Education - BorneoTalk Official Website

Research Awards/GrantsReceived Internationally• MSC Malaysia Asia Pacific ICTAlliance (APICTA) Awards 2009(Best Communication andApplications Award)• E Asia Award under categoryBridging Digital Divide (E-BarioProject)• Mondialogo Engineering Award2005 : Special Jury RecognitionAward• 34 th Geneva InternationalInvention Exposition 2006 –Special Award, Gold, Silver andBronze• Gold Medal for E-Bario Project– Commonwealth Associationfor Public Administration andManagement (CAPAM), 2006,AustraliaThe international student communityat UNIMAS is thriving with studentswho come from all over the world topursue their higher education at theuniversity. Here, three of them talksto Borneo Talk on how they came toUNIMAS.Chyngyz Mansurov from Kyrgyzstanfound out about UNIMAS whenthere was a conference in his city. Heattended a seminar about Malaysianeducation and researched onlineabout the universities in Malaysia.That was how he found UNIMAS.Chyngyz arrived in Sarawak a fewmonths ago and is now pursuing a 3year degree in Economics. Accordingto Chyngyz, Kuching is a very peacefuland friendly city. “The people arevery helpful especially when theyknow I am an international studentand new to the city. The UNIMASstaff and students are very helpful inanything that I need,” he said.“When I arrived at the airport hereat 3am, the staff from InternationalAffairs division at UNIMAS was thereto meet me. Dr Kasing, Apun, who ishead of International Affairs Divisionhas been very kind and helping meto settle down here.”Emmanuel Osakue from Nigeriahas been in Kuching for the past 5years. He earned his first degree inNigeria and decided to further hisstudies overseas. While studying forhis Masters degree, he decided toresearch on African and Asian beads.It was this research topic that broughthim to Borneo. “I found that becauseMalaysia has a combination of so manydifferent ethnic communities, I decidedto base my studies on beads here andhow it applies to each community,”Educationsaid Emmanuel who has travelled tointeriors of Sarawak for his research. Hecompleted his program last year and isnow pursuing his PhD.“Kuching is a peaceful city and agreat place to study. It has a lot ofstability. Everything in Kuching isin place. Same applies to UNIMAS.There is a good system in place here.Students who plan to come to studycan expect a good environment anda good system that is conducive totheir education,” he said.Emmanuel is also lecturing part-timeat UNIMAS while pursuing his PhD.For Nurul Bariyah from WestKalimantan choosing UNIMAS wasnot a difficult decision. “I am agraduate of Universiti of TanjungBurah in Kalimantan. The universityhas a long relationship with UNIMAS.So I am familiar with UNIMAS and haveattended conferences organized by theuniversity,” said Nurul who has beenin Kuching for 2 years.She chose to further her studies inUNIMAS because to go abroad wastoo far but Kuching was ideal for her.“The culture here is similar, languageis similar and it’s close to home. Thatwas mainly why I chose UNIMAS. Theprocess of applying here was simple.Since I knew UNIMAS, I communicatedthrough email with the university whenI applied,” said Nurul.Nurul, who is studying for her PhD inInternational Economics, specificallyeconomics integration pattern ofcross border trade between WestKalimantan and Sarawak, thinksthat UNIMAS is the perfect place toconduct her studies.“I do a lot of research. Therefore,I find the library here very useful.Facility is good as well as resource.I’ve found many journals whichhas helped me in my studies. I alsohave 2 supervisors who I go to forassistance.”Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (unimas) • Jalan Datuk Mohd Musa, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 581000, 581388 Fax: (6) 082 665088 Website: www.unimas.myJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 7

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED,4 60 48Insideborneotalk.comCover Story (4 – 8)Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)9Map (34 – 35)Kuching Area • Miri Area • Sibu AreaFood (44 – 53)Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites • UCSI Coffee Bar& Bistro • Little Hainan • SCR Corporation Sdn Bhd• Atok Kopitiam • Little Italy • Rumah Hijau Cafe •Favourite Café • KFC • OldTown White Coffee57Education (9 – 32)Curtin University Of Technology Sarawak • MukahPolytechnic Sarawak • SEGi College Sarawak •Sugarcraft Baking & Culinary Academy • SeDidikSdn Bhd • Human Resource Development & QualityUnit • Yayasan Sarawak • GGIFA InternationalCollege Of Aviation • Maison Monica • SarawakState Library (PUSTAKA) • Sarawak State SportsCouncil • Malaysian Handicraft DevelopmentCorporation, Sarawak • Asia 2010 • Hydro2010 • SATT CollegeHotel (33 – 43)Dormani Hotel • Beverly Hotel • Pullman Hotels &Resorts • 360 Hotel • 360 Xpress • The RegencyPlaza Hotel • The Regency Rajah Court Hotel • TheJesselton Hotel • Borneo Tropical Rainforest Resort51Shopping (54 – 56)Bintang Mega Mall • Wisma Sanyan54Products (57 – 59)Wee Hua Boo Trading Sdn Bhd • Eza CarpetDistributor Sdn Bhd • Premium Glass63Destination (60 – 63)Lundu • Kampung Belimbing • Annah RaisLonghousePeople (64 – 65)Mike Boon • Dato Peter T.S. NgMovies & Books (66)Star Cineplex • MPH BookstoreBorneoTalk is published by Bumi Serasi. The contents of the magazine may not be reprinted or reproduced without prior written permission. Thepublisher is not liable for statements made and opinions expressed in the publication.Editor-In-Chief Ivy Pan Executive Editor Grace Balan-Law Marketing Ivy Pan, Jasmine Wong, Nancy Shukri Administration Rebina NohContributors Grace Balan-Law, S C Goh, Hennie S, Terence Ting, Mark Jacobson Design & Art Direction Steven Yap Photography DavidJoseph, Jasmine Wong, Azlandy Mohammid Ali Tuah (UNIMAS), Mark Jacobson, Sarawak Information Department Front Cover Image UNIMASGraduating Students by Azlandy Mohammid Ali Tuah Printer Teknik Print Sdn Bhd, MalaysiaWrite to us at BorneoTalk, 242E, Lorong 3, Jalan Green, 93150 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 427423, 238968, Fax: (6) 082 235152email: iconnec@pc.jaring.myThe next issue of BorneoTalk will be out in April 2010.Endorsed byMinistry Of Urban Development Sarawak Tourism Board& Tourism Sarawak8 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010To Advertise In This Publication Call6 082 427423

EducationThe perfect balance of world-class facilities,quality courses, superior academics andaffordabilityCurtin’s first internationalbranch campusCurtin Sarawak was established in 1999as the first international branch campusof Western Australia’s Curtin Universityof Technology at the invitation of theSarawak State Government, whichrecognised the need for a tertiaryinstitution of international calibreto match Miri’s tremendous growth,as well as Curtin’s reputation forexcellence in the region.Unlike other offshore campuses andtertiary colleges in the region whichoffer twinning programmes withforeign universities, all aspects ofCurtin Sarawak’s academic programmesare identical to those offered by Curtinin Australia, and all degrees areawarded directly by Curtin Universityof Technology.In a matter of just ten years, CurtinSarawak has established itself asa world-renowned internationaluniversity in East Malaysia, attractingstudents from all over the world toits beautiful state-of-the-art gardencampus in Senadin, about 20 kilometresfrom the city centre.It is a popular choice for its internationaloutlook, innovative courses, world-classteaching facilities, flexible studyoptions, applied and practicalsubjects, use of advanced technology,partnerships with industry andgovernment, ideal campus location,experienced academics and staff,and more.Miri’s cosmopolitan mix brings with itanother unique educational experiencethat many students find priceless, aswell as the city’s scenic seaside location,infrastructure, cleanliness, safetyand recreational options, and CurtinSarawak presents a most attractiveoption for students. Currently, thereare almost 3,000 students fromthroughout Malaysia and over 40other countries studying at theuniversity.Curtin Sarawak offers a wide varietyof high-quality courses, includingfoundation studies in Commerceand Arts, as well as Engineering andScience; diploma courses in ProcessPlant Technology and Business;undergraduate degree courses in Arts,Commerce, Science and Technology,and postgraduate studies in ProjectManagement, Business, Engineeringand Science. Studying at CurtinSarawak not only ensures graduatesa world-class degree and the practicalexperience required to further theircareers, but through accreditation ofits programmes, immediate recognitionby government and professionalbodies as well.Curtin Sarawak’s state-of-the-artcampus is equipped with the latestcomputers, software, laboratoryequipment, and reference materialsin addition to free Internet access ande-mail facilities for students. Studentsalso have access to learning resourcesat the Curtin campus in Perth andother resources via the Internet.Research is an essential componentof academic excellence at CurtinSarawak. Not only does it contributeto advancing knowledge and providinginnovative solutions to industrialchallenges, but by drawing in studentsinto its research activities, it providesa learning culture that promotes anddevelops professionalism amongstCurtin Sarawak’s graduates.2009 marked a significant milestonefor Curtin Sarawak as it celebratedits tenth anniversary and the openingof its Phase 2 Development, by far itsbiggest infrastructural developmentto date. Comprising a new School ofBusiness building and multi-purposeRecreation & Events Centre, it marksthe beginning of a new phase ofdevelopment that will eventuallyinclude an international school,university township, research instituteand bio-technology park.For further information on Curtin Sarawak, visit its website at www.curtin.edu.my or e-mail enquiries@curtin.edu.my.CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, SARAWAK MALAYSIA • CDT 250, 98009 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 085 443939 Fax: (6) 085 443838Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 9

