Latest news with #SebastianTing
Borneo Post
12 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Gurdwara Sahib Miri gets RM500,000 Unifor boost for renovation works
Ting (sixth left) hands over the cheque from Unifor to Gurmokh, as others look on. MIRI (June 21): Gurdwara Sahib Miri has received an allocation of RM500,000 from the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) to support its ongoing renovation works. The cheque was handed over by State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting during a brief ceremony at the temple yesterday. In his remarks, the Piasau assemblyman also reminded recipients to utilise the allocation without delay and to ensure that all costs and expenditures would be properly documented. 'Make sure to use the funds and report what has been done, so there is a proper record. 'If everything is in order, it will be easier for them (Unifor) to consider future applications,' he advised. The Sikh community in Miri has roots dating back to the 1880s, with the original 'gurdwara' (Sikh temple) built in 1919, and the current building completed in 1975. Today, it continues to serve as a place of worship and learning for the Sikh families in the area. According to the project director Gurvir Singh Sandhu, the current upgrading initiative was approved in 2021, with physical works kicking off in 2022. 'The renovation works are now about 80 per cent complete and are expected to finish by early July,' said Gurvir. Among the new features being introduced are Dayak-inspired motifs on the glass panels by the entrance, reflecting the community's appreciation for local cultures and Sarawak's multi-ethnic landscape. Ting also noted that the Sikh community here had received a total of RM2.6 million in Unifor funding over the years for various phases of upgrading works on the temple. 'In recent years, the temple has undergone various improvements including upgrades to the 'langar' hall, kitchen facilities, and space expansion to accommodate major religious events.' The ceremony concluded with Ting doing a brief walkaround of the newly-renovated areas, accompanied by Gurvir, Gurdwara Sahib Miri president Gurmokh Singh, and the committee members. allocation Gurdwara Sahib Miri lead renovation Sebastian Ting Unifor
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
SMK St Columba Talent Night returns with burst of colour, creativity
Ting (fourth right), flanked by Danald (third right) and Jimbun, is pictured with the invited guests during the opening ceremony gimmick. MIRI: After a five-year hiatus and for the first time since 2019, SMK St Columba made a spectacular comeback with its Talent Night 2025, turning the school hall into a vibrant stage of music, movement, and youthful energy. Themed 'A Decade of Music', the evening featured more than 20 performances spanning cultural, contemporary, and martial arts genres. Officiated by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting, the event was a heartfel celebration of passion and artistic growth. 'Tonight is more than just a showcase of abilities – it is a celebration of passion, hard work, and the limitless potential within each and every student,' said Ting, urging the youth to continue exploring the arts as a path of personal development. Also present was the Right Reverend Datuk Danald Jute, Bishop of the Anglican Church in Sarawak and Brunei, who described the event as a celebration of unity and talent. A student duo presents a captivating joint performance featuring the sape and a traditional Kenyah warrior dance. 'Events like this allow schools to discover the artistic gifts of their students, giving them the confidence to nurture and grow their talents,' he said, adding that co-curricular activities play a vital role in holistic student development. In his welcoming speech, Principal Jimbun Masam extended gratitude to all who contributed to the event's success, especially the 250 student performers and crew, led by organising chairman Anselm Kho. Electrifying K-pop dance cover by students. Highlights of the night included traditional dances representing Sarawak's diverse ethnic groups, a soulful sape performance, martial arts demonstrations featuring taekwondo and wushu, K-pop dance covers, band sets and vocal performances, as well as instrumental music by the school's brass band and Chinese orchestra. The event drew enthusiastic applause from parents, teachers, alumni, and the wider school community, all responding warmly to the performers' dedication and creativity. In conjunction with the event, Ting announced an RM200,000 allocation under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) to upgrade the school's basketball court. Powerful taekwondo performance by the students. He expressed hope that the improved facilities would foster greater student involvement in co-curricular activities. The organisers also thanked the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Lembaga Pengelola Sekolah (LPS), and the Alumni Association for their unwavering support in making the concert a success. As the final act concluded to roaring applause, the return of Talent Night was warmly received – with many hopeful that it will once again become a cherished annual tradition in the school calendar. entertainment lead performances Sebastian Ting SMK St Columba
Borneo Post
7 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
S'wak deputy minister hails teachers as ‘agents of change in shaping greener future'
A simple tree-planting programme being carried out to mark the closing of Environmental Education Workshop for Teachers Trainees of PGKS 2025 at IPG Sarawak in Miri. MIRI (June 15): Teachers are not just educators, but also agents of change in shaping a greener future. In pointing this out, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting also highlighted the crucial role of schools and educators in driving environmental consciousness, noting that as the frontliners in nurturing sustainability values in students and communities, they would align with the Sarawak government's broader commitment to environmental preservation. 'Under the leadership of the Premier of Sarawak, the government has introduced forward-looking measures such as the Environmental (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance 2023 and the Sarawak Climate Change Policy. 'Both serve as regulatory frameworks to guide Sarawak's transition toward a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy,' said Ting in his speech for the closing ceremony of Environmental Education Workshop for Teachers Trainees of the Sarawak Teacher Education Institute Campus (IPGKS) 2025, at IPG Sarawak here yesterday. The Piasau assemblyman also regarded the renewable energy investments including those meant for hydroelectricity, solar energy and biomass, as being central to the state's green growth strategy. 