Wednesday, 7 January 2026

Author: Neville Timothy Sanders

Rural-biased budget with RM5.695 bln set aside

THE 2024 State Budget continues to be rural-biased with an allocation of RM5.695 billion or 63 per cent out of the total RM9.038 billion proposed for development expenditure. With nine regional development agencies established, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the agencies play a pivotal role

RM200 mln for tourism programmes

A SUM of RM200 million has been allocated for the implementation of various tourism programmes under the 2024 State Budget since the tourism sector is one of the major contributors to the state economy. “We will strive to transform Sarawak as a leading destination for eco-tourism and business events, driven

World Toilet Day: Need to step up changes

KUCHING: Since its inception in 2001, World Toilet Day is perceived as the day to inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis. This year it carries the theme “Accelerating Change” as there are 3.5 billion people still living without safe toilets and 419 million people still practising open defecation

Inculcate need for toilet hygiene among students

KUCHING: In schools, toilet facilities can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how they are being managed. This year, there have been many reports about vandalism in one of the most important school facilities in the country. In conjunction with the World Toilet Day 2023 celebration, New

A whimsical Christmas unveiling at The Spring shopping mall

KUCHING: The enchanting Christmas spirit has descended upon Kuching as The Spring Shopping Mall dazzled visitors with its whimsical Willy Wonka-themed Christmas decorations. The grand Christmas lighting ceremony witnessed the presence of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong

Embracing Sarawak’s arts and culture

KUCHING: Dayang Mariana Abang Bil Hassan, the Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Arts Council, emphasised the importance for the younger generation to acquaint themselves with, understand, and preserve the rich arts, heritage, and culture of Sarawak. She added that Sarawak’s heritage and culture are integral parts of the identity

Sarawak’s ethnic fusion of gastronomic delight

KUCHING: The amalgamation of different ethnic backgrounds in Sarawak, comprising 34 ethnic groups, contributes to a vibrant and dynamic food landscape, offering a plethora of tastes and cooking techniques. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, stated that embracing and celebrating the multi-ethnic culinary heritage

Placing food as a sustainable devt goal 

KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) plans to put food at the core of its sustainable development goals going forward. MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said such an effort is in line with the policy direction of the state government after Kuching is recognised as Gastronomy City UNESCO in

No need for Sarawakians to be involved in international conflict

KUCHING: There is no need for Sarawakians to get involved in any international conflicts, although Sarawak can show compassion to the victims of war through international donations. Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Women chief, Kho Teck Wan said this in support of Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi’s stance

Keep diabetes at bay by eating healthy: Dr Sim

KUCHING: Diabetes in the country is increasing with at least four million people living with the disease,  and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian is concerned. “The figures keep on increasing, and that does not include people who are not aware that they are diabetic, let alone being