EducationMukahThe idyllic seaside town of Mukah ismost famous for its annual Kaulfestival, which celebrates the offeringsof the sea and thanksgiving practicedby the Melanau people there. Visitorshere too will not miss the imposingMukah Polytechnic located about 8.5kilometer from the town as its 100acre site with 52 buildings make ita learning institution with the mostbuildings in the division, if not thestate! Coupled with its vision to bean Education Centre of Excellencein Engineering, Commerce andInformation Technology, MukahPolytechnic is on a mission to fulfillthe needs of the public and privatesectors in Malaysia by providingeducation, semi-professional trainingfor SPM and SPM(V) school leavers inthe various fields in view of the pressingneed for such skill professionals in thenext wave of development envisagedfor the state under the SarawakCorridor of Renewable Energy(SCORE) and the nation.To meet the needs of the state andnation, the polytechnic providescourses like Certificate of ElectricalEngineering and Electronic, Diplomaof Electronic Engineering, Certificateof Mechanical Engineering, Diplomaof Mechanical Engineering, Certificateof Civil Engineering, Diploma of CivilEngineering, Certificate of BusinessManagement, Diploma of BusinessManagement, Diploma of Secretarial10 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

EducationThe epitome of skills and technical trainingincorporating social etiquette and relevancePolytechnic SarawakScience, Certificate of InformationTechnology, Diploma of InformationTechnology (Programming) andDiploma of Information Technology(Network). A number of new coursesplanned for the institution are Diplomaof Electrical Engineering (Power),Diploma of Mechatronic, Diploma ofManufacturing Engineering Technology,Diploma of Building Services andDiploma of Banking and Finance. Thecurrent student population stands at3340 with 409 from outside Sarawakwhile the rest are local students fromthe length and breath of the state.Mukah Polytechnic started out withits temporary office at SM TeknikSibu in 2004 and moved to itspresent permanent campus site atKampung Judan in 2005. Built ata cost of RM300 million, the vastsprawls of buildings are divided intofour zones to facilitate the growth ofthe centre into a leading educationalinstitution in the state and nation. ZoneOne comprises an administrativecentre, a math, science and computerdepartment, a general studiesdepartment, an electrical and civilengineering department, a resourcecenter, a cafeteria, and lecturetheatre, while Zone Two has eightclass D quarters, one class C quartersand 186 class F staff apartments.Zone Three is for accommodation,comprising eight blocks of maleand female hostels, which canaccommodate 3,200 students. ZoneFour includes a multi-purpose hall, asports centre grandstand, an IslamicCentre, a main store, a garage andmaintenance department, threeblocks of civil engineering workshopsand three blocks of mechanicalengineering workshops. The sportsfacilities include eight tennis courts,six volleyball courts, four sepaktakraw courts, five netball courts, twobasketball courts, one football field,one rugby field and one hockey pitch.Getting an education at MukahPolytechnic is not just theory based;the students are encouraged andin most cases required to undergopractical training as well. In addition,students are expected to also getthemselves involved in local communityprojects and social activities. Oneinnovative programme that theinstitute has initiated is the “TimeSector Privatisation (TSP)” which isaimed at optimising the usage of thefacility by conducting the programmeoutside official hours. These shortcourses include engineering,computer, business or commerce andmanagement from 8pm to 10pm onweekends for individuals or group ofworkers from any organisation.According to PMS Acting Director,Haji Wan Muhammad Nasir WanMos, the polytechnic is not just toproduce graduates who only knowabout their own niche areas butindividuals who are well-rounded toundertake other tasks in any givenenvironment where they are in whenworking. These social skills combinedwith their technical expertise willrender them more employable to thejob market and also provide themthe opportunities to excel.“This diversity of skills of our graduatesare aimed at giving them the besttraining to enable them to fit intoany organisation that they go intowhen they graduate from here. Asenvisaged by the chief minister ofSarawak, Pehin Sri Abdul Haji TaibMahmud for the institution, ourgraduates should possess the necessaryskills expected by the market while atthe same time, they should also beable to function and work seamlessly intheir new environment,” he stated.For more information on Mukah Polytechnic Sarawak, those interested can contact: KM 7.5, Jalan Oya, 96400 Mukah, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 084 874001 Fax: (6) 084 874005 Website: www.pmu.edu.myJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 11

EducationHappeningandindustry drivenwww.segi.edu.myOne of the Colleges to watch outfor in 2010 is SEGi College Sarawak.This institution of higher learning ismaking a big, big splash this side ofBorneo by showing that getting adegree in just about any field can beboth educational and fun.What’s more is that SEGi CollegeSarawak’s graduates are highlyemployable, so much so that evenbefore they graduate, they are alreadysnatched up by companies. Andthat’s not just in one or two facultiesbut something that is experienced byall of SEGi’s faculties.A good example is the first batch ofMass Communication graduates. Allfound jobs even before their graduationceremony with the exception of onewho went on holiday while decidingwhich offer to accept.Employers have even come knockingon SEGi’s door looking for studentswho have not even finished theirprogrammes and in certain cases,reserving those students who havealready caught their eyes, eitherthrough happening events organisedby the students or through internships.All this is made possible by dedicatedand helpful staff. Established in 1987,SEGi College Sarawak began as aninstitution of higher learning offeringlaw degree programmes and businessdiploma programmes. Most of itsstudents then were working adultspursuing further education for personaldevelopment or career advancement.With the mission of addressingthe educational needs of the localpeople, the College worked towardsintroducing more programmes relevantto the needs of the commercialworld and strengthening its ties withforeign universities with the aim ofcreating full academic pathways forits students.From its humble beginnings, it isnow the leading provider of lawdegree programmes and one of thestrong providers of business degreeprogrammes in Kuching, with variousdiploma, degree and postgraduateprogrammes under its portfolio. Infact, SEGi College Sarawak is theonly full-fledged private law school inEast Malaysia.12 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

EducationHalls and Rooms. The College keepsahead of the latest technology used inteaching such as our on-line learningsystem and updates its computerssuch as Macintosh computers for theGraphic Design and the InteractiveMultimedia students as well as designingand other business software.SEGi College, as an innovativeeducation provider, also providesnew programmes such as its healthrelated courses offered at its newFaculty of Nursing and Allied Healthcampus at King’s Centre.The College also has a third campusin Pending offering vocational studiessuch as the Automotive Mechanic,Tourist Guide, Reservations and FrontDesk, and Graphic Design courses.All of SEGi College’s programmes arevery keyed in to the industries it isproviding for. Good examples of thisare the Faculty of Hotel and Tourismand the Faculty of Creative Arts andDesign.The College recently upgraded itsfacilities and given fresh new look toits simulated hotel room, functionroom, bar and the graphic studioso that its students can gain betterskills and knowledge regarding theirindustries.It has also tied up with over 100companies to ensure that students gaingood industrial placement experience.This is also to ensure that the College’sgraduates will be very industry relevantand highly employable.collegeIn 2000, SEGi moved to its CityCampus, located in a prestigiouslocation, in the heart of the GoldenTriangle, at the centre of Kuchingcity. The campus can accommodateover 2,000 full time & part-timestudents. The College’s neighboursinclude the Somerset Gateway (theCity’s highest building), Wisma ChineseChamber of Commerce and thePermata Carpark, which houses one ofthe City’s more prominent eateries.Facilities at the city’s Main Campusinclude a Cybercafe and Patio, Minitheatre,Library and Reading Room,Counselling Room, Students’ CommonRoom and more than 30 LectureThe College realises the future needsof the state and nation and caters tothose future needs by providing thesenew programmes, giving today’syouths the opportunity of gettinggood jobs in the future.Programmes such as Nursing,Medical Laboratory Technology andEnvironmental Health are just thebeginning for the many other healthrelated courses to be added to thiscampus. The 4-storey campus housesa dedicated library, simulation wards,laboratories and a physiotherapy wardto ensure that students have hands-onknowledge of their chosen career.In addition, the College has manyclubs to ensure that its students haveextra-curricular activities. This is tomake sure that they have a balancededucation.Among the activities are the recentOne Nation Tile Painting event andthe designing of the ‘kolam’ forDeepavali at Tun Jugah, and theProm Night Masquerade Party.SEGi has indeed come a long wayin providing quality education atreasonable costs. Backed by a teamof dedicated and loyal staff, itensures that students would find thelearning process a rewarding one.Be a part of SEGi College and grow with us – you are our greatest assets!For further information, please contact:SEGi College Sarawak, 211 Jalan Bukit Mata, Kuching, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 252566 Fax: (6) 082 231355Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 13

