Monday, 9 February 2026

Author: Sarah Hafizah Chandra

International Women’s Day: A celebration of progress and a call for equality

Every year on March 8, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day — a global movement that recognises the achievements of women while highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality. This day is not just a celebration but also a powerful reminder of the social, economic, political and

Remembering, feeling Grandpa’s absence this Ramadan

‘You cannot prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair.’ – Old Chinese proverb This year’s Ramadan feels very different, especially as it is my first year observing the holy month without my grandfather. There is a

Raya orders keep home-based bakers busy

KUCHING:  Festive seasons are often the busiest time for businesses, including home-based ones. Even though it is only the first week of Ramadan, home-based bakers are already gearing up to take orders for cookies and kek lapis (layered cake) ahead of the upcoming Hari Raya celebration. For Sapiah Alek, preparations begin early.

Early detection, lifelong protection

When was the last time you had a medical check-up? It is a simple question, yet one that often catches people off guard. Many of us go about our daily routines without giving much thought to our health—until something feels off. But by the time symptoms start showing, the problem

Understanding the deadly chemistry of combustion

EVERY day, combustion is at work around us. Whether it’s striking of a match, the burning of fossil fuels, or the lighting of a cigarettes, the act of burning is so deeply embedded in human activity that we rarely pause to consider its effects. Yet, the process of combustion –

A lifetime of firefighting, leadership and service

FOR over three decades, Datuk Khirudin Drahman has dedicated his life to safeguarding lives and properties as a member of the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba). From his early days as a recruit to his roles as Director of Bomba Sarawak and Deputy Fire Commissioner of Bomba Malaysia, he has

Sarawak author Nuruljannah Usop wins MPH Best Book 2024 Award

KUCHING: Miri-based author Nuruljannah Usop has clinched the MPH Best Book 2024 award in the Young Adult Fiction category for her novel, Lyrics and You. Describing her victory as unexpected, she said it felt surreal to hear her name and book title announced during MPH’s Anugerah Juara Buku 2024 and

Embracing the spirit of Ramadan

‘Don’t waste the opportunity to do good during the month of Ramadan,” unknown As the holy month of Ramadan fast approaches, Muslims are preparing to embrace a period of fasting, prayers and self-reflection. The atmosphere is one of excitement and spiritual anticipation, as families, communities and businesses make arrangements to

Culinary delights await at Ramadan bazaars

KUCHING: As Ramadan approaches, various food and beverage vendors are preparing to showcase their culinary delights at Ramadan bazaars across the city. For 18-year-old entrepreneur Airis Qayla Hafeez, the coming month is not just a time for spiritual reflection and family gatherings but also an important period for her business.

Striving for balance in a whirlwind

‘Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.’ — American singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, Dolly Parton Work-life balance — it is something we all strive for but often find elusive, especially in fast-paced industries like journalism. The idea of neatly separating professional responsibilities