp and the call girls, but Zamani would not confirm what possible charges would be at this stage of the investigation.
“After our investigation is completed, we shall hand the case to the deputy public prosecutor.”
Zamani said the police did not regard the case as human trafficking because the women were not forced to come.
“They willingly followed the ring leader into Sarawak and willingly got involved in the flesh trade. They were not smuggled in.”
He said the police were also investigating the allegation that these women had violated their social passes.
It is said that when the women arrived here, they would stay at a rented place in Jalan Tuanku Osman, and the pimp would take them to meet their clients in budget hotels.
Chinese dailies reported yesterday that the pimp charged the clients RM60 each for an encounter with one of the women.
On whether there were other foreign call girls in Sibu, Zamani said some had been arrested before.
“But we have not arrested such foreigners in a group like what we did on Tuesday.”
On complaints by women in Sibu about their husbands having relationships with call girls from China, he said the police were looking into the matter.
“On cases like this, we must establish the evidence of their involvement in immoral activities, like what we are doing in the current investigation.”
20091216
WATCH OUT! : Pet crocodile released into Rajang River
FREE AT LAST: The crocodile prepared for release into the river
A man at Jalan Lada yesterday finally decided to set free a young crocodile that he has been rearing in his backyard for eight years.
According to snake catcher Lai Lee Siew, the man sought his help to release the reptile into Rajang River.
And so with a group of ten men, they accomplished the task yesterday morning.
He said the man was given about 30 newly hatched crocodiles to keep as pets eight years ago, and he kept them in his backyard pond.
“Over the years, some of the reptiles disappeared during extremely high floods. Eventually only one was left and that was the one we just released into the river.”
Lai said after tying up the eight-foot-long reptile, he took it to Rantau Panjang where it was released.
Bp Online 16/12/09
‘Increase free electricity rate from RM20’
One would think that Sarawakians would be jumping with glee when it was announced that electricity bills of less than RM20 would continue to be borne by the government.They are happy, but they are not jumping, preferring, it would appear, to reserve the celebration for something better – if it does happen, although the chances are slim.
They are urging the government to increase the free electricity rate from the current RM20 to a higher rate because, according to them, the majority of the people’s power usage bills are above RM20.
If the government can do that, then there is every reason to celebrate, they said.
Recently, Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin stated that those with monthly power usage of RM20 and below per month would continue to benefit from the free electricity till the end of next year.
Seruji Tahip, 56, who is vocal about increasing the RM20 rate, said only the truly poor people have bills less than that.
“But I can tell you for sure there are many poor people who use up electricity worth more than that,” Seruji said when asked to comment on the government’s decision to extend the period of free electricity to end of 2010.
Seruji’s opinion is supported by entrepreneur Norshiah Rajow, 39, who said that bills below RM20 are not a burden to the people, not even the poor.
“What can be burdening are bills more than RM20!” Norshiah said.
“Below RM20 ruling is not a good step because only a few would benefit as the use of refrigerators, lamps and television alone runs bills well beyond RM20,” Norshiah said.
Meanwhile, Leslee Ronjig, 35, from Kampung Punau of Jalan Puncak Borneo said extending the ruling is a welcomed step which should be applauded.
Leslee said it has made him more determined to save on electricity usage and as a result he has enjoyed several exemptions already.
He, however, admits that he has to forego a lot of things to be able to enjoy the exemption. He also said he would certainly welcome a higher exemption rate so that he could watch the TV or be at the computer longer.
Alsie Sia, 27, a teacher also said the ruling has been of great relief to many poor people and any length of extension will certainly bring more relief. She said saving on electricity usage will hopefully contribute to slowing down the global warming rate.
She, however, admitted that even how much she tries to save on electricity usage she is still burning a big hole in her pocket paying for her power bill.
Apparently, she forgets that it would seem that only the poor are expected to help slow down global warming while the well to do continue to do what they can pay for at the expense of the environment.
Like Alsie, Edna Dungi, 35, is also happy with the extension decision, saying: “Even though we are a developing nation, there are still many people who are poor and need help from the government. Such incentive will definitely make the people happy.”
The extension will benefit up to RM1.5 million consumers or house owners after the government agreed to allocate about RM11.9 million per month to support the ruling.
They are urging the government to increase the free electricity rate from the current RM20 to a higher rate because, according to them, the majority of the people’s power usage bills are above RM20.
If the government can do that, then there is every reason to celebrate, they said.
Recently, Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin stated that those with monthly power usage of RM20 and below per month would continue to benefit from the free electricity till the end of next year.
Seruji Tahip, 56, who is vocal about increasing the RM20 rate, said only the truly poor people have bills less than that.
“But I can tell you for sure there are many poor people who use up electricity worth more than that,” Seruji said when asked to comment on the government’s decision to extend the period of free electricity to end of 2010.
Seruji’s opinion is supported by entrepreneur Norshiah Rajow, 39, who said that bills below RM20 are not a burden to the people, not even the poor.
“What can be burdening are bills more than RM20!” Norshiah said.
“Below RM20 ruling is not a good step because only a few would benefit as the use of refrigerators, lamps and television alone runs bills well beyond RM20,” Norshiah said.
Meanwhile, Leslee Ronjig, 35, from Kampung Punau of Jalan Puncak Borneo said extending the ruling is a welcomed step which should be applauded.
Leslee said it has made him more determined to save on electricity usage and as a result he has enjoyed several exemptions already.
He, however, admits that he has to forego a lot of things to be able to enjoy the exemption. He also said he would certainly welcome a higher exemption rate so that he could watch the TV or be at the computer longer.
Alsie Sia, 27, a teacher also said the ruling has been of great relief to many poor people and any length of extension will certainly bring more relief. She said saving on electricity usage will hopefully contribute to slowing down the global warming rate.
She, however, admitted that even how much she tries to save on electricity usage she is still burning a big hole in her pocket paying for her power bill.
Apparently, she forgets that it would seem that only the poor are expected to help slow down global warming while the well to do continue to do what they can pay for at the expense of the environment.
Like Alsie, Edna Dungi, 35, is also happy with the extension decision, saying: “Even though we are a developing nation, there are still many people who are poor and need help from the government. Such incentive will definitely make the people happy.”
The extension will benefit up to RM1.5 million consumers or house owners after the government agreed to allocate about RM11.9 million per month to support the ruling.
20-litre ruling takes effect now
THE ban on the sale of petrol and diesel over 20 litres to foreign cars within a radius of 50km from any point of entry into the country will take effect today.
Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the ban, which was aimed at preventing the smuggling of petrol and diesel, would be in place until a new mechanism for the management of oil subsidy is implemented in May next year.
“Directives have been issued to all petrol stations in the stipulated areas on the new ruling. We have also issued notices to all foreign-registered vehicles in the country informing them of the new regulation,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby yesterday.
With the ruling, he said, only Singapore-registered vehicles were allowed to leave Malaysia with more than 20 litres in their tanks as the authorities in the republic had already imposed a ruling that all vehicles crossing its borders must have their tanks at least three-quaters full of fuel.
However, he said, if these vehicles needed to refuel within the 50km radius of the Singapore-Malaysia border, they were allowed to buy not more than 20 litres of fuel.
“There are almost 500 petrol stations operating near the borders in the north and south of the country. We will place our officers in these areas and if any of the stations is found to have violated this regulation, stringent action will be taken against it,” he said.
Under the Supply Control Act 1974, any individual who violate its regulations could be fined up to RM10,000 or jailed for up to three years or both while for a company (petrol station), the penalty is it could be a fine of up to RM250,000 and/or its licence revocation.
Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the ban, which was aimed at preventing the smuggling of petrol and diesel, would be in place until a new mechanism for the management of oil subsidy is implemented in May next year.
“Directives have been issued to all petrol stations in the stipulated areas on the new ruling. We have also issued notices to all foreign-registered vehicles in the country informing them of the new regulation,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby yesterday.
With the ruling, he said, only Singapore-registered vehicles were allowed to leave Malaysia with more than 20 litres in their tanks as the authorities in the republic had already imposed a ruling that all vehicles crossing its borders must have their tanks at least three-quaters full of fuel.
However, he said, if these vehicles needed to refuel within the 50km radius of the Singapore-Malaysia border, they were allowed to buy not more than 20 litres of fuel.
“There are almost 500 petrol stations operating near the borders in the north and south of the country. We will place our officers in these areas and if any of the stations is found to have violated this regulation, stringent action will be taken against it,” he said.
Under the Supply Control Act 1974, any individual who violate its regulations could be fined up to RM10,000 or jailed for up to three years or both while for a company (petrol station), the penalty is it could be a fine of up to RM250,000 and/or its licence revocation.
20091214
PNB umum dividen ASB 7.30 sen
Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) hari ini mengumumkan agihan pendapatan skim Amanah Saham Berhad (ASB) sebanyak 7.30 sen bagi tahun kewangan berakhir 31 Disember 2009 berbanding 7.00 sen tahun sebelumnya.
Demikian diumumkan Pengerusi PNB, Tun Ahmad Sarji, di sini sebentar tadi. Ia membabitkan pembayaran dividen RM4.95 billion kepada pemegang unit, meningkat 19.56 peratus berbanding RM4.14 bilion tahun kewangan sebelumnya.
PNB juga mengumumkan pembayaran bonus 1.25 sen, membabitkan nilai RM537.65 juta. "Pembayaran itu akan memberi manfaat kepada 6.78 juta pemegang unit yang kini melanggan RM70 bilion unit ASB," katanya.
Demikian diumumkan Pengerusi PNB, Tun Ahmad Sarji, di sini sebentar tadi. Ia membabitkan pembayaran dividen RM4.95 billion kepada pemegang unit, meningkat 19.56 peratus berbanding RM4.14 bilion tahun kewangan sebelumnya.
PNB juga mengumumkan pembayaran bonus 1.25 sen, membabitkan nilai RM537.65 juta. "Pembayaran itu akan memberi manfaat kepada 6.78 juta pemegang unit yang kini melanggan RM70 bilion unit ASB," katanya.
20091207
Penduduk Bario minta bina jalan raya
Penduduk kaum Kelabit dan Penan di Pa Lungan, Bario yang tidak mempunyai akses jalan raya sejak berpuluh tahun lalu merayu kerajaan agar membina infrastruktur itu untuk menghubungkan mereka dengan dunia luar.
Mereka memberitahu, ketiadaan sistem jalan yang baik menyebabkan kira-kira 150 penduduk di situ terpaksa menggunakan laluan kecil yang dibuat sejak zaman penjajah.
''Ramai yang tidak mengetahui kos sara hidup di Bario antara yang paling tinggi di Malaysia dan daripada 14 kampung di kawasan tersebut, Pa Lungan paling kritikal,'' kata seorang penduduk, Maran Radu, 69, ketika ditemui Utusan Malaysia di sini hari ini.
Misalnya, katanya, harga sekampit simen untuk setiap 50 kilogram ialah RM280, kerosin, petrol dan diesel (antara RM8 hingga RM10 seliter), satu selinder gas untuk kegunaan memasak RM240, sebiji telur RM1, satu tin minuman ringan RM3 dan gula RM5.
Namun, harga itu tidak termasuk caj tambahan sebanyak RM20 hingga RM40 untuk mengangkut barangan tersebut dari kedai runcit di Bario ke Pa Lungan dengan setiap kilogram barang yang diangkut sama ada menggunakan kenderaan atau kerbau dicaj RM1.
Beliau memberitahu, untuk pergi ke Pa Lungan, penduduk perlu menyewa kereta dari Bario ke Pa Ukat terlebih dahulu dengan perjalanan memakan masa kira-kira 45 minit dan kemudiannya terpaksa melalui laluan kecil dengan memakan masa tiga jam sebelum tiba ke perkampungan berkenaan.
Katanya, perkampungan itu juga hanya dapat dikunjungi menggunakan bot dengan masa perjalanan selama dua jam melalui Sungai Debpur dengan kos sehala sebanyak RM300, sebelum berjalan kaki selama satu setengah jam.
''Oleh kerana laluan ini tidak dapat dimasuki kenderaan, kami terpaksa menggunakan kerbau untuk mengangkut barang-barang keperluan.
''Namun, bagi yang tiada kerbau, caj antara RM20 hingga RM30 dikenakan untuk 'mengupah' kerbau kepunyaan orang lain," katanya.
Beliau berkata, bukan satu perkara menghairankan jika harga minyak petrol, diesel atau kerosin melambung sehingga RM40 satu gelen kerana mereka terpaksa membayar kos pengangkutan kerbau, selain kos kereta sewa dan kos pengangkutan pesawat udara.
Ketua Kampung Pa Lungan, Matius Litah pula berkata, beliau berharap wakil kerajaan melawat kampung mereka untuk melihat realiti sebenarnya.
Menurut beliau, penduduk di situ memerlukan jalan yang baik kerana itu sahaja yang dapat menghubungkan Pa Lungan ke Bario dengan kos yang lebih murah berbanding perjalanan menggunakan bot.
''Dengan adanya jalan, mudah untuk kami memasarkan produk seperti beras Bario, sayur-sayuran dan buah-buahan," katanya.
Mereka memberitahu, ketiadaan sistem jalan yang baik menyebabkan kira-kira 150 penduduk di situ terpaksa menggunakan laluan kecil yang dibuat sejak zaman penjajah.
''Ramai yang tidak mengetahui kos sara hidup di Bario antara yang paling tinggi di Malaysia dan daripada 14 kampung di kawasan tersebut, Pa Lungan paling kritikal,'' kata seorang penduduk, Maran Radu, 69, ketika ditemui Utusan Malaysia di sini hari ini.
Misalnya, katanya, harga sekampit simen untuk setiap 50 kilogram ialah RM280, kerosin, petrol dan diesel (antara RM8 hingga RM10 seliter), satu selinder gas untuk kegunaan memasak RM240, sebiji telur RM1, satu tin minuman ringan RM3 dan gula RM5.
Namun, harga itu tidak termasuk caj tambahan sebanyak RM20 hingga RM40 untuk mengangkut barangan tersebut dari kedai runcit di Bario ke Pa Lungan dengan setiap kilogram barang yang diangkut sama ada menggunakan kenderaan atau kerbau dicaj RM1.
Beliau memberitahu, untuk pergi ke Pa Lungan, penduduk perlu menyewa kereta dari Bario ke Pa Ukat terlebih dahulu dengan perjalanan memakan masa kira-kira 45 minit dan kemudiannya terpaksa melalui laluan kecil dengan memakan masa tiga jam sebelum tiba ke perkampungan berkenaan.
Katanya, perkampungan itu juga hanya dapat dikunjungi menggunakan bot dengan masa perjalanan selama dua jam melalui Sungai Debpur dengan kos sehala sebanyak RM300, sebelum berjalan kaki selama satu setengah jam.
''Oleh kerana laluan ini tidak dapat dimasuki kenderaan, kami terpaksa menggunakan kerbau untuk mengangkut barang-barang keperluan.
''Namun, bagi yang tiada kerbau, caj antara RM20 hingga RM30 dikenakan untuk 'mengupah' kerbau kepunyaan orang lain," katanya.
Beliau berkata, bukan satu perkara menghairankan jika harga minyak petrol, diesel atau kerosin melambung sehingga RM40 satu gelen kerana mereka terpaksa membayar kos pengangkutan kerbau, selain kos kereta sewa dan kos pengangkutan pesawat udara.
Ketua Kampung Pa Lungan, Matius Litah pula berkata, beliau berharap wakil kerajaan melawat kampung mereka untuk melihat realiti sebenarnya.
Menurut beliau, penduduk di situ memerlukan jalan yang baik kerana itu sahaja yang dapat menghubungkan Pa Lungan ke Bario dengan kos yang lebih murah berbanding perjalanan menggunakan bot.
''Dengan adanya jalan, mudah untuk kami memasarkan produk seperti beras Bario, sayur-sayuran dan buah-buahan," katanya.
Sarawak: Bantuan bencana lebih RM50j disalur
20 bot bernilai RM54,880 sebuah turut diserah
Kerajaan Persekutuan sudah menyalurkan bantuan bencana berjumlah lebih RM50 juta kepada Sarawak sepanjang tahun ini, dengan bantuan terkini membabitkan 20 bot diserahkan secara rasmi semalam. Bot bernilai RM54,880 setiap satu itu dilengkapi enjin dan peralatan perlu, diserahkan oleh Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz kepada Timbalan Ketua Menteri Sarawak, Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam.
Nazri adalah juga Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Bantuan Bencana Pusat, manakala Dr Chan adalah Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Bantuan Bencana Negeri Sarawak. Nazri berkata, bantuan lain yang diberikan tahun ini termasuk RM41.57 juta untuk pengurusan bencana, seperti pemberian wang ehsan kepada mangsa bencana. Selain itu katanya, RM6.9 juta digunakan bagi membina lima jambatan di Ba'Kelalan, manakala RM633,548 dibelanjakan bagi tujuan membina dan membaik pulih infrastruktur di Baram yang rosak akibat banjir.
Bagi 20 bot yang diserahkan semalam, beliau berharap ia digunakan untuk menyelamatkan mangsa banjir dengan cepat dan lebih berkesan. "Ia juga sebagai tambahan kepada bot sedia ada yang dimiliki pelbagai agensi seperti Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat, Polis, Jabatan Pertahanan Awam serta pertubuhan sukarela. "Semua bot ini akan diselenggara Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat," katanya sambil menambah bantuan itu membuktikan keprihatinan kerajaan Barisan Nasional (BN) Pusat kepada masalah rakyat di Sarawak selari dengan pendekatan Rakyat Didahulukan, Pencapaian Diutamakan. Beliau berkata demikian ketika berucap di Majlis Penerimaan Bot Penyelamat Majlis Keselamatan Negara (MKN) Untuk Pengurusan Bantuan Bencana Negeri Sarawak di Bangunan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Sarawak di sini, semalam.
