Sunday, 15 March 2026

Author: Karen Masing

Senator hosts iftar gathering

KUCHING: About 110 guests attended an iftar gathering hosted by Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim at Raia Hotel & Convention Centre Kuching today (Mar 14). The gathering brought together representatives from Saberkas Batu Kitang branch, Community Leaders and Village Chiefs (Ketua Masyarakat dan Ketua Kaum, KMKK) from the Batu Kawa constituency,

RM2.69 million allocated to support Islamic schools

KUCHING: The federal government has approved RM2.69 million to support traditional Islamic schools and tahfiz institutions in Sarawak, aiming to strengthen religious education while ensuring students remain connected to mainstream learning. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the allocation would provide students in these schools with greater exposure to

Federal funding RM150 million approved to repair Kuching barrage

KUCHING: The federal government has approved RM150 million in urgent funding to repair the Kuching barrage, which was reported to have suffered damage due to erosion. Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, welcomed the announcement, describing it as a crucial step to ensure the safety of residents around Sarawak’s

State-Federal talks continue to yield positive results

KUCHING: Close cooperation between the Sarawak State Government and the Federal Government continues to yield positive results, with several key issues reportedly resolved through brief discussions between the two sides today. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, revealed that his discussion with Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar

Malaysia maintains petrol subsidies despite global price surge

KUCHING: Malaysia will maintain the price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 despite rising global oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government has decided to retain the subsidy to protect Malaysians from the impact of escalating fuel prices and

Timeless tailoring or trendy ready-to-wear

THIS Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Sarawakians are split between two worlds. Some are choosing tailor-made masterpieces that promise timeless style and durability. Others are turning to ready-to-wear outfits that offer instant trend appeal and online convenience. The choices reveal how personal style and practicality shape the way we celebrate. Four Sarawakians

Sarawak retains youth age at 40 and below

KUCHING: Sarawak will continue to define youth (belia) as those aged 40 and below, despite the federal government lowering the official youth age limit to 30. The federal change, under the Youth Societies and Youth Development (Amendment) Act 2019, took effect on January 1, 2026, with leadership roles in youth

New tourism tax policy lauded as positive

KUCHING: Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, welcomed the federal government’s decision to channel 100 per cent of tourism tax collections back to states in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Abdul Karim described the move as positive and expressed hope that

Bagatan traditions promoted through local initiative


KAPIT: The Bagatan community’s rich traditions and cultural heritage were showcased yesterday (Feb 28) at Rumah Philip, Nanga Merit here through a programme promoting history, crafts, and local entrepreneurship. The programme, officiated by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, is organised by the Sarawak

The river’s shadow: Fear, faith and the woman who hunts crocodiles

THE river was never meant to invade the village at Kampung Haji Mahjid. On most days, it moves quietly past wooden jetties and anchored boats, reflecting the sky in soft ripples. But after days of relentless rain, the water rose without warning, swallowing its banks and creeping into narrow walkways