KUCHING, April 6: A new RM30 million welfare complex for orphans will be built in Miri to replace the current Sarawak Orphans Welfare Board (Peryatim) building, which is no longer suitable due to its location and soil condition, says Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Abang Johari said the new complex will be located near Miri Airport and will provide improved, more comfortable facilities to better support the needs of orphaned children. "The existing Peryatim building in Miri is situated in a less strategic area and is no longer suitable. "Therefore, we will build a new complex near Miri Airport with better amenities to ensure the children's wellbeing," he said during the Peryatim Hari Raya Gathering and the official naming ceremony of the Daud Abdul Rahman Welfare Complex (KKDAR) held today in Bintulu. The Premier noted that the new location will provide a safer and more conducive environment for orphans to grow and pursue their education, in line with the State government's commitment to uplifting the welfare of underprivileged groups. He also expressed pride in the achievements of former Peryatim residents who have gone on to excel in professional fields such as engineering and accounting, and who now contribute meaningfully to society. During the event, Abang Johari announced a RM25,000 contribution to the Peryatim Complex in Bintulu, bringing total contributions at the event to RM100,000, including donations from various individuals and organisations. The development of the new complex underscores the Sarawak government's ongoing commitment to building a more compassionate and inclusive society, particularly by prioritising the wellbeing of orphans. Also present were Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Peryatim Sarawak chairman Datuk Misnu Taha, Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee, and other invited guests. DayakDaily

KUCHING, April 7: The first international standard cycling path in Malaysia is set to become a new attraction in Miri, further strengthening the efforts of the Sarawak government in promoting a healthy lifestyle and fostering community unity. According to TVS, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, said the cycling path, which international experts are constructing, is currently in its final phase under the rural transformation project (RTP), with a cost of around RM7,000. "It is part of a more comprehensive initiative to develop recreational parks for the people in this city. This will be a park for the people of Miri," he said. He said this during a press conference today in conjunction with the 3D Mural Floor Painting Programme at Taman Bulatan Skate Park in Miri. In addition to the cycling path, several other new facilities were also announced, including the construction of a roof for the basketball court with an allocation of RM420,000, which is expected to begin after the completion of the botanical garden. Also listed was a hexagonal-shaped building and a pickleball court, which a local company has already completed. "The drainage system has also been planned and is currently in progress," said Ting. Dayak Daily

MIRI (April 13): Fourteen new councillors were sworn in to serve on the Miri City Council (MCC) for the 2025 – 2028 term today, bringing the total number of councillors to 30, with 16 reappointed. Among those appointed were Yusri Ahmad Lai, Abin Galieh @ Aden, Lilla Raja @ Lilla Wong, Thian Sew Lan, Sim Cheng Tiong, Chai Woei Yih, Yee Chung Meng, Hiung Chien Yih, Lau Sie Nguong, Mudin Epui @ Mudin Mekir, Andrew Lee Salin, Lian Tarawe, Eliza Sherance Jamba, and Franklin Kesong. Returning councillors include Tan Lek Jin, Romulus Charles Agan Raja, Toh Kah Siong, Leslie Lau Ik Chie, Huang Huat Choon, Yeo Zhi Chao, Jenny Crystal Mansang, Yu Ley Ha, Raymond Jenang, Saliha Basri, Chia Kah Leong, Jamil Bujang, Huang Hong Siong, Rahim Usang, Ugat Wan @ Jalong Wan, and Flora Usun Lanyau. Mayor Adam Yii and Ariffin Mohamad were reappointed as mayor and deputy mayor, respectively. In his address, Yii pledged to lead with dedication and accountability. “With your continuous support, I pledge to carry this trust with utmost seriousness and to work tirelessly for the progress and betterment of our city,” he said. He also encouraged the newly appointed councillors to bring fresh ideas and solutions while collaborating with stakeholders to meet the city’s needs. Yii’s current term is set to run until March 31, 2026, while Ariffin and other councillors will serve until March 31, 2028. Present at the ceremony were Deputy Premier cum Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, and his deputies Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil and Datuk Michael Tiang. Also attending the event were deputy minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I Datuk Sebastian Ting; Miri Resident Galong Luang; and permanent secretary to the state Public Health, Housing and Local Government Ministry Datu Elizabeth Loh.

  MIRI (April 13): Councillors must remain accessible and committed to serving as a vital link between the government and the people, said Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian. Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony at Miri City Hall yesterday, Dr Sim stressed the importance of professionalism, dedication, and proactive engagement. “Being a councillor is not about titles but about contributing to the city’s growth and ensuring people’s voices are heard,” he said. He urged councillors to adopt a solution-oriented approach to address Miri’s growing needs. “You (councillors) must show up, listen, and take action,” he said, stressing the need for meaningful engagement with residents. He also acknowledged the complex challenges facing Miri due to its rapid urban growth, diversity, and expanding infrastructure needs. “Councillors must be versatile and responsive to the city’s diverse needs – whether it involves urban planning, infrastructure, waste management, or community welfare,” he said. While no specific new projects or policy announcements were made, Dr Sim reiterated the critical role councillors play in strengthening governance and public trust. “Councillors must serve with integrity and transparency. This is not just a title – it is a duty to make Miri a better place for everyone,” he stressed.

KUCHING, March 22: Miri is set to host this year's Sarawak Day celebration. In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) report, the celebration will be coordinated by Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, along with several deputy ministers responsible for various portfolios, including tourism, entrepreneurial development, education, and public health. Meanwhile, the Miri Division Resident's Office held a preparatory meeting for the Sarawak Day 2025 celebration on March 21. The meeting, chaired by Lee with the Miri Division Resident, Galong Luang, was attended by those in the State leadership and the organising committee to ensure this year's celebration runs smoothly. Various activities have been planned to fill the programme for this year's celebration, including thanksgiving ceremonies, a unity walk, a town hall session, and the highlight event-the Sarawak Day assembly. Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil; Deputy Minister in the Premier's Office (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala; and Deputy Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Rosey Yunus were also present.