Hadir sama, Speaker DUN Sarawak, Datuk Seri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar; Timbalan Setiausaha Kerajaan Negeri, Datuk Ose Murang dan Setiausaha MKN, Datuk Mohd Tajuddin Abd Wahab. Terdahulu, Nazri mendengar taklimat persiapan menghadapi bencana banjir negeri Sarawak dan melawat bangunan DUN baru. Nazri juga meminta Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Bantuan Bencana Negeri Sarawak supaya memberikan senarai keperluan lain untuk menghadapi banjir, supaya beliau boleh berunding bagi mendapatkan peruntukan. Pada masa sama katanya, MKN juga akan menghantar antara 50 ke 100 tandas bergerak untuk kemudahan di pusat pemindahan banjir di negeri ini kerana masalah kekurangan tandas sebelum ini antara kesulitan yang telah dibangkitkan. "Tandas bergerak ini akan diletakkan di bawah tanggungjawab Pejabat Daerah bagi kemudahan di pusat pemindahan banjir," katanya. Nazri berkata, bantuan diberikan kepada Sarawak bagi menghadapi bencana berbeza sedikit berbanding negeri lain kerana keluasan negeri ini. Kerajaan Persekutuan katanya perlu mengambil kira saiz Sarawak dalam memberikan bantuan, dengan kes di negeri ini dianggap sebagai berbeza dengan di Semenanjung. Beliau juga memberi jaminan bantuan wang ehsan RM300 setiap keluarga akan diberikan kepada mangsa banjir yang dipindahkan ke pusat pemindahan dengan bantuan akan disegerakan. Sementara itu, Nazri turut mendengar taklimat projek Tebatan Banjir di Pejabat Daerah Bau dan melawat Pusat Pemindahan Banjir Dewan Sebuku Bau serta Dewan Siniawan Bau, pada sebelah petang semalam.
Kerajaan Persekutuan sudah menyalurkan bantuan bencana berjumlah lebih RM50 juta kepada Sarawak sepanjang tahun ini, dengan bantuan terkini membabitkan 20 bot diserahkan secara rasmi semalam. Bot bernilai RM54,880 setiap satu itu dilengkapi enjin dan peralatan perlu, diserahkan oleh Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz kepada Timbalan Ketua Menteri Sarawak, Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam.
Nazri adalah juga Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Bantuan Bencana Pusat, manakala Dr Chan adalah Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Bantuan Bencana Negeri Sarawak. Nazri berkata, bantuan lain yang diberikan tahun ini termasuk RM41.57 juta untuk pengurusan bencana, seperti pemberian wang ehsan kepada mangsa bencana. Selain itu katanya, RM6.9 juta digunakan bagi membina lima jambatan di Ba'Kelalan, manakala RM633,548 dibelanjakan bagi tujuan membina dan membaik pulih infrastruktur di Baram yang rosak akibat banjir.
Bagi 20 bot yang diserahkan semalam, beliau berharap ia digunakan untuk menyelamatkan mangsa banjir dengan cepat dan lebih berkesan. "Ia juga sebagai tambahan kepada bot sedia ada yang dimiliki pelbagai agensi seperti Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat, Polis, Jabatan Pertahanan Awam serta pertubuhan sukarela. "Semua bot ini akan diselenggara Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat," katanya sambil menambah bantuan itu membuktikan keprihatinan kerajaan Barisan Nasional (BN) Pusat kepada masalah rakyat di Sarawak selari dengan pendekatan Rakyat Didahulukan, Pencapaian Diutamakan. Beliau berkata demikian ketika berucap di Majlis Penerimaan Bot Penyelamat Majlis Keselamatan Negara (MKN) Untuk Pengurusan Bantuan Bencana Negeri Sarawak di Bangunan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Sarawak di sini, semalam.
Hadir sama, Speaker DUN Sarawak, Datuk Seri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar; Timbalan Setiausaha Kerajaan Negeri, Datuk Ose Murang dan Setiausaha MKN, Datuk Mohd Tajuddin Abd Wahab. Terdahulu, Nazri mendengar taklimat persiapan menghadapi bencana banjir negeri Sarawak dan melawat bangunan DUN baru. Nazri juga meminta Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Bantuan Bencana Negeri Sarawak supaya memberikan senarai keperluan lain untuk menghadapi banjir, supaya beliau boleh berunding bagi mendapatkan peruntukan. Pada masa sama katanya, MKN juga akan menghantar antara 50 ke 100 tandas bergerak untuk kemudahan di pusat pemindahan banjir di negeri ini kerana masalah kekurangan tandas sebelum ini antara kesulitan yang telah dibangkitkan. "Tandas bergerak ini akan diletakkan di bawah tanggungjawab Pejabat Daerah bagi kemudahan di pusat pemindahan banjir," katanya. Nazri berkata, bantuan diberikan kepada Sarawak bagi menghadapi bencana berbeza sedikit berbanding negeri lain kerana keluasan negeri ini. Kerajaan Persekutuan katanya perlu mengambil kira saiz Sarawak dalam memberikan bantuan, dengan kes di negeri ini dianggap sebagai berbeza dengan di Semenanjung. Beliau juga memberi jaminan bantuan wang ehsan RM300 setiap keluarga akan diberikan kepada mangsa banjir yang dipindahkan ke pusat pemindahan dengan bantuan akan disegerakan. Sementara itu, Nazri turut mendengar taklimat projek Tebatan Banjir di Pejabat Daerah Bau dan melawat Pusat Pemindahan Banjir Dewan Sebuku Bau serta Dewan Siniawan Bau, pada sebelah petang semalam.
20091204
Dividen KWSP lebih tinggi
Pelaburan suku ketiga tahun ini melonjak RM5.5 bilion
Kira-kira 12 juta pencarum Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja (KWSP) dijangka menerima bayaran dividen lebih tinggi bagi 2009 susulan prestasi memberangsangkan dicatatkan pengurus dana persaraan itu tahun ini.
KWSP dalam kenyataannya semalam mengumumkan pendapatan pelaburannya dalam suku ketiga tahun ini melonjak 52.71 peratus kepada RM5.5 bilion daripada hanya RM3.6 bilion dalam tempoh sama tahun lalu.
Jika dibandingkan dengan RM4.8 bilion yang diraih pada suku kedua tahun ini pula, ia adalah peningkatan 14.51 peratus. Berikutan itu pendapatan pelaburan terkumpulnya bagi tempoh sembilan bulan pertama tahun ini adalah berjumlah RM13.56 bilion.
Ketua Eksekutif KWSP, Tan Sri Azlan Zainol, berkata keadaan pasaran saham tempatan yang semakin kukuh membantu meningkatkan pendapatan pelaburan dana persaraan itu pada suku ketiga itu.
“Justeru, jika pasaran terus menunjukkan prestasi yang baik sehingga akhir tahun ini, ahli boleh menjangkakan dividen lebih tinggi bagi 2009 ini berbanding tahun sebelumnya,” katanya.
Bagi 2008 KWSP mengumumkan dividen 4.5 peratus. Dalam tahun berkenaan ia meraih pendapatan bersih RM14.26 bilion selepas ditolak peruntukan susut nilai ekuiti dan hutang ragu, bayaran dividen untuk pengeluaran, perbelanjaan pelaburan, perbelanjaan operasi dan bayaran manfaat kematian serta hilang upaya.
Azlan berkata, pelaburan dalam saham terus menjadi penyumbang utama pendapatan pelaburan KWSP dalam tempoh suku ketiga lalu, iaitu RM2.34 bilion, naik 34.67 peratus daripada RM1.74 bilion yang di raih pada suku sebelumnya.
Katanya, selain saham, pelaburan dalam pinjaman dan bon turut menjadi antara penyumbang terbesar apabila ia meningkat 4.07 peratus kepada RM1.89 bilion daripada RM1.81 bilion pada suku sebelumnya.
Kenaikan itu, katanya, susulan meningkatnya semula momentum dan keyakinan terhadap pasaran bon korporat tempatan.
Tegasnya, ia juga sejajar dengan dasar risiko rendah KWSP, iaitu melabur hanya dalam bon syarikat bergred tinggi dengan penarafan kredit AAA atau AA. Azlan berkata, pelaburan dalam Sekuriti Kerajaan Malaysia pula meraih pulangan RM1.14 bilion, naik 2.54 peratus daripada RM1.11 bilion pada suku sebelumnya, sementara pendapatan daripada pelaburan hartanah meningkat 2.69 peratus kepada RM21.37 juta daripada RM20.81 juta.
Bagaimanapun, katanya, pendapatan daripada pelaburan dalam Instrumen Pasaran Wang susut 7.38 peratus kepada RM87.31 juta daripada RM94.27 juta. Azlan menegaskan, sebagai pemegang amanah kepada dana persaraan lebih 12 juta pencarum, KWSP akan memastikan prestasi keseluruhan portfolio pelaburannya sentiasa diuruskan dengan berhemah bagi melindungi ahlinya.
“KWSP akan berusaha gigih untuk meraih pulangan lebih baik bagi keselesaan persaraan ahlinya,” katanya sambil menambah, saiz dana keseluruhan KWSP setakat akhir suku ketiga lalu ialah sebanyak RM361.09 bilion.
Kira-kira 12 juta pencarum Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja (KWSP) dijangka menerima bayaran dividen lebih tinggi bagi 2009 susulan prestasi memberangsangkan dicatatkan pengurus dana persaraan itu tahun ini.
KWSP dalam kenyataannya semalam mengumumkan pendapatan pelaburannya dalam suku ketiga tahun ini melonjak 52.71 peratus kepada RM5.5 bilion daripada hanya RM3.6 bilion dalam tempoh sama tahun lalu.
Jika dibandingkan dengan RM4.8 bilion yang diraih pada suku kedua tahun ini pula, ia adalah peningkatan 14.51 peratus. Berikutan itu pendapatan pelaburan terkumpulnya bagi tempoh sembilan bulan pertama tahun ini adalah berjumlah RM13.56 bilion.
Ketua Eksekutif KWSP, Tan Sri Azlan Zainol, berkata keadaan pasaran saham tempatan yang semakin kukuh membantu meningkatkan pendapatan pelaburan dana persaraan itu pada suku ketiga itu.
“Justeru, jika pasaran terus menunjukkan prestasi yang baik sehingga akhir tahun ini, ahli boleh menjangkakan dividen lebih tinggi bagi 2009 ini berbanding tahun sebelumnya,” katanya.
Bagi 2008 KWSP mengumumkan dividen 4.5 peratus. Dalam tahun berkenaan ia meraih pendapatan bersih RM14.26 bilion selepas ditolak peruntukan susut nilai ekuiti dan hutang ragu, bayaran dividen untuk pengeluaran, perbelanjaan pelaburan, perbelanjaan operasi dan bayaran manfaat kematian serta hilang upaya.
Azlan berkata, pelaburan dalam saham terus menjadi penyumbang utama pendapatan pelaburan KWSP dalam tempoh suku ketiga lalu, iaitu RM2.34 bilion, naik 34.67 peratus daripada RM1.74 bilion yang di raih pada suku sebelumnya.
Katanya, selain saham, pelaburan dalam pinjaman dan bon turut menjadi antara penyumbang terbesar apabila ia meningkat 4.07 peratus kepada RM1.89 bilion daripada RM1.81 bilion pada suku sebelumnya.
Kenaikan itu, katanya, susulan meningkatnya semula momentum dan keyakinan terhadap pasaran bon korporat tempatan.
Tegasnya, ia juga sejajar dengan dasar risiko rendah KWSP, iaitu melabur hanya dalam bon syarikat bergred tinggi dengan penarafan kredit AAA atau AA. Azlan berkata, pelaburan dalam Sekuriti Kerajaan Malaysia pula meraih pulangan RM1.14 bilion, naik 2.54 peratus daripada RM1.11 bilion pada suku sebelumnya, sementara pendapatan daripada pelaburan hartanah meningkat 2.69 peratus kepada RM21.37 juta daripada RM20.81 juta.
Bagaimanapun, katanya, pendapatan daripada pelaburan dalam Instrumen Pasaran Wang susut 7.38 peratus kepada RM87.31 juta daripada RM94.27 juta. Azlan menegaskan, sebagai pemegang amanah kepada dana persaraan lebih 12 juta pencarum, KWSP akan memastikan prestasi keseluruhan portfolio pelaburannya sentiasa diuruskan dengan berhemah bagi melindungi ahlinya.
“KWSP akan berusaha gigih untuk meraih pulangan lebih baik bagi keselesaan persaraan ahlinya,” katanya sambil menambah, saiz dana keseluruhan KWSP setakat akhir suku ketiga lalu ialah sebanyak RM361.09 bilion.
Sarawak: Bario tidak terpinggir
Sering terputus hubungan dengan dunia luar adalah masalah utama kerap dihadapi penduduk di kawasan tanah tinggi Bario, di kawasan utara Sarawak, terutama ketika musim tengkujuh berikutan ketiadaan pengangkutan darat.
Setiap tahun kawasan yang semakin terkenal sebagai destinasi pelancongan itu hanya boleh dikunjungi menggunakan laluan udara. Belum ada laluan darat dibina menghubungkan tanah tinggi itu menyebabkan kehidupan penduduk majoritinya kaum Kelabit di situ agak terpisah dengan kawasan lain.
Namun, pengumuman peruntukan RM1 bilion sebagai kos untuk membina laluan menghubungkan Bario dan Ba’kelalan, ternyata memberi nafas lega bagi penduduk di kawasan itu yang sudah mengharapkan kemudahan itu sekian lama.
Menteri Perancangan dan Pengurusan Sumber Kedua, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan ketika mengumumkan demikian berkata, pembinaan jalan sejauh 152 kilometer bermula daripekan Lawas akan direalisasikan secara berperingkat.
Menteri itu yakin pembinaan jalan yang dapat menghubungkan kedua-dua destnasi pelancongan berkenaan penting ke arah menyelesaikan masalah perhubungan antara Ba’ kelalan dan Bario, selain diharap mampu meningkatkan ekonomi kedua-dua kawasan.
Justeru, beliau mahu penduduk di kawasan itu menyokong usaha membina kemudahan itu dengan memberi kerjasama menyediakan infrastruktur berkenaan.
“Projek pembinaan jalan berkenaan membuktikan kesungguhan dan keprihatinan kerajaan Barisan Nasional (BN) dalam membawa pembangunan kepada masyarakat luar bandar di negeri ini. Ia juga hadiah kepada penduduk Bario dan Ba’ Kelalan yang setia menyokong kerajaan. Ia terbukti melalui setiap pilihan raya yang memberi mandat kepada BN untuk menang,” katanya.
Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (Adun) Ba’kelalan, Nelson Balang Rining berterima kasih kepada kerajaan Negeri dan Pusat yang prihatin terhadap masalah penduduk di kawasan tanah tinggi berkenaan.
“Sudah sekian lama penduduk di Bario meminta dibina rangkaian jalan darat yang boleh digunakan menghubungkan kawasan mereka. Sekarang mereka boleh menarik nafas lega dengan pengumuman peruntukan untuk membina laluan menghubungkan penempatan mereka dengan Ba’kelalan,” katanya.
Perjalanan meredah hutan dari Bario melintasi kawasan penempatan penduduk Pa' Lungan, Long Repun, Pa Rubai, Long Midang menuju ke Ba’kelalan mengambil masa sekurang-kurangnya dua hari untuk sampai ke kawasan yang terkenal dengan tanaman epal itu.
Bagaimanapun, jika menggunakan perahu melalui Sungai Pa’Mada, perjalanan mengambil masa sekurang-kurangnya tiga jam bergantung kepada keadaan air sungai berkenaan.
Nelson berkata, sekiranya ada rangkaian jalan darat, penduduk Bario boleh mendapatkan barangan keperluan asas di pekan Lawas, berbanding menggunakan laluan udara seperti sekarang.
Katanya, banyak barangan seperti bahan api sukar untuk dibawa ke kawasan Bario menggunakan pesawat udara melainkan perlu menggunakan pesawat yang disewa khas.
“Jika sudah ada laluan darat menghubungkan Bario dan Ba’kelalan, penduduk boleh menggunakan laluan berkenaan untuk mendapatkan pelbagai barangan di pekan Lawas dan pekan lain berdekatan,” katanya. “Secara tidak langsung semua ini akan meningkatkan lagi ekonomi dan memudahkan penduduk membeli pelbagai keperluan harian mereka,” katanya.
Sementara itu, penduduk Bario, James Suli, 53, yakin penduduk di kawasan itu memberikan kerjasama sepenuhnya dalam usaha merealisasikan pembinaan kemudahan jalan itu.
“Lagipun sebelum ini, setiap tahun terutama pada Disember, pesawat sering membatalkan penerbangan ke Bario akibat cuaca buruk,” katanya. “Jika ada kemudahan jalan darat, penduduk termasuk pelancong ada alternatif lain dan boleh menggunakan kemudahan berkenaan,” katanya.
Setiap tahun kawasan yang semakin terkenal sebagai destinasi pelancongan itu hanya boleh dikunjungi menggunakan laluan udara. Belum ada laluan darat dibina menghubungkan tanah tinggi itu menyebabkan kehidupan penduduk majoritinya kaum Kelabit di situ agak terpisah dengan kawasan lain.
Namun, pengumuman peruntukan RM1 bilion sebagai kos untuk membina laluan menghubungkan Bario dan Ba’kelalan, ternyata memberi nafas lega bagi penduduk di kawasan itu yang sudah mengharapkan kemudahan itu sekian lama.
