Latest news with #Ting
Borneo Post
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Miri hosts city's first mural festival, igniting vision for 2075 through art
Abdul Karim (eight left) and Ting (seventh left) in front of the mural painted by Aqif (fourth right) for the Mercure Miri Mural Art Festival & Art Conference 2025. MIRI (June 21): Mercure Miri City Centre has successfully hosted the city's first-ever mural art festival and conference from June 4 to 14, transforming parts of the city into a vibrant, large-scale exhibition space. Held with the theme 'Envision Miri 2075, Powered by PEAKS,' the event invited artists and the wider community to imagine the city's future through public art and open dialogue. Organisers described the festival as not just as a celebration of creativity but as the beginning of a long-term cultural movement rooted in Miri's identity. Six muralists were commissioned to interpret visions of the city's future on walls around the hotel, specially prepared for the project. The featured artists included Sheep Chen, Helenya Apostolou, Bounce, Amey Sheikh Ali, Sam Lim and Letterhythm, each bringing unique perspectives to the theme. Miri-born artist Jagung served as lead curator, contributing a 16-storey mural, now the tallest in Sarawak, which became the centrepiece of the festival. The last two days of the event featured an Art Conference that focused on topics around art, identity and long-term community development. Several dignitaries officiated the event, including Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who represented the Sarawak Premier, along with Deputy Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting. (From left) Ting and Abdul Karim standing in front of the 16-storey mural created by Jagung. In his opening remarks, Evolveland CEO Roger Sim, the driving force behind Mercure Miri, called for stronger support for local creatives. 'Miri has every potential to become an art capital for Sarawak, if stakeholders, communities, and creatives come together to build that dream,' he said. Meanwhile, Abdul Karim emphasised the role of art in sustaining culture, and encouraged more public-private partnerships to support the creative economy. Keynote speaker Juvita Tatan Wan, co-founder of The Tuyang Initiative and MYYinitiative, encouraged local communities to invest in grounded cultural work. 'Embrace your pace. Find beauty in what is slow and grounded, because that is often where the deepest art resides,' she said. Panel discussions explored Sarawakian art history, mural commissions, curatorial practice, the impact of AI and digital media on artists, and the role of mental health in creative work. One of the most powerful sessions was 'Artism,' focusing on creative expression for individuals with learning disabilities. Aqif, one of the featured children, contributed a mural to the newly launched Wall of Resilience, now showcasing artworks by neurodivergent youth. The initiative was widely seen as a powerful statement of inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind in Miri's evolving cultural narrative. The next edition of the Mercure Miri Art Festival and Art Conference is expected to be announced this August. Arts and Culture community lead Mercure Miri City Centre mural
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
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak eyes closer ties with Spain's Valladolid after successful world tapas event in Kuching
Ting tries some of the dishes prepared by participants accompanied by Sim (left). – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (June19): Sarawak has expressed keen interest in strengthening ties with Valladolid, Spain, following the successful hosting of the World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competition Exhibition and Seminar 2025. State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said Spain's participation in the gastronomic event has opened new avenues for dialogue and exchange between the two regions. 'We recognise the immense potential for future collaboration in tourism, gastronomy, the creative industries, and cultural exchange. 'It is our hope that the relationships formed through this event will serve as a foundation for joint initiatives, knowledge sharing, and the co-hosting of international events that bring mutual benefit to both Sarawak and Valladolid,' he said in his closing remarks during the event at KTS Garden here today. His speech was delivered by Deputy State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Sebastian Ting. The three-day event, which gathered chefs, food experts, professionals, industry leaders, and exhibitors from around the world, featured food and beverage exhibitions, workshops on sustainability – including carbon-neutral food production and eco-friendly packaging – as well as talks by international speakers from China, Indonesia, and Malaysia on halal compliance, food safety, and recycling. Highlights included the tapas competitions and the inaugural Barista Art Challenge, which celebrated creativity and craftsmanship in food and drinks. Abdul Karim commended all participants for their energy and commitment, noting that their contributions played a pivotal role in making the event a resounding success. 'We have had the privilege of witnessing a vibrant exchange of knowledge, the sharing of innovative ideas, and the forging of meaningful collaborations. 'The diversity of expertise and the strong spirit of partnership displayed throughout this event have enriched our collective experience and broadened our horizons,' he said. He also congratulated the contestants of the World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competitions, describing their passion, creativity, and commitment to excellence as 'truly inspiring'. 'To the winners, please accept my warmest congratulations and best wishes as you prepare to represent Malaysia and your respective countries at the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain this coming November. 'May you continue to excel and bring pride to your country and region on the global stage.' During the ceremony, Ting presented prizes to the winners. Chef Liew Kit Kiet emerged as the champion of the World National Tapas Competition, impressing judges with his Sarawak laksa. First and second runner-up titles went to Chef Jack Owen Atit and Chef Virginia Mary Kedi, respectively. Liew, who hails from Miri, will represent Malaysia at the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain this November. Two subsidiary titles were also presented: the 'Most Creative Award' went to Chef Nila Kelly, while Chef Mexjenssan Jumpong won the 'Most Commercially Viable Award'. For the World Asia Tapas Competition, four international chefs – Chef Jose Alfonso Rodriguez from Indonesia; Chef Patcharapol Lerdsasempod from Thailand; Chef Daniel Chen Cheng Dian from Taiwan; and Chef Choi Gyeong-Hun from South Korea – were selected as winners and will also advance to the global championship in Spain. Also present at the ceremony were Spain's Public-Private Partnership for Promotion of Tourism of Valladolid general manager Juan Manuel Guimerans Rubio; World Tapas Competition director Angel Moreton; World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competition head of juror Chef Jasbir Kaur; and Sarawak International Technical and Vocational Education Association president and event organising chairperson Sim Ling Ling.
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Health
- Borneo Post
Sibu medical student earns global recognition in health advocacy
Ting (left) receives a sponsorship contribution from Tiang in recognition of his achievements. SIBU (June 19): Wesley Ting Ri-Hong, a medical student from Sibu currently studying at the National Defence University of Malaysia, has brought great pride to the nation through his outstanding contributions to global medical research and public health advocacy. In July 2024, Ting represented Malaysia at the Asian Medical Students' Conference (AMSC 2024) held in Tokyo. His research project, ''Ensuring Children's Health Rights Amidst Armed Conflicts', was selected from over 20 participating countries and ranked in the top eight globally. The study explored childhood malnutrition and the integration of innovative technologies in humanitarian aid. Ting presented the project at the International University of Health and Welfare (IUHW) in Japan. His team was the only Malaysian group to qualify for the international finals, having secured first place at the national-level selection. Ting was also the sole Sarawakian medical student at the event, showcasing Malaysia's capabilities on the global stage. Ting expressed deep appreciation for Sarawak's deputy minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government and Pelawan assemblyman Datuk Michael Tiang. Citing him as a major role model, Ting acknowledged Tiang's generous sponsorship as instrumental to his international engagements. 'The sponsorship has not only encouraged me to continue striving internationally but also strengthened my dedication to public health and medical research,' Ting shared. 'Receiving support from a state leader is a powerful motivation to broaden my perspective, enhance my capabilities, and contribute to the nation,' he added. Tiang, known for championing youth empowerment, praised Ting's achievement as an inspiration for other young Malaysians to pursue global opportunities in knowledge, innovation, and compassion. Ting's research was later published in the Journal of Asian Medical Students Association (JAMSA) and the Official Journal of the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia and the Family Medicine Specialist Association of Malaysia, further affirming the academic excellence of Malaysian medical students internationally. In March 2025, Ting once again represented Malaysia at the International Federation of Medical Students' Associations (IFMSA) March Meeting in Istanbul, Turkey, sponsored by the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA). During the President's Session, Ting took part in high-level discussions on public health, human rights, peace, medical education, and youth leadership. He also collaborated with the Taiwanese delegation to successfully co-develop bylaw amendments during plenary sessions, advancing regional youth cooperation in the Asia-Pacific. Ting currently serves as the National Director of Public and Global Health under the Asian Medical Students' Association Malaysia (AMSA Malaysia). In this role, he oversees the implementation of major nationwide initiatives including AMSA Health Day and AMSA Community Service. For 2025, Ting introduced two national campaigns: `Healthy Gut, Healthier You' for Health Day, focusing on digestive wellness, and 'HER Voice, HER Right', promoting women's health and safety. He also designed a standardized framework to ensure consistent implementation of public health initiatives across over 20 Malaysian medical universities, enabling students to apply public health principles with real-world impact. Looking ahead, Ting is set to represent Malaysia at the Asia Pacific Regional Meeting (APRM 2025) in Osaka, Japan, continuing his mission in regional public health leadership, with the ongoing support from the MMA. Ting's journey reflects the remarkable potential of Malaysian youth in shaping global public health discourse. With unwavering support from leaders like Tiang, emerging talents like Ting are empowered to aim higher, serve their communities, and carry Malaysia's name with pride on the international stage.
Borneo Post
6 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