EducationEver wondered how your favouritepastry or spaghetti is made? Oreven keen to make a living throughculinary, baking cake and pastries,you can now enroll and learn the art atSugarcraft Baking & Culinary Academy.The academy is currently offering afull time course leading to a Certificatein Baking Science & Technology(conferred by Sugarcraft Baking &Culinary Academy) and an ExternalDiploma or higher diploma level inPatisserie or culinary arts by the City& Guilds International of London orCity of Sunderland College – in onlysix-and-half months. “Students whoare 16 and above with minimum SPMqualifications or matured adults whohave relevant working experience mayalso apply,” said Elisabeth Siahaja,Head Instructor of Sugarcraft Baking& Culinary Academy. Course contentincludes baking science, cake decoration,preparation of quick breads, scones,cheesecakes, cookies, pies, as well aschocolate molding and confectionery,and many more. Each class is limitedto a maximum of 25 students.The programme starts off with threeand-a-half months of theory andhands-on lessons, followed by threemonths of valuable practical learningexperience in leading hotels in Malaysia(subject to placement availability). Theintake commence in January, Mayand September 2010. Besides that,there is also a part-time, three-monthcourse suitable for housewives andbaking enthusiasts where you can learnto make a variety of cakes, brownies,croissants, cookies, pies, quick breads,scones, and tarts. The next intake forthe part-time course starts in January,May and September 2010. “Noprior baking experience is required inthese part-time courses and all theingredients are provided. Our purposeis to ensure students have confidencein baking & culinary,” said Elisabeth.And if the art of preparing Westernfood interest you, Sugarcraft Baking& Culinary Academy is also offeringexternal diplomas from UK as well as aCertificate in Culinary Art by SugarcraftBaking & Culinary Academy.The six and a half month course entailstheory and practical training that coversthe basics of cooking, including waysof food preparation, menu planningand portioning, basic pastry-makingtechniques, kitchen safety and hygiene,nutrition, as well as various cookingstyles like grilling, braising, steaming,stewing, boiling, baking, frying, roastingand poaching. Besides that studentswill be making butter sculpture, icecarving and fruit carving. Students willalso be trained in buffet styles andservices during their studies. “This isgoing to be our fifth batch of students(for the Certificate in Culinary Arts)and they will be provided with a set ofchef uniform, handkerchief, chef hat,text file, training materials and cookingingredients,” said Elisabeth.This course promises to be motivationalfor the students and at the same timeinteresting as students will not beconfined to only theory and lectures,but are exposed to constant practicaltraining through posting at SugarcraftBaking & Culinary Academy’s in-houseindustrial training centre – their own,Bakery & Café. The intakes forCertificate in Culinary Arts begins inJanuary / May / September 2010.Sugarcraft has expanded toJohor Bahru and is offering thesame courses in Kuala Lumpur. Formore information on courses offeredby Sugarcraft Baking & CulinaryAcademy, call 03-9058 7910 / 6292or 07-3528822, or log intowww.sugarcraft.edu.my.www.sugarcraft.edu.my14 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

EducationProviding educationfoundation torural childrenSEDC’s SeDidik pre-schools bridging divide ineducational attainment in SarawakMost Malaysians know of SarawakEconomic Development Corporation(SEDC) as it has achieved numerousrecords in the development of thestate over the years. Many however,are not aware of one of its coreSocial Corporate Responsibilities(CSR), which is the funding forpre-school education in the state,especially in rural areas. In fact, thecorporation has undertaken this rolefor over twenty years.“SEDC established SeDidik to providepre-school education to rural childrenwith the aim of bringing affordableeducation to the rural masses,”explained Assistant Minister, Tourism& Heritage and SEDC Chairman,Datuk Haji Talip Zulpilip. “Of the 58centres we now have, only seven ofthese are located within town areas.By making pre-schools affordableto them, many rural parents are notburdened by the high cost of sendingtheir children to town areas for sucheducation and saving cost in theprocess. Furthermore, we chargeonly RM20 monthly while in someexceptional cases of hard core poorfamilies, their children get to studyfor free,” he added. Based onestimates, more than 30,000 studentshave passed through SeDidik’spre-schools and statistics revealed thatmajority of them went on to excel inprimary and secondary schools later.“From our experience it is notedthat children will tend to have betteraptitude for education if parents alsoshow interests in their work progresslike sharing time when the childrenare doing homework or assignments.Some parents are even more supportiveby volunteering to help out in theclassrooms during lessons and thisclose cooperation goes a long wayinto making SeDidik a success that it istoday,” he enthused. He also attributedthe hard work put in by the teachersand administrators in these institutionseven though the rewards are limited.He further added that more newteachers recruited now have diplomasand degrees, which will further spurfuture success of SeDidik.“We want these children to beequipped with thinking abilities whileproviding them foundation skills toexcel in formal education later,” Talipemphasised. “Sarawak is still developingDatuk Haji Talip Zulpilipon many fronts and as the state is solarge, it will take time for eventualdeveloped status. Hence, the launchingof Sarawak Corridor of RenewableEnergy (SCORE) is an attempt toboost development of many ruralareas while bringing in new industriesand businesses to the state. All thesewill spur employment so graduatesand professionals will be muchsought after in the years to come,”he believed. Talip also stated thatparents should not take pre-schooleducation lightly as the globaleconomy is becoming open throughICT and modern technologies, whichput emphasis on education to stayahead in the competition. “Withoutthe necessary education it is unlikelythat anyone in future will be able tointeract with globalised citizens andbusiness associates which will be thekey to success,” he opined.Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 15

EducationThe perfect16 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010All parents want their children tobe successful when they grow uphence many send young toddlers topre-school as the first step on theeducation ladder. In Sarawak thereare a multitude of private pre-schoolsin every city and town catering tosuch needs and their numbers pointto the importance and need for suchearly training.“The state government startedThe Child and Family DevelopmentProgramme in 1990 with the objectiveto provide pre-school education tolower income group and ruralcommunities in Sarawak underSeDidik,” Datuk Talip Zulpilipstated in reference to the schoolprogramme under the SarawakEconomic Development Corporation(SEDC) of which he is Chairman.“That is why most of our centresare in rural areas where the need forsuch education is most sought afterbut often unattainable for manyparents due to financial constraints.Hence, SeDidik was created to meetthese expectations and we hope tosee a greater number of rural childrenbenefiting from our centres in future.”The changing demands of developmentin Sarawak and the world requirea shift of mindset and skills whichmust start at a young age. Futureworkforce will put more emphasison thinking processes than physical

Educationpower so technical, academic skills areimportant to meet these expectations.Formal education will equip thenext generation with the necessarydiscipline and indoctrination to excelin their pursuit of knowledge whichcan be applied everywhere in aborderless world.“In essence, pre-school educationprovides the foundation for formaleducation and so our expectationsare that these children must learnthe basic skills of reading, writingand arithmetic (3R) and possessthe ability to think for themselves.Hence our teachers are constantlybeing upgraded from diploma todegree holders, while our curriculumalso undergoes constant upgradingas newer and better programmesare devised,” the SEDC Chairmanrevealed. He stated that IT alsoformed an important aspect of theprogramme in SeDidik schools whileEnglish Language is encourage to beused, in speaking and in writing bythe youngsters”.One important aspect of SeDidikeducation programme is that parentsare also encouraged to understandwhat are being taught and how theycould help their children while goingthrough pre-school. They must alsoshow interest and care like helpingthe children in home assignmentsand reading while the administratorswill provide them with the necessaryassistance where possible.Matching standardsof National Pre-schoolcurriculumSeDidik’s curriculum is based on theNational Pre-school curriculum andso matches the standard expected.In addition, many other methods ofteaching and minding children are alsointegrated into the programme, givingthe pre-scholars distinct advantage incomparison to those who follow onlythe national curriculum.Basically, the programme covers sevenmain areas, namely physical, cognitiveand social-emotional development,language and communication, religiousand moral, creativity and aestheticsas well as computer skills. These aresupplemented with English lessonsbased on Australian models, thehead startSEDC’s SeDidik’s pre-school programme provides childrenthe skills for formal educationteaching of science and mathematicsin English, reading programme forbabies based on Dr Glenn Doman’sconcepts while Tahfiz is taught toMuslim children.Due to the success of the programme,SeDidik has garnered variousrecognitions from the state governmentand agencies outside Sarawak too.Presently SeDidik has a total of 58schools with 51 distributed in therural regions of Sarawak and 7 in theurban centres.For further information, please contact SeDidik Sdn Bhd at No 53, Lot 67, Section 66, Yoshi Square, Jalan Pelabuhan, 93450 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 340637 Fax: (6) 082 346859Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 17

EducationMeeting of mindsfor progress ofpre-school childrenSarawak’s Pre-school Education Conventionsepitomise the pursuit of excellence in education18 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