Menteri Perancangan dan Pengurusan Sumber Kedua, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan ketika mengumumkan demikian berkata, pembinaan jalan sejauh 152 kilometer bermula daripekan Lawas akan direalisasikan secara berperingkat.
Menteri itu yakin pembinaan jalan yang dapat menghubungkan kedua-dua destnasi pelancongan berkenaan penting ke arah menyelesaikan masalah perhubungan antara Ba’ kelalan dan Bario, selain diharap mampu meningkatkan ekonomi kedua-dua kawasan.
Justeru, beliau mahu penduduk di kawasan itu menyokong usaha membina kemudahan itu dengan memberi kerjasama menyediakan infrastruktur berkenaan.
“Projek pembinaan jalan berkenaan membuktikan kesungguhan dan keprihatinan kerajaan Barisan Nasional (BN) dalam membawa pembangunan kepada masyarakat luar bandar di negeri ini. Ia juga hadiah kepada penduduk Bario dan Ba’ Kelalan yang setia menyokong kerajaan. Ia terbukti melalui setiap pilihan raya yang memberi mandat kepada BN untuk menang,” katanya.
Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (Adun) Ba’kelalan, Nelson Balang Rining berterima kasih kepada kerajaan Negeri dan Pusat yang prihatin terhadap masalah penduduk di kawasan tanah tinggi berkenaan.
“Sudah sekian lama penduduk di Bario meminta dibina rangkaian jalan darat yang boleh digunakan menghubungkan kawasan mereka. Sekarang mereka boleh menarik nafas lega dengan pengumuman peruntukan untuk membina laluan menghubungkan penempatan mereka dengan Ba’kelalan,” katanya.
Perjalanan meredah hutan dari Bario melintasi kawasan penempatan penduduk Pa' Lungan, Long Repun, Pa Rubai, Long Midang menuju ke Ba’kelalan mengambil masa sekurang-kurangnya dua hari untuk sampai ke kawasan yang terkenal dengan tanaman epal itu.
Bagaimanapun, jika menggunakan perahu melalui Sungai Pa’Mada, perjalanan mengambil masa sekurang-kurangnya tiga jam bergantung kepada keadaan air sungai berkenaan.
Nelson berkata, sekiranya ada rangkaian jalan darat, penduduk Bario boleh mendapatkan barangan keperluan asas di pekan Lawas, berbanding menggunakan laluan udara seperti sekarang.
Katanya, banyak barangan seperti bahan api sukar untuk dibawa ke kawasan Bario menggunakan pesawat udara melainkan perlu menggunakan pesawat yang disewa khas.
“Jika sudah ada laluan darat menghubungkan Bario dan Ba’kelalan, penduduk boleh menggunakan laluan berkenaan untuk mendapatkan pelbagai barangan di pekan Lawas dan pekan lain berdekatan,” katanya. “Secara tidak langsung semua ini akan meningkatkan lagi ekonomi dan memudahkan penduduk membeli pelbagai keperluan harian mereka,” katanya.
Sementara itu, penduduk Bario, James Suli, 53, yakin penduduk di kawasan itu memberikan kerjasama sepenuhnya dalam usaha merealisasikan pembinaan kemudahan jalan itu.
“Lagipun sebelum ini, setiap tahun terutama pada Disember, pesawat sering membatalkan penerbangan ke Bario akibat cuaca buruk,” katanya. “Jika ada kemudahan jalan darat, penduduk termasuk pelancong ada alternatif lain dan boleh menggunakan kemudahan berkenaan,” katanya.
20091203
RM300 ‘wang ehsan’ on the spot
Nazri says payment for flood victims to be made to every household evacuated; no need for name-list
Flood victims will now receive ‘wang ehsan’ of RM300 per household from the compassionate fund as soon as they are told to evacuate.Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Tan Sri Abdul Aziz, in announcing this yesterday, said the government was implementing this new mode of disbursement to ensure that the money truly reach the victims.
“We want the money to reach those deserving of it as fast as possible, so we are now trying to give out the money as soon as these victims have to evacuate,” he told reporters at the new State Legislative Assembly complex while on a working visit here yesterday.
Nazri, who is also the National Disaster Relief and Management Committee chairman, said under the new system, the government would not have to wait for the name-list of the victims.
All that would need to be done would be to identify those in need of the ‘wang ehsan’ as soon as they arrived at evacuation centres, he said.
However, he said, the new system would call for strong cooperation from district offices for it to work effectively.
He said without such cooperation the system could still be manipulated by fake beneficiaries claiming they were victims of floods.
According to Nazri, for the flood earlier this year, RM49 million was spent for Sarawak alone, of which RM41 million was ‘wang ehsan’, RM633,548 for re-construction works in Baram and RM6.9 million for five Bailey bridges in Ba Kelalan.
He said for future floods, the government would provide 50 to 100 mobile toilets to the state’s evacuation centres to improve sanitation.
He said schools and community halls were often used as evacuation centres and the toilet facilities might not be enough, therefore, mobile toilets would definitely help a lot.
He said he would also look into fulfilling the wish-list of Sarawak Disaster Relief Committee on essential things and equipment that would be of great help to the state greatly during a flood.
He conceded that Sarawak needed more help since it was a vast state and that the federal government understood the state’s predicament especially where logistics was concerned.
Yesterday’s working visit saw Nazri presenting 20 rescue boats costing about RM1.1 million to the state government.
Each boat is said to cost RM54,880.
He said the Fire and Rescue Department would be responsible for the maintenance of these boats made available through the National Safety Council.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Disaster Relief Committee chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan said that his committee would submit its wish-list straight away and had briefed Nazri on it earlier on.
“We have briefed him already, among which was on the cost to equip some of the operation rooms and also some emergency funds. These are the two main things,” he said.
He said one of the worrying things the committee wanted strengthened was the distribution of food and essential items during flood.
He said the government could not simply depend on the Welfare Department to do this and had roped in the army for help.
“We find that in some areas, it takes a longer time for food to reach centres (evacuation) so whoever reaches there fast, we get them to distribute,” he said.
Dr Chan said hopefully all mechanism would be in place before the next round of flood occurs.
By Puvaneswary Devindran
Borneo Post 3/12/2009
Flood victims will now receive ‘wang ehsan’ of RM300 per household from the compassionate fund as soon as they are told to evacuate.Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Tan Sri Abdul Aziz, in announcing this yesterday, said the government was implementing this new mode of disbursement to ensure that the money truly reach the victims.
“We want the money to reach those deserving of it as fast as possible, so we are now trying to give out the money as soon as these victims have to evacuate,” he told reporters at the new State Legislative Assembly complex while on a working visit here yesterday.
Nazri, who is also the National Disaster Relief and Management Committee chairman, said under the new system, the government would not have to wait for the name-list of the victims.
All that would need to be done would be to identify those in need of the ‘wang ehsan’ as soon as they arrived at evacuation centres, he said.
However, he said, the new system would call for strong cooperation from district offices for it to work effectively.
He said without such cooperation the system could still be manipulated by fake beneficiaries claiming they were victims of floods.
According to Nazri, for the flood earlier this year, RM49 million was spent for Sarawak alone, of which RM41 million was ‘wang ehsan’, RM633,548 for re-construction works in Baram and RM6.9 million for five Bailey bridges in Ba Kelalan.
He said for future floods, the government would provide 50 to 100 mobile toilets to the state’s evacuation centres to improve sanitation.
He said schools and community halls were often used as evacuation centres and the toilet facilities might not be enough, therefore, mobile toilets would definitely help a lot.
He said he would also look into fulfilling the wish-list of Sarawak Disaster Relief Committee on essential things and equipment that would be of great help to the state greatly during a flood.
He conceded that Sarawak needed more help since it was a vast state and that the federal government understood the state’s predicament especially where logistics was concerned.
Yesterday’s working visit saw Nazri presenting 20 rescue boats costing about RM1.1 million to the state government.
Each boat is said to cost RM54,880.
He said the Fire and Rescue Department would be responsible for the maintenance of these boats made available through the National Safety Council.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Disaster Relief Committee chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan said that his committee would submit its wish-list straight away and had briefed Nazri on it earlier on.
“We have briefed him already, among which was on the cost to equip some of the operation rooms and also some emergency funds. These are the two main things,” he said.
He said one of the worrying things the committee wanted strengthened was the distribution of food and essential items during flood.
He said the government could not simply depend on the Welfare Department to do this and had roped in the army for help.
“We find that in some areas, it takes a longer time for food to reach centres (evacuation) so whoever reaches there fast, we get them to distribute,” he said.
Dr Chan said hopefully all mechanism would be in place before the next round of flood occurs.
By Puvaneswary Devindran
Borneo Post 3/12/2009
20091202
P1 to enter East Malaysia starting mid-2010
Packet One Networks (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd’s (P1) broadband service, P1 Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) is expected to make its presence into East Malaysia starting from the middle of next year.The good news was announced by Packet One Networks (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Green Packet Bhd, a member of the WiMAX Forum recently.
P1’s chief executive officer, Michael Lai explained that the company has exceeded the expectations, having covered over 25 per cent of the populated areas in Peninsular Malaysia, a cornerstone that sets sail for its East Malaysian expansion.
“The greenlight to operate in East Malaysia will further attest P1’s technological prowess in enriching the digital lifestyle of all Malaysians. We are greatly honoured that P1 can now offer high-speed wireless broadband internet services to more Malaysians of different corners.
“According to the statistics released by MCMC for year 2008, both Sarawak and Sabah registered 13.6 per cent and 9.6 per cent respectively for the broadband internet access against their household populations. Take Sabah for example, only some nine households out of 100 had broadband internet access. This only suggests that there is enormous potential to fulfill the market needs,” Lai said.
Lai hinted that major towns in Sarawak such as Kuching, Sibu, Miri, and in Sabah for instance Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan are among the first to enjoy P1 WiMAX services by the middle of next year if everything goes according to plan.
He said P1 commands an encouraging market presence in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, accounting for two-thirds of its subscriber base.
The company is making inroads into Johor, Kedah and Penang, among others.
P1 keeps accelerating its momentum towards implementing its master plan of providing WiMAX access to at least 45 per cent of Malaysian households by the end of next year.
The company is already executing a RM1 billion, five-year investment plan that aspires to cover 65 per cent of populated areas across Malaysia by 2012.
“WiMAX plays an important role in both emerging markets and mature markets. And broadband is becoming a necessity for many residential and business subscribers worldwide. WiMAX is certainly the next ‘in’ thing, Lai added.
Commenting on the future of WiMAX technology, Lai is positive that the fourth generation of wireless technology will only narrow the gap of digital divide among all walks of life and shorten the distance among remote places.
“WiMAX seeks to serve users’ increasing demands for high data throughput (broadband) services such as streaming media on the internet, live video conferencing, and mobile TV on computers as well as handsets and PDAs. WiMAX is expected to be integrated into the next generation mass market consumer devices. And this trend is unstoppable.
“Broadband is not a privilege, it’s a right for all,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, P1 offers WiMAX Office Standard, WiMAX Office Premium, WiMAX Home Plus, WiMAX Home Pro, WiMAX Home Lite and WIGGY.
P1 is also targeting the startup market and first-time broadband users by offering the ‘stimulus package’ at RM49 per month for a 5GB plan.
Find out more about P1 offerings at www.p1.com.my.
Masterskill to give students RM10m worth of netbooks
Masterskill University College of Health Science is offering over RM10 million worth of netbooks to students who enrol with the college starting from the January 2009 intake.Masterskill chief operations officer Alicia Nathan said in a press release that the college has come up with a simple and fair method to every student, as the college is unable to allocate netbooks to everyone.
“Students who confirm their enrolment in Masterskill’ programme since January 2009 will be eligible for the netbooks, subject to terms and conditions,” said Alicia.
Meanwhile, Masterskill group chief executive officer Datuk Edmund Santhara said the college realised the importance of netbooks as basic tools for students.
“After all, we care about our students and we want them to do well in their studies,” said Edmund.
He said that the netbook giveaway will enable more people to have equal opportunities to access information and encourage knowledge-sharing for everyone, as technology plays a crucial role in the progression of the healthcare industry.
“With this programme, we hope that we can build a capable and professional nursing and allied health workforce to meet increasing demands of the country as well as worldwide,” said Edmund.
Edmund added that Masterskill puts great emphasis on corporate social responsibility (CSR) as the college aims to nurture wholesome individuals who not only excel academically but in other aspects as well.
“Our CSR exercises are aimed at helping to inculcate positive values among our students and staff, while at the same time contribute ultimately towards cultivating a caring society,” he said.
Masterskill was incorporated in 1997 and attained university college status in July last year, offering vast variety of health science programmes at foundation, diploma, degree and masters levels.
Information and details of the netbook giveaway programme and the institution’s academic programmes can be obtained by calling 1-300-88-9080 or from www.Masterskill.edu.my.
P1’s chief executive officer, Michael Lai explained that the company has exceeded the expectations, having covered over 25 per cent of the populated areas in Peninsular Malaysia, a cornerstone that sets sail for its East Malaysian expansion.
“The greenlight to operate in East Malaysia will further attest P1’s technological prowess in enriching the digital lifestyle of all Malaysians. We are greatly honoured that P1 can now offer high-speed wireless broadband internet services to more Malaysians of different corners.
“According to the statistics released by MCMC for year 2008, both Sarawak and Sabah registered 13.6 per cent and 9.6 per cent respectively for the broadband internet access against their household populations. Take Sabah for example, only some nine households out of 100 had broadband internet access. This only suggests that there is enormous potential to fulfill the market needs,” Lai said.
Lai hinted that major towns in Sarawak such as Kuching, Sibu, Miri, and in Sabah for instance Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan are among the first to enjoy P1 WiMAX services by the middle of next year if everything goes according to plan.
He said P1 commands an encouraging market presence in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, accounting for two-thirds of its subscriber base.
The company is making inroads into Johor, Kedah and Penang, among others.
P1 keeps accelerating its momentum towards implementing its master plan of providing WiMAX access to at least 45 per cent of Malaysian households by the end of next year.
The company is already executing a RM1 billion, five-year investment plan that aspires to cover 65 per cent of populated areas across Malaysia by 2012.
“WiMAX plays an important role in both emerging markets and mature markets. And broadband is becoming a necessity for many residential and business subscribers worldwide. WiMAX is certainly the next ‘in’ thing, Lai added.
Commenting on the future of WiMAX technology, Lai is positive that the fourth generation of wireless technology will only narrow the gap of digital divide among all walks of life and shorten the distance among remote places.
“WiMAX seeks to serve users’ increasing demands for high data throughput (broadband) services such as streaming media on the internet, live video conferencing, and mobile TV on computers as well as handsets and PDAs. WiMAX is expected to be integrated into the next generation mass market consumer devices. And this trend is unstoppable.
“Broadband is not a privilege, it’s a right for all,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, P1 offers WiMAX Office Standard, WiMAX Office Premium, WiMAX Home Plus, WiMAX Home Pro, WiMAX Home Lite and WIGGY.
P1 is also targeting the startup market and first-time broadband users by offering the ‘stimulus package’ at RM49 per month for a 5GB plan.
Find out more about P1 offerings at www.p1.com.my.
Masterskill to give students RM10m worth of netbooks
Masterskill University College of Health Science is offering over RM10 million worth of netbooks to students who enrol with the college starting from the January 2009 intake.Masterskill chief operations officer Alicia Nathan said in a press release that the college has come up with a simple and fair method to every student, as the college is unable to allocate netbooks to everyone.
“Students who confirm their enrolment in Masterskill’ programme since January 2009 will be eligible for the netbooks, subject to terms and conditions,” said Alicia.
Meanwhile, Masterskill group chief executive officer Datuk Edmund Santhara said the college realised the importance of netbooks as basic tools for students.
“After all, we care about our students and we want them to do well in their studies,” said Edmund.
He said that the netbook giveaway will enable more people to have equal opportunities to access information and encourage knowledge-sharing for everyone, as technology plays a crucial role in the progression of the healthcare industry.
“With this programme, we hope that we can build a capable and professional nursing and allied health workforce to meet increasing demands of the country as well as worldwide,” said Edmund.
Edmund added that Masterskill puts great emphasis on corporate social responsibility (CSR) as the college aims to nurture wholesome individuals who not only excel academically but in other aspects as well.
“Our CSR exercises are aimed at helping to inculcate positive values among our students and staff, while at the same time contribute ultimately towards cultivating a caring society,” he said.
Masterskill was incorporated in 1997 and attained university college status in July last year, offering vast variety of health science programmes at foundation, diploma, degree and masters levels.
Information and details of the netbook giveaway programme and the institution’s academic programmes can be obtained by calling 1-300-88-9080 or from www.Masterskill.edu.my.
20091130
2 ekor anjing hidap H1N1
29 Nov. 2009 - Dua ekor anjing di sini disahkan dijangkiti virus influenza A (H1N1), kes kedua wabak tersebut tersebar di kalangan haiwan di China selepas beberapa ekor babi di timur laut republik ini dijangkiti virus yang sama.
Menurut akhbar kerajaan, Beijing Times yang memetik Kementerian Pertanian sebagai berkata bahawa virus H1N1 yang dikesan pada dua anjing itu mempunyai persamaan hampir 99 peratus dengan yang ditemui pada manusia.
Akhbar itu melaporkan berita tersebut berlaku 10 hari selepas empat ekor babi di wilayah Heilongjiang dikesan dijangkiti virus yang sama, yang menurut pakar mungkin berpunca daripada manusia.
Memetik pegawai Biro Pertanian Majlis Perbandaran Beijing, akhbar itu melaporkan, anjing-anjing berkenaan mungkin telah dijangkiti virus berkenaan daripada manusia yang dijangkiti virus H1N1 ketika bersentuhan dengan mereka.
