By Mu Vitet

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Cheongsam Association is striving to balance between promoting cultural heritage and public service.

This includes extending support to disabled athletes through its philanthropic activities, which it hopes will garner greater public attention.

President Queenie Siak King Lang expressed hope that more people would join forces to provide assistance to the disabled within their capacity.

Queenie remarked this during a visit to local disabled archery athletes along with the newly elected board of directors, including Cheongsam Ambassador Servina Cham, Deputy Secretary Amy Chia, and committee members.

They were given a briefing by Sabah Para Archery Head Coach Paul Leong and Coach Elaine Van on the athletes’ daily training and living conditions.

Members not only interacted with the athletes to exchange archery techniques and knowledge but also provided material and financial support, conveying warmth and care, said Paul.

Since its establishment in 2018, the association has been committed to promoting Chinese cheongsam culture and fostering the exchange and development of local cultural arts, said Queenie.

“Over the years, we have not only successfully hosted numerous international and domestic cheongsam competitions, but have also represented Malaysia at major cheongsam events,” she said.

They made their presence felt at China’s New Silk Road: The Mood for Love in Inner Mongolia, Yangshuo, Guilin, Hengdian, Zhejiang, and Seoul, showcasing the unique charm of Sabah’s cheongsam culture.

The association has also served as a judge at cheongsam competitions.

It has also been invited to serve as a judge and cultural exchange guest at cheongsam competitions in Sabah and Sarawak, actively promoting cultural interaction and artistic integration across the region.

To enrich the cultural life and artistic expression of its members, the association also offers folk dance classes and stage show classes, she said.

“We regularly accept invitations from various community groups and the public to participate in performances and events, showcasing the beauty of cheongsam with elegant gestures and professional interpretations,” she added.

By Mu Vitet

Kota Kinabalu: The public can now drop off used glass and plastic bottles for recycling at the newly launched Community Initiative for Recycling, Circular Learning and Education (Ripple Centre) at the Luyang multipurpose hall.

Ripple Chairperson Michelle De La Harpe said the volunteer-run centre will start accepting glass and plastic bottles every Sunday from 9am to 12pm beginning next month.

“Volunteers will help sort, clean and crush the items for recycling,” she said at the launch of the Ripple Centre by Kapayan Assemblywoman Datuk Jannie Lasimbang.

Supported by the All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia – Sustainable Development Goals (APPGM-SDG), Michelle said the centre aims to become a community hub for recycling, environmental education, and household waste management.

She said 15 persons from the B40 group and those currently jobless will be recruited in August and trained to manage local recycling activities.

Planned activities include refurbishing the community learning centre, providing mobile collection bins, setting up neighbourhood drop-off points, and running workshops on recycling, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and waste sorting.

Michelle said the project addresses poor recycling infrastructure and low public awareness by setting up a proper system that helps reduce landfill waste and pollution, while encouraging people to take action to protect the environment.

“It also creates small income opportunities and supports youth and women in starting green businesses,” she said.

Since it began in 2019 up to September 2024, Ripple has collected 41,284.80 kilogrammes of glass bottles, keeping 208,509 bottles out of landfills and cutting down 6,880.80 kilogrammes of carbon dioxide emissions.

She added that the initiative had the help of 707 volunteers, received 1,707 visitors and held 588 workshops.

From April 2023 to July 2024, Ripple’s plastic recycling project diverted 22.06 tonnes of plastic from landfills.

“As incentives, RM28,654.45 worth of rewards were given to the public, including RM2 per kilogramme for properly cleaned plastic items.

“The sale of recycled products brought in RM30,056.60, which helped cover our running costs,” she said.

Michelle said the project hopes to remain sustainable in the long run by building recycling habits in the community and training locals to manage drop-off points and logistics even after funding ends.

She said Ripple will continue to support upcycling efforts, connect with buyers for recycled goods, and work with local councils so the programme can be used in more areas.

Also present at the launch were Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai and Ripple Project Director Tressie Yap.

by J. Ligunjang JP

An Inspiring Leadership that Celebrates and Reflects Sabah’s Values

As we embrace this season of joy, togetherness, and goodwill, it is inspiring to reflect on the inclusive leadership exemplified by YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji bin Haji Noor. This Christmas, his commitment to unity and fairness resonates deeply, embodying the spirit of giving and equality that defines this festive season.