EducationYB Datin Fatimah Abdullah (3 rd left)Such is the importance of pre-schooleducation to the government ofSarawak that it has convened a seriesof Pre-school Education Conventionsince 2006 on an annual basis to seekinput, assess and improve existingprogrammes . Spearheaded by theHuman Resource Development andQuality Unit of the Chief Minister’sDepartment, these conventionshave brought together some 2000facilitators, teachers and experts tochart the progress and future directionsto make these programmes the bestin the state and nation. As stated byYB Datin Fatimah Abdullah, AssistantMinister in the Chief Minister’sDepartment (Human Resource andTraining), Assistant Minister ofAgriculture (Home Economics andTraining) and Assistant Minister ofWomen Development, the annualconvention have covered major themesand aspects from different perspectiveswith the underlying aim of shaping itinto the premier pre-school programme.of participants showed up for thetwo-day meet,” Fatimah continued.“’Math and Science alive’ was ourtheme and naturally the emphasiswas on making these core subjectsinteresting and meaningful to prescholarsby introducing practicalsessions and also how these subjectscan be interactive, innovative andcreative. We also made it clear thatparents should be well informed ofthe importance of pre-schools fortheir young children as it can make adifference to how these children willview learning as they grow up. As anadded incentive, we even gave outawards to outstanding pre-schools thathave shown innovation in the teachingof Math and Science in their respectiveschools,” she recalled.YB Datin Fatimah Abdullah (2 nd left) together with ChiefMinister and Deputy Chief Minister of Sarawak (3 rd & 4 th left)“Our theme for the first conventionin 2006, was ‘Learning the funway’ to enhance the knowledgeof those involved in pre-schooleducation, especially the teachers andadministrators on the finer aspects of‘fun learning’. Education at that agegroup should be fun and interactiveso as to cultivate the love for learninglater in life and also when undergoingformal education,” she pointed out.According to her, the 2007 conventionheld in Miri under the theme ‘Born toread’ was a major success based onthe number of participants. As part ofthe programme there were also visitsto eight pre-schools in the Resort City.At the same time, teachers were givenprofessional training with the aim ofimproving their knowledge and skillsand on ways to instill the habit ofreading among the young. The sitevisits also provide new insights forteachers and administrators on how toimprove their learning environment.“Last year the convention returned toKuching and an equally strong crowd“The convention held in Kuching in2009 received overwhelming responseof participants as our programmecontinued to enjoy success among thesepre-schools providers,” the AssistantMinister continued. “Cultured childrenour gems” was chosen as our theme aswe try to instill the importance of a wellroundedstudent through education anddisplay of noble values. We can proudlysay that by continuously upgrading ourteachers, administrators and parents onthe importance of pre-school education,the number of students who go on toexcel in formal schools will continue torise with a corresponding drop indelinquency and also truancy.Furthermore, we expect our futuregraduates to be more rounded peoplewho excel in their fields and beproductive to our state and nation,”Fatimah opined. The 2010 conventionwith its theme, “Generating creativeminds” expected to be held in August,is in the process of being finalised anddetails will be in the coming use ofBorneoTalk, major papers and theofficial website of the department.For further information, please contactHuman Resource Development & Quality UnitChief Minister’s DepartmentLevel 12, Wisma Bapa Malaysia, Petra Jaya,93300 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 492442 Fax: (6) 082 313650www.hrdnet.sarawak.gov.myJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 19

EducationYayasanCommunityEducationProgrammesYayasan Sarawak isgenerally noted for itscontribution to givingloans and scholarshipto students to furthertheir studies at the localor foreign universities, but little isknown that Yayasan Sarawak wasalso and still is providing education forthe members of the local communityas well.The Yayasan Sarawak CommunityEducation Programmes were initiatedin 1996, following the formation ofCommunity Education Section tomeet the needs of the communityin Sarawak in particular. The majorityof the target groups were the ruralfolks principally parents and students.Now these programmes have beenexpanded to cater for the large portionof the community which includeschools, parents, students, communityleaders and youth throughoutSarawak.PARENTING SEMINARAs a model of creating awarenesson the importance of education,Yayasan Sarawak has come up withone programme called EducationRoadshow or better known as20 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

EducationSarawakKembara Pendidikan with theobjectives of creating awareness onthe importance of education andleadership courses amongst parentsand students alike. At its inception13 years ago, Parenting Seminar as itwas then called only dealt with parentsper se. Today, it is also a “TurunPadang” programme for YayasanSarawak staff to get to know thecommunity well and their needs andsubsequently will help to enhancerelationship between Yayasan Sarawakand the community leaders and thepeople.benefit roughly about 52,000beneficiaries.HIGH PERFORMANCERURAL SCHOOLSVery briefly, this programme is to helpgood students in the 65 primaryand secondary under performingrural schools to excel in their publicexaminations with the hope to bridgethe educational disparities betweenthe urban and the rural studentsby providing them with financialassistance through teachers givingextra tuitions, teaching-learningmaterials and study skill workshops.ENHANCEMENT OFEDUCATION THROUGHSYNERGY OF PARTNERSHIPThis programme consists of two subactivitiesnamely parenting seminarwhich incorporates skills such ashow to guide and monitor children’sactivities for parents and educationawareness which focuses on studyskills, motivation and answeringquestion techniques for studentswhich run concurrently each time itis conducted. It is also a venue forus to disseminate information onthe programmes given by YayasanSarawak regarding educationopportunities and bursaries thatthe people of Sarawak in particularand Malaysia in general can get. Forthe past 13 years Yayasan Sarawakhas implemented not less than 160programmes of this nature whichAnother important area that YayasanSarawak is acutely concerned withunder the Community Programmeis the enhancement of the standardof Math, Science, English Languageand preschool education. With thisobjective in mind, Yayasan Sarawakhas, in state, provided for the past fewyears various types of grants to schoolseither directly or through EducationDepartment of Sarawak to enablemulti-faceted educational activities andprogrammes being implemented whichare in tandem with our Government’spolicy on education. As such, we havedeveloped a mechanism under thecode-name Yayasan Sarawak andSarawak Education DepartmentJoint Programme to look into thismatter closely so that aid can bechannelled where possible and whenappropriate.For further information, please contact:Yayasan Sarawak • 9 th & 10 th Floor, Wisma Satok, Jalan Satok, PO Box 3281, 93764 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 248688, 230071 Fax: (6) 082 429208Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 21

EducationFlying dreams come trueA couple’s determination results in setting upof GGIFA International College of Aviation, BintuluDato’ Paduka Morshidi Abdul Rahman and hiswife Datin Paduka Joanna Lim AbdullahBintulu, the premier Gas Town ofSarawak has many proud acclaimsand one of these is the GGIFAInternational College of Aviation. Asthe first and only pilot training centrein Sarawak, it has given numerousyoung people from far and nearthe opportunity to accomplish theirdreams of flying.“Today, this centre is here becauseof the dedication, hard work andfarsightedness of Datuk PadukaMorshidi Abdul Rahman and his wifeDatin Paduka Joanna Lim Abdullah.Despite their lack of experience inthis industry, their perseverance, hardwork made it a success today,” ChiefExecutive Officer GGIFA, Haji Sairibin Naim stated. “When the firstand second batches of 16 studentsgraduated in December last yearwith their Commercial Pilot License(CPL) and Air Transport Pilot LicenseATPL (Frozen), that proved that theirvision was right and certification ofthe centre by various departments andinternational bodies further cementedthis remarkable success story overthe years. I believe that students,parents and the government are allthankful for their contribution tothe human resource developmentespecially in the aviation industrywhich has put Sarawak on the worldmap of aviation,” he added. Thecentre was approved and certifiedby Department of Civil Aviation asthe Flying Training Institute as well asrecognised by the Ministry of HigherEducation as the Private Instituteof Higher Learning with instructorsfrom New Zealand, Iraq, Philippines,U.S.A, India and Peninsular Malaysia.It started with four leased Eagletraining aircraft before purchasing 8Cessna single engine aircraft and 5twin engine Sanecca IV aircraft fortraining purpose.“Currently, the annual demandfor pilot is around 19,000 but thewhole world is only able to produce16,000,” the CEO revealed. Apartfrom the Bintulu Campus GGIFA hasits headquarters in Subang which isone of the Centers for its RMITAviation English.22 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

EducationThe right training forpilotsCourses at GGIFA ICA arecertified, approved and recognisedpilotsinternationallyAll cadet pilots at GGIFA ICA trainswith the flight simulator under theclose supervision of Chief FlightSimulator Instructor - Captain HazriSatriawan Haron. The course is oneof the compulsory preparatorymodules to get their certificate at thecentre in Bintulu, Sarawak.“Practically this is the most challengingcourse in the whole module,” Hazrisaid. “It tests their ability to withstandconstant pressure and to executetasks correctly at the same time. Thesimulator taxes them on mental,physical and emotional strength asit creates a realistic environment toensure the cadet pilots know howto react and response to flying innormal and abnormal condition, beit cloudy, thunderstorm or even inemergency situation. Each session istwo hours and the whole course maytake up to three months, dependingon the individual’s capabilities.”Haji Sairi bin NaimAccording to him, the cadet pilotstrain in pairs under the multi-crewcooperation concept with both ofthem sitting inside the replica cockpit.One will fly the aircraft while theother acts as co-pilot. The latter willdo the checklist to ensure the flyingis in accordance to procedure andthis role is rotated. All the instrumentslike navigational systems and devicesof an aircraft are duplicated insidethe cockpit for a real feel of the actualthing when they undergo actualpractical lessons.Upon obtaining their CommercialPilot License (CPL) and Air TransportPilot License ATPL (Frozen), thesequalified pilots can be employed byany aviation company and fly asco-pilots. They will be promoted tothe rank of Captains of commercialaircrafts after accumulating 1,800flying hours though the minimumage to be bestowed with this rank is27 years old, Hazri added.Capt Hazri (left) with flight simulator instructor,Capt Azam Saad from Iraqwww.ggifa.edu.myFor more information please contact GGIFA International College of AviationBintulu Main Campus • Bintulu airport, Bintulu Tatau Road, 97000 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 086 333699 Fax: (6) 086 331299Email: enquiry@ggifa.edu.my, mars88@gmail.comJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 23

