Latest news with #ChiewChoonMan
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Miri MP urges comprehensive action six months after floods, landslide
Chiew (right) looks at the damages caused by a landslide during a visit to Hilltop Garden recently. MIRI (June 19): Nearly six months after severe floods and a deadly landslide struck Miri, MP Chiew Choon Man is calling for sustained recovery efforts and long-term mitigation planning to protect the city from future disasters. In a statement today, Chiew stressed that post-disaster work must continue beyond initial aid, highlighting the need for consistent follow-up nearly half a year after heavy rains triggered widespread flooding across Miri and surrounding divisions. The same weather event also caused a deadly landslide at the foot of Canada Hill in Kampung Lereng Bukit, claiming lives and destroying homes. 'This tragedy has tested the resilience of our community. It must serve as a powerful lesson for all of us in building a safer, more prepared Miri,' he said. Chiew thanked government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the thousands of volunteers who responded during the emergency. He also acknowledged the federal and Sarawak governments for their early support, including the RM1,000 Bantuan Wang Ihsan (BWI) cash aid and initial allocations for repairs and recovery. However, he cautioned that meaningful recovery cannot end with first-response measures. 'It is our collective responsibility to ensure follow-up actions continue and are not just reactive measures when issues go viral,' Chiew said. Chiew urged authorities to ensure that BWI payments are completed fairly and promptly, regardless of whether victims stayed in official Temporary Relief Centres (PPS) or elsewhere. 'No one should be left behind in the recovery process.' He also called for the repair and restoration of flood-damaged homes and infrastructure to be expedited. He emphasised the need for these efforts to follow a clear implementation schedule, with consistent oversight to ensure timely completion. On mitigation, Chiew pressed for the urgent finalisation of a slope safety study for Canada Hill, especially in the affected Kampung Lereng Bukit area, and the immediate implementation of a long-term landslide prevention plan to safeguard surrounding communities. Equally pressing, he said, is the need to accelerate Miri's flood mitigation strategy. This includes drainage upgrades, construction of retention ponds, riverbank reinforcements, and sustainable urban development to reduce the city's exposure to future weather-related disasters. To push for concrete progress, Chiew said he will convene meetings with relevant agencies to obtain updates and intends to raise the matter in Parliament, including requesting additional allocations if current funds fall short. 'Recovery is not just about rebuilding; it's about preventing future disasters. Let this serve as a turning point for Miri to become a safer, more resilient, and inclusive city,' he said. Chiew Choon Man flood landslide miri mitigation planning mp
Borneo Post
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Expedite flood aid distribution in Miri, MP urges Deputy Premier
Chiew shows the letter urging the expedited distribution of flood aid to victims in Miri. MIRI (June 12): Miri MP Chiew Choon Man has urged Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas to review and expedite the distribution of flood relief aid following growing complaints from victims in his constituency who have yet to receive the assistance. In a formal letter addressed to the Deputy Premier, Chiew highlighted the devastating impact of the early 2025 floods, which he described as among the worst in Sarawak's history. Thousands of residents in Miri suffered extensive property damage and income loss. He noted that while the federal government had allocated Bantuan Wang Ihsan (BWI) amounting to RM1,000 per family in March this year, many flood victims ― both those who took shelter at Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) and those who did not ― have reported not receiving the promised aid. 'My office has received numerous complaints and grievances that, to date, many victims in the Miri parliamentary area have not received the aid. They are in urgent need of financial support to restore their homes and basic needs,' Chiew wrote in his letter. To address the issue, the MP proposed several measures for the Deputy Premier's consideration: Chiew suggested implementing a phased disbursement model, similar to the approach adopted by the Johor government, which began issuing aid in stages shortly after the disaster. He also called for the establishment of a transparent appeal mechanism for victims who may have been overlooked or have yet to receive any feedback on their applications. Additionally, Chiew expressed his willingness to work with the Sarawak Government and other MPs from the state to request additional funding from the federal government, should the current allocation prove insufficient. The letter also included a copy of the official statement made during the Dewan Rakyat's Special Chamber earlier this year, where Chiew and several Sarawak MPs had raised the urgency of post-flood recovery efforts. 'I extend my appreciation for your continued commitment to assisting disaster victims,' Chiew added, urging immediate cooperation between state and federal authorities to ease the burden on affected residents. Chiew's appeal underscores growing public frustration over the pace of flood aid distribution in Sarawak and highlights broader concerns over disaster relief coordination between federal and state agencies. Chiew Choon Man douglas uggah embas flood aid miri
Borneo Post
04-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Borneo Post
Miri MP: Cultural festivals crucial for strong national identity