The Chief Minister consistently proves to be a leader for all Sabahans, regardless of creed, race, or religion. His dedication to fostering a balanced and inclusive approach in governance is evident through his recent appointments of highly capable individuals to key leadership positions within Sabah’s civil service. Appointments such as Datuk Philemon Lajawai as JKR Director, Dr. Maria Sulieman as Director of Health, and Dr. Mary Golingai as Director of Veterinary Services underscore his commitment to meritocracy, ensuring that positions are filled based on qualification, competence, and dedication.

These decisions not only reflect his vision of fairness and equality but also celebrate the harmonious coexistence that Sabah stands for, where diversity is viewed as a strength and an opportunity for collective advancement. By entrusting leadership roles to the most qualified individuals, the Chief Minister is laying the groundwork for a stronger and more united Sabah.

A shining example of this visionary leadership is SMJ Energy Sdn Bhd, the newest government-linked company (GLC) in Sabah. Under the capable management of its CEO, Dr. Dionysia Kibat, SMJ Energy has made a significant impact by declaring an impressive interim dividend of RM50 million to the state government. This remarkable achievement showcases the company’s efficient leadership and aligns with the Chief Minister’s vision of empowering capable leaders to drive Sabah’s economic growth for the benefit of its people.

This Christmas, we are reminded that Sabah truly exemplifies multicultural celebration in Malaysia; it is a place where every individual is valued and granted equal opportunities, regardless of their background. This spirit of inclusion and unity distinguishes Sabah and reflects the core values we uphold as a society.

The Chief Minister’s commitment to merit-based policies and inclusive governance embodies the true essence of Christmas: treating every individual with dignity, compassion, and fairness. These principles fortify Sabah’s foundation as a state built on harmony and shared progress.

May this Christmas bring peace, love, and joy to all Sabahans. Let us continue to support leaders who uphold the values of inclusivity, unity, and fairness. Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas!

KUALA LUMPUR: AMLAC Academy Launched to Strengthen Malaysia’s Fight Against Corruption and Financial Crimes

Malaysia has taken a significant step in bolstering its fight against financial crimes with the launch of the Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Corruption (AMLAC) Academy, an initiative aimed at equipping professionals with the skills and knowledge to combat corruption.

Spearheaded by former Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief, Tan Sri Dzulkifli Ahmad, who also serves as the academy’s president, the AMLAC Academy is set to redefine anti-corruption education in the region.

“At AMLAC Academy, we are driven by a vision of a corruption-free financial system,” Dzulkifli said recently during the launch ceremony.

“This institution is a testament to our dedication to equipping professionals with cutting-edge training and tools to address financial crimes effectively.”

The academy’s cornerstone programme, the Professional Diploma in Corporate Anti-Corruption Management (PD CAM), is a comprehensive six-month course designed to prepare professionals for real-world challenges.
The programme covers key areas such as anti-corruption law, anti-money laundering law, corruption risk management, and corporate liability. Delivered by industry experts, it promises to transform participants into frontline defenders of financial integrity.

Beyond Education:

In addition to its flagship diploma, AMLAC Academy offers a range of services, including:

• Consultancy and Advisory Services: Tailored solutions for tackling financial crimes.

• Specialised Training Programmes: Customised sessions for organisations needing targeted strategies.

• Research and Policy Development: Conducting studies to enhance understanding of corruption, fraud, and money laundering.

With its multifaceted approach, the academy aims to be a one-stop hub for anti-corruption expertise in Malaysia and the region.

For more information, visit their official website at amlacacademy.com.

KUALA LUMPUR: Supertoyfest 2024 wrapped up over the long weekend, marking a successful turnout for fans of the burgeoning Malaysian Toy Arts scene.

With over 43 exhibitors showcasing the country’s top artistic talents alongside international guests, the event was a visual feast at the crowded Greybox exhibit hall @ GMBB, Bukit Bintang.

More than 2,000 visitors attended, engaging with the artists and their creations.

Among the artists were notable Sabahan talents, both newcomers and established names from the land below the wind.

Kenji Chai, a TIMEPieces-featured graffiti artist from Sandakan, Sabah, stood out.

Best known for creating Chaigo the Stray, a globally celebrated icon symbolizing determination and the pursuit of dreams, Chai shared insights into his artistic journey.