"Anjing yang dijangkiti virus H1N1 boleh menjangkiti anjing lain,'' kata pegawai tersebut.
Negara lain termasuk Amerika Syarikat (AS), Kanada dan Chile sebelum ini telah melaporkan kes selesema babi di kalangan haiwan.
Seekor kucing di Iowa, AS, disahkan sebagai haiwan pertama dijangkiti virus H1N1 awal bulan ini berpunca daripada virus jenis baru di dunia yang tersebar di kalangan haiwan.
Pertubuhan Kesihatan Sedunia (WHO) telah meminta pengawasan yang lebih dilakukan terhadap pekerja ladang dan haiwan-haiwan berikutan laporan-laporan kes tersebut. - AFP
Menurut akhbar kerajaan, Beijing Times yang memetik Kementerian Pertanian sebagai berkata bahawa virus H1N1 yang dikesan pada dua anjing itu mempunyai persamaan hampir 99 peratus dengan yang ditemui pada manusia.
Akhbar itu melaporkan berita tersebut berlaku 10 hari selepas empat ekor babi di wilayah Heilongjiang dikesan dijangkiti virus yang sama, yang menurut pakar mungkin berpunca daripada manusia.
Memetik pegawai Biro Pertanian Majlis Perbandaran Beijing, akhbar itu melaporkan, anjing-anjing berkenaan mungkin telah dijangkiti virus berkenaan daripada manusia yang dijangkiti virus H1N1 ketika bersentuhan dengan mereka.
"Anjing yang dijangkiti virus H1N1 boleh menjangkiti anjing lain,'' kata pegawai tersebut.
Negara lain termasuk Amerika Syarikat (AS), Kanada dan Chile sebelum ini telah melaporkan kes selesema babi di kalangan haiwan.
Seekor kucing di Iowa, AS, disahkan sebagai haiwan pertama dijangkiti virus H1N1 awal bulan ini berpunca daripada virus jenis baru di dunia yang tersebar di kalangan haiwan.
Pertubuhan Kesihatan Sedunia (WHO) telah meminta pengawasan yang lebih dilakukan terhadap pekerja ladang dan haiwan-haiwan berikutan laporan-laporan kes tersebut. - AFP
Malaysia destinasi pilihan ekspatriat
Malaysia tersenarai sebagai salah satu daripada lima destinasi di rantau Asia Pasifik yang paling diminati oleh ekspatriat.
Kajian HSBC Bank International (HSBC) mendapati Australia merupakan negara paling digemari ekspatriat diikuti Thailand, Singapura, Hong Kong dan Malaysia.
Secara global pula, Malaysia menduduki tangga ke-11 berbanding Bahrain (5), Afrika Selatan (6), Perancis (7), Amerika Syarikat (8), Jerman (12), Belgium (15), Jepun (16), Vietnam (19), China (22), United Kingdom (23) dan India (25).
Daripada 26 negara yang dikaji, Kanada adalah negara yang paling diminati ekspatriat manakala Qatar merupakan negara paling tidak diminati.
Kajian turut mendapati Malaysia menduduki tangga teratas di kalangan 26 negara tersebut dalam bidang pendidikan dan penjagaan kanak-kanak.
“Ekspatriat di Malaysia menyatakan bahawa pendidikan dan perkhidmatan penjagaan kanak-kanak di negara ini adalah terbaik diikuti oleh Singapura.
“Malaysia bersama dengan Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong dan Bahrain juga terpilih sebagai negara yang paling mesra kepada ekspatriat,” kata laporan itu yang dipetik daripada www.offshore.hsbc.com.
Lebih 3,100 orang ekspatriat di seluruh dunia terlibat dalam kajian tersebut untuk menentukan negara mana menyediakan kualiti hidup yang paling selesa untuk mereka.
Antara perkara yang dinilai meliputi kemudahan tempat tinggal, makanan, hiburan, pengangkutan, pendidikan, perkhidmatan kesihatan, waktu kerja dan kehidupan keluarga.
Kajian tersebut menyatakan kebanyakan ekspatriat masih suka bekerja di Thailand walaupun tangga gaji di negara itu lebih rendah berbanding di negara asal ekspatriat.
“Ekspatriat yang bermastautin di Thailand lebih berpuas hati dengan kehidupan sosial mereka di negara itu dengan lebih separuh menyatakan kualiti kehidupan sosial mereka bertambah baik,” kata laporan itu.
Kajian tersebut turut melaporkan bahawa kebanyakan ekspatriat menghadapi masalah untuk menguasai bahasa Thai ketika bermastautin di negara itu.
“Bagaimanapun hampir 56 peratus ekspatriat di Thailand rela untuk belajar bahasa tempatan bagi memudahkan mereka bergaul dengan masyarakat.
“Seramai 76 peratus ekspatriat di negara itu mempunyai kawan warganegara Thailand manakala 47 peratus pula berjaya mencari kekasih mereka di negara itu,” menurut laporan itu.
Kajian HSBC Bank International (HSBC) mendapati Australia merupakan negara paling digemari ekspatriat diikuti Thailand, Singapura, Hong Kong dan Malaysia.
Secara global pula, Malaysia menduduki tangga ke-11 berbanding Bahrain (5), Afrika Selatan (6), Perancis (7), Amerika Syarikat (8), Jerman (12), Belgium (15), Jepun (16), Vietnam (19), China (22), United Kingdom (23) dan India (25).
Daripada 26 negara yang dikaji, Kanada adalah negara yang paling diminati ekspatriat manakala Qatar merupakan negara paling tidak diminati.
Kajian turut mendapati Malaysia menduduki tangga teratas di kalangan 26 negara tersebut dalam bidang pendidikan dan penjagaan kanak-kanak.
“Ekspatriat di Malaysia menyatakan bahawa pendidikan dan perkhidmatan penjagaan kanak-kanak di negara ini adalah terbaik diikuti oleh Singapura.
“Malaysia bersama dengan Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong dan Bahrain juga terpilih sebagai negara yang paling mesra kepada ekspatriat,” kata laporan itu yang dipetik daripada www.offshore.hsbc.com.
Lebih 3,100 orang ekspatriat di seluruh dunia terlibat dalam kajian tersebut untuk menentukan negara mana menyediakan kualiti hidup yang paling selesa untuk mereka.
Antara perkara yang dinilai meliputi kemudahan tempat tinggal, makanan, hiburan, pengangkutan, pendidikan, perkhidmatan kesihatan, waktu kerja dan kehidupan keluarga.
Kajian tersebut menyatakan kebanyakan ekspatriat masih suka bekerja di Thailand walaupun tangga gaji di negara itu lebih rendah berbanding di negara asal ekspatriat.
“Ekspatriat yang bermastautin di Thailand lebih berpuas hati dengan kehidupan sosial mereka di negara itu dengan lebih separuh menyatakan kualiti kehidupan sosial mereka bertambah baik,” kata laporan itu.
Kajian tersebut turut melaporkan bahawa kebanyakan ekspatriat menghadapi masalah untuk menguasai bahasa Thai ketika bermastautin di negara itu.
“Bagaimanapun hampir 56 peratus ekspatriat di Thailand rela untuk belajar bahasa tempatan bagi memudahkan mereka bergaul dengan masyarakat.
“Seramai 76 peratus ekspatriat di negara itu mempunyai kawan warganegara Thailand manakala 47 peratus pula berjaya mencari kekasih mereka di negara itu,” menurut laporan itu.
Fikirkan keselamatan perairan
Malaysia dan negara jiran tidak seharusnya memberi fokus terhadap masalah tuntutan bertindih melibatkan beberapa kawasan perairan di rantau ini sehingga menyebabkan kegiatan lanun bergerak aktif.
Menteri Pertahanan, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi berkata, sebaliknya semua negara terlibat perlu memikirkan cara untuk bekerjasama bagi memastikan kawasan perairan rantau ini selamat daripada ancaman lanun.
"Aktiviti lanun terutamanya di kawasan Laut China Selatan kini pada tahap tertinggi bukan lagi konvensional," katanya.
Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar selepas menyampaikan ucaptama pada Persidangan Antarabangsa Maritim sempena Pameran Udara dan Maritim Antarabangsa Langkawi (LIMA 09) di sini hari ini.
"Lanun di Teluk Aden telah bergerak 1,000 batu nautika dari kedudukan mereka. Jadi, negara perlu mengambil berat hal ini bagi memastikan mereka tidak sampai ke Malaysia terutamanya di perairan Selat Melaka yang menjadi laluan utama kapal-kapal dagang," katanya.
Menurutnya, sebelum ini, tuntutan bertindih di beberapa kawasan perairan telah berlaku antara lima negara sehingga menyebabkan tiada pengawasan di kawasan yang mengalami tuntutan itu.
Jelasnya, tahun ini sahaja, dua kes kecurian melibatkan kapal-kapal nelayan berlaku di perairan Laut China Selatan.
"Ia tidaklah dikelaskan sebagai perlanunan konvensional. Tetapi kita perlu memberi perhatian kerana aktiviti tidak konvensional seperti kecurian ini juga boleh bertukar menjadi kegiatan perlanunan sekiranya tidak dikawal segera.
"Musuh kita adalah pengganas dan lanun. Jadi, kita perlu bekerjasama mengatasinya bagi memastikan kesejahteraan masyarakat sejagat," katanya.
Menteri Pertahanan, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi berkata, sebaliknya semua negara terlibat perlu memikirkan cara untuk bekerjasama bagi memastikan kawasan perairan rantau ini selamat daripada ancaman lanun.
"Aktiviti lanun terutamanya di kawasan Laut China Selatan kini pada tahap tertinggi bukan lagi konvensional," katanya.
Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar selepas menyampaikan ucaptama pada Persidangan Antarabangsa Maritim sempena Pameran Udara dan Maritim Antarabangsa Langkawi (LIMA 09) di sini hari ini.
"Lanun di Teluk Aden telah bergerak 1,000 batu nautika dari kedudukan mereka. Jadi, negara perlu mengambil berat hal ini bagi memastikan mereka tidak sampai ke Malaysia terutamanya di perairan Selat Melaka yang menjadi laluan utama kapal-kapal dagang," katanya.
Menurutnya, sebelum ini, tuntutan bertindih di beberapa kawasan perairan telah berlaku antara lima negara sehingga menyebabkan tiada pengawasan di kawasan yang mengalami tuntutan itu.
Jelasnya, tahun ini sahaja, dua kes kecurian melibatkan kapal-kapal nelayan berlaku di perairan Laut China Selatan.
"Ia tidaklah dikelaskan sebagai perlanunan konvensional. Tetapi kita perlu memberi perhatian kerana aktiviti tidak konvensional seperti kecurian ini juga boleh bertukar menjadi kegiatan perlanunan sekiranya tidak dikawal segera.
"Musuh kita adalah pengganas dan lanun. Jadi, kita perlu bekerjasama mengatasinya bagi memastikan kesejahteraan masyarakat sejagat," katanya.
Kajian mendalam GST jaga kesejahteraan rakyat
Kerajaan menjalankan kajian mendalam dan komprehensif berkaitan rancangan pelaksanaan cukai barangan dan perkhidmatan (GST) bagi memastikan ia tidak menjejaskan kesejahteraan rakyat.
Menteri Kewangan Kedua, Datuk Seri Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah berkata, dalam masa sama, kajian seumpama itu penting bagi memastikan Malaysia kekal sebagai sebuah negara yang mempunyai daya saing.
''Kita telah membuat kajian mendalam, matlamat kita adalah untuk menjaga kesejahteraan rakyat," katanya kepada pemberita selepas menyampaikan replika cek bernilai RM300,000 untuk pembinaan pasar di Kampung Manjoi di sini hari ini.
Isnin lalu, Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak mengumumkan Rang Undang-Undang berhubung pengenalan GST akan dibentangkan untuk bacaan pertama pada akhir sidang Dewan Rakyat.
Kelmarin, Ahmad Husni berkata, kerajaan merancang mengenakan GST pada kadar empat peratus.
Mengulas lanjut, beliau memberitahu, sebanyak 143 negara telah melaksanakan GST dan kajian yang dijalankan turut membabitkan keberkesanannya di negara-negara terbabit.
''Dalam kelompok negara ASEAN, selain Malaysia, hanya Brunei dan Myanmar yang belum memperkenalkan GST," ujar Ahmad Husni.
Kerajaan katanya, menjangka pendapatan tahunan negara akan meningkat sebanyak RM1 bilion dalam tempoh masa setahun selepas GST diperkenalkan bagi menggantikan cukai jualan dan perkhidmatan.
Menteri Kewangan Kedua, Datuk Seri Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah berkata, dalam masa sama, kajian seumpama itu penting bagi memastikan Malaysia kekal sebagai sebuah negara yang mempunyai daya saing.
''Kita telah membuat kajian mendalam, matlamat kita adalah untuk menjaga kesejahteraan rakyat," katanya kepada pemberita selepas menyampaikan replika cek bernilai RM300,000 untuk pembinaan pasar di Kampung Manjoi di sini hari ini.
Isnin lalu, Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak mengumumkan Rang Undang-Undang berhubung pengenalan GST akan dibentangkan untuk bacaan pertama pada akhir sidang Dewan Rakyat.
Kelmarin, Ahmad Husni berkata, kerajaan merancang mengenakan GST pada kadar empat peratus.
Mengulas lanjut, beliau memberitahu, sebanyak 143 negara telah melaksanakan GST dan kajian yang dijalankan turut membabitkan keberkesanannya di negara-negara terbabit.
''Dalam kelompok negara ASEAN, selain Malaysia, hanya Brunei dan Myanmar yang belum memperkenalkan GST," ujar Ahmad Husni.
Kerajaan katanya, menjangka pendapatan tahunan negara akan meningkat sebanyak RM1 bilion dalam tempoh masa setahun selepas GST diperkenalkan bagi menggantikan cukai jualan dan perkhidmatan.
Berkuat kuasa 1 Januari ini, Lembaga Pelesenan Kenderaan Perdagangan (LPKP) akan mengambil tindakan tegas, termasuk menarik balik lesen 31,000 pemandu teksi di seluruh negara jika mereka gagal mengeluarkan resit tambang kepada penumpang.
Pengerusinya, Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique, berkata tindakan itu diambil bagi memperbaiki sistem perkhidmatan awam negara khususnya teksi yang sering dilabel dengan pelbagai imej negatif, terutama di kalangan pelancong asing.
"Kita mahu teksi yang beroperasi di negara ini mematuhi undang-undang. Kita kuatkuasakan peraturan ini kerana menerima banyak rungutan daripada orang ramai yang mendakwa teksi mengenakan tambang sesuka hati dan tidak mengikut kadar tambang sebenar.
"Apabila ditanya, pemandu teksi memberi alasan tambang sedia ada terlalu rendah, sedangkan pada Ogos lalu, kerajaan sudah menaikkan kadar tambang teksi.
"Kini tiada lagi alasan untuk mereka enggan mengeluarkan resit serta mengenakan tambang mengikut kadar ditetapkan," katanya selepas menyerahkan sumbangan daging korban peringkat Parlimen Tenggara di Felda Sungai Sibol, di sini, semalam.
Kerajaan pada 1 Ogos lalu mengumumkan kenaikan kadar tambang teksi daripada RM2 untuk kilometer (km) pertama perjalanan kepada RM3, manakala perkhidmatan antara jam 12 tengah malam dan 6 pagi dikenakan caj tambahan 50 peratus ke atas kadar yang ditetapkan dan tambahan RM2 untuk sewaan melalui telefon.
Setakat ini, katanya 90 peratus daripada teksi seluruh negara sudah menyelaraskan meter mereka dan pencetak tambang bagi membolehkan mereka mengenakan kadar tambang baru kepada penumpang.
Halimah berkata, LPKP menetapkan tarikh akhir untuk penyelarasan meter bagi tambang baru dibuat selewat-lewatnya pada 31 Disember ini dan teksi yang gagal berbuat demikian tidak dibenarkan mengenakan kadar baru serta tidak boleh beroperasi.
"Kelonggaran diberi kepada 1,260 teksi di Pulau Pinang untuk tidak mengeluarkan resit tambang kepada penumpang sehingga 30 Jun tahun depan kerana mereka menghadapi masalah pada pencetak tambang kenderaan masing-masing yang memerlukan perbelanjaan tambahan mencecah RM350.
"Bagaimanapun, jika masih gagal menggantikan pencetak tambang teksi itu selepas tarikh berkenaan, teksi mereka tidak akan dibenarkan beroperasi," katanya.
Mengulas pemberian 3,000 permit teksi individu yang diumumkan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak, ketika sambutan 100 hari kerajaan pimpinan beliau, Halimah berkata, setakat ini, sejumlah 5,000 permohonan diterima.
"Tarikh tutup permohonan pada akhir tahun ini dan LPKP menjangka dapat memaklumkan kepada pemohon selewat-lewatnya minggu ketiga Januari ini.
"Bagaimanapun, kita memberi keutamaan kepada ibu tunggal untuk mendapat permit individu ini bagi membantu mereka memulakan perniagaan teksi serta meringan beban keluarga yang ditanggung mereka," katanya.
Pengerusinya, Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique, berkata tindakan itu diambil bagi memperbaiki sistem perkhidmatan awam negara khususnya teksi yang sering dilabel dengan pelbagai imej negatif, terutama di kalangan pelancong asing.
"Kita mahu teksi yang beroperasi di negara ini mematuhi undang-undang. Kita kuatkuasakan peraturan ini kerana menerima banyak rungutan daripada orang ramai yang mendakwa teksi mengenakan tambang sesuka hati dan tidak mengikut kadar tambang sebenar.