Chiew (second right) presents a certificate of excellence to one of the students who excelled in last years' Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination. Also in photo is Kebana president Hilary Samah Tet (second left). MIRI (June 4): Festivals that celebrate the unique cultures of Sarawak's indigenous communities play an important role in building a strong national identity, said Miri MP Chiew Choon Man. He said that events such as the Kenyah Badeng National Association (Kebana) Festival are more than just performances or exhibitions—they reflect the community's deep appreciation for its cultural heritage. 'It's a platform to honour the Kenyah Badeng culture while bringing together people of all ages through the spirit of 'segulai sejalai'—unity and togetherness,' he said during the closing ceremony and cultural night of the Kebana Festival at IKBN here on Monday. Chiew noted that the evening's programme showcased the traditions, values and identity of the Kenyah Badeng community and urged greater efforts to ensure these elements are passed down to future generations. 'Young people, not just from the Kenyah Badeng but from all communities, must play their part in keeping their respective culture alive. 'Our elders have worked hard to preserve our language, customs and identity. Now it's time for the younger generation to carry that forward, so it doesn't fade away,' he said. He also emphasised that Malaysia's rich mix of cultures—especially in Sarawak—is an integral part of the country's identity and strength. On the Kebana Festival, Chiew described it as more than just an annual gathering—it is a meaningful effort to promote unity and support the talents of Kenyah youth. 'From cultural competitions to academic awards and other activities, the festival shows that culture is something that grows and adapts. 'As the MP for Miri, I strongly support initiatives like this because I believe personal growth must be matched with cultural development,' he said. The festival, which took place from May 31 to June 2, featured various activities such as football and badminton competitions, long dance and solo dance contests, a beauty pageant and academic excellence awards for Kenyah Badeng children who excelled in their national examinations last year. Chiew Choon Man Kenyah Badeng National Association Festival lead
Borneo Post
30-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
No cut to household LPG subsidy, says Miri MP
MIRI (May 31): Miri MP Chiew Choon Man has moved to clarify growing public confusion over allegations that the federal government has abolished or reduced subsidies for household liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders. In a statement, he dismissed claims circulating on social media as 'inaccurate and misleading', stressing that the LPG subsidy for domestic use remains fully intact. 'There has been no removal or reduction of the LPG subsidy. What the government is doing is tackling leakage and abuse in the system, particularly involving illegal commercial use and black-market activities,' he said. His remarks came in response to public concerns following the enforcement of Operasi Gas Memasak (Ops Gasak) by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), which began on May 1. Chiew cited KPDN Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, who recently clarified that Ops Gasak is not a new policy but is instead based on the Supply Control Regulations (Amendment) 2021, in force since Oct 15, 2021. 'The operation targets the misuse of subsidised LPG in non-household sectors, especially illegal activities such as 'decanting', where gas is transferred from subsidised cylinders into non-subsidised ones for resale. 'The subsidy is intended for household kitchens, not for commercial or industrial profit,' he emphasised. Chiew also reassured the public that individuals using three or fewer 14kg cylinders (totalling up to 42kg) at any given time are not required to apply for a controlled goods permit under current regulations. He urged the public to rely on verified and official sources of information, and not to be swayed by viral content or unfounded speculation. 'I fully support the government's efforts to prevent subsidy leakage. Any abuse of the system ultimately harms those who truly need and deserve the assistance.'
Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Miri MP calls for nationwide digital infrastructure overhaul in schools
(From left) Dahlan, Alhadi, Chiew and Ko pose with one of the interactive smart boards donated to SMK Merbau. MIRI (May 17): A more comprehensive national approach to digital education is needed, as quality digital infrastructure in schools should no longer be viewed as a luxury but a basic necessity, said Miri MP Chiew Choon Man. He visited SMK Merbau recently to observe the implementation of a project under the People's Friendly Project (Projek Mesra Rakyat) for the Miri constituency. Through this initiative, he presented the school with two interactive smart boards and one multimedia projector. According to him, the new digital tools aimed to enhance the students' learning experiences and align classroom teaching with current technological advancements. 'These interactive smart boards, equipped with Android and Windows systems and 4K UHD displays, are not just tools – they are catalysts for a more interactive, visual, and effective learning process. They represent a strategic move toward the digital transformation of our schools,' he said. Chiew stressed that access to quality education must be equitable, regardless of whether students live in urban or rural areas. 'Our children deserve facilities that prepare them to compete globally, wherever they are,' he noted. He expressed hope that teachers would embrace the new technology to deliver more engaging and innovative lessons, while students use the tools as gateways to knowledge and creativity. However, he also acknowledged the challenges of meeting the digital needs in all schools, citing limited constituency funding. In view of this, he urged the federal government to implement a long-term, integrated plan to ensure that all schools – including those in rural areas – have access to essential digital infrastructure. 'Digital education is no longer optional. We must not allow the digital divide between urban and rural schools to widen. 'This gap undermines access to knowledge and denies students the opportunity to grow in an ecosystem comparable to that of developed nations,' he warned. Chiew said that he will bring the issue to Parliament, advocating for a national policy that places digitalisation of education on equal footing with current efforts to improve dilapidated schools. His proposal includes provisions for smart classrooms, high-speed internet, teacher training in digital pedagogy, and the alignment of digital content with the national curriculum. 'With a united effort and clear planning, I believe we can build an education system that is truly Madani – inclusive, progressive, and ready for the future,' he concluded. Present to welcome Chiew during his visit to SMK Merbau were Senior Assistant (Student Affairs) Dahlan Suliman, Senior Assistant (Co-curriculum) Alhadi Ekni, and Senior Assistant (Form 6) Ko Lee Fang. Chiew Choon Man digital education infrastructure lead schools