He emphasized the greater opportunities in Kuala Lumpur compared to Sabah and highlighted the importance of perseverance and passion in achieving success.

“Basically, why I came to KL was really because there are a lot more opportunities and more people can come to see the art,” Chai explained.

He added that while social media has made it easier for artists everywhere, hard work and perseverance are still essential.

Chai also encouraged fellow Sabahan artists to embrace their talents and overcome shyness, advocating for self-promotion and community engagement.

Aaron Yap, an up-and-coming artist from Kota Kinabalu, known online as The Hoggle Man, also made his mark.

Yap’s vibrant character designs and toy illustrations, influenced by Western pop culture and his own creations, captivated attendees.

Inspired by a previous toy event in 2023, Yap has been working on his designs for nearly nine years.

“Overall, it’s a really great vibe and awesome community,” Yap said, expressing pride in bringing out the Sabahan spirit through his work.

He emphasized the need for local platforms to support Sabahan artists, suggesting that events like Supertoyfest could thrive in Sabah or Sarawak, fostering a stronger artistic community.

Supertoyfest 2024 not only highlighted the dynamic Malaysian Toy Arts scene but also showcased the unique contributions of Sabahan artists, underscoring the region’s creative potential and the importance of supportive platforms for emerging talents.

By Isabelle Yap,

a Kinabalu food-loving girl munching at @goeatwhat

Want to add a cultural experience to your next lunch break? Grab a group of friends and tuck into a delicious, nutritious Banana Leaf Rice feast at Sri Latha Curry House.

You’ve probably heard of it, but have you been? Located in the Bandaran Berjaya area, Sri Latha looks bare and unassuming from the outside, but it’s secretly packed with delightful savory and sour flavors.

It’s one of just a few places in Kota Kinabalu selling Banana Leaf Rice, and it’s been around for a long, long time. Never had Banana Leaf Rice before? Here’s the rundown:

The concept of Banana Leaf Rice rice is unique in so many ways.

1. Your food is served on a fresh banana leaf, which adds its appetizing fragrance to your meal.
2. Rice is served with generous helpings of vegetarian dishes, at least three or four. Your rice can then be banjir-ed with dahl, chicken curry, or both. At Sri Latha, expect stewed pumpkin, stir fried cabbage, spinach and chopped kacang panjang. Sometimes beansprouts, cucumbers, radishes and potatoes pop up too. Nice!
3. Unlimited refills. Yup. That’s right. Just ask your friendly server to top up your favorite dish, rice and choice of banjir.
4. And there’s more free stuff at Sri Latha: crispy and airy ‘indian keropok’ papadums, with mint dip and tangy lime pickle. The lime pickle really kicks!
5. And if you really want to boost your lunch – order extra meat, fish and veggie dishes on top of your Banana Leaf Rice.

I was brought to Sri Latha’s for the first time in February 2022 by a group of long-time Sri Latha-lovin’ friends.

When I told the group I had never been there before, cue the round of “Haaaaah?” and “We must go NOW!”.

I tried to defend myself “I always wanted to go but scared long queue ma!” but I was pretty embarrassed I’d not been to this long-loved local establishment in all my 27 years.

When we arrived, the crowd was not the famed pack of sardines it used to be, sadly due to the pandemic these recent years. However, the restaurant was still completely full.

“Uh oh – we might have to wait…”

Hot tip: If you tell the boss your entire group will order banana leaf rice, you’ll be seated ASAP in the ‘VIP’ air-con area upstairs. Expect comfy chairs too.

My friend whispered the above hot tip to me and we were seated upstairs immediately after making our promises. “Sri Latha actually expanded twice in recent years” my friend told me “but they still take your order as soon as you sit down, and the food comes quickly”. We supposed this was so that they could get through the large lunch-crowd queues that would form every lunchtime on the streets outside.

I let my friends, the Sri Latha veterans, do the ordering for me, the newbie.My friends asked for a feast, and boy did nothing disappoint. Crispy spiced fried bittergourd (Malay: peria goreng), fried fish eggs (also called fish roe) with curry leaves & lime; juicy fried chicken, fried fresh white fish & thick lamb curry. Made with a variety of traditionally Southern Indian ingredients such as curry leaves, star anise & plenty of other masala mixes, these definitely created a more flavorful and colorful lunch than usual. My personal top 2 favorites are the fried fish roe and fried chicken. The fried fish roe is something unique, with a delightful briny taste mixed with spices, but no fishy aftertaste. The fried chicken was similarly spiced, and juicy – a must!