"Apabila ditanya, pemandu teksi memberi alasan tambang sedia ada terlalu rendah, sedangkan pada Ogos lalu, kerajaan sudah menaikkan kadar tambang teksi.
"Kini tiada lagi alasan untuk mereka enggan mengeluarkan resit serta mengenakan tambang mengikut kadar ditetapkan," katanya selepas menyerahkan sumbangan daging korban peringkat Parlimen Tenggara di Felda Sungai Sibol, di sini, semalam.
Kerajaan pada 1 Ogos lalu mengumumkan kenaikan kadar tambang teksi daripada RM2 untuk kilometer (km) pertama perjalanan kepada RM3, manakala perkhidmatan antara jam 12 tengah malam dan 6 pagi dikenakan caj tambahan 50 peratus ke atas kadar yang ditetapkan dan tambahan RM2 untuk sewaan melalui telefon.
Setakat ini, katanya 90 peratus daripada teksi seluruh negara sudah menyelaraskan meter mereka dan pencetak tambang bagi membolehkan mereka mengenakan kadar tambang baru kepada penumpang.
Halimah berkata, LPKP menetapkan tarikh akhir untuk penyelarasan meter bagi tambang baru dibuat selewat-lewatnya pada 31 Disember ini dan teksi yang gagal berbuat demikian tidak dibenarkan mengenakan kadar baru serta tidak boleh beroperasi.
"Kelonggaran diberi kepada 1,260 teksi di Pulau Pinang untuk tidak mengeluarkan resit tambang kepada penumpang sehingga 30 Jun tahun depan kerana mereka menghadapi masalah pada pencetak tambang kenderaan masing-masing yang memerlukan perbelanjaan tambahan mencecah RM350.
"Bagaimanapun, jika masih gagal menggantikan pencetak tambang teksi itu selepas tarikh berkenaan, teksi mereka tidak akan dibenarkan beroperasi," katanya.
Mengulas pemberian 3,000 permit teksi individu yang diumumkan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak, ketika sambutan 100 hari kerajaan pimpinan beliau, Halimah berkata, setakat ini, sejumlah 5,000 permohonan diterima.
"Tarikh tutup permohonan pada akhir tahun ini dan LPKP menjangka dapat memaklumkan kepada pemohon selewat-lewatnya minggu ketiga Januari ini.
"Bagaimanapun, kita memberi keutamaan kepada ibu tunggal untuk mendapat permit individu ini bagi membantu mereka memulakan perniagaan teksi serta meringan beban keluarga yang ditanggung mereka," katanya.
20091126
New Central Bank Act comes into force
The Central Bank of Malaysia Act 2009 came into force yesterday, enabling Bank Negara to more effectively manage emerging risks and challenges.
With this, the Central Bank of Malaysia Act 1958 is repealed and thus ceased to apply, the central bank said in a statement yesterday.
The new Act provided greater clarity on the central bank’s mandate and vested it with the necessary powers and instruments to achieve this mandate, it said.
Specific powers for macro-prudential financial stability which to date had not been a common feature of traditional central banking legislation are now included in the Act.
These provisions, among others, supported increased surveillance, regulatory reach, oversight of money and foreign exchange markets and coordination with other regulators, including across borders, on crisis prevention, management and resolution, the statement added.
Consistent with the goal to promote Malaysia as an international centre for Islamic finance, the Act gave due recognition to the Islamic financial system in the country, Bank Negara said, adding that it provided for an enhanced role of the Syariah Advisory Council on Islamic Finance to facilitate consistent application of Islamic law on Islamic financial matters.
With this, the Central Bank of Malaysia Act 1958 is repealed and thus ceased to apply, the central bank said in a statement yesterday.
The new Act provided greater clarity on the central bank’s mandate and vested it with the necessary powers and instruments to achieve this mandate, it said.
Specific powers for macro-prudential financial stability which to date had not been a common feature of traditional central banking legislation are now included in the Act.
These provisions, among others, supported increased surveillance, regulatory reach, oversight of money and foreign exchange markets and coordination with other regulators, including across borders, on crisis prevention, management and resolution, the statement added.
Consistent with the goal to promote Malaysia as an international centre for Islamic finance, the Act gave due recognition to the Islamic financial system in the country, Bank Negara said, adding that it provided for an enhanced role of the Syariah Advisory Council on Islamic Finance to facilitate consistent application of Islamic law on Islamic financial matters.
20091124
Tawar kursus keperluan semasa
Institusi pengajian tinggi swasta (IPTS) di negeri ini diminta bergerak proaktif dengan menawarkan kursus-kursus yang menepati kehendak dan keperluan pasaran kerja semasa.
Penekanan kepada aspek kebolehpasaran kerja itu penting bagi memastikan semua pelajar mendapat pekerjaan seterusnya mengurangkan masalah pengangguran.
Institut Pengajian Tinggi Swasta (IPTS) sentiasa peka dengan perkembangan semasa sejajar dengan perubahan landskap ekonomi negara dan dunia.
Kursus-kursus yang ditawarkan perlulah mengambil kira perkembangan dan perubahan yang berlaku agar ia sentiasa relevan bagi keperluan jangka panjang. IPTS juga perlu menyuntik elemen-elemen kemahiran bagi melahirkan graduan yang berpengetahuan tinggi dan berketerampilan kerana langkah ini penting bagi memberi kelebihan kepada graduan sekali gus meningkatkan peluang mereka bersaing dalam pasaran kerja.
Semua IPT perlu menyediakan kemudahan pembelajaran terbaik bagi melahirkan lebih ramai tenaga mahir dan profesional dalam meningkatkan daya saing di peringkat global dan harus sedar bahawa sektor pendidikan negara hendaklah terus diperkasakan untuk melahirkan tenaga-tenaga mahir dan profesional.
Penekanan kepada aspek kebolehpasaran kerja itu penting bagi memastikan semua pelajar mendapat pekerjaan seterusnya mengurangkan masalah pengangguran.
Institut Pengajian Tinggi Swasta (IPTS) sentiasa peka dengan perkembangan semasa sejajar dengan perubahan landskap ekonomi negara dan dunia.
Kursus-kursus yang ditawarkan perlulah mengambil kira perkembangan dan perubahan yang berlaku agar ia sentiasa relevan bagi keperluan jangka panjang. IPTS juga perlu menyuntik elemen-elemen kemahiran bagi melahirkan graduan yang berpengetahuan tinggi dan berketerampilan kerana langkah ini penting bagi memberi kelebihan kepada graduan sekali gus meningkatkan peluang mereka bersaing dalam pasaran kerja.
Semua IPT perlu menyediakan kemudahan pembelajaran terbaik bagi melahirkan lebih ramai tenaga mahir dan profesional dalam meningkatkan daya saing di peringkat global dan harus sedar bahawa sektor pendidikan negara hendaklah terus diperkasakan untuk melahirkan tenaga-tenaga mahir dan profesional.
20091123
Video lucah RM5
GAMBAR lucah yang dimuat turun dalam telefon bimbit
KEDAI aksesori telefon bimbit menyediakan perkhidmatan muat turun gambar dan video lucah.
Kedai aksesori telefon bimbit Dengkil kutip jualan lumayan
Perkhidmatan muat turun gambar dan video lucah untuk peminat bahan pornografi termasuk pekerja asing dan pelajar oleh segelintir pemilik kedai telefon bimbit di pekan Dengkil, Sepang di sini, dikatakan mampu membawa pulangan lumayan hingga membolehkan mereka hidup mewah hasil kegiatan itu.
Menurut sumber, peniaga menawarkan perkhidmatan itu kerana modal diperlukan amat kecil iaitu tidak sampai RM10 bagi membeli perisian cetak rompak, sedangkan keuntungan bakal diperoleh pula amat tinggi hingga mencecah beribu ringgit sebulan.
Hasil tinjauan Sentral di sekitar Taman Dengkil Jaya dan pekan Dengkil baru-baru ini mendapati perkhidmatan itu ditawarkan kebanyakan premis menjual aksesori telefon bimbit.
Bagaimanapun, difahamkan sebagai langkah keselamatan untuk mengelakkan serbuan pihak berkuasa, peniaga tidak menyimpan koleksi gambar dan klip video dalam komputer sebaliknya hanya dimuat turun selepas diminta pelanggan tetap masing-masing.
Malah, peniaga terbabit juga didapati dengan selambanya menawarkan perkhidmatan itu kepada pelanggan tetap dengan berkata, “You mau gambar amoi cantik ke?”
Namun, pelawaan secara terbuka itu hanya ditujukan kepada golongan dewasa, manakala golongan remaja yang berminat perlu menggunakan 'kata laluan' tertentu seperti “Bos, baik punya ada?” bagi mendapatkan khidmat muat turun video lucah ke dalam telefon bimbit mereka.
Seorang remaja yang hanya mahu dikenali sebagai Azam berkata, kata laluan itu penting bagi meyakinkan peniaga bahawa pelanggan adalah penggemar bahan lucah.
Katanya, selepas memberi kata laluan, pelanggan diberi kebebasan memilih jenis filem lucah diingini berdasarkan katalog atau demo dalam komputer riba peniaga berkenaan.
Bagaimanapun, tidak semua telefon bimbit boleh memuat turun bahan itu, kecuali telefon bimbit yang menggunakan kad memori multimedia (MMC) berkapasiti 32, 64, 128, 256 dan 512 megabait.
“Tidak sukar mendapatkan gambar dan video lucah di sini kerana kebanyakan peniaga aksesori telefon bimbit memang menawarkan perkhidmatan itu.
“Malah, ada peniaga yang mampu mengambil masa kurang 10 minit untuk memuat turun berpuluh gambar dan klip video lucah yang diingini mereka ke dalam MMC,” katanya.
Sehubungan itu, Azam berkata, kebanyakan peniaga lebih gemar menggunakan kaedah meminta MMC dan kabel USB kerana dianggap lebih selamat.
“Jika menggunakan MMC dan kabel USB, aktiviti muat turun dapat dilakukan secara tersembunyi tanpa disedari pelanggan lain, jadi peniaga boleh melayan pelanggannya sambil membiarkan proses muat turun berjalan.
“Setiap kali memuat turun video lucah, saya berbelanja antara RM5 hingga RM10 untuk memperoleh kira-kira lima atau enam video lucah dengan tempoh paparan sekitar 10 hingga 20 minit bagi setiap video,” katanya.
Beliau berkata, kebanyakan video lucah dalam telefon bimbitnya disebarkan pada rakannya secara percuma dan begitu juga rakannya akan menyebarkannya video terbaru apabila mereka membelinya.
Seorang penduduk yang hanya mahu dikenali sebagai Johan, pula melahirkan kebimbangan bahawa kegiatan muat turun gambar dan video lucah terbabit akan menimbulkan pelbagai masalah sosial lain termasuk perhubungan seks rambang dan peningkatan jenayah rogol di kalangan masyarakat setempat.
Berikutan itu, Johan berkata, beliau berharap pihak berkuasa terutama polis dapat memantau dan mengambil tindakan sewajarnya bagi menangani masalah gejala sosial terbabit.
Economy will grow next year, says DPM
Malaysia’s economy is recovering following measures taken by the Government and is expected to register a growth of three to four percent next year, said Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
He added that the Government had implemented various initiatives aimed at transforming the country’s economy from a low- and medium-income economy into a high-income one.
Muhyiddin urged the people, including Malaysian students overseas, to help ensure that the economic transformation progressed smoothly.
Muhyiddin also spoke of the Government’s efforts to enhance its delivery service through the introduction of key performance indicators (KPIs) for ministers.
On overseas students, Muhyiddin said the Government believed they would strive to protect the good name of the country.
Apart from focusing on their studies, students should also make efforts to promote Malaysia overseas.
“Good relations with the local people will go a long way in projecting a positive image of Malaysia internationally,” he said in a dinner with about 600 Malaysians here on Friday night.
He added that Malaysian students in Indonesia could also play their role in further streng-thening ties between both countries.
He added that the Government had implemented various initiatives aimed at transforming the country’s economy from a low- and medium-income economy into a high-income one.
Muhyiddin urged the people, including Malaysian students overseas, to help ensure that the economic transformation progressed smoothly.
Muhyiddin also spoke of the Government’s efforts to enhance its delivery service through the introduction of key performance indicators (KPIs) for ministers.
On overseas students, Muhyiddin said the Government believed they would strive to protect the good name of the country.
Apart from focusing on their studies, students should also make efforts to promote Malaysia overseas.
“Good relations with the local people will go a long way in projecting a positive image of Malaysia internationally,” he said in a dinner with about 600 Malaysians here on Friday night.
He added that Malaysian students in Indonesia could also play their role in further streng-thening ties between both countries.
Tun Salahuddin angkat sumpah sebagai Yang di-Pertua Negeri
Tun Datuk Patinggi Abang Salahuddin semalam mengangkat sum-pah jawatan sebagai Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak bagi penggal selama dua tahun yang berkuat kuasa 5 Disember depan.
Upacara tersebut yang diadakan di Bangunan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) bermula dengan pembacaan watikah pelantikan oleh Ke-tua Menteri Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.
Setiausaha Kerajaan Ne- geri Datuk Amar Mohd Morshidi Ghani mempelawa Tun Salahuddin untuk mengangkat sumpah sebelum menandatangani surat pengisytiharan sambil disaksi- kan oleh Taib dan Ketua Ha-kim Sabah dan Sarawak Datuk Seri Panglima Richard Malanjun.
Tun Salahuddin menerima watikah pelantikan daripada Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin di Istana Negara pada 19 November lepas.
Beliau merupakan Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak ketiga, iaitu dari tahun 1977 sehingga April 1981 menggantikan Tun Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Bujang Tuanku Othman dan menyandang jawatan itu buat kali kedua pada 2001 menggantikan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce yang meninggal dunia pada tahun 2000.
Hadir sama ialah Timbalan Ketua Menteri Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan dan Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, menteri-menteri kabinet dan menteri-menteri muda.
Upacara tersebut yang diadakan di Bangunan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) bermula dengan pembacaan watikah pelantikan oleh Ke-tua Menteri Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.
Setiausaha Kerajaan Ne- geri Datuk Amar Mohd Morshidi Ghani mempelawa Tun Salahuddin untuk mengangkat sumpah sebelum menandatangani surat pengisytiharan sambil disaksi- kan oleh Taib dan Ketua Ha-kim Sabah dan Sarawak Datuk Seri Panglima Richard Malanjun.
Tun Salahuddin menerima watikah pelantikan daripada Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin di Istana Negara pada 19 November lepas.
Beliau merupakan Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak ketiga, iaitu dari tahun 1977 sehingga April 1981 menggantikan Tun Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Bujang Tuanku Othman dan menyandang jawatan itu buat kali kedua pada 2001 menggantikan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce yang meninggal dunia pada tahun 2000.
Hadir sama ialah Timbalan Ketua Menteri Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan dan Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, menteri-menteri kabinet dan menteri-menteri muda.
20091120
UPSR: Better showing in Maths, Science and Tamil
There has been a jump in the number of A’s obtained in Mathematics, Science and Tamil (Comprehension) in the Primary School Achievement Test (UPSR) 2009 results.
Education director-general Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom said Mathematics (in both national and vernacular schools) had the highest increase in the number of A’s obtained at 4.2% followed by Tamil (Comprehension) at 3.6% and Science at 2.2% out of the 12 subjects offered in the UPSR.
“There was no significant drop in the other subjects,” he said when announcing the analysis of the UPSR results at the ministry yesterday.
Alimuddin said more Year Six pupils obtained A’s in all their subjects in this year’s UPSR compared to the previous year.
A total of 48,171 obtained all A’s this year compared to 46,641 in 2008.
He said the number of pupils who obtained good results (with a minimum C) also increased from 46,641 in 2008 to 48,171 this year while there was a decline in those who obtained all E’s from 3,363 in 2008 to 3,266 this year.
He said the emphasis for the UPSR 2009 results was on the overall achievements of pupils and their subject performance.
“The ministry is not naming any best schools as we want to avoid an over-emphasis on examination results,” he said.
The Average National Grade (GPN), he added, was used to measure the overall achievements of pupils while the Average Subject Grade (GPMP) gauged subject performance.
On the achievements of pupils in urban and rural areas, Alimuddin said there was an overall improvement.
He said a total of 31, 360 obtained all A’s in urban areas compared to 16,380 in rural areas.
“The comparison with this year’s and last year’s results show that the gap is narrowing,” he added.
Alimuddin said of the 1,086 pupils with special needs who sat for the UPSR, 13 scored all A’s and 177 obtained a minimum of C’s.
Giving an update on the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination which started on Wednesday, Alimuddin said SMT Kerian in Bagan Serai, Perak, has been used to house 131 students from SMK Alor Bongsu and three from SMK Alang Iskandar who were affected by the floods. “These students will remain there until the SPM finishes,” he said.
Nine students, he added were sitting for the SPM in hospitals — four suspected A(H1N1) cases in Shah Alam, Sarikei, Manir and Marang while another five were involved in separate car accidents in Malacca
Friday November 20, 2009 StarOnline
Education director-general Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom said Mathematics (in both national and vernacular schools) had the highest increase in the number of A’s obtained at 4.2% followed by Tamil (Comprehension) at 3.6% and Science at 2.2% out of the 12 subjects offered in the UPSR.
“There was no significant drop in the other subjects,” he said when announcing the analysis of the UPSR results at the ministry yesterday.
Alimuddin said more Year Six pupils obtained A’s in all their subjects in this year’s UPSR compared to the previous year.
A total of 48,171 obtained all A’s this year compared to 46,641 in 2008.
He said the number of pupils who obtained good results (with a minimum C) also increased from 46,641 in 2008 to 48,171 this year while there was a decline in those who obtained all E’s from 3,363 in 2008 to 3,266 this year.
