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Independent Singapore
a day ago
- Automotive
- Independent Singapore
Official says solutions are needed as parking problems in JB ‘will only get worse' because of SG workers
SINGAPORE: The lack of parking spaces in Johor Bahru because of people working in Singapore is bound to 'only get worse,' said State housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor, on Wednesday (Jun 18). He told Malaysia's Star Metro that there is a need for win-win solutions for all parties concerned, which is why the local government is considering ways to address the issue, as vehicle owners seek to save money and choose not to leave their cars in pay-parking areas. Residents of Johor Bahru have highlighted the problem wherein individuals who are employed in Singapore end up hogging the city's parking bays. Mr Mohd Jafni said that more and more people, particularly business owners, have complained about the issue. Another report in The Star quoted a restaurant owner who pointed out, however, that while most of the vehicles belonged to people who work in Singapore, others have been left in parking spaces for several weeks or even longer. He sometimes resorts to placing chairs or water bottles in parking spaces to ensure that his customers have somewhere to park. 'It is not fair for us and our customers, especially since there is a proper parking area at the terminal with more than enough bays. They prefer parking here to avoid paying at the bus terminal, without caring about how it will affect others,' he told The Star. Another pointed out that the number of parking spots for JB residents living in the area isn't enough to begin with, and now they find themselves competing for these spots with those who work in Singapore. Since the parking space near her home is not fenced, she's had to park outside it during the times when all the other spaces were taken. 'It is frustrating not being able to park your car at the place you live in, because outsiders are taking up the bays,' she said/ See also Malaysia PM proposes common Asia trading currency Mr Mohd Jafni added, 'This issue was also raised during the recent state assembly sitting, and it seems to have gotten worse over time. We need to study this matter thoroughly before implementing any measures, so that we can come up with a win-win solution for all.' He added that the issue needs to be addressed sooner rather than later, as it will only worsen as more vehicles enter Johor and more residents own vehicles. 'I appeal to those involved to be more thoughtful. They could just pay a little extra to park at the many available parking areas throughout the city. They are affecting other people's livelihoods simply because they refuse to pay for parking,' he said, adding that if the government were to impose a two-hour parking limit, car owners would end up needing to pay more than if they chose to leave their car in pay-parking areas./TISG Read also: Johor Bahru eateries say they're losing customers as Singapore-bound workers fill the limited parking from 5am to 8pm See also First-Time Solo Trip to JB? We Gotchu Fam
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
‘Choose more appropriate locations to pick up workers'
Johor government is looking into ways to address the issue of people working in Singapore hogging parking bays in Johor Baru. State housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said he had been receiving an increasing number of complaints about the problem, particularly from business owners. 'This issue was also raised during the recent state assembly sitting, and it seems to have gotten worse over time. 'We need to study this matter thoroughly before implementing any measures, so that we can come up with a win-win solution for all. 'No doubt this is an issue that needs to be addressed, but at the same time, we do not want to make an abrupt decision that can negatively affect people's lives,' he told StarMetro. Mohd Jafni said one of the options the state government was considering was to emulate Kuala Lumpur City Hall's (DBKL) move to impose a time limit. 'That is one of the things we are looking into, but we need to examine the situation carefully. 'We will have to look into this as it will only get worse with more vehicles entering Johor and more Johoreans owning cars,' he said. He added that areas affected by the issue included Taman Universiti, Larkin and Taman Ungku Tun Aminah. Mohd Jafni urged those working in Singapore to be more considerate and not hog parking bays. 'It is unfair for businesses that are losing customers because of this problem, and I appeal to those involved to be more thoughtful. 'They could just pay a little extra to park at the many available parking areas throughout the city. 'They are affecting other people's livelihoods simply because they refuse to pay for parking. 'If we take action, including imposing a two-hour parking limit, they may end up paying even more in the long run,' Mohd Jafni noted. He said companies picking up Malaysian workers heading to Singapore should also take this into consideration and choose more appropriate pick-up points. 'They can arrange to pick up passengers at areas where workers can park without adversely affecting others or occupying parking meant for businesses or residents. 'These are simple steps that could make a significant difference, and I hope that they take this into account,' he added. — By VENESA DEVI
The Star
a day ago
- Politics
- The Star
Cycling for change
WHAT began as a childhood passion on the roads of Poland eventually led to the United Nations proclaiming World Bicycle Day. For Polish-American Professor Leszek Sibilski, the bicycle has always been more than a means of getting from one place to another. Once his sport, cycling turned into Sibilski's lifelong passion that now fuels a global campaign for mobility, sustainability and inclusion. 'All my experience in sports, academia and parenting led me to this work,' Sibilski told StarMetro during his visit to Kuala Lumpur. His visit was arranged by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kuala Lumpur, which brought Sibilski to Malaysia in conjunction with World Bicycle Day on June 3. The embassy also collaborated with Kuala Lumpur City Hall during its Sunday Car-Free Morning initiative where Sibilski joined the mayor and the public for a ride through the city centre. A former Polish national cyclist, Sibilski later built a career as a sociologist and educator, focusing on social movements and institutions. Car-Free Morning cyclists on a ride through the city centre. 