Wednesday, 30 July 2025

Author: Osman Razali

Aesthetic value of bead necklaces draws festival-goers

SIMANGGANG: At craft sales programmes, among the things that often steal women’s hearts are bead accessories such as necklaces. This is because they are very beautiful, made in various styles and boast of delicate craftsmanship. It is therefore no surprise that these items, even if they cost hundreds of ringgit,

Michelle Belveqistriya is Benak Idol 2024 champ

SIMANGGANG: Petite girl, Michelle Belveqistriya who was crowned the winner of the Benak Idol 2024 competition is ready to challenge herself to a bigger singing stage. Actively participating in many competitions, most recently she is understood to have qualified for the next stage in the reality programme, One In The

Divide JPS to fast-track rice ambitions

SIMANGGANG: A move to split the Sarawak Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS) into two units is expected to accelerate the state’s goal of becoming a major rice producer. Batang Lupar MP Mohamad Shafizan Kepli said that the previous single-department structure was irrelevant. “By dividing the department into specialised units, I

Khazanah Kasihnya Warisan is Raja Pecut

SIMANGGANG: Khazanah Kasihnya Warisan was crowned as the ‘Raja Pecut’ during the ‘2024 Regatta Benak Festival after winning the 30-paddler race event at Batang Lupar. With the boat number 53, owned by councillor Ardyman Matan, the team easily defeated 14 other competitors. The event was witnessed by Deputy Premier Datuk

Benak Festival: At least extend to five days

SIMANGGANG: The popular Benak Festival should be extended to at least five days, said Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis. “Every year, the festival, a beloved event for Sarawakians and especially Sri Aman residents, spans three days from Friday to Sunday. “This year, it

RM50mil allocated for festivals and events next year

SIMANGGANG: A total of RM50 million has been allocated to organise more events and festivals in the state next year. Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan said that the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts previously received a budget of RM174 million

Call to encourage parents prioritise children’s education

SIMANGGANG: Community and village chiefs (KMKK) are urged to play an important role in encouraging parents to prioritise their children’s education. Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, emphasised the need for parents to ensure their children regularly attend school, and refrain from truancy. He

Four projects to boost Kalaka drainage and irrigation

SARATOK: Four projects worth RM10.72 million to improve the irrigation and drainage system in Kalaka, funded by the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), will be tendered next month. Kalaka assemblyman Mohamad Duri said this was good news, especially for the residents of Kampung Kupang, Perpat, Paloh, and the Sungai Tali

Craftsman gains popularity with handmade machetes

SARATOK: After more than nine years of forging machetes, Awang Suhaili Awang Narawi has become a well-known figure in Kampung Kaba, with his handcrafted machetes in high demand across the region. The seasoned blacksmith, who specializes in creating various types of machetes, said his business has grown steadily since he

Kindergarten celebrates 60 years of excellence

SARATOK: On its 60th anniversary, Saratok Public Kindergarten is being urged to embrace modern advancements while preserving its strong foundation. Kalaka assemblyman Mohamad Duri commended the kindergarten for its dedication and perseverance in nurturing young minds. “This kindergarten has been a cornerstone of our community for six decades. I hope