He said the emphasis for the UPSR 2009 results was on the overall achievements of pupils and their subject performance.
“The ministry is not naming any best schools as we want to avoid an over-emphasis on examination results,” he said.
The Average National Grade (GPN), he added, was used to measure the overall achievements of pupils while the Average Subject Grade (GPMP) gauged subject performance.
On the achievements of pupils in urban and rural areas, Alimuddin said there was an overall improvement.
He said a total of 31, 360 obtained all A’s in urban areas compared to 16,380 in rural areas.
“The comparison with this year’s and last year’s results show that the gap is narrowing,” he added.
Alimuddin said of the 1,086 pupils with special needs who sat for the UPSR, 13 scored all A’s and 177 obtained a minimum of C’s.
Giving an update on the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination which started on Wednesday, Alimuddin said SMT Kerian in Bagan Serai, Perak, has been used to house 131 students from SMK Alor Bongsu and three from SMK Alang Iskandar who were affected by the floods. “These students will remain there until the SPM finishes,” he said.
Nine students, he added were sitting for the SPM in hospitals — four suspected A(H1N1) cases in Shah Alam, Sarikei, Manir and Marang while another five were involved in separate car accidents in Malacca
Friday November 20, 2009 StarOnline
20091119
Free power for 80,000 in Sarawak
Between 70,000 and 80,000 households in Sarawak are enjoying free electricity, said State Public Utilities Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
He said these households need not pay for power supply as their monthly bills were less than RM20.
He said the bills were being absorbed by the Federal Government which reimburses the state utility firm Syarikat SESCo.
Speaking to reporters here yesterday, he said: “The Federal Government is helping families with low or no permanent incomes and the monthly bills totalled more than RM1mil.”
On electricity tariffs, he said the average tariffs for commercial, industrial and domestic users in Sarawak was 29 sen per kilowatt-hour (kWh) as compared to 32sen per kWh in Peninsular Malaysia.
The figures were based on a study carried out by Tenaga Nasional Bhd among 10 utilities firms in East Asian countries last year.
Awang Tengah dismissed as baseless Meradong assemblyman Ting Tze Fui’s claims that electricity tariffs in Sarawak were much higher than the peninsula.
He said Sarawak revised its tariff rates two years ago while it was revised twice between 2006 and last year in Peninsular Malaysia.
Awang Tengah said the state tariff rates had remained unchanged for 15 years before the 2007 revision.
Borneopost 19/11/09
He said these households need not pay for power supply as their monthly bills were less than RM20.
He said the bills were being absorbed by the Federal Government which reimburses the state utility firm Syarikat SESCo.
Speaking to reporters here yesterday, he said: “The Federal Government is helping families with low or no permanent incomes and the monthly bills totalled more than RM1mil.”
On electricity tariffs, he said the average tariffs for commercial, industrial and domestic users in Sarawak was 29 sen per kilowatt-hour (kWh) as compared to 32sen per kWh in Peninsular Malaysia.
The figures were based on a study carried out by Tenaga Nasional Bhd among 10 utilities firms in East Asian countries last year.
Awang Tengah dismissed as baseless Meradong assemblyman Ting Tze Fui’s claims that electricity tariffs in Sarawak were much higher than the peninsula.
He said Sarawak revised its tariff rates two years ago while it was revised twice between 2006 and last year in Peninsular Malaysia.
Awang Tengah said the state tariff rates had remained unchanged for 15 years before the 2007 revision.
Borneopost 19/11/09
9 anggota Majlis Presiden MCA dipecat
ONG (kanan) dan Dr Chua pada sidang media selepas mengumumkan pemecatan sembilan ahli Majlis Presiden di Bangunan MCA
Kemelut MCA semakin panas apabila sembilan penyokong Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai termasuk Ketua Pemuda dan Wanita digugurkan daripada menganggotai Majlis Presiden, berkuat kuasa serta-merta.
Presiden MCA, Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat, ketika mengumumkan rombakan majlis berkenaan selepas mempengerusikan mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Pusat (CC) di sini semalam, menjelaskan tindakan itu dilakukan mengikut perlembagaan parti bagi mengukuhkan MCA.
Liow yang juga Naib Presiden MCA, bagaimanapun mendakwa Tee Keat mengamalkan politik ‘cantas dan hapus’ terhadap pemimpin yang tidak sehaluan dengannya dan menyifatkan keadaan parti itu kini seperti ‘keluarga sedang berperang’.
Mereka yang digugurkan ialah lima timbalan menteri termasuk Ketua Pemuda, Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong dan Ketua Wanita Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun.
Selain Wee yang juga Timbalan Menteri Pelajaran dan Chew (Timbalan Menteri Pembangunan Wanita, Keluarga dan Masyarakat), turut digugurkan Dr Hou Kok Chung (Timbalan Menteri Pengajian Tinggi), Wee Jeck Seng (Timbalan Menteri Belia dan Sukan), Datuk Chor Chee Heung (Timbalan Menteri Kewangan), manakala empat lagi ialah Wong Nai Chee, Gan Hong Su, Lee Wei Kiat, Gan Ping Sieu.
Pada sidang media yang turut dihadiri Timbalan Presiden MCA, Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek, Tee Keat turut mengumumkan pelantikan tujuh anggota baru Majlis Presiden.
Dengan rombakan itu, kini hanya tinggal Liow berseorangan tanpa penyokongnya dalam Majlis Presiden.
Majlis itu yang bertindak sebagai badan pengurusan parti, turut dianggotai Presiden, timbalannya, Setiausaha Agung, Naib Presiden dan Bendahari.
Tee Keat berkata, rombakan itu dilakukan bagi memastikan segala dibincang dan didebat oleh MCA dapat dilaksanakan sebaik mungkin.
Selain itu, beliau turut mengumumkan keputusan CC menolak mesyuarat agung luar biasa (EGM) kedua pada 28 November ini yang diusulkan penyokong Liow.
Tee Keat berkata, CC memutuskan resolusi EGM itu untuk mengadakan pemilihan baru parti adalah cacat dan bercanggah dengan perlembagaan MCA.
Seramai 23 ahli CC menolak EGM itu, 10 menyokong dan dua berkecuali, manakala tujuh lagi tidak hadir.
Pada 6 November lalu, kumpulan Liow yang diketuai Nai Chee mengumumkan EGM kedua akan diadakan pada 28 November ini. Bagaimanapun, mereka memerlukan sekurang-kurangnya 800 perwakilan untuk mengadakan EGM itu.
Liow pada sidang media berasingan, berkata tindakan terbaru Tee Keat itu akan memburukkan lagi keadaan parti.
“Mesyuarat CC hari ini (semalam) membuatkan hati kami berdarah. Presiden menggugurkan Ketua Pemuda dan Ketua Wanita dalam Majlis Presiden.
“Presiden melantik orangnya dan menyingkirkan mereka yang tidak sehaluan dengannya supaya beliau boleh mempunyai kuasa mutlak dalam Majlis Presiden. Majlis Presiden adalah satu jawatankuasa penting yang memutuskan banyak perkara dalam parti,” katanya.
Sambil menegaskan MCA berada pada persimpangan jalan, Liow menggesa perwakilan menghadiri EGM kedua untuk membuat keputusan demi kebaikan MCA serta mempertahankan nilai perjuangan dan prinsip demokrasi dalam parti itu.
“Pemimpin parti mesti mendengar suara ahli, perwakilan dan orang ramai. Kami tidak mahu menjadi `tawanan’ kepada politik kotor, autokratik dan penggunaan kuasa tanpa mempedulikan orang lain,” katanya.
Liow menegaskan beliau akan terus bergerak ke seluruh negara untuk mendapat sokongan perwakilan bagi mengadakan EGM kedua.
FAKTA: Senarai baru Majlis Presiden
Presiden
- Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat
Timbalan Presiden
- Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek
Setiausaha Agung
- Datuk Wong Foon Meng
Bendahari
-
Naib Presiden
- Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha
- Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Hai
- Datuk Seri Ng Yen Yen
- Tan Kok Hong
Dilantik
- Datuk Loke Yuen Yow (kekal)
- Wong Hock Aun (kekal)
- Datuk Seri Tan Chai Ho
- (baru)
- Tan Cheng Liang (baru)
- Datuk Lee Chee Leong
(baru)
- Gan Ping Sieu (baru)
- Datuk Ti Lian Ker (baru)
- Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon (baru)
- Heng Seai Kie (baru)
20091118
‘Ah Long’ resort to facebook to humiliate debtors
It appears that the ‘Ah Long’ (loan sharks) never say die.They are leaving no stones unturned! They have now resorted to the popular social networking website, Facebook, to threaten and humiliate debtors into settling outstanding debts.
MCA Public Service and Complaints Department head Datuk Michael Chong said the new modus operandi involved posting of the victim’s identity, including photographs, personal information and their debts, on the website.
“Prior to this, the ‘Ah Long’ used red paint and posters to humiliate their debtors but now, they are posting the debtors’ personal information on the social website,” he told reporters at the MCA headquarters yesterday.
Chong said the latest case involved a car accessory shop worker who found an ah long’s threatening message posted on the website, demanding that he pay his outstanding debts.
The 25-year-old victim from Batu 9, Cheras, had taken a RM1,000 loan in September, but was now forced to pay RM80,000, inclusive of interests accrued.
The victim lodged a report at the Kajang police headquarters last Friday.
— Bernama
MCA Public Service and Complaints Department head Datuk Michael Chong said the new modus operandi involved posting of the victim’s identity, including photographs, personal information and their debts, on the website.
“Prior to this, the ‘Ah Long’ used red paint and posters to humiliate their debtors but now, they are posting the debtors’ personal information on the social website,” he told reporters at the MCA headquarters yesterday.
Chong said the latest case involved a car accessory shop worker who found an ah long’s threatening message posted on the website, demanding that he pay his outstanding debts.
The 25-year-old victim from Batu 9, Cheras, had taken a RM1,000 loan in September, but was now forced to pay RM80,000, inclusive of interests accrued.
The victim lodged a report at the Kajang police headquarters last Friday.
— Bernama
Najib now joins Facebook
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has now joined Facebook, the social networking site, which enjoys increasing popularity in Malaysia — as another channel to reach out to the people.The Prime Minister’s Facebook page can be viewed at www.facebook.com/najibrazak.
“As is the case with this blog and my Twitter page, I will be using Facebook to communicate my thoughts and activities to you.
“In addition to posting status updates, I will be sharing links, Flickr photos, video from YouTube and information on my personal interests such as my favourite dish and pastimes,” he said in his latest posting in his blog.
Najib also urged the people to visit his Facebook and to share their thoughts on how to make the page better.
“Please do visit my Facebook page when you have a moment, and let me have your thoughts on how I can make it better.
“I look forward to receiving your feedback, and to seeing you there as a fan!” he added.
The prime minister said that encouraged by the amount of followers on his Twitter, he would continuously update his thoughts and whereabouts via Twitter.
Meanwhile a check on his Facebook page showed that he had joined the network in the middle of October and to date has had 804 supporters.
His postings which mainly related to current issues in the country also invited tremendous comments from viewer
On the information section of Facebook, Najib also put up his personal information and interests including favourite songs and music, movies and favourite quotes.
In describing himself, he said: “My life is very hectic, but I love it. In my spare time I focus on Sunday family lunches, watching TV with my kids and going on holidays”.
He also listed out his late father and second prime minister of Malaysia Allahyarham Tun Abdul Razak as having the greatest influence on him.
“But I admire Sir Winston Churchill’s oratory skills and never-say-die attitude, Nelson Mandela for the sacrifices he made and for never flinching in the face of adversity and JFK,” he added.
— Bernama
“As is the case with this blog and my Twitter page, I will be using Facebook to communicate my thoughts and activities to you.
“In addition to posting status updates, I will be sharing links, Flickr photos, video from YouTube and information on my personal interests such as my favourite dish and pastimes,” he said in his latest posting in his blog.
Najib also urged the people to visit his Facebook and to share their thoughts on how to make the page better.
“Please do visit my Facebook page when you have a moment, and let me have your thoughts on how I can make it better.
“I look forward to receiving your feedback, and to seeing you there as a fan!” he added.
The prime minister said that encouraged by the amount of followers on his Twitter, he would continuously update his thoughts and whereabouts via Twitter.
Meanwhile a check on his Facebook page showed that he had joined the network in the middle of October and to date has had 804 supporters.
His postings which mainly related to current issues in the country also invited tremendous comments from viewer
On the information section of Facebook, Najib also put up his personal information and interests including favourite songs and music, movies and favourite quotes.
In describing himself, he said: “My life is very hectic, but I love it. In my spare time I focus on Sunday family lunches, watching TV with my kids and going on holidays”.
He also listed out his late father and second prime minister of Malaysia Allahyarham Tun Abdul Razak as having the greatest influence on him.
“But I admire Sir Winston Churchill’s oratory skills and never-say-die attitude, Nelson Mandela for the sacrifices he made and for never flinching in the face of adversity and JFK,” he added.
— Bernama
Sarawak: Peruntukan besar tingkat kualiti pendidikan
Peruntukan besar sebanyak RM150 juta menerusi pakej ransangan ekonomi ke arah meningkatkan kualiti pendidikan awal kanak-kanak di negara ini membuktikan kerajaan amat serius membangunkan modal insan.
Menteri Tenaga, Teknologi Hijau dan Air yang juga ahli Parlimen Miri, Datuk Peter Chin Fah Kui, berkata peruntukan besar itu menunjukkan kerajaan Pusat amat komited meningkatkan kualiti pendidikan awal kanak-kanak, termasuk menerusi pelbagai program yang sudah dirancang termasuk Program Permata untuk sekolah Taman Bimbangan Kanak-kanak (Tabika).
Beliau berkata, untuk menjayakan usaha berkenaan kerajaan akan menghantar guru tabika mengikuti kursus Diploma Perguruan untuk meningkatkan kemahiran mereka dalam bidang masing-masing.
“Program ini dilaksanakan pada musim cuti persekolahan. Ia secara tidak langsung akan dapat memberi peluang kepada guru tabika meningkatkan ilmu pengetahuan dalam bidang kurikulum dan kokurikulum kanak-kanak, seiring dengan arus pemodenan modal insan yang harus dimulakan pada usia muda.
“Bak kata pepatah melantur buluh biarlah dari rebungnya. Bila dah jadi buluh memang sukarlah untuk dilenturkan lagi,” katanya di majlis penyampaian sijil dan hadiah kanak-kanak Tabika Kemas di Parlimen Miri, di sini, semalam.
Chin berkata, Kementerian Kewangan juga sudahpun bersetuju meluluskan peruntukan RM77 juta kepada Kemas bagi menaik taraf 200 Taman Asuhan Kanak-kanak sedia ada di seluruh negara.
Beliau yakin peruntukan itu dapat digunakan untuk meningkatkan peranan institusi berkenaan, khususnya untuk perkembangan minda kanak-kanak berusia 4 tahun termasuk di kawasan luar bandar.
“Saya yakin Kemas akan dapat menjayakan misi berkenaan untuk manfaat generasi muda yang bakal menjadi perwaris negara.
“Usaha ini selaras dengan hasrat kerajaan melahirkan modal insan berminda kelas pertama dan berjiwa murni,” katanya.
Beliau berkata, sejak tahun 1970an, Kemas sudahpun memainkan peranan aktif dalam bidang pendidikan dan asuhan awal kanak-kanak, khususnya di luar bandar.
Katanya, dalam tempoh empat belas dekat, Kemas berjaya mewujudkan sebanyak 8,364 tabika untuk kanak-kanak berusia lima hingga enam tahun dan berjaya mendidik seramai 4.9 juta kanak-kanak daripada pelbagai peringkat umur.
Menteri Tenaga, Teknologi Hijau dan Air yang juga ahli Parlimen Miri, Datuk Peter Chin Fah Kui, berkata peruntukan besar itu menunjukkan kerajaan Pusat amat komited meningkatkan kualiti pendidikan awal kanak-kanak, termasuk menerusi pelbagai program yang sudah dirancang termasuk Program Permata untuk sekolah Taman Bimbangan Kanak-kanak (Tabika).
Beliau berkata, untuk menjayakan usaha berkenaan kerajaan akan menghantar guru tabika mengikuti kursus Diploma Perguruan untuk meningkatkan kemahiran mereka dalam bidang masing-masing.
“Program ini dilaksanakan pada musim cuti persekolahan. Ia secara tidak langsung akan dapat memberi peluang kepada guru tabika meningkatkan ilmu pengetahuan dalam bidang kurikulum dan kokurikulum kanak-kanak, seiring dengan arus pemodenan modal insan yang harus dimulakan pada usia muda.
“Bak kata pepatah melantur buluh biarlah dari rebungnya. Bila dah jadi buluh memang sukarlah untuk dilenturkan lagi,” katanya di majlis penyampaian sijil dan hadiah kanak-kanak Tabika Kemas di Parlimen Miri, di sini, semalam.
Chin berkata, Kementerian Kewangan juga sudahpun bersetuju meluluskan peruntukan RM77 juta kepada Kemas bagi menaik taraf 200 Taman Asuhan Kanak-kanak sedia ada di seluruh negara.
Beliau yakin peruntukan itu dapat digunakan untuk meningkatkan peranan institusi berkenaan, khususnya untuk perkembangan minda kanak-kanak berusia 4 tahun termasuk di kawasan luar bandar.
“Saya yakin Kemas akan dapat menjayakan misi berkenaan untuk manfaat generasi muda yang bakal menjadi perwaris negara.
“Usaha ini selaras dengan hasrat kerajaan melahirkan modal insan berminda kelas pertama dan berjiwa murni,” katanya.