Hot tip: arrive before 12 noon if you are really craving the peria goreng & fried fish roe as these are known to sell out the fastest!  

Thirsty? The mango lassi at Sri Latha’s is legendary, costing as much as one Banana Leaf Rice order, but for good reason. Made with thick creamy yogurt and fresh mangoes, I say it is worth treating yourself. Once you’ve eaten to your heart’s content, a glass of mango lassi at the end will cool you down and aid digestion.

Did you know you can use a banana leaf to communicate with your server? The way you fold your leaf after you’re done eating sends out a special message. Folding the leaf in towards you shows that you appreciated and enjoyed the meal. Folding the leaf away from you shows that you weren’t content with the food. Another cultural fact: Folding a banana leaf away is usually done at funerals as a sign of condolences, so you would only fold your leaf this way if you felt really strongly about it. Either way, don’t be afraid to tell the friendly owner yourself if you enjoyed your meal!

Tips:

• Not for spicy lovers, but don’t worry as the dishes stick to the original rich flavors of the ingredients.
• Eating with the right hand is the right way, while the left hand is considered unclean. Prefer to keep both hands clean? No problem – utensils are provided.
• Ask for the prices when ordering meat and fish. Some fish can come with a higher price tag depending on the seasonal market price.

Don’t Forget to Share, Like and Comment @sabahmedia

KOTA KINABALU : Parti Bersatu Sabah is comfortable being a part of the Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government for now as it enjoys respect and acknowledgement from its leadership.

Its president Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili said that there is only a need to review its position if there is the possibility of further strengthening the coalition.

“I chose my words carefully. There is only a need to review if there is a purpose of strengthening. If it weakens our position in GRS or Perikatan, then it is not the objective of PBS.

“We are comfortable here, they respect our position and are acknowledging our contribution to the governing of the country,” he said.

Ongkili, who is the minister in charge of Sabah and Sarawak affairs,  was asked about his party’s position as speculation of a PBS-Warisan alliance continues after overtures by Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.

Earlier in his speech, Ongkili reiterated his loyalty to PN, saying the party had good relations with its partners in both the state and federal government.

“We want to build trust and relationships among partners of GRS and Perikatan Nasional. In PBS you can trust us as a partner for the people of Sabah. Both political partnerships have given PBS huge space to contribute to the governing and managing of this country and the state. Our inputs have been acknowledged and valued by the leadership,” he said.

 “We will maintain this position until there is a need to review the situation to strengthen the position at both the state and Federal level. We continue to pledge our loyalty, support and cooperation both for the Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Nor,” he said.

KOTA KINABALU: Counsel Marcel Jude Joseph, who is representing a politician that was charged with five counts of molesting two women and one of them was an Unduk Ngadau (UN), made his apology on the relevant parts of his bail application submission for his client’s cases which have caused hurt and pain to the Kadazan Dusun Murut and Rungus (KDMR) community.

In a statement by Marcel today, he said that he wanted to apologize to all the UNs throughout Malaysia from the beginning of beauty pageant until the year of 2021.

“I sincerely and genuinely extend the apology to each and every member of the UN organising community 2021 and to every member of such committee since the inception of the UN beauty pageant.

“I sincerely and genuinely extend the apology to each and every member of the state Kaamatan 2021 and to all previous members of the state Kaamatan since the inception of the UN beauty pageant,” said Marcel.

He further extended his apology to every worker, volunteer, helper, contractor and all other persons, who have been involved in anyway whatsoever in the UN beauty pageant 2021 and in all UN beauty pageants since its inception.

“I also sincerely and genuinely extend the apology to each and every person of the KDMR people of Sabah,” he added.

However, Marcel explained that although he prepared the submission, he did not say or mention the part that Joanna Datuk Kitingan, chairperson of KDCA Women’s Council Sabah State UN Borderless Kaamatan 2021 was objecting to.

“She can check this with the people who are there, namely the public prosecutor, the reporters, the police officers and the lawyers or she can also check the audio tapes for the proceedings if there is any.

