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Merdang community plans peaceful protest, demands answers over 'Bandar Riyal' naming [image: 1786410339051-merdang-protest.jpg] The indigenous community of Merdang in Kota Samarahan is preparing for a peaceful street protest, claiming the area's historical name and identity is being gradually erased through new development names. Activist Peter John Jaban, representing the community, said concerns were raised over the use of 'Bandar Riyal' and 'Taman Samarindah' names for roads, bazaar, and market in the area — while the original name Merdang is being pushed aside. "There is no Sungai Samarindah. There is no Sungai Bandar Riyal. Sungai Merdang is part of the geographical landscape and history of this area," he said. The community is demanding full answers from authorities on who proposed and approved these names, and whether the Merdang community was consulted. They are also calling for the preservation of Merdang's historical identity in official maps, records, and future development planning. The planned protest comes on International Day of the World's Indigenous People. Location: Merdang, Kota Samarahan Details: Community demands recognition of Merdang name over 'Bandar Riyal' and 'Taman Samarindah' Source: DayakDaily What do you think? Should development names preserve local heritage?

Abang Johari: Sarawak election can proceed with 82 seats if new ones not ready [image: 1786356655867-abang-johari-election-compressed.jpg] Sarawak's state election can proceed with the existing 82 seats if the planned addition of 17 new seats isn't ready in time, says Premier Abang Johari. Speaking after the Regency Specialist Hospital groundbreaking in Kuching today (Aug 10), he said the state will follow whatever is in place when the DUN is dissolved. "If it is 82, then 82. If it is 99, then 99. There is no problem," he told reporters. The DUN approved adding 17 new seats last July, bringing the total to 99. But with the election expected by end of this year or early 2027, time for the approval process is tight. "The time is very limited, what can we do? We just follow what is existing. The important thing is that people can vote," he said. Location: Kuching Details: 82 existing seats vs 99 with new seats | election expected late 2026 / early 2027 Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

RM400 million hospital breaks ground in Kuching — 300 beds, 1,000+ jobs on the way [image: 1786356478932-regency-hospital-compressed.jpg] HMI Medical kicked off construction of its Regency Specialist Hospital at the NorthBank township today (Aug 10). The first phase is worth more than RM400 million and the 300-bed facility is targeted to open by 2029. When fully operational, the hospital is expected to create over 1,000 jobs across medical, nursing, allied health, management and support roles. Premier Abang Johari said the project shows Sarawak's transformation is attracting partners ready to invest long-term — part of the state's push to become a regional centre for advanced healthcare and medical education. The hospital will come with a comprehensive cancer centre, smart wards and advanced operating theatres. HMI Medical is also putting RM50 million over five years into a healthcare workforce fund for scholarships and clinical training across its hospitals in Kuching, Johor and Melaka. Location: NorthBank township, Kuching-Samarahan Expressway Details: 300 beds | RM400m+ phase one | 1,000+ jobs | 2029 target opening Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

809 Residents in Tupong Get B2 Motorcycle Licence for Just RM250 — Programme Saves Participants Hundreds of Ringgit Tupong assemblyman Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman said the B2 Driving Licence Assistance Programme aims to make licences more affordable, with participants paying only RM250 instead of the usual RM500-RM700. [image: 1786336442134-tupong-resized.jpg] A total of 809 participants received their licences in a single ceremony at SUPP Sungai Tengah Hall. The oldest beneficiary was born in 1967 (59 years old), while the youngest was born in 2010 (16 years old). "This morning, all 809 participants here will receive their licences, obtained at a fee of only RM250. But elsewhere, it costs RM500, RM600 and even RM700," said Fazzrudin. He acknowledged that while participants paid a small amount, the actual cost of running the programme was much higher and required cooperation between his team, JPJ Sarawak, and Cangiran Driving Institute. Also present was JPJ Sarawak director Norizan Jili. Location: Tupong, Kuching Details: 809 residents received subsidised B2 motorcycle licences Source: Borneo Post What do you think?