Beliau berkata, sejak tahun 1970an, Kemas sudahpun memainkan peranan aktif dalam bidang pendidikan dan asuhan awal kanak-kanak, khususnya di luar bandar.
Katanya, dalam tempoh empat belas dekat, Kemas berjaya mewujudkan sebanyak 8,364 tabika untuk kanak-kanak berusia lima hingga enam tahun dan berjaya mendidik seramai 4.9 juta kanak-kanak daripada pelbagai peringkat umur.
20091117
Bioteknologi berkembang
16 Nov. 2009 - Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak berkata, perkembangan baik yang berlaku pada industri bioteknologi negara menunjukkan bidang tersebut sedang membangun seperti dirancangkan oleh kerajaan.
Menurut Perdana Menteri, ini dilihat melalui beberapa fakta seperti jumlah syarikat berstatus BioNexus yang sudah mencecah angka 135 buah dan jumlah ini dijangka bertambah 50 syarikat lagi menjelang tempoh dua tahun akan datang.
''Malah industri bioteknologi sendiri telah menyumbang kepada 2.2 peratus Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK) negara.
''Oleh itu, kita meletakkan sasaran untuk industri bioteknologi menyumbang sebanyak 2.5 peratus menjelang 2011,'' katanya kepada pemberita selepas mempengerusikan Mesyuarat Panel Penasihat, Antarabangsa (IAP) Bioteknologi Keempat di sini hari ini.
Setakat ini jumlah pelaburan syarikat berstatus BioNexus adalah bernilai RM1.51 bilion dengan jumlah pendapatan lebih RM700 juta.
sebanyak enam perkara untuk dilaksanakan.
Sebanyak enam perkara dicadangkan untuk dilaksanakan.
Antaranya menubuhkan sebuah pusat penyelidikan utama dan mewujudkan ekosistem yang sesuai bagi menarik minat pekerja berpengetahuan negara untuk kembali berkhidmat di Malaysia.
Selain itu, ia turut menyarankan supaya Malaysia menjadi hab pembangunan klinikal terutama untuk industri kelapa sawit dan memberi keutamaan kepada ujian tambah nilai klinikal dan ujian diagnostik kerana kesesuaian negara ini yang mempunyai rakyat pelbagai kaum.
Menurut Perdana Menteri, ini dilihat melalui beberapa fakta seperti jumlah syarikat berstatus BioNexus yang sudah mencecah angka 135 buah dan jumlah ini dijangka bertambah 50 syarikat lagi menjelang tempoh dua tahun akan datang.
''Malah industri bioteknologi sendiri telah menyumbang kepada 2.2 peratus Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK) negara.
''Oleh itu, kita meletakkan sasaran untuk industri bioteknologi menyumbang sebanyak 2.5 peratus menjelang 2011,'' katanya kepada pemberita selepas mempengerusikan Mesyuarat Panel Penasihat, Antarabangsa (IAP) Bioteknologi Keempat di sini hari ini.
Setakat ini jumlah pelaburan syarikat berstatus BioNexus adalah bernilai RM1.51 bilion dengan jumlah pendapatan lebih RM700 juta.
sebanyak enam perkara untuk dilaksanakan.
Sebanyak enam perkara dicadangkan untuk dilaksanakan.
Antaranya menubuhkan sebuah pusat penyelidikan utama dan mewujudkan ekosistem yang sesuai bagi menarik minat pekerja berpengetahuan negara untuk kembali berkhidmat di Malaysia.
Selain itu, ia turut menyarankan supaya Malaysia menjadi hab pembangunan klinikal terutama untuk industri kelapa sawit dan memberi keutamaan kepada ujian tambah nilai klinikal dan ujian diagnostik kerana kesesuaian negara ini yang mempunyai rakyat pelbagai kaum.
10,000 lagi jawatan kosong
Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Awam (SPA) mengisi 40,719 kekosongan pelbagai jawatan dalam perkhidmatan awam dari awal tahun sehingga 9 November lalu, dan kini masih terdapat 10,000 kekosongan.
Pengerusi SPA, Tan Sri Jamaluddin Ahmad Damanhuri, berkata daripada jumlah itu, 7,834 adalah kakitangan berkelulusan ijazah, diploma (9,953) manakala seramai 22,932 membabitkan calon Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).
Beliau berkata, pihaknya menerima 1.4 juta permohonan bagi tempoh sama, menunjukkan peningkatan berbanding 996,791 permohonan tahun lalu.
"Tahun lalu seramai 52,369 calon dilantik dan tahun ini kita menjangkakan 50,000 orang,” katanya.
Buat masa sekarang SPA mencari calon bagi tiga jawatan kritikal yang perlu diisi segera iaitu pegawai perubatan, farmasi dan pergigian.
“Memang ramai yang memohon namun kita mencari calon yang benar-benar berkelayakan dan sesuai dengan jawatan berkenaan," katanya pada sidang media selepas merasmikan Pusat Temu Duga SPA cawangan Kuantan, di sini semalam.
Hadir sama, Timbalan Pengerusi SPA, Datuk Ahmad Said dan Setiausaha Kerajaan Negeri, Datuk Muhammad Safian Ismail.
Jamaluddin berkata, proses temu duga bagi tiga jawatan kritikal berkenaan dilakukan setiap hari namun masih terdapat kekosongan yang banyak.
"SPA perlu meneliti setiap permohonan dengan sebaiknya supaya calon dilantik betul-betul berkualiti dan mampu menggalas tugas yang diberikan.
"Peluang sama rata juga diberikan kepada bangsa lain malah mulai awal September lalu SPA memutuskan untuk tidak menyediakan ruangan identiti kaum atau keturunan dalam borang permohonan," katanya.
Sementara itu, mengulas pembukaan pusat temu duga terbabit, beliau berkata ia bagi memudahkan calon di negeri ini menghadiri sesi temu duga dalam keadaan serta kemudahan yang lebih selesa.
"Ini pusat temu duga kedua selepas Kota Bharu, Kelantan dan menjelang akhir tahun ini sebuah lagi akan diwujudkan di Ipoh, Perak.
"Bagi tahun depan pula, SPA merancang membuka pusat di Johor, Kedah, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah dan Sarawak," katanya.
Jamaluddin berkata, pusat temu duga yang dibuka dilengkapi kemudahan komputer membolehkan orang ramai mengemukakan permohonan secara dalam talian selepas penggunaan borang manual di mansuhkan pada 1 Januari lalu.
Petikan Berita Harian Online 17/11/09
Pengerusi SPA, Tan Sri Jamaluddin Ahmad Damanhuri, berkata daripada jumlah itu, 7,834 adalah kakitangan berkelulusan ijazah, diploma (9,953) manakala seramai 22,932 membabitkan calon Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).
Beliau berkata, pihaknya menerima 1.4 juta permohonan bagi tempoh sama, menunjukkan peningkatan berbanding 996,791 permohonan tahun lalu.
"Tahun lalu seramai 52,369 calon dilantik dan tahun ini kita menjangkakan 50,000 orang,” katanya.
Buat masa sekarang SPA mencari calon bagi tiga jawatan kritikal yang perlu diisi segera iaitu pegawai perubatan, farmasi dan pergigian.
“Memang ramai yang memohon namun kita mencari calon yang benar-benar berkelayakan dan sesuai dengan jawatan berkenaan," katanya pada sidang media selepas merasmikan Pusat Temu Duga SPA cawangan Kuantan, di sini semalam.
Hadir sama, Timbalan Pengerusi SPA, Datuk Ahmad Said dan Setiausaha Kerajaan Negeri, Datuk Muhammad Safian Ismail.
Jamaluddin berkata, proses temu duga bagi tiga jawatan kritikal berkenaan dilakukan setiap hari namun masih terdapat kekosongan yang banyak.
"SPA perlu meneliti setiap permohonan dengan sebaiknya supaya calon dilantik betul-betul berkualiti dan mampu menggalas tugas yang diberikan.
"Peluang sama rata juga diberikan kepada bangsa lain malah mulai awal September lalu SPA memutuskan untuk tidak menyediakan ruangan identiti kaum atau keturunan dalam borang permohonan," katanya.
Sementara itu, mengulas pembukaan pusat temu duga terbabit, beliau berkata ia bagi memudahkan calon di negeri ini menghadiri sesi temu duga dalam keadaan serta kemudahan yang lebih selesa.
"Ini pusat temu duga kedua selepas Kota Bharu, Kelantan dan menjelang akhir tahun ini sebuah lagi akan diwujudkan di Ipoh, Perak.
"Bagi tahun depan pula, SPA merancang membuka pusat di Johor, Kedah, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah dan Sarawak," katanya.
Jamaluddin berkata, pusat temu duga yang dibuka dilengkapi kemudahan komputer membolehkan orang ramai mengemukakan permohonan secara dalam talian selepas penggunaan borang manual di mansuhkan pada 1 Januari lalu.
Petikan Berita Harian Online 17/11/09
20091116
Warga Afrika banjiri Malaysia
BUDAYA warga Afrika yang begitu asing dan kasar menimbulkan ketidakselesaan di kalangan penduduk tempatan di negara ini. Lebih mencemaskan, kebanjiran golongan itu di beberapa lokasi sekitar ibu negara menggambarkan mereka seolah-olah penduduk asal kawasan berkenaan.
Tidak dapat dipastikan status sebenar golongan yang dikenali sebagai Awang Hitam ini, sama ada mereka benar-benar pelancong, pelajar atau memasuki negara ini secara haram.
Namun, apa yang pasti, kehadiran mereka yang semakin sukar dibendung sebenarnya tidak disenangi penduduk tempatan kerana mengundang pelbagai masalah sampingan.
Wartawan Utusan 15 Nov. – Sudah berulang kali desakan dibuat agar masalah kebanjiran pendatang asing warga Afrika ditangani segera.
Walaupun pelbagai tindakan diambil pihak penguat kuasa namun kehadiran mereka bukannya berkurangan malah semakin bertambah saban hari.
Kebimbangan masyarakat di negara ini juga sudah banyak kali diluahkan di dada-dada akhbar mengenai kehadiran warga Afrika yang semakin ramai dan lebih dikenali sebagai ‘Awang Hitam’ di negara ini, namun ia seolah-olah tidak memberi kesan.
Akibatnya, satu demi satu masalah dan perlakuan jenayah membabitkan warga Afrika diselongkar.
Insiden terbaru yang mencetuskan kebimbangan rakyat Malaysia ialah seorang lelaki Sudan yang dituduh membunuh anak perempuan kekasihnya yang berusia tiga tahun, Aaliyah Ayman Hussin Abdullah di sebuah kondominium di Hulu Langat pada 12 Oktober lalu.
Perangkaan dikeluarkan oleh Jabatan Imigresen mendapati dalam tempoh enam bulan pertama tahun ini, seramai 56,240 warga Afrika memasuki negara ini secara sah.
Kemasukan pelawat dari Afrika Selatan mengatasi negara-negara Afrika yang lain dengan 20 peratus dari keseluruhan daftar kemasukan.
Perangkaan yang sama, sepanjang tahun lalu menyaksikan 110,805 warga Afrika memasuki Malaysia manakala 81 peratus daripada mereka merekodkan aliran keluar semula dari negara dalam tempoh berkenaan.
Dalam pada itu, dalam tempoh enam bulan pertama tahun ini, Jabatan Imigresen telah mengambil tindakan undang-undang ke atas 128 warga Afrika atas pelbagai kesalahan di bawah Akta Imigresen 1959/63.
Kesalahan itu termasuk tamat tempoh permit, terlibat dalam aktiviti pelacuran dan pemalsuan dokumen.
Daripada jumlah itu, 48 peratus kesalahan adalah dilakukan oleh warga Nigeria diikuti Sudan dengan 18 peratus dan Somalia (13 peratus).
Pengarah Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah Bukit Aman, Datuk Seri Mohd. Bakri Mohd. Zinin turut menyatakan kebimbangannya dengan kebanjiran warga Afrika yang bertumpu di beberapa lokasi terpilih di ibu negara seperti Puchong, Seri Kembangan, Ampang, Kepong dan Pandan Indah.
Ketika diminta mengulas mengenai senario itu, pemimpin nombor satu Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah itu berkata, situasi tersebut ekoran wujudnya persepsi kononnya mereka akan berada di ruang lingkup yang ‘selesa’ jika berada di kawasan dipenuhi kaum mereka.
“Jadi ia akan mendorong serta cenderung untuk melakukan jenayah disebabkan memikirkan mereka ‘raja’ di kawasan itu,” katanya di sini hari ini.
Tegasnya, polis sentiasa memantau pergerakan mereka termasuk meletakkan anggota polis berpakaian preman terutama di kawasan-kawasan yang menjadi lokasi tumpuan golongan itu.
Beliau menambah, sekiranya dilihat pada trend terkini, warga Afrika kebanyakannya memasuki negara menggunakan pas pelajar.
“Bila sampai sini, mereka tak belajar sebaliknya melakukan jenayah. Pas sebagai pelajar khususnya di institusi pengajian tinggi (IPT) kebanyakannya swasta itu hanyalah sebagai tiket untuk mereka memasuki Malaysia,” ujarnya.
Pada masa sama, beliau tidak menolak kemungkinan mereka menyamun kaum mereka sendiri. Bagaimanapun, mangsa mungkin tidak mendedahkan atau membuat laporan kerana khuatir keselamatan disebabkan mereka senang dikesan di kalangan sesama kaum.
Apa yang membimbangkan serta menimbulkan rasa kurang selesa di kalangan orang ramai, kata Mohd. Bakri, adalah gelagat mereka yang gemar berkumpul secara beramai-ramai di kawasan-kawasan tumpuan ramai.
“Berdasarkan perangkaan, kebanyakan daripada mereka dilihat terlibat dalam kegiatan pemalsuan wang, dadah, penipuan dan curi,” ujarnya.
Dalam tempoh enam bulan pertama tahun ini, kata Mohd. Bakri, seramai 21 warga Afrika ditahan kerana terlibat dalam pelbagai kesalahan jenayah.
Menurutnya, 76 peratus daripada kesalahan yang dilakukan adalah mencuri, diikuti pecah rumah, samun berkawan tanpa senjata dan mendatangkan kecederaan.
Berdasarkan perangkaan sepanjang tahun lalu, beliau berkata, jenayah curi membabitkan warga Afrika masih mengatasi kesalahan lain dengan 54 peratus, diikuti samun berkawan tanpa bersenjata, pecah rumah, mendatangkan kecederaan dan bunuh.
Beliau berkata, trend terkini juga memperlihatkan penglibatan mereka dalam kes-kes pecah hotel.
Dalam pada itu Mohd. Bakri mengakui warga Afrika memang cukup pandai untuk memikat wanita tempatan dengan menggunakan pujuk rayu sebagai senjata utama mereka.
“Wanita kita (Malaysia) pula senang terpedaya dengan kata-kata manis tanpa menyedari agenda mereka di sebalik itu,” jelasnya.
Malah, lebih menyedihkan kata beliau, ada wanita tempatan yang sanggup merelakan diri mereka dicabul dan dirogol.
Sehubungan itu, beliau meminta, gadis-gadis tempatan supaya mengambil iktibar dan tidak mudah terjerumus untuk melakukan perbuatan-perbuatan terkutuk dan salah di sisi undang-undang.
Malaysia, UMAVATHI RAMAYAH dan ASSIM HASSAN cuba mengenal pasti permasalahan yang ditimbulkan oleh warga Afrika ini melalui mini laporan khas sebanyak dua siri kali ini.
Jika sebelum ini, warga Afrika sering dikaitkan dengan sindiket ‘black money’ atau pengedaran dadah, tidak mustahil Awang Hitam akan terus bermaharajalela di ibu negara melakukan jenayah berat, jika kehadiran mereka yang tidak diundang itu dipandang sepi pihak berkuasa.
Petikan Utusan Malaysia Online 16/11/09
Tidak dapat dipastikan status sebenar golongan yang dikenali sebagai Awang Hitam ini, sama ada mereka benar-benar pelancong, pelajar atau memasuki negara ini secara haram.
Namun, apa yang pasti, kehadiran mereka yang semakin sukar dibendung sebenarnya tidak disenangi penduduk tempatan kerana mengundang pelbagai masalah sampingan.
Wartawan Utusan 15 Nov. – Sudah berulang kali desakan dibuat agar masalah kebanjiran pendatang asing warga Afrika ditangani segera.
Walaupun pelbagai tindakan diambil pihak penguat kuasa namun kehadiran mereka bukannya berkurangan malah semakin bertambah saban hari.
Kebimbangan masyarakat di negara ini juga sudah banyak kali diluahkan di dada-dada akhbar mengenai kehadiran warga Afrika yang semakin ramai dan lebih dikenali sebagai ‘Awang Hitam’ di negara ini, namun ia seolah-olah tidak memberi kesan.
Akibatnya, satu demi satu masalah dan perlakuan jenayah membabitkan warga Afrika diselongkar.
Insiden terbaru yang mencetuskan kebimbangan rakyat Malaysia ialah seorang lelaki Sudan yang dituduh membunuh anak perempuan kekasihnya yang berusia tiga tahun, Aaliyah Ayman Hussin Abdullah di sebuah kondominium di Hulu Langat pada 12 Oktober lalu.
Perangkaan dikeluarkan oleh Jabatan Imigresen mendapati dalam tempoh enam bulan pertama tahun ini, seramai 56,240 warga Afrika memasuki negara ini secara sah.
Kemasukan pelawat dari Afrika Selatan mengatasi negara-negara Afrika yang lain dengan 20 peratus dari keseluruhan daftar kemasukan.
Perangkaan yang sama, sepanjang tahun lalu menyaksikan 110,805 warga Afrika memasuki Malaysia manakala 81 peratus daripada mereka merekodkan aliran keluar semula dari negara dalam tempoh berkenaan.
Dalam pada itu, dalam tempoh enam bulan pertama tahun ini, Jabatan Imigresen telah mengambil tindakan undang-undang ke atas 128 warga Afrika atas pelbagai kesalahan di bawah Akta Imigresen 1959/63.
Kesalahan itu termasuk tamat tempoh permit, terlibat dalam aktiviti pelacuran dan pemalsuan dokumen.
Daripada jumlah itu, 48 peratus kesalahan adalah dilakukan oleh warga Nigeria diikuti Sudan dengan 18 peratus dan Somalia (13 peratus).
Pengarah Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah Bukit Aman, Datuk Seri Mohd. Bakri Mohd. Zinin turut menyatakan kebimbangannya dengan kebanjiran warga Afrika yang bertumpu di beberapa lokasi terpilih di ibu negara seperti Puchong, Seri Kembangan, Ampang, Kepong dan Pandan Indah.
Ketika diminta mengulas mengenai senario itu, pemimpin nombor satu Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah itu berkata, situasi tersebut ekoran wujudnya persepsi kononnya mereka akan berada di ruang lingkup yang ‘selesa’ jika berada di kawasan dipenuhi kaum mereka.
“Jadi ia akan mendorong serta cenderung untuk melakukan jenayah disebabkan memikirkan mereka ‘raja’ di kawasan itu,” katanya di sini hari ini.
Tegasnya, polis sentiasa memantau pergerakan mereka termasuk meletakkan anggota polis berpakaian preman terutama di kawasan-kawasan yang menjadi lokasi tumpuan golongan itu.
Beliau menambah, sekiranya dilihat pada trend terkini, warga Afrika kebanyakannya memasuki negara menggunakan pas pelajar.
“Bila sampai sini, mereka tak belajar sebaliknya melakukan jenayah. Pas sebagai pelajar khususnya di institusi pengajian tinggi (IPT) kebanyakannya swasta itu hanyalah sebagai tiket untuk mereka memasuki Malaysia,” ujarnya.
Pada masa sama, beliau tidak menolak kemungkinan mereka menyamun kaum mereka sendiri. Bagaimanapun, mangsa mungkin tidak mendedahkan atau membuat laporan kerana khuatir keselamatan disebabkan mereka senang dikesan di kalangan sesama kaum.
Apa yang membimbangkan serta menimbulkan rasa kurang selesa di kalangan orang ramai, kata Mohd. Bakri, adalah gelagat mereka yang gemar berkumpul secara beramai-ramai di kawasan-kawasan tumpuan ramai.
“Berdasarkan perangkaan, kebanyakan daripada mereka dilihat terlibat dalam kegiatan pemalsuan wang, dadah, penipuan dan curi,” ujarnya.
Dalam tempoh enam bulan pertama tahun ini, kata Mohd. Bakri, seramai 21 warga Afrika ditahan kerana terlibat dalam pelbagai kesalahan jenayah.
Menurutnya, 76 peratus daripada kesalahan yang dilakukan adalah mencuri, diikuti pecah rumah, samun berkawan tanpa senjata dan mendatangkan kecederaan.
Berdasarkan perangkaan sepanjang tahun lalu, beliau berkata, jenayah curi membabitkan warga Afrika masih mengatasi kesalahan lain dengan 54 peratus, diikuti samun berkawan tanpa bersenjata, pecah rumah, mendatangkan kecederaan dan bunuh.
Beliau berkata, trend terkini juga memperlihatkan penglibatan mereka dalam kes-kes pecah hotel.
Dalam pada itu Mohd. Bakri mengakui warga Afrika memang cukup pandai untuk memikat wanita tempatan dengan menggunakan pujuk rayu sebagai senjata utama mereka.
“Wanita kita (Malaysia) pula senang terpedaya dengan kata-kata manis tanpa menyedari agenda mereka di sebalik itu,” jelasnya.
Malah, lebih menyedihkan kata beliau, ada wanita tempatan yang sanggup merelakan diri mereka dicabul dan dirogol.
Sehubungan itu, beliau meminta, gadis-gadis tempatan supaya mengambil iktibar dan tidak mudah terjerumus untuk melakukan perbuatan-perbuatan terkutuk dan salah di sisi undang-undang.
Malaysia, UMAVATHI RAMAYAH dan ASSIM HASSAN cuba mengenal pasti permasalahan yang ditimbulkan oleh warga Afrika ini melalui mini laporan khas sebanyak dua siri kali ini.
Jika sebelum ini, warga Afrika sering dikaitkan dengan sindiket ‘black money’ atau pengedaran dadah, tidak mustahil Awang Hitam akan terus bermaharajalela di ibu negara melakukan jenayah berat, jika kehadiran mereka yang tidak diundang itu dipandang sepi pihak berkuasa.
Petikan Utusan Malaysia Online 16/11/09
Cabinet resolves bumi status quandary
The controversy involving Sarawak’s bumiputras of mixed parentage has been resolved with the Cabinet making an administrative ruling on Friday that they are to be recognised as bumiputra.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu Sarawak (PBB) senior vice-president Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas said the ruling was agreed upon at the Cabinet meeting in Kuala Lumpur.
He said the Cabinet had decided to use the administrative ruling in the case of Marina Undau, who is of Iban-Chinese parentage, adding that those in similar situations were also considered bumiputra.
“This has been agreed upon by the Cabinet and administratively implemented. All the ministries have been informed of the decision,” he told reporters after inspecting river cleaning projects here on Saturday.
Born to an Iban father and a Chinese mother, Marina, from Sri Aman, scored 9As and 1B in the SPM exam last year.
However, she was unable to further her pre-university matriculation course under the bumiputra category as she was considered non-bumiputra by virtue of her mixed parentage.
Douglas, who is also the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, urged children of mixed parentage facing similar problems to approach him and two other federal ministers from Sarawak – Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Peter Chin and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala. — Bernama
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu Sarawak (PBB) senior vice-president Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas said the ruling was agreed upon at the Cabinet meeting in Kuala Lumpur.
He said the Cabinet had decided to use the administrative ruling in the case of Marina Undau, who is of Iban-Chinese parentage, adding that those in similar situations were also considered bumiputra.
“This has been agreed upon by the Cabinet and administratively implemented. All the ministries have been informed of the decision,” he told reporters after inspecting river cleaning projects here on Saturday.
Born to an Iban father and a Chinese mother, Marina, from Sri Aman, scored 9As and 1B in the SPM exam last year.
However, she was unable to further her pre-university matriculation course under the bumiputra category as she was considered non-bumiputra by virtue of her mixed parentage.
Douglas, who is also the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, urged children of mixed parentage facing similar problems to approach him and two other federal ministers from Sarawak – Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Peter Chin and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala. — Bernama
20091113
May date for new fuel subsidy system
TARGET groups from the middle and lower-income groups will be eligible to enjoy subsidised petrol and diesel rates starting May next year, said Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Chor Chee Heung.
“We are still in the process of determining the various groups from different income levels that will benefit from the new mechanism.
“What’s for sure is that the subsidies are only for Malaysians,” he said.
As of September, the government subsidies totalled RM3.54bil, he told Hamim Samuri (BN - Ledang).
Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, in winding up for his ministry later, said the Government was still deliberating on the best methods to ensure that subsidised petrol was not purchased by foreigners.
This would include studies on the engine capacity of their vehicles and the amount of petrol they purchased, he said.
On enforcement action, Ismail Sabri said the ministry had seized 25,097 litres of petrol costing RM44,406.30 during their operations from Jan 1 to Oct 31.
The ministry also seized 202,413kg of smuggled sugar worth RM328,699 during the same period.
Meanwhile, Chor also said that Bank Negara had detected 48,555 fake bank notes, mostly in the RM50 and RM100 denominations, as of September.
“This is a small figure, as it represents only 13 fake ones for every one million bank notes in circulation,” he said.
“We are still in the process of determining the various groups from different income levels that will benefit from the new mechanism.
“What’s for sure is that the subsidies are only for Malaysians,” he said.
As of September, the government subsidies totalled RM3.54bil, he told Hamim Samuri (BN - Ledang).
Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, in winding up for his ministry later, said the Government was still deliberating on the best methods to ensure that subsidised petrol was not purchased by foreigners.
This would include studies on the engine capacity of their vehicles and the amount of petrol they purchased, he said.
On enforcement action, Ismail Sabri said the ministry had seized 25,097 litres of petrol costing RM44,406.30 during their operations from Jan 1 to Oct 31.
The ministry also seized 202,413kg of smuggled sugar worth RM328,699 during the same period.
Meanwhile, Chor also said that Bank Negara had detected 48,555 fake bank notes, mostly in the RM50 and RM100 denominations, as of September.
“This is a small figure, as it represents only 13 fake ones for every one million bank notes in circulation,” he said.
20091108
Malaysia wins seven Asian travel awards
MAS chairman Tan Sri Dr. Munir Majid (third from left) and MAS regional manager for United Kingdom and Ireland Syed Abdillah Syed Aziz (beside him) with their award. With them are: (From left) MAS air hostesses Lilis Surianty (far left) and Yvonne Kow (second from right) as well as Miss Vietnam Huong Giang (third from right) and Miss China Yu Sheng (far right).
Malaysia swept seven Asian awards at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2009’s regional finals gala ceremony here Saturday.
While Malaysia Airlines bagged Asia’s Leading Airline award, Resorts World Genting scooped Asia’s Leading Family Resort and Asia’s Leading Casino Resort titles.
Tourism Malaysia’s “Malaysia: Truly Asia” tagline was also voted Asia’s Leading Marketing Campaign during the star-studded function at Grosvenor House, a JW Marriot Hotel, in London’s Mayfair.
Two other titles – Asia’s Leading City Hotel and Asia’s Leading Design Hotel – went to Hilton Kuala Lumpur while Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel award went to Pan-Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport Hotel.
MAS chairman Tan Sri Dr Munir Majid and Genting Malaysia Berhad president and chief operating officer Datuk Lee Choong Yan received their awards from Miss Vietnam/Miss World 2009 contestant Huong Giang.
Dr Majid said the recognition bore testament to the fact that the global industry and travellers recognised the national carrier’s brand of service delivery.
“Our focus has always been on serving customers, with a commitment towards continuous service, improvement and delivery,” he said.
Lee said the awards would further encourage them to consistently provide memorable guest experience through innovative products and services.
“I am also confident these awards will help Malaysia enhance its reputation in the tourism industry and attract more visitors to our resort and the country,” he added.
The Malaysians picked up seven awards in the Asian category while regional awards were also given out to winners in the Australasia and Indian Ocean as well as the Caribbean and South America regions.
In the individual countries’ category, Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur was voted Malaysia’s Leading Hotel; Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia’s Leading Business Hotel); Sheraton Langkawi Resort (Malaysia’s Leading Resort) and Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa in Penang (Malaysia’s Leading Spa Resort).
The event was attended by more than 1,000 senior management and decision-makers from the global travel and tourism industry.
Dubbed the “Oscars” of the global travel and tourism industry, the awards are recognised as the highest accolade within the travel industry.
Votes are cast globally in 919 categories by travel professionals from 183,000 travel agencies, tour and transport companies and tourism organisations in over 160 countries.
Tonight (Sunday) the winners of the grand finals will be announced, marking the culmination of a year-long quest to find the very best travel brands in the world.
20091107
Sarawak gets tough on violaters of labour law
The Sarawak Labour Department has taken action against 47 companies for illegally employing non-Sarawakians.
Deputy Human Resources Minister Senator Datuk Maznah Mazlan said of the 11 firms charged in court, four were fined between RM1,000 and RM5,000 for each offence.
An offender faces up to a fine of RM10,000 or six months’ jail or both under the Sarawak Labour Ordinance.
“Another 29 cases are in the process of being prosecuted in court,’’ she told reporters after launching a Kuching Division Employment Fair and Skill Training programme for Bumiputra at Kuching Waterfront Saturday.
Maznah said another company was fined RM500 this year for late payment of wages to its workers. The department, she said, had also taken action against a private employment agency for illegally recruiting foreign labour.
Earlier at the ceremony, Maznah said only 37,000 workers nationwide had lost their jobs compared to over 300,000 during the last economic downturn.
The Sarawak Labour Department had helped 1,983 job seekers to get jobs this year as compared to 372 last year, she said, adding that over 4,100 jobs in both the private and public sectors were up for grabs at the two-day fair.
Maznah said the government’s job portal (www.jobsmalaysia.gov.my) was popular among job seekers.
She asked the department to make available job application forms for rural people who had no access to the Internet.
Saying that there were many job opportunities in the state, Maznah said Sarawakians need not have to work abroad like in Singapore.
Although wages overseas was higher, Malaysians still had to pay more for their living expenses, she said.
Deputy Human Resources Minister Senator Datuk Maznah Mazlan said of the 11 firms charged in court, four were fined between RM1,000 and RM5,000 for each offence.
An offender faces up to a fine of RM10,000 or six months’ jail or both under the Sarawak Labour Ordinance.
“Another 29 cases are in the process of being prosecuted in court,’’ she told reporters after launching a Kuching Division Employment Fair and Skill Training programme for Bumiputra at Kuching Waterfront Saturday.
Maznah said another company was fined RM500 this year for late payment of wages to its workers. The department, she said, had also taken action against a private employment agency for illegally recruiting foreign labour.
Earlier at the ceremony, Maznah said only 37,000 workers nationwide had lost their jobs compared to over 300,000 during the last economic downturn.
The Sarawak Labour Department had helped 1,983 job seekers to get jobs this year as compared to 372 last year, she said, adding that over 4,100 jobs in both the private and public sectors were up for grabs at the two-day fair.
Maznah said the government’s job portal (www.jobsmalaysia.gov.my) was popular among job seekers.
She asked the department to make available job application forms for rural people who had no access to the Internet.
Saying that there were many job opportunities in the state, Maznah said Sarawakians need not have to work abroad like in Singapore.
Although wages overseas was higher, Malaysians still had to pay more for their living expenses, she said.
20091105
JKR rintis kerja dari rumah
Pelukis pelan jabatan mulakan program awal tahun depan
Seramai 35 pelukis pelan Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) akan menjadi perintis program kerajaan untuk melaksanakan amalan kerja dari rumah bermula 1 Januari depan.
Menteri Kerjaraya, Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor, berkata mereka akan melalui tempoh percubaan tiga bulan sebelum kerajaan memutuskan sama ada program itu wajar diteruskan atau sebaliknya.
"Jika percubaan itu berjaya dan produktivitinya meningkat, kita akan memperluaskan program berkenaan kepada penjawat awam lain dan mungkin juga ia akan diperluaskan di kementerian lain.
“Ini adalah sebahagian daripada usaha kerajaan untuk menjadikan budaya kerja di rumah sebagai satu amalan di negara ini, sekali gus sebagai persediaan untuk menuju ke arah negara maju," katanya pada sidang media di lobi Parlimen di sini, semalam.
Shaziman berkata, program yang diilhamkan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak itu turut memberi manfaat kepada pekerja,
terutama dari segi penjimatan petrol, tol dan mengurangkan kesesakan jalan raya.
“Perdana Menteri bersetuju untuk menjadikan pelukis pelan JKR sebagai kumpulan perintis. Walaupun jumlahnya hanya 35 orang, tetapi ia penting kepada negara dari segi jangka panjang.
"Kalau penjawat awam itu wanita, ia lagi memberi manfaat kerana masa untuk keluarga akan bertambah dan saya harap program ini akan memberi kejayaan," katanya.
Mengulas lanjut, beliau berkata, program seumpama itu sudah banyak dilaksanakan oleh syarikat ternama dunia dan terbukti ber-
jaya meningkatkan produktiviti.
"Saya lihat banyak juga syarikat ternama dunia membenarkan pekerja mereka bekerja dari rumah, cuma kerajaan yang belum melakukannya," katanya
Seramai 35 pelukis pelan Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) akan menjadi perintis program kerajaan untuk melaksanakan amalan kerja dari rumah bermula 1 Januari depan.
Menteri Kerjaraya, Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor, berkata mereka akan melalui tempoh percubaan tiga bulan sebelum kerajaan memutuskan sama ada program itu wajar diteruskan atau sebaliknya.
"Jika percubaan itu berjaya dan produktivitinya meningkat, kita akan memperluaskan program berkenaan kepada penjawat awam lain dan mungkin juga ia akan diperluaskan di kementerian lain.
“Ini adalah sebahagian daripada usaha kerajaan untuk menjadikan budaya kerja di rumah sebagai satu amalan di negara ini, sekali gus sebagai persediaan untuk menuju ke arah negara maju," katanya pada sidang media di lobi Parlimen di sini, semalam.
Shaziman berkata, program yang diilhamkan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak itu turut memberi manfaat kepada pekerja,
terutama dari segi penjimatan petrol, tol dan mengurangkan kesesakan jalan raya.
“Perdana Menteri bersetuju untuk menjadikan pelukis pelan JKR sebagai kumpulan perintis. Walaupun jumlahnya hanya 35 orang, tetapi ia penting kepada negara dari segi jangka panjang.
"Kalau penjawat awam itu wanita, ia lagi memberi manfaat kerana masa untuk keluarga akan bertambah dan saya harap program ini akan memberi kejayaan," katanya.
Mengulas lanjut, beliau berkata, program seumpama itu sudah banyak dilaksanakan oleh syarikat ternama dunia dan terbukti ber-
jaya meningkatkan produktiviti.
"Saya lihat banyak juga syarikat ternama dunia membenarkan pekerja mereka bekerja dari rumah, cuma kerajaan yang belum melakukannya," katanya
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