“As for the withdrawal of the written submission, I regret this cannot be done for the following reasons, which among others that the bail application is res judicata which it had been decided by the court and therefore cannot be revisited again unless if there is an appeal or an intervening application,” explained Marcel, adding that the matter also cannot be re-litigated.

Apart from that, Marcel said that the proceedings are subjected to immunity and the alleged offending paragraphs claimed by Joanna was not directed at any particular persons or organisation to be ground for defamation

“It did not name any UN or anyone in the UN or anyone in the State Kaamatan MOC 2021 or anyone of the KDMR people of Sabah as an action for defamation must name a particular person, so I am not guilty of defamation.

“There was no attack on Kaamatan as a festival or an attack on the KDMR people, it only involved the UN beauty pageant in general terms and did not point to any particular UN competition or competitors,” he said.

Marcel then said that the alleged offending paragraphs claimed by Joanna was made for the purpose of court proceedings, it was not made with any emotion or malice or intention to provoke or to hurt. It was made to defend his client.

“In essence, it was done as part of my job and it is not possible to tell me how I should carry out my professional duties. If I fail in my duty, I remain liable to be sued for an alleged professional negligence by my client. Therefore, based on the above, I am unable to withdraw the submission,” he explained.

On June 13, the state UN Borderless Kaamatan committee had demanded Marcel to withdraw his alleged statement about the pageant.

Joanna said: “We hereby demand that he withdraw his uncalled for statements immediately and apologize to all UNs, the UN Organizing Committee 2021, the State Kaamatan MOC 2021 and the KDMR people of Sabah as a whole, before we take our next action”.

KOTA KINABALU – The state government should allow spa and reflexology centres in Sabah to operate during the conditional movement control order (CMCO) period. 

Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) Supreme Council Member, lawyer Yong Yit Jee said it was clearly stated by Senior Minister (Defence), Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yakoob yesterday that spa and reflexology centres be allowed to operate in CMCO states beginning today.  

Yong said the state government should apply the same rule in Sabah as operators of spa and reflexology centres had been struggling since they were forced to close for several months since last year.  

“The Malaysia Spa Association (AMSPA) president, Datuk Jeanette Tambakau told me that operators of spa and reflexology centres have been seriously impacted since the first MCO in March last year. 

“They only operated for seven months after they could open in July last year, and then had to close again last month.  

“To continue operating, AMPSA and the Malaysia Health and Spa Association (MAWSPA) have taken additional measures to train all operators through their ‘Safe to Spa’ programme to ensure all who are involved in the business adhere to strict standard operating procedures (SOP),” said Yong.  

He said that during their operation in July last year, all therapists had put on face shields, face masks, and gloves at all times. 

Frequent cleaning was also conducted in each room.  

“Furthermore, Sabah has not recorded any Covid-19 cluster involving a spa or reflexology centre while they were operating,” he said.  

Yong noted that AMSPA and MAWSPA are ready to have a dialogue session with the authorities to explain their difficulties. 

 Seasoned triathlete Yatim Zainal Abidin is satisfied with the progress made as he looks forward to competing in the The Championship race in Samorin, Slovakia at the end of May.

Yatim, 44, said he has been training non-stop for the world triathlon event, where he will compete in the Middle Distance (individual – age group) race featuring swimming 1.9km, bike (90km) and run (21.1km).

“So far all good,” Yatim replied in a Whatsapp conversation yesterday.

“I’ve been doing progressive non-stop training and I’ve made improvement in all three disciplines…swimming, cycling and running.

“As of now, I will put myself at an eight…I’m happy with the progress that I’ve made,” added Yatim while describing his current condition on a scale of one to ten, where ten is the best.

Despite the steady progress, Yatim however is still missing an important element that could have made his preparation even better.

“The one missing from my preparation is races. So, the plan is to keep on training hard,” he saidl

Meanwhile, Yatim said he had cut down his training from seven days a week to only six days as he did not want to risk injury with only around three months before the race take place.

“The race is getting closer and I want to prevent injuries while doing training.

“I want to give my best and it starts from training…my only hope now is that the race will take place as scheduled,” he said.

For the record, Yatim qualified for the The Championship – an iconic world triathlon event – after he secured a fourth place finish in the Men’s 40-44 age group category of the 4th Challenge Iskandar Puteri in Johor in November 2019.

The race was originally scheduled for May 31, 2020 but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was twice postponed before the organiser settled for the weekend of May 22-23 this year.