Saberkas retains Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah as president, Gerald Rentap Jabu as deputy for 2026-2029 term after unopposed re-election The Sarawak United National Youth Organisation (Saberkas) held its 18th Triennial General Assembly (TGM) in Sibu on Sunday, where the top two posts went uncontested. [image: 1786336441687-saberkas.jpg] Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah remains president, while Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu continues as deputy president. Daro assemblyman Dr Safiee Ahmad was also retained as secretary-general. The real contest was for the vice-president posts. Tanjong Datu assemblyman Azizul Annuar Adenan topped the votes with 220, followed by Sophie Shariee (171), Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus (135), and Pelawan assemblyman Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee (132). Other candidates included Abdul Adzim Adzmi Abdul Rahman (130), Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau (127), Serembu assemblyman Dato Miro Simuh (72), Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang (67), and Warziedea Ahmad (46). Location: Sibu, Sarawak Details: Saberkas 2026-2029 term leadership elected unopposed at TGM Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Haze conditions have returned to Bau, with air quality readings reaching unhealthy levels near the Sarawak-West Kalimantan border. [image: 1786324232107-haze-bau-1.jpg] Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep urged residents to reduce outdoor activities, especially when the Air Pollution Index (API) climbs towards 150. He said this is an annual occurrence caused by cross-border burning from Indonesia. "Nothing much we can do because this is coming from the other side," he told reporters after a site visit to the Serikin ICQS project. Those with sensitive respiratory conditions are advised to take extra precautions. Location: Bau, Sarawak Details: API readings reaching unhealthy levels; annual transboundary haze from Indonesia Source: DayakDaily Stay safe, everyone

Malaysia Day 2026 will be held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), marking the first time Kuching hosts the national celebration. [image: 1786324204525-mday.jpg] Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the venue after the first preparatory meeting, which was held with Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who co-chairs this year's celebrations. BCCK was chosen for its suitable space, similar to last year's venue in Butterworth. The next planning meeting is scheduled for Aug 24. Location: Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) Details: National-level celebration, first time in Kuching Source: The Borneo Post Will you be going?

Tourism Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing has called for mandatory pre-duty drug screening for all pilots and cabin crew, warning against 'denial syndrome' following the Malaysia Airlines pilot drug case in Jakarta. In a Facebook post, the Bintulu MP urged airlines, regulators and police to jointly enforce stricter screening — requiring crew to report 1.5 to 2 hours before shifts for testing. "Agencies and companies should not wait until an unwanted incident occurs before action is taken," he said. The case involves a 39-year-old Malaysian pilot detained at Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta Airport with 25kg of drugs — 70,114 ecstasy and methamphetamine pills worth an estimated RM45 million. The pilot tested positive for methamphetamine, ecstasy and cocaine. Tiong also criticised Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) for downplaying the incident by emphasising the pilot did not operate the aircraft, instead of issuing a public apology. MAG has since mandated drug screening for all 1,260 Malaysia Airlines pilots, with the first phase due by Aug 15. [image: 1786269743849-iong-king-sing.jpg] Location: Kuala Lumpur / Jakarta (involves Sarawak MP Tiong King Sing) Details: RM45M drug seizure; pilot tested positive for 3 substances; MAG orders mandatory pilot screening Source: DayakDaily What do you think? Should all crew be tested before every flight?