'I just retired from teaching positions, so I'm enjoying my freedom, but I'm keeping myself busy.' That includes championing World Bicycle Day, which was officially recognised by the United Nations in 2018 following a resolution he helped spearhead. Observed annually, the day is now marked by all 193 UN member states, symbolising global recognition of the bicycle as a tool for development, inclusion and sustainability. Sibilski described his ride with Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif, as 'an amazing signal' to the public. This year marks his second visit to Malaysia, after 20 years. While he acknowledged the city's progress, he said Kuala Lumpur still had a long way to go. 'You have about 61km of cycling lanes – that's not enough,' he said. 'The urban design is still very car-oriented and spread out. It's the same issue we face in America,' he added. As Malaysia builds its public transport systems, bicycles must be seen as part of the bigger picture, said Sibilski. For that to happen, there needs to be consistent political will. 'Behind every bicycle is a voter. Don't aim too high, too fast – start from zero. 'Elect politicians who will promote cycling culture and healthy behaviour,' he said. The mobility challenged are not left out of the Car-Free Morning event. Sibilski, who met Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh at the KL Car-Free Morning, said they had a 'very productive' discussion. 'I think there will be a follow-up meeting, and I will introduce her to some of my newest inventions and legislations, which I think will be very useful for your society,' he said. He expressed hope that the mayor would issue a proclamation for Kuala Lumpur to adopt the next World Bicycle Day. One of those initiatives is Bicycles for All, a resolution promoting the integration and promotion of the bicycle as a tool for sport and physical education in cities, schools and communities. For Sibilski, cycling is not just about health or the environment but also a matter of social inclusion. He pointed to the bicycle's role in empowering women, citing its significance in the North American emancipation movement, and stressed its value for marginalised and low-income communities. During his visit, Sibilski said he aimed to engage students, teachers and local leaders in partnerships. 'When you're advocating for something that's your passion, you don't spare anybody.' But his strategy remains one of persuasion, not confrontation. 'Advocacy must be gentle, responsible and creative,' he said. 'When you fight, you lose energy and create enemies. 'We don't need that. We need alliances that support bicycle users,' he added. Sibilski's advice for Malaysia: 'Don't try to replicate other countries, but find your own way. You cannot emulate everything from the Netherlands. 'Apply domestic standards. Pay attention to your culture and tradition.'
The Star
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Double victory for Selangor e-sports team
State awards outstanding performance of athletes THE Selangor Red Giants (SRG) e-sports team celebrated a landmark victory at the state's Sports Award ceremony, securing the Best Team accolade. Its co-founder Simon Lim Swee Teck was honoured with the prestigious Jury Award. This dual achievement signified a significant breakthrough for both the team and broader acceptance of e-sports within Selangor's dynamic sporting landscape. In an interview with StarMetro, Lim described the experience as 'surreal'. 'I've always dreamed of being an athlete or a coach, but I knew I didn't have the talent – not on the field, nor on the sidelines. So, to contribute as a leader in management instead means the world to me,' he said. The recognition for SRG, he said, was especially meaningful. 'Seeing the boys crowned Best Sports Team is a recognition of all the blood, sweat and sacrifices we've poured into this journey. 'We have always believed in doing things differently by building structure, instilling discipline and treating e-sports like a real sport. 'Yesterday, that belief was validated,' he said. Looking ahead, Lim said the team's next major goal was to go global. 'My dream has always been to bring the Selangor name to the world stage. Whether it's through international tournaments, exporting talent or forging collaborations, we are setting our sights beyond local dominance. 'We're not just building a winning team, we are laying the blueprint for a lasting legacy.' Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, who presented the awards, said the Selangor Sports Awards ceremony was held to honour individuals and teams who have demonstrated commitment, dedication and outstanding performance whether at the state, national or international level. 'We are proud that our female athlete Nor Farah Ain Abdullah was chosen for the national award. 'Tower runner Soh Wai Ching's achievements are not only impressive but also serve as motivation for other athletes.' The 2024 edition of the Selangor Sports Awards took place at Dewan Jubli Perak, Bangunan Sultan Salahudin Abdul Aziz Shah in Shah Alam. It featured eight categories: Best Male Athlete, Best Female Athlete, Most Promising Male Athlete, Most Promising Female Athlete, Best Team, Best Coach, Jury Award and the Leadership Icon Award. Winners of the Best Male Athlete and Best Female Athlete each received a trophy and RM10,000 in prize money. The Most Promising Male and Most Promising Female Athletes received a trophy and RM5,000 each. The Best Team category came with RM10,000, while the Best Coach, Leadership Icon and Jury Award recipients each took home RM5,000. Tey Hong Yu (table tennis) was named Most Promising Male Athlete, while Khew Zi Xian (aquatics) won Most Promising Female Athlete. Mohd Ariffin Abd Ghani (lawn bowls) was awarded Best Coach, and Datuk Haris Kasim received the Leadership Icon Award. Soh, who was named Best Male Athlete, said the award meant a great deal to him. 'I was honestly touched. I didn't expect it. 'I may have missed out on the National Sports Awards, but it's okay, this recognition from the state is something I'll never forget.' Soh is currently preparing for a Guinness World Record attempt in July. 'The target is 1.710km on a stair-climbing machine and it is the equivalent of climbing four PETRONAS Twin Towers stacked on top of each other. The current record is 1.704km.' He will also compete in the SkyRace at Merdeka 118 on Aug 30 – the world's biggest tower running event this year and host of Asian-Oceania Championship. Nor Farah, current world No.1 lawn bowler, was named the state's Best Female Athlete, a win she said came as a surprise. 'It's truly an honour. I didn't expect it, especially with so many top female athletes across other sports.' She has also received the Best National Female Athlete prize at the recent National Sports Award ceremony and is the first lawn bowler to receive such recognition. Also present at the state awards were Selangor youth, sports and entrepreneurship committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi and Selangor Sports Council executive director Mohamad Nizam Marjugi.
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
State's top rank in English proficiency reflects good education, economic potential
PERAK residents believe that history, education system, and cultural ties are behind the state's top rank in English proficiency nationwide. Lecturer Muhammad Syafiq Imran Abdul Rahim, 31, believes that English fluency in Perak can be traced to British colonial times when many locals had to learn the language to work in tin mines. 'Even after Independence, many elders saw English as a global language and encouraged their children to learn it,' he said when interviewed by StarMetro. English usage in the state remains high, especially in tourist spots, he pointed out. 'Walk through the night markets or Pasar Karat and you'll hear elderly traders speaking fluent English. 'This reflects how seriously the older generation embraced the language, laying a strong foundation that continues today,' he added. Muhammad Syafiq Imran says English fluency in Perak can be traced to British colonial times. According to the EF English Proficiency Index (EPI) 2024, Perak achieved a score of 585, making it the highest-ranked Malaysian state. The globally recognised index evaluates the English skills of adults in over 100 countries. Based on the index scoring system, proficiency levels are divided into five categories. A score of 600 and above reflects a very high level of proficiency. A mark in the 550 to 599 range indicates a high level of proficiency. A moderate level score is between 500 and 549, a low level score is from 450 to 499, and a very low score is below 450. Human resource executive Sharieza Sani, 40, said the state's English proficiency could also be traced to its mission schools legacy. 'Back then, many schools used English as the main medium for learning and communication. 'That gave pupils a solid foundation to build on. 'We have always lived side by side with people from different backgrounds. 'So, English became the common thread helping us understand one another better,' he said. Uma believes English fluency in Perak will enable its tourism sector to flourish even more. S. Uma, 54, a salesperson, described the state's top ranking as a proud milestone. 'With our state now leading the nation in English proficiency, I believe our tourism sector will flourish even more. 'When language is no longer a barrier, it creates a better overall experience for international tourists,' she added. Non-governmental organisation Ipoh City Watch president Dr Richard Ng praised Perak's achievement. 'It reflects a combination of effective education, community engagement, digital access, and economic drivers, all fostering a culture where English proficiency is seen as a key to success. 'Activities such as debates and public speaking competitions are commonly held,' he said. 'English is also widely-used in daily life, while access to English media is more prevalent in urban and semi-urban areas. 'I hope the state will continue investing in English education while promoting multilingual learning. 'The state should leverage on this proficiency to attract international business and tourism, and share best practices with other states,' he added. Malaysian English Language Teaching Association (Melta) president Prof Dr Sivabala Naidu said this achievement reflected effective English language education initiatives, dedicated educators as well as a supportive leadership and learning environment within the state. 'Such progress aligns with Melta's objectives to enhance English language teaching and learning nationwide,' he said. While Perak led nationally, he said there was room to elevate its standing to the 'Very High Proficiency' category. To achieve this, Prof Sivabala said the state could consider investing in quality continuous professional development for English language teachers based on ground-level needs. He said there should be more comprehensive programmes that developed all four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. 'There is also the need to equip schools with modern teaching and learning resources such as language labs, and access to digital learning tools. 'This may need support from local corporate partners. 'Consider extracurricular activities that promote the use of English in real-life contexts and Highly Immersive Programmes in all schools,' he added. Parent Action Group for Education (Page) chairman Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said Perak's leading position in English proficiency was a testament to its effective educational strategies. 'Perak's achievement inspires other states in Malaysia to prioritise English language education in a globalised world,' she said, expressing hope that Perak would continue investing in English language education. 'Leverage proficiency for economic growth to attract international businesses and promote tourism. 'Perak is ready and able to be the mover for the Northern Economic Corridor and support Penang in the semiconductor industry. 'It will be most unfortunate if this high English proficiency is not fully capitalised on,' said Noor Azimah.