'Simultaneously, efforts to conserve Sarawak's biodiversity continue through the gazettement of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and permanent forest reserves. 'The state is also undertaking coastal and mangrove restoration through blue carbon strategies. 'It is a testament to the government's long-term environmental vision. 'Collectively, these efforts are in line with Sarawak's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,' he said. Ting also stressed about education still being 'a pillar in building environmental awareness and shaping long-term responsibility'. The workshop, which involved 56 teacher trainees, aimed to introduce the Kelab Pencinta Alam Sekitar (PALS Club) and its activities, showcase the environmental education modules developed for the club, and foster collaboration between IPGKS, the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), and relevant stakeholders. In this respect, Ting said the Sarawak government had approved a special grant amounting to RM13.7 million last year to support the rollout of PALS clubs in all schools by 2030. 'The initiative seeks to build a structured, student-led platform for green leadership, hands-on environmental projects, and peer-driven change.' He also hailed the teachers as playing a vital role in turning awareness into action, not just through lessons, but by modelling sustainable values and guiding their students to become responsible citizens. 'With the right leadership, our young people will rise as agents of change. Every classroom can become a starting point for climate action,' said Ting, also urging schools to embrace their role in shaping a cleaner, greener Sarawak. Meanwhile, the NREB Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak Datu Jack Liam said the PALS club initiative would become an effective platform for students to understand and embrace environmental values through active participation. 'The club allows students to go beyond textbooks and engage in real-life sustainability practices, whether through community clean-ups, tree-planting activities, or eco-friendly campaigns. 'We want to instil environmental awareness in our students from an early age so that they grow up with a deep respect for nature. 'The PALS Club is not just an extracurricular activity – it's a long-term investment in the mindset of our future generation,' he said. Jack also encouraged teachers to take the lead in guiding their students to carry out PALS activities with creativity and commitment. 'By linking environmental education with action, schools can play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient and environmentally responsible Sarawak.' Also present were IPGKS director Dr Noraini Omar. envoronment lead miri Sebastian Ting teachers
Borneo Post
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Miri's POKUFM hailed as model of empowerment, unity for disabled community
Ting (fifth right) joins POKUFM president Mazlan Daraman (second right) and other committee members in the symbolic rolling up of the rattan mat – a traditional gesture marking the official close of the Gawai Dayak festival. MIRI (June 14): The success of Persatuan Orang Kurang Upaya Fizikal Miri (POKUFM) in fostering unity, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance among its members has been hailed as a model for community-driven empowerment. State Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting made the remarks during the 'Majlis Ngiling Bidai Gawai Dayak 2025', hosted by POKUFM in marking the end of this year's Gawai Dayak celebration. Ting, who is also the Piasau assemblyman, praised POKUFM's consistent efforts in building teamwork, self-help and entrepreneurship among persons with physical disabilities. 'They plant and sell their own vegetables, creating a source of income for themselves. Their hard work and community spirit are what help them to do so well,' he said. Having supported the group since its inception, Ting expressed pride in witnessing the steady progress POKUFM has made since its establishment in 2018. 'POKUFM has come a long way over the past seven years. There have been many improvements, and there is still more to achieve – but I believe in your potential,' he said. Ting announced that a yearly government grant will continue to be allocated to support POKUFM's programmes and initiatives, reaffirming the ministry's commitment to grassroots development and inclusion. He also expressed appreciation to the organisers for the invitation to the event and reiterated his support for community groups like POKUFM. The 'ngiling bidai' ceremony, held here today, marked not only the end of the Gawai Dayak celebration but also served as a symbol of resilience, pride, and unity for the community. Disabled Persatuan Orang Kurang Upaya Fizikal Miri POKUFM Sebastian Ting
Borneo Post
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
WAK Miri 2.0 celebrates creative energy, Sarawakian identity
Ting (back row, ninth left) in a photocall with members of the organising committee and performers. MIRI (June 14): The WAK Miri Festival is more than just an event — it is a vibrant showcase of the city's creative energy, community spirit, and Sarawakian identity, said State Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting. Speaking at the launch of the festival's second edition, dubbed WAK Miri 2.0, on Friday, the Piasau assemblyman described it as 'a bold expansion of a grassroots cultural movement'. He hailed the three-day festival as a dynamic platform that brings together music, theatre, visual arts, traditional crafts, heritage exhibitions, and storytelling — all brought to life through community-driven efforts. 'WAK festival has become synonymous with the local energy, authentic Sarawakian identity, and the beautiful spirit of collaboration. 'I am proud to see this spirit take root and flourish right here in Miri,' he said. Organised with support from the Miri City Council and the State Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, the festival aligns with the state's vision of responsible, culture-based tourism. Ting also stressed the importance of empowering local talents and fostering community pride, saying the festival serves as a reminder that tourism is not only about places, but also about people and their stories. WAK Miri 2.0 is being held at the Miri Handicraft Centre and ends today. Admission is free and open to the public. arts culture Sebastian Ting tourism WAK Miri 2.0 WAK Miri Festival