Sarawak is preparing to conduct cloud seeding operations if the haze situation continues to worsen, says Deputy Minister Datuk Len Talif Salleh. As of today, eight locations across Sarawak have recorded Air Pollution Index (API) readings above 100 — reaching unhealthy levels. Southern Sarawak, including Kuching, is being hit by transboundary haze from increased hotspots in neighbouring countries. Len Talif said winds moving from the east towards the south before turning north are carrying the haze into the state. "As of now, there is no schedule for cloud seeding yet. We will continue monitoring the situation," he said during a press conference at the Sarawakku Sayang Programme in Sarikei. He also warned the public against open burning, saying legal action will be taken against individuals or companies found doing so. [image: 1786269739525-cloud-seeding.jpg] Location: Sarawak (Kuching, Sri Aman, Sarikei & more) Details: 8 locations with API > 100; cloud seeding on standby; open burning禁令 enforced Source: DayakDaily What do you think? Should cloud seeding start now?

A stray dog found near Mile 9, Jalan Penrissen tested positive for rabies in early August, prompting Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng to remind residents that the local risk had not ended. [image: 1786248347758-rabies.jpg] Image: The Borneo Post Wee spoke about the case during his Aug 8 Shall WEE Talk session. He said Kuching and nearby areas still faced rabies risk and called for cooperation with vaccination and control efforts. The next mass anti-rabies vaccination campaign was expected after the Kuching Food Festival ended on Aug 16, but the report did not provide a venue list or schedule. What to do after a bite or scratch Do not wait for symptoms or try to judge the animal by appearance. Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, apply an antiseptic if available, and seek medical assessment as soon as possible. Tell the clinic exactly where and when the contact happened. Do not catch, hit or transport a suspected animal yourself. Record its location and appearance from a safe distance and notify the relevant local authority or veterinary service. Pet owners should keep rabies vaccination current and avoid allowing dogs or cats to roam. This article records a case reported in early August. It does not mean every stray animal around Mile 9 is infected, and it should not replace current outbreak notices or medical advice. Reported area: Mile 9, Jalan Penrissen, Kuching Confirmed detail: One stray dog tested positive Sources: The Borneo Post · WHO rabies guidance · Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak

A 59-year-old Kuching woman lost RM145,247 after being tricked into paying for a fake subcontract project in Sabah. [image: 1786248347640-scam.jpg] The victim met the suspect through an acquaintance in December 2025. The suspect claimed to have connections with Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) and offered her company a subcontract for work in Ranau. Between Jan 2 and Jan 14, 2026, she made five payments into four different accounts — RM145,247 in total — for so-called locking fees, equipment rental, workers' salaries, mobilisation and site expenses. She only filed a police report on Aug 8. Location: Kuching Details: Case investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code — cheating carries up to 10 years jail, whipping and fine. Source: DayakDaily ️ Police remind public to check suspicious accounts via Semak Mule portal. Report scams to NSRC hotline 997 within 24 hours. What do you think?

Haze blankets Sarawak — Kuching, Bintulu, Serian all hit unhealthy API levels Several areas across Sarawak recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings this morning, with Serian the worst at 170. According to the Department of Environment's monitoring stations, here are the readings as of 8am today: Serian — 170 Kota Samarahan — 157 Kuching — 155 Bintulu — 155 Samalaju — 152 An API reading of 101 to 200 is classified as unhealthy. The haze has gotten so thick in Bintulu that the tallest building, The Peak Condominium, was barely visible through the smog. Authorities advise the public, especially those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions. [image: 1786239080058-haze-bintulu.jpg] Location: Serian, Kuching, Kota Samarahan, Bintulu, Samalaju Details: API readings across Sarawak range from 152-170 (unhealthy category) as of Aug 9, 2026 morning Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

"Don't dirty public spaces to beautify your home" — MBKS warns of RM2,000 fine for illegal dumping. [image: Screenshot-2026-08-08-153940-1.png?resize=696%2C393&ssl=1] Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has issued a stern reminder: illegal dumping of garden, construction and household waste carries a RM2,000 compound, with possible court action. Speaking during his ShallWeeTalk live session today, Wee said the council continues to find waste dumped along roadsides, in drains and public spaces despite repeated warnings. "Do not make your own surroundings look beautiful by turning public spaces and grass verges into dumping grounds. That is wrong and reflects a lack of civic consciousness," he said. The fine cannot be waived. If CCTV or neighbour statements capture the offence, the case can proceed to court. Wee also highlighted household rubbish — including used cooking oil bottles — being found in drains: "How did these items end up in drains when they are supposed to be thrown into bins? They certainly did not walk there on their own." Location: Kuching South (MBKS) Details: RM2,000 compound for illegal dumping; enforcement via CCTV and witness reports; repeat cases referred to court Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Sarawak civil servants could receive a two-month bonus, Premier Abang Johari reveals ahead of the 2027 State Budget. [image: Sbw-080826-mu-SKSSarikei01.jpg] The Premier announced the early indication at the sixth edition of the Sarawakku Sayang programme in Sarikei today, citing the state's improved financial position. Sarawak's revenue has doubled from RM7 billion to RM14 billion during the first five years of PCDS 2030, allowing the government to fund major initiatives including free tertiary education and higher community leader allowances. "What I can say is that there are signs that our revenue this year will, God-willing, allow us to do so," Abang Johari said. Other announcements made: New stadium for Sarikei 10 additional dialysis machines at Sarikei Hospital Expansion of Tanjung Manis Airport to accommodate ATR aircraft Exploring carbon trading revenue from mangrove forests Location: Sarikei / Sarawak Details: Two-month bonus for all Sarawak civil servants; revealed early by Premier ahead of 2027 Budget tabling Source: Borneo Post Online What do you think?

A Sarawak police officer who was counting down the days to reunite with his family later this month has died in a tragic electrocution incident in Sabah. [image: 1786161793700-sibu-policeman.jpg] Corporal Chiu Teck Siong, 41, was among three policemen killed while picking coconuts in front of Weston Police Station in Beaufort on Thursday (Aug 6). The others were Lance Corporal Mohamad Nur Hafiz Ibrahim, 29, and Lance Corporal Muhammad Raimi Ismarubee, 26. Chiu's wife, Tang Wei Wei, 39, said their five children — aged four to 11 — had not seen their father since Chinese New Year. "He had wanted to transfer back to Sibu for a long time, but his request was unsuccessful. This month, he finally applied for leave to return home on Aug 27. The children have been waiting for him," she said at Sibu Mortuary Hall. Tang, who works in the private sector, appealed for financial assistance, saying her income alone isn't enough to support the children's education. Four of the children study at SJK(C) Tiong Hin while the youngest attends Tadika Sing Ang Tong. Chiu had served in Beaufort for more than 11 years since his first posting. Location: Sibu (family) / Beaufort, Sabah (incident) Source: DayakDaily A heartbreaking reminder of the sacrifices our frontliners make. What do you think?

Smoke from Kalimantan wildfires has pushed air quality across western Sarawak into unhealthy territory. [image: 1786161783836-haze-api.jpg] As of 11am today (Aug 8), five stations in Sarawak recorded unhealthy API readings: Serian: 172 (highest) Kuching: 156 Samarahan: 155 Bintulu: 152 Sri Aman: 139 Other areas like Mukah (98), Sarikei (97), Sibu (93), and Miri (86) remain moderate — for now. Source of the haze The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre detected 643 hotspots in Kalimantan and 22 in Sarawak alone, with thick smoke from West Kalimantan drifting northward into western Sarawak. What's being done The Department of Environment has activated both the National Open Burning Action Plan and National Haze Action Plan. Enforcement patrols have been stepped up. Under the Environmental Quality Act (Amendment) 2024, open burning offenders face fines of RM25,000 to RM1 million or up to five years' jail. School closures on standby Schools and childcare centres must close immediately if API readings exceed 200. Outdoor activities are already suspended when API passes 100. Nadma will activate disaster committees when readings exceed 150 for more than 24 hours. Affected areas: Kuching, Serian, Samarahan, Bintulu, Sri Aman Source: DayakDaily Stay safe, wear a mask if you're heading out. What do you think?

Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh says KL can learn from Kuching Festival's 'food ecosystem' — from farm to marketing Yeoh visited the Kuching Festival grounds on Aug 7 together with DBKL Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud and his team, hosted by MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng. This was her second visit. She said her daughters first discovered the festival on TikTok during SUKMA and encouraged her to come. "I felt the concept was very unique and very vibrant. There is a lot of youth and young people's energy, and it was very clean," she said. After taking over the Federal Territories portfolio, Yeoh said she told DBKL its officers should visit Kuching to study how the festival was organised and how fresh ideas from young people were incorporated. "We are here to look into the entire ecosystem, not just this food festival, but also the ecosystem from farm to marketing. How you actually activate so many different industries based on one concept of just promoting food culture here." She cited MBKS' Natural Farmers Market as another initiative that could provide learning opportunities for KL. DBKL Mayor Fadlun described the visit as a good experience: "This is something new for us in Kuala Lumpur. Maybe we can learn from Kuching South to adopt this concept." [image: 1786151080400-kl-kuching-festival1.jpg] Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Sarawak Water investigating suspected leak on major water pipeline along Jalan Matang — no water cuts planned yet The affected pipeline is the 1,100mm-diameter MSCL main that delivers treated water to Bukit Siol Reservoir, supplying consumers across Kuching, Petra Jaya and surrounding areas. Sarawak Water said its technical team is carrying out detailed investigations to determine the exact location and extent of the suspected leak before deciding on the next course of action. As part of the investigation, the utility needs to access an isolation valve located within the road median. It is working with JKR to facilitate the necessary excavation works. Traffic advisory: Safety barriers, warning signs and traffic control measures have been put in place around Jalan Matang Batu 6. Motorists are advised to exercise caution. If repair works require a temporary water supply interruption, Sarawak Water will issue an official notice in advance with details on affected areas, expected duration and mitigation measures. [image: 1786151073522-jln-matang-water1.jpg] [image: 1786151073598-jln-matang-water2.jpg] Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

The Sarawak government will help owners rebuild the eight-unit shophouse row that collapsed on Jalan Pahlawan, Sibu in February — and use the case as a study for future reference. State Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang said the collapse was highly unusual — the first of its kind in Sibu's 100-year history. He committed to funding infrastructure works around the site, including drainage and car park, while the owners handle demolition. He's also approached banks about soft loan packages for the owners. [image: 1786097238173-sibu-shophouse.jpg] Key points: Eight-unit row collapsed on Feb 13, caught everyone by surprise Owners hired experts to investigate the cause Govt will fund public infrastructure (drainage, car park) Banks approached for soft loan packages with lower interest Sibu Resident Office coordinating demolition approvals Demolition expected to be completed by October Source: Borneo Post What do you think? Should the government do more to help?

"Stop pointing fingers, start fixing" — Tiong King Sing wants a full review of airport security after a Malaysia Airlines pilot was caught smuggling drugs in Jakarta. The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, who is also Bintulu MP, said the focus should be on fixing the system, not assigning political blame. He made the call after a meeting with MAHB, AVSEC, the border control agency AKPS, and KLIA police. The pilot, 39, was detained at Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport with 70,114 ecstasy and methamphetamine pills worth an estimated RM45 million. He also tested positive for meth, ecstasy and cocaine. "Airports are the country's gateways. When these protective measures fail to function, the consequences extend far beyond a single incident," Tiong said. [image: 1786097193031-tiong-meeting.jpg] Key developments: MAG has mandated drug screening for all 1,260 Malaysia Airlines pilots First phase of screening must be completed by Aug 15 Pilots who refuse screening will be grounded Screening to be extended to all MAG pilots and cabin crew Malaysia Airlines confirmed the pilot was not operating the flight at the time Source: DayakDaily What do you think — is airport security in Malaysia tight enough?