EducationPathway for success inbeauty and hair professionThere is no denying everyone wants to look good,especially for grand occasions like weddings,graduations and formal events. From the topdown, every strand of hair must be just rightwith the perfect make up and matching dressto matching shoes and other accessories. These‘perfect models’ at special events are the work ofprofessionals who have put in extensive hours tostudy the traits of each individual to create theseexquisite beauties that turn heads wherever theygo. Maison Monica Hair & Beauty Academy isthe place to learn all these beauty secrets to turnyou into a professional in the industry.“Courses offered at our academy are accreditedby local and international bodies like City &Guilds (London) UK, Pivot point CosmetologyUSA, City of Sunderland College UK and JabatanPembangunan Kementarian Malaysia whichassure students of getting the right training andcertifications. In addition, our students get practicalsessions whenever we host events as they getfirst hand look at the work of these professionalsand learn the intricate skills that can only comefrom hands-on experience,” said Monica Thenthe Headmistress of the Academy. Graduatesfrom the academy can look forward to workingin various professional fields like professionalhairdressers and beauty therapists, make-up artists,technicians to salon managers and proprietorsor even image consultants. The most importantstep on the way to success is to choose the rightschool for that extended exposure and guidanceon the latest and most innovative products inthe beauty industry, which will result in a careerwhere the sky is the limit!Just like every individual is special, stylists andbeauticians are also unique and creative in theirown way, which certainly appeals to differentgroups of people when it comes to dressingup. The Academy provides the perfect avenuefor creative students to explore their raw skillsand learn from the professionals on refiningthese talents, which eventually will lead to theirown brand of success. It is also a fact that mostwomen who work today have very little time fortheir own beauty sessions and most seek specialsalons for their weekly or month beauty tune ups.Take that first step towards enriching your life andbe in command of your own destiny by enrollingat Maison Monica Hair & Beauty Academy forprofessional courses that can make you realiseyour dreams!www.maisonmonica.comH.Q. • No. 5D, Kenyalang Park, Shopping Centre, 93300 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 332416, 482571 Fax: (6) 082 341839 Email: maisonmonica@gmail.comBranch • 63, Ground & First Floor, Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 578429 Fax: (6) 082 34183924 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

EducationWhy are you notreading? Many peoplewill answer or give anexcuse, “no time”. Quitea number of people whoseldom visit libraries willconveniently say thatthey don’t know muchabout the library and there should bemore promotional activities conductedto tell people about the services offeredby the library. Simple logic works onmany of us that if a lot of people donot know about something thenpromotion is lacking. Though it is notquite right, perceptions among themajority is very straightforward. Tomake it worst, like any other issues ofconcern to the society, perception is asgood as the truth.What seems puzzling is that thereis more reading campaign activitiesconducted nowadays reaching out tovillage libraries in remote areas andalso in major libraries in town butthe general perception of lack ofpromotions still exist. This compels oneto wonder as to why the same logicdo not works on the rich and famous.Recent incident involving Tiger Woodsis a fresh example. He just had a smallcar accident outside his house withoutserious injury. He tried hard to containthe news and seek the general publicto respect his privacy. After a week thenews is still being reported on all typeof media and became a sensationalwith more and more stories emerging.Despite his silence, people still talkabout it and even non-golfer becameaware of it as more and more peoplecontagiously whisper around. The samegoes to politicians like Silvio Berlusconithe prime minister of Italy and manymore celebrities.Societies choose to talk about certainthings or otherwise. Gossips andcontroversies will spread like wildfire,as people just cannot keep their mouthshut and keep talking about them. Theproblem with subject like reading habitis it lacks the UMPH factor especiallyon this side of the world. Even theworld best seller does not attract asmuch attention as it should. Regularreading campaign activities will not justfail to attract people’s attention butsome who try hard to talk aboutit will find it just fall on deaf ears.Nevertheless almost everybody agreethat reading is important and theinculcation of reading habit is crucialif our society is to compete effectivelywith others.Thus all of us should make readingan issue. Talk about it, share readingmaterials, and ask others what was thelast book they read and many more.Matters as important as reading shouldbecome everyone’s concern failingwhich will deny us the developednation status by the year 2020. Librariesand librarians alone just cannot makeit. Rich and famous people must alsodo their part by helping to promotereading culture. It is not just whatis said but who said it is even moreimportant. If celebrities and otherpublic figures make an issue of reading,society at large will be influenced toalso think about it. Efforts to promotereading are a continuous activity. Eventhe presidents of the United States readto children in public every year to ensurereading is not being overshadowed byother distractions like edutainmentmaterials. Development of ICT hasbrought us limitless informationresources and distractions alike. Wemust work together to ensure readingbecome good habit of our present andfuture generations.by Japri Bujang MasliWhat was the book you last read?Sarawak State Library (PUSTAKA) • Jalan Pustaka, Off Jalan Stadium, 93050 Petra Jaya, Kuching, Sarawak, East Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 442000 Fax: (6) 082 449944 E-mail: librarian@sarawaknet.gov.my Website: www.pustaka-sarawak.comJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 25

Sports EducationISN Satellite CentreSteadfastly Assisting State Sukma AthletesIn 2007, the National Sports Institute of Malaysia (ISN) identifiedseveral ISN Satellite Centres in the country with Kuching,Sarawak pioneering the first centre. This followed byPenang, Johor, Sabah, Terengganu and the rest of the states.These centres were established to achieve the ISN’s missionto broaden the base of sports science support for thenational quest towards sports excellence in Malaysia.The ISN offers various services from sport psychology toexercise physiology, sport nutrition, conditioning, TID (TalentIdentification), sport science education, medical services,paramedical services, anti doping, physiotherapy andrehabilitation, and sports medicine education.At Sarawak’s Satellite Centre, a team of sports psychologists,physiologists and nutritionists (dieticians) are continuallystanding by to assist the state Sukma athletes.According to Frederick Tan, the centre’s head, the team’smain focus is on the training and testing, mental trainingand dieting for athletes in the core sports and Category Asports as listed by Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS).Under the MSNS Category sports for Sukma XIII areweightlifting, volleyball, lawn bowls, archery, athletics,pencak silat, table tennis, swimming, diving, tennis,tenpin bowling, boxing, wushu, basketball, petanque,cycling and shooting.The categories are based on the achievements in theprevious Sukma.The athletes who train at the Satellite Centre comes fromall over Sarawak and are recruited by their coaches fromtheir respective towns. The centre’s team will then visit themto observe, assess and consult them on their training.The centre’s Physiologist, Joshua Philip and assistantChristina Janggui determines and monitors the physicaland physiological characteristics that are essential to theperformance of athletes in their particular sport.For the Sports Psychologists – Nurulisa Poli, Regina Gasin andChong Siew Kian - their focus would be to educate, teachand implement psychological skills training and strategies toathletes in order to enhance their performance. The Dietician/Nutritionist, Karene Lee, provides athletes with nutritionsupports necessary to promote optimal sports performance.Apart from the team’s visits to athletes, motivationalcamps are also organised for team building and mentaltraining. In preparation for the Sukma XIII Games inMelaka 2010, a motivational camp was organised atCamp Pueh, Sematan in June last year for Sarawak’sathletes. In July 2009, a similar camp was held in Miri forthe coaches in order to encourage them to work towardsachieving good results in Sukma XIII.Category B sports are women’s sepak takraw, gymnastics& gymrama, golf, women’s hockey, canoeing and karate.Meanwhile, badminton, netball, football, sepak takraw,rugby, optimist sailing, squash, judo and silambam fall inCategory C.For more information, please contact Sarawak State Sports Council at (6) 082 251330, fax at (6) 082 419029 or atDewan Suarah Kuching, Jalan Taman Budaya, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.26 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010“Currently, our team is assisting at the elite centres inKuching before they go to Sibu, Miri and Bintulu to holdfitness assessment, motivational sessions and nutritioneducation there. They will be accompanying the stateSukma contingent to Sukma XIII,” said Frederick.

MAJL IS SUKAN NEGERI SARAWAKSports EducationThe Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS)Sports Awards 2007/2008 was held inOctober 2009 in Kuching. It was a memorableevent for the winners of each category whoreceived their awards from Chief Minister Pehin Sri AbdulTaib Mahmud.The MSNS awards is organised every two years to accordrecognition and the government’s appreciation to sportsofficials, sportsmen and sportswomen, sports associationsand other bodies who had contributed to the developmentof sports in the state.In theWinnersCircleList of theSarawak SportsAwards20072008winnersSportsmanBryan Nicholas Lomas (Diver)SportswomanElizabeth Jimie (Diver)Promising SportsmanChong Jun Foo (Tenpin Bowling)Promising SportswomanPandelela Rinong (Diver)Sports LeadershipRobert Lu (Tenpin Bowling)Best CoachLi Jin Voon (Taekwondo WTF)Sports AssociationWushu Association of SarawakBest Men’s TeamState Bowling TeamChong Jun FooAris Ardila SantosMuhd Syafiq SajeliNazriman WagimanBest Women’s TeamAileen TsanMichelle LiewChirley LingWena TsanChoo Iyn YeeParalympic SportsmanZul Amirul Sidi (Swimmer)Paralympic SportswomanBatriga Richael Sentau (Athlete)Paralympic CoachDaud Majidi (Swimming Coach)Sports PhotographerJonathan Bullet (Borneo Post)SportswriterAwang Shaferi (Utusan Sarawak –Bahasa Malaysia)Martin Yee Man Teng (Borneo Post-English)Chin Sau Leong (International Times – Chinese)Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 27

Craft EducationBringinglocalFor further information on programmes availableand on new products, please contact:Malaysian HandicraftDevelopment Corporation, SarawakLot 3057, Blok 18, Daerah Salak,Petra Jaya, Jalan Stadium, 93050 Kuching,Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 444205,441329, 442436 Fax: (6) 082 44000328 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

Craft Educationcraftsmanshipa step furtherat the Kraftangan Malaysia (Sarawak)Since the establishment of the MalaysianHandicraft Development CorporationSarawak Branch, the state’s craftidentity has not only been developedand marketed within the country, ithas been taken internationally. Today,Sarawak’s craft identity is foundeverywhere. From commercial venueslike hotels, shops, restaurants to privatehomes, the state’s ethnic motifs arevery visible. It is also found in fashionwith local designers taking the puakumbu motifs, for example, overseas.According to former Director ofKraftangan Malaysia (Sarawak),Mohd Latif bin Dirun, Sarawak’s craftidentity has been well developed andpromoted. It is in line with the visionof Kraftangan Malaysia, an agencyunder the Ministry of InformationCommunication and Culture set up todevelop and promote entrepreneursand the state craft industry.“We have come a long way in termsof putting our craft identity out there.We have explored various ways todevelop and market our products.The training programme here at thecentre is to provide opportunities forcraftsmen and women to upgradetheir talents and skills,” said MohdLatif, who is now the Director ofKraftangan Malaysia (Sabah).There are three or four programmesfor batik, songket, sewing and weaving(pua kumbu) available at the centre.Trainees are also taught how tomarket their products, learn aboutcosting and get established oncethey have upgraded their skills.At the centre, their products are placedat the Business Centre for sale. Thecentre also helps them to sell andmarket their products outside such asat the Kuching Waterfront, in KualaLumpur and other states, at exhibitionsor sales programmes.“These are different ways to ensurethe trainees are well equipped withhow to sell and market their products.They are also shown colours, designconcept, quality and even the size ofthe product to make sure they knoweverything about their products,”revealed Mohd Latif.The training programme will usuallylast between 6-9 months. Traineesundergo practical training and aretaught to design a product. Traineesare usually recruited and are paid anallowance of RM450 per month togo to the centre to be trained. Thecentre provides them with materialand technical support.“Trainees are required to fulfillthe criteria such as interest andunderstanding the concept andproduction of handicrafts. They canwrite in to the centre and have tobe interviewed before they can enterthe programme. Form 5 school leaverswho are not sure of what to do canapply to be in the programme andlearn a new skill,” said Mohd Latif.He added “Recruitment is donedepending on the programme andat the management’s discretion. Wealso advertise in the local and nationalnewspapers. Some of the trainees arefrom different states. Their area oftraining will depend on their interest.”Once they are finished, trainees will goout and use their skills to make a living.“Of course some become moresuccessful than others. Some preferto use what they’ve learnt as a hobby.Out of 10 persons, normally 4 willcontinue to practice their skills as craftentrepreneurs,” said Mohd Latif.Recently, the centre developed a newinnovation which weaves the batiktechnique with the songket. Thewaxing is done on the thread orthe warp. Then it is coloured withtraditional dyes so the effect is a tieand dye technique on the backgroundof the songket.“So instead of the plain songket,the patterns now look like the puakumbu. But we are using the OrangUlu motifs as well as Malay motifs.On the background you can seethe tie and dye technique on thesongket. It is quite beautiful and itwill be a very innovative product tomarket,” said Mohd Latif.Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 29

EducationThird International Conference onWater Resources and RenewableEnergy Development in AsiaConference and ExhibitionBorneo International Convention Centre Kuching,Sarawak, Malaysia ~ 29 and 30 March 2010organized byCo-hosted byFollowing two previous successful events, which took place in Bangkok, Thailand (2006) and Danang, Vietnam (2008), we aretaking the next event in this series to Malaysia, a country in the heart of South East Asia with a long history of hydropowerdevelopment – and to the State of Sarawak which is deeply committed to renewable energy development.The Conference is being hosted in partnership with Sarawak Energy and is supported by Sarawak Hidro and Tenaga NasionalBerhad. Speakers will represent the major water and energy utilities of the Asia and Pacific regions, as well as financiers,environmental specialists, and international experts on all aspects of dams, hydropower and other renewable energy sources.Topics of specific relevance to Asia will be discussed, such as flood prediction and mitigation, dam and powerplant safety,seismic design, rural electrification, reservoir sedimentation, challenging sites conditions, environmental and social aspects,machinery design, R&D, and of course the SCORE initiative in SarawakTours will be organized to the Batang Ai concrete faced rockfill dam and powerplant, as well as the 2400 MW Bakun schemeand the Murum RCC dam, under construction on the Balui river. In addition to the technical visits, cultural excursions will beorganized, as well as a full social programme to offer additional networking opportunities.Delegations from around 50 countries will assemble to discuss all aspects of water resources development of the Asian region.SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS INCLUDE:ICID • CIIDFOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:Conference: Mrs Margaret BourkeExhibition: Mr Gaël BozecEmail: mb@hydropower-dams.comEmail: gb@hydropower-dams.comTel: +44 20 8773 7244 Tel: + 44 20 8773 7250Aqua~Media International Ltd, PO Box 285, Wallington, Surrey SM6 6AN, UKFax: + 44 20 8773 7255 ~ Web: www.hydropower-dams.com

EducationMeeting Demands fora Changing WorldInternational Conference and ExhibitionLisbon, Portugal ~ 27-29 September 2010Organized by:withIn the wake of a global financial crisis, with the additional concerns of environmentalprotection and anticipated effects of climate change, and power shortages hamperingsocio-economicdevelopment in some parts of the world, hydropower development hasmany solutions to offer. The hydro profession is responding to the needs of a changingworld,with innovations in planning methods, environmental assessments, technologicalinnovation, approaches to financing strategies, and optimized use of existing assets.HYDRO 2010 will review progress and achievements, as well as needs and future challenges.As usual, the Conference will focus strongly on the needs, priorities and plans of thedeveloping countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America, and discussions will cover technical,economic, commercial and environmental/social aspects.A major Technical Exhibition will run alongside the Conference and a full social programmewill offer extra networking opportunities.SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS INCLUDE:Call for PapersFOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:Conference: Mrs Margaret BourkeExhibition: Mr Gaël BozecEmail: mb@hydropower-dams.comEmail: gb@hydropower-dams.comTel: +44 20 8773 7244 Tel: + 44 20 8773 7250Aqua~Media International Ltd, PO Box 285, Wallington, Surrey SM6 6AN, UKFax: + 44 20 8773 7255Web: www.hydropower-dams.com

EducationBest in its classSince its inception in 1997, SATT College has undertakenthe important task of developing our nation’s youth intowell-rounded, competitive and resilient individuals whoare able to contribute significantly towards the economicgrowth and prosperity of the countryProgrammes offered at SATT College are benchmarkedagainst and conducted in collaboration with its localrenowned universities in Malaysia to ensure thatquality and excellent standards are maintained atSATT College.In its relentless pursuit of academic excellence, SATTColleges has a strong commitment towards helpingeach student chart their education pathways in orderto meet their individual requirements and needs. Withthat goal in mind, SATT College embraces best practicesin teaching and learning activities in order to empowerstudent learning.ProgrammesThe programmes we offer are designed to equip studentswith the managerial, practical and personal skills necessaryto succeed .An internationally recognised SATT Collegeprogrammes is your passport to gaining employment inany part of the world.FacilitiesEach student is assured of a high level of hands-onpractical training at our city campus, consisting of Hot &Cold kitchens, Patisserie Kitchens, Basic Western Kitchen,Front Office Receptions, Hotel Mock Room and ourSugar and Spice Restaurant .RecognitionOur programmes are internationally recognised. It isapproved by Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE)accredited by the Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA),and recognised by Public Service Department ( PSD)We invite you to meet our Counselors who will assistyou in identifying the various pathways and academicprogrammes at SATT College to meet your educationalneeds and career aspirations. While you are here, wepersonally invite you to check out our facilities, deemedby most to be best in its class and we believe you will beinspired by our Hotel-styled facilities, our Dormani Hotel,SATT’s new campus and academic programmes available.Abel Standley KisunDiploma in Hotel Management – UiTMDays at SATT College are never boring; it is filled withexperiences that I cannot get from any other place.Choosing SATT College to pursue my diploma hasbroadened my knowledge and experience which has mademe a better person. I really feel that I am part of the SATTfamily even though we come from different backgrounds.Domithila ServatiusDiploma in Hospitality ManagementSATT College gives me an ideal environment to pursuemy education. It has certainly given me a lot of exposureand knowledge throughout my studies.Sim Ee ChinDiploma in Culinary ArtsSATT College is a prestigious college that I have alwayswanted to attend. I have gained a lot of knowledgeespecially related to culinary arts. The lecturers are also veryhelpful and willing to assist us whenever any problem arises.PROGRAMMES OFFEREDSchool of Culinary Arts- Diploma in Culinary Arts- Certificate in Culinary Arts- Certificate in Pastry- Certificate in BakerySchool of Hospitality- Diploma in Hotel Management- Diploma in Hospitality Management- Certificate in Front Office- Certificate in Restaurant- Certificate in AccommodationSchool Of Tourism- Diploma in Tourism Management- Certificate in Tour GuidingSchool of Business & IT- Diploma in Business StudiesLot 246, Ground Floor, Section 8 KTLD, Jalan Haji Taha, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. | P.O. Box 2178, 93744 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 234581, 242584 Fax: (6) 082 234582, 231586 Email: infosatt@streamyx.com Website: www.satt.edu.my32 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

HotelA touch of warmth and comfortSerene and inviting are the firstimpressions when you arrive atDormani Hotel Kuching; the whitecoloured building, clean surroundingsand attendant who guides you tothe parking bay arouse warmth andfriendliness all at once. Courteousfront desk staff with the trademarkof Sarawak warm smiles greet everyguest and show them the way totheir meeting venue, dining tableor seats at the registration table tocheck in their room reservations.“We are a small hotel offering 70business boutique rooms but withvery personalised services whichis our trademark and this is whatmakes Dormani Hotel different fromthe rest,” said Zakiah Jasmin, Directorof Marketing. “Our centralisedlocation in the heart of the city alsoendears us to local and internationalguests to choose Dormani whenstaying in Kuching. Everything isconveniently nearby and most withinwalking distances like shopping centres,famed Waterfront and SarawakMuseum, weekend Satok farmers’market and whole lot of food anddrink choices.” For further destinationslike the unforgettable Sarawak CulturalVillage and Orang utan sanctuary, thehotel can make the travel arrangementsfor guests too.In-house dining offers a wide selectionof local and international cuisinein an ambient surrounding on theground floor while larger gatheringsof up to 180 people can comfortablysit in the banquet room.“Similarly, we also cater to businessmeetings, seminars and other eventswithin the function rooms and asthese are small to medium sizedgatherings, we can provide morepersonalised services. Audio andvisual equipment as well as setupstyle of function rooms can all bearranged to suit the requirementsof our clients; all you have to do isgive us enough time to make thearrangements,” Jasmin explained.Innovative and forward looking, thehotel regularly makes adjustmentsand updates its staff on current marketexpectations while marketing itsservices and rooms through its internetwebsite too. Within the hotel’s premises,wireless broadband is complimentaryto all guests and patrons.“As we are relatively new, our facilitiesand furnishings are current and meetmarket expectations. Many guestshave commented on our cleanlinessand upkeep apart from our genuinedesire to serve them better whichhave resulted in repeat visits andstay,” the Marketing Directorrevealed. “From our front line crew tothe security officers, everyone here areour greatest assets as we all strive tomake Dormani a place to call ‘home’for all our guests. We definitely want toproof that our tagline ‘The hospitalityof tomorrow’ is not just for show buta sincere and dedicated effort from usto our guests whenever they are here,”she assured.KuchingProvides personalised services withdedication and friendlinessLot 68, Jalan Datuk Ajibah Abol, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak, East Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 241111 Resv: (6) 082 242222 Fax: (6) 082 243333Email: general@dormanihotel.com Website: www.dormanihotel.comJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 33

WEJALANIHA TMJIVDewanMasyarakatJUBILEERECREATIONGROUNDMBKSSwimming PoolR I VE RWet Market &Hawker CentreE RSEJALAN DATUK ABANG ABDUL RAHIMJALANPENDINGJ A L A N F O O C H O WJALAN PETANAKC H E N G H OJ A L A N A N GJALAN PADUNGANJ A L A N D A T UI LK WNT AL IMAJ A L A N L U M B A K U D AJALAN SEKAMAJALAN CH AWANS A R A W A KJALANABELLJALANPADUNGANJALAN CENTRAL TIMURJALAN ELLISJALAN MENDURAHMANABDULWismaTing Pek KingTop SpotFood CourtCATStatueCATStatueChung HuaNo. 3 SchoolHockey StadiumP A D U N G A NJ A L A NCHEOKJALAN SONG THIANTelangUsan HotelHBAN HOCKJALANJALAN DESHONJALAN TAN SRI ONG KEE HUIJALAN SIMPANGTIGA(JALAN CENTRAL BARAT)F R O N THKhatuistiwaRiverbank SuiteGrand Magherita HotelHRiversideMajesticKuchingHCATStatueSarawakPlazaCentrepointShopping CentreTun JugahGreat Wall CrosswayCozziThiam MingHPullmanHotel &ResortsHHHSri ShanBatavia CafeMalaysiaAirlinesSamersetGateway360XpressHHHHindu TempleHHotel GrandContinentalSecret RecipeChoon HuiCafeHKua NingTempleSarakraf PavilionTerminal OneLaungeSaramo HostelCarus Woodat&a HomeIdeas Sdn. Bhd.HLimetreeHotelPoliceStationBedsFireStationMian AnnZestPamelaFrydaysChickenAtokKopitiam AbSolutelySayangKuching South CityCouncil (MBKS)PoliceStationGoodrichHMap360 HotelHHock LeeCentreHCrownSquareKuching AreaDABC1234SETUNHotel / MotelAstanaSarawak TransportCo. StationKuching MatangTransportChin Lian LongPetra Jaya TransportTaxi StationBank / Money ChangerShopping ComplexRENew State LegislativeAssembly (DUN)R I VLEGENDSSKA R34 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010Fort MargheritaSquare TowerAJALAN GAMBIERIndia MosqueAINDIA STREETPEDESTRIAN MALLPoliceTourist BoothOpen AirMarketK UC H I N GRW A TJALAN MAIN BAZAARSarawakTourismComplexShop House / OfficeLittle LebanonElectraHouseMARKETFood Outlet / Restaurant/ Entertainment OutletSarawak Tourism BoardVisitors’ InformationCentreSarawak TourismFederationTourism Malaysia OfficeSarawak Craft CouncilSouvenirs ShopsSiang TiTempleJALAN KHOO H UN YEANGLE B U HCARPENTER STREETChinese MuseumMr.DsAJIB AH ABOLBerambihLodgeDATUKJALAN2020JALAN W AWASANCHINA STREET ULU CHINA STREETDivisional MosquePoliceStationGeneral PostOfficeResiden OfficeYayasan SarawakJA L A NL EBUH TEMPLELEBUH WAYANGJALAN MOSQUEHong San SiTempleHHAJI OPENGPADANGMERDEKASikh TempleHHDormani HotelTua PekKong TempleMedanPelitaPoliklinikBARRACKH HJALAN McDOUGALLTAHAHHMerdeka PalaceHotel & SuitesA NTUN ABANGDewan Tun AbdulRazak MuzeumA LHSarawak MuseumState & DBKULibraryIslamic MuseumJALAN HAJIHRed CrescentBuildingRAquariumORJALANJ A L A N R A M L E EChung HuaSchoolJ A L A NHopohShoppingCentreTourism Malaysia-Sarawak082-246575 / 246775Infoline 1300-88-5050Sarawak Tourism Board082-423600MAS Office082-244144 / 246622Air Asia082-283222KCH International Airport082-454255 / 454242Immigration Department082-245661 / 230280Custom082-33313324-hour Public Service Line082-555999RadioTelevisionMalaysiaJALAN KULASHeroesMonumentIslamicGardenBankNegaraSyariahCourtWisma SatokLodge 121JALAN SATOKJALAN SATOKRESERVOIRPARKJA L A NTelekomMalaysiaBuhari CafeSUNDAYMARKETHPasar TamuTABUANJALANTAMAN BUDAYAJALAN RUBBERParkLaneLodgeSt. Joseph ChurchJALAN PARKAmphitheatreJALAN NANASSarawak ClubJALAN BADRUDDINJALAN BUDAYAJALAN GREENJALAN BAMPFYLDEC ROOKSHANKTUN ABANG HAJI OPENGPolice ContingentHQHSRB ChungHua No. 4Tunku PutraInternationalSchoolPlanetariumLand & SurveyDivisional Office IntanOTHER ENQUIRIES (KUCHING)Taxi Service082-480000 / 341818Police Station082-245522 / 999 / 241222Traffic Police082-241133JPJ082-258811 / 628700DBKU082-446688MBKS082-238080 / 242311Telekom082-429191 / 255994Post Office082-244141 / 339937Civic CentreJALAN PALMJALANJALANMethodist ChurchJALAN PISANGNormah Medical Centre082-440055General Hospital082-230689 / 257855Padawan Council082-615566SESCO082-333111Kuching Water Board082-240371BOMBA (Fire Brigade)082-241033 / 994 /417712Rescue 991082-256685JKR082-203100HGreen RoadSecondarySchoolGeneral HospitalBaptist Church

J A L A N C A U S E WAYB R O O K E D R I V EMIRI GOLF CLUBJALAN PENINSULAM I R I R I V E RHHMiri Marriott Resort & SpaJ A L A N K U B UTo AirportPCenter PointCommercialJALAN BENDAHARAJ A L A NJ A L A N O L E A N D E RP A D A N GJ A L A N C I N AJALAN PADANGJALAN JALAN KINGSWAYTamuMuhibbahTua Pek Kong TempleTamuKhasMiriParkJALAN MIRI BINTULUHawkerStallsMELAYUFish MarketH Wisma Pelita1TunkuBus StationTaxi StationMiri MunicipalCouncil FieldMARINA PARKH2J A L A NMiri CentralMerketResident& DistrictOfficeJALAN ANGSANAB E N D A H AMiri CityCouncilPersiaran KaborJALAN BROOKEPoliceStationMulti-StoreyCar ParkSRBChung HuaSRB St. JosephMulti-StoreyCar ParkSin LiangSupermarketJ A L A N C H I N A T ZE C H I NPersiaran KaborJALAN MIRI PUJUTJALAN KWANGTUNGHJALAN KENARIMiriWaterfrontMiri WaterfrontCommercial CentreSoon HupShoping ComplexHMega HotelMalaysiaAirlinesH H HHHHJ A L A N H O K K I E NFireStationMiri CityMedical CentreHHJALAN MERBAUHJ A L A N H A J I L A M P A MHHSRK NorthHMiri HeritageCentreHJALAN RICE MILLPJALAN NORTH YU SENGJALAN MERBAUPolyclinicFamilyPlanningHJ A L A N PA R RYImperial MallJ A LA NHJ A L A N P O S TFlower GardenJ ALAN SYLVIAT E OC HE WHTelekomFruitMarketBintang Mega MallMiri High CourtMiri Post OfficeJ A L A NSRK Syed OthmanJALAN MERDUSIMJALAN BINTANG JAYAJALAN PERMAISURIJALAN MERPATIAT-Taqwa MosqueFederal ComplexImmigrationDepartmentDewan Suarah MiriS ONGC H A YCustomsBintang JayaCommercial CentreIslamic GardenPPublicMiri City Fan SwimmingPoolChinese GardenPJ A L A N B I N T A N GPustaka MiriJAL A NSRK BintangPoliceHeadquaterPK I P A SJALAN MIRI PUJUTMiniIndoorStadiumHMiri AreaTo Pujut LutongHotel / MotelBus StationTaxi StationBank / Money ChangerVisitors InformationCentreNational Park &Wildlife OfficeLEGENDSShopping ComplexChurchTempleMosquePetrol StatiVisitors’ Information Centre, Miri085-434180Visitors’ Information Counter,Miri Airport085-615181Airport Office, Miri085-614144Flight Information085-615433Air Asia085-438022 / 429677Hornbill Skyways085-611066To Grand Old LadyOTHER ENQUIRIES (MIRI)Immigration Department085-442112Custom & Excise Department085-433611 / 433351Police Headquarters085-432533 / 433730Miri Police Central Station085-433222 / 433677Miri Post Office085-433423Telekom085-424977Taxi Station085-432277National Park & WildlifeOffice085-436637Visa & Entry Permit Section085-442104Ambulance085-420033Fire & Rescue994Miri General Hospital085-420033Polyclinic085-412322J A L A N T U N A B A N G H J O P E N GFederalGovernment ComplexJALAN AWANG RAMLI AMITJ ALAN KAMPUNG DATULau King HoweMemorial MuseumSibu AreaStateGovernmentLand & SurveyCourtHouseJ A L A N B U J A N G S U N T O N GMuslimCemetryMethodistSecondary SchoolJ A L A N T U A N K U O S M A NJALAN KAMPUNG NYABORSibu Town SquareJALAN PULAURejang Port AuthorityHHRH HotelSee HuaDaily NewsWismaSanyanHJALAN SANYANPSibuPublicLibraryJALAN KERANJIJALAN WHARFMistHJALAN RAMINJALAN MORSHIDI SIDEKChung HuaPrimary SchoolMethodistPrimary SchoolMethodistChurchHHJ ALAN BANKJALAN TEMPLEChineseOpera StageSibu Post OfficeJ A L A N W O N G1ChinesePagodaHJALAN LAMAN A IS I O N GJ A L A N H U A K I E WJALAN CROSSPoliceStationSMCMultiStoreyCar ParkOld SMCBuildingJALAN CENTRALSpeed BoatWharfCentre Point InnNight BazaarJALAN LAI CHEEJ A L A N E M P L A NJALAN CHANNELHJALAN BENGKELJ A L A N M U I H O N GSibu CentralMarketJALAN KHOO PENG LOONGto Daro, Paradom,Igan, DalatHPremierHotelJ A L A N T I O N G H U AJALAN FOOCHOWRejang RiverHHTanahmasHotelHJ ALAN HARDIN WALKHHRimbunganHijauNew River ExpressTerminalJALAN HOE PINGJALAN PEDADASibuGatewayL ORONG MISSIONJ A L A N T A N S R IJALAN TONG SANGJ ALAN MAJUJ ALAN BUKIT ASSEKRejang Esplanade &Hii Association PlaygroundCatholic ChurchSt. RitaLORONG LANANGHRajang MedicalCentreCatholicHigh SchoolLORONG LANANG 2LORONG LANANG 1HJALAN CHENGALHHotel / MotelBus StationTaxi StationBank / Money ChangerVisitors’ InformationCentreShopping ComplexLEGENDSChurchTempleMosquePetrol StatiVisitors’ Information Centre, Sibu084-340980MAS Office, Sibu084-326166 / 321055Airport Office, Sibu084-307799 / 307899Air Asia084-307808Divisional Hotel Association084-323222Immigration Department084-336991Custom & Excise Department084-333422OTHER ENQUIRIES (SIBU)District Office084-330224Police Department084-322222Hospital084-343333Marine Department084-332757Sibu Post Office084-332312Taxi Station084-320773Sarawak River Board084-341936Resident Office084-321963Sibu Municipal Council (SMC)084-333411Sibu Rural District Council(SRDC)084-336077Fire & Rescue084-330343 / 994Forestry Department084-334577Welfare Department084-329434Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 35

The center point withnewly refurbishedrooms in bustling SibuLocated in a suburban setting of KinabaluCity, this 4-star hotel offers majestic viewof Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountainin South East Asia, the South China Sea,the islands, and the bustling city.Beverly Hotel Kota Kinabalu features 200spacious rooms, including 8 suites withcontemporary furnishings and modernfacilities in each room to make your stayboth memorable and comfortable.Located right in the heart of the bustling town,Tanahmas Hotel is about as close to thecenter as you can get here. Everything, fromshopping to entertainment, business to pleasure,is just around the corner or mere walkingdistances away. Convenience is staying in thisstrategically sited hotel!Adorned with awards for its facilities andservices, Tanahmas Hotel is the choice forcorporate and family visits with 120 newlyrefurbished deluxe rooms to choose fromand ample facilities, amenities to satisfy everyneeds! Check out the hotel at its website(www.tanahmas.com.my) or call for reservations.It also offers a full range of facilities whichinclude conference rooms and outsidecatering services to fitness centre andmany other amenities specially tailored tomeet the demands of its valued guests.Free wifi is available throughout the hotel.The Café Oriental, a restaurant withAl Fresco dining provides sumptuous arrayof delicious local fare as well as a varietyof appetising international cuisine. Nightlylive entertainment is available at TapaiLounge except on Mondays.Log on to www.vhhotels.comtoday for special internet rates!Further information contact:Lorong Kemajuan, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.Tel: 6 088 258 998 Fax: 6 088 258778Email: reservation.bhkk@vhmis.comsales.bhkk@vhmis.comwww.vhhotels.comLot 277, Block 5, Jalan Kampung Nyabor, P.O. Box 240 96007 Sibu,Sarawak, Malaysia. Fax: