Premier scheduled to launch DBNA’s community hostel

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari will officially open the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) community hostel next month during its 70th anniversary celebration. The RM16 million, nine-storey hostel, funded by the Sarawak government, features accommodation, a gallery, and function rooms. Education Minister and DBNA advisor Roland Sagah Wee Inn led a delegation to invite the Premier and discuss Bidayuh community development projects.

Petronas continues to review asset portfolios with value driven decision-making

Petronas is continuously reviewing and adjusting its asset portfolio to ensure value creation and delivery. The company has redefined its portfolio characteristics, including targeting oil prices at or below US$50. Assets that don't meet these standards, including operational efficiency and value delivery, are being evaluated for potential divestment or partnerships to share risk. Petronas has already reduced its presence in Sudan as part of this ongoing portfolio optimization.

Rain, thunderstorms forecast for most of Sarawak until 4pm

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecasts rain and thunderstorms across most of Sarawak until 4pm today. Affected areas include Kuching, Samarahan, Betong, Sarikei, Mukah, Kapit, Bintulu, Miri, and Limbang. Specific locations mentioned are Samarahan, Asajaya, Saratok, Kabong, Song, Telang Usan, and Marudi. Light drizzle has already been observed in parts of Kuching, including Kota Sentosa, Mile 6, and Mile 12, as well as Siburan in Serian Division.

Galen Centre: Raising cigarette excise duty by 77 sen per stick could see additional RM771.8 mln tax revenue

The Galen Centre urges the Malaysian government to increase excise duties on cigarettes and tobacco products in Budget 2026 to at least 77 sen per stick, generating an additional RM771.8 million in revenue. Malaysia currently spends RM16 billion annually treating smoking-related illnesses, exceeding revenue from tobacco excise duties. The Centre also highlights the growing concern of vaping among youth, urging stronger action against nicotine vapes and e-cigarettes.

MPP urged to repair deteriorated drain in Jalan Burung Rawa

Residents of Lorong 2, Jalan Burung Rawa, Kuching, have urged the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) to repair a severely deteriorated drain behind their homes. Democratic Action Party Sarawak representative Michael Kong visited the site and confirmed the drain's critical condition, noting it poses a risk to property and resident safety. Residents have attempted temporary fixes, but Kong stresses the need for immediate intervention and repairs by the MPP.

Indonesian border post chief: Speed up Serikin ICQS Complex construction to ease cross-border travel, boost ties

The construction of the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex in Serikin, Sarawak is being urged to expedite cross-border travel and boost economic and tourism ties with West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The ICQS will facilitate passport processing, replacing the current border pass system that limits travel to Bau. This will significantly reduce travel time to Kuching, a preferred destination for shopping, healthcare, and air travel for West Kalimantan residents. Currently, they face a longer journey through Aruk. The ICQS is crucial for improving border inspections and providing easier access to essential services and economic opportunities for communities on both sides.

Water disruption expected in Kuching areas from Aug 13-14 for pipeline repairs

Kuching residents in several areas including Matang, Petra Jaya, and Bako will experience low water pressure or supply disruption from 9pm, August 13th to 8am, August 14th due to pipeline repairs. This follows a burst pipe incident on August 6th along Jalan Matang-Batu Kawa, which was initially repaired but requires further work on a larger, 1100mm diameter main. Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd (SWSB) is working to minimize disruption and has pre-fabricated necessary fittings.

Woman injured in single-vehicle crash in Serian

A woman suffered a head injury in a single-vehicle crash at the Rasau junction on Jalan Serian-Balai Ringin. Firefighters responded to the incident around 6:22 am and extricated the conscious but trapped victim from her vehicle. She received initial treatment at the scene before being transported to Serian Hospital. The operation concluded at 7:14 am.

‘Pawsitive’ cause: Brit to scale Santubong every day in September

Greg Larcombe, co-founder of Pawsitive Vibes Foundation, will climb Mount Santubong daily for 30 days in September to raise funds for stray cats in Kuching. This 'Sweat4Strays' campaign encourages participants to undertake any physical activity throughout September and seek sponsorship. The funds will support the rescue, treatment, feeding, and rehoming of strays. Larcombe chose the challenging Mount Santubong climb to inspire others and raise significant funds, acknowledging the physical and mental demands of the undertaking.

Wanita maut, dua rakan parah kemalangan

General : Genomic Testing Transforms Paediatric Care At Sunway Medical Centre

Genomic testing is transforming pediatric care in Malaysia by providing precise genetic information for diagnosing and managing rare childhood diseases. This moves beyond traditional symptom-based diagnoses, allowing for earlier and more accurate identification of complex conditions that often go undetected. This advancement promises improved treatment and outcomes for children with rare genetic disorders.

General : Govt Strengthen Legal Framework To Protect Children From Sexual Crimes

The Malaysian government is strengthening its efforts to protect children from sexual crimes. This involves improving legislation and implementing more comprehensive strategies. The aim is to enhance child safety and prevent sexual abuse.

General : Air Force Veteran Marks National Month With Flag-adorned Ride

64-year-old Mohd Mustafa Abu Bakar eagerly anticipates August 1st each year to decorate his motorcycle with flags in celebration of Malaysia's National Month. This annual tradition marks a special occasion for him.

World : Four Malaysians Among 79 Arrested In Island-Wide Drug Bust In Singapore

Singaporean authorities arrested 79 suspected drug offenders, including four Malaysians, during an island-wide operation from August 4th to 8th. The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) seized over S$470,000 worth of drugs, including heroin, 'Ice,' cannabis, and various other controlled substances. The operation targeted drug trafficking activities across the island.

General : PEMADAM Proposes Complete Vape Ban To Break Chain Of Synthetic Drugs

The Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (PEMADAM) plans to propose a complete ban on e-cigarettes/vaping, including online sales, to the Malaysian government. This aims to combat the spread of synthetic drugs in the country. PEMADAM believes vaping contributes to this issue and hopes a total ban will disrupt the supply chain.

General : Malaysia’s 2040 Aspiration In Step With National Unity Mission - Aaron

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently announced Malaysia's 2040 Aspiration, a national vision focused on building a more equitable and unified nation. This aligns with the Ministry of National Unity's ongoing mission. The aspiration reflects Malaysia's ambition for the future.

World : Vietnam Naval Ship Departs For ASEAN Multilateral Exercise In MalaysiaÂ

Vietnamese frigate 016 - Quang Trung and a naval delegation departed from Cam Ranh Military Port on Sunday to participate in the third ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX 3) in Penang, Malaysia. This exercise strengthens regional maritime cooperation and interoperability among ASEAN navies.

General : PM Anwar Proposes Vertical School In KL Residensi Aman MADANI

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim proposed building a vertical school in Kuala Lumpur's Residensi Aman MADANI to address the community's educational needs. This initiative aims to provide local children with better access to education within their residential area.

World : Israel Killing Journalists ‘Desperate Attempt To Silence Voices Ahead Of Gaza Invasion’: Al Jazeera

Al Jazeera has condemned the killing of its journalists by Israel in Gaza, calling it a deliberate attempt to suppress reporting before a potential invasion. The news outlet framed the deaths as part of a broader effort to silence voices critical of Israeli actions in the region.

World : Gulf Bloc Warns Against Expanding Israeli Aggression On Gaza

Kuwait condemned Israel's planned full-scale invasion of Gaza, calling it a potential genocide and a direct threat to over two million Palestinians. This warning, reported by Qatar News Agency, highlights the escalating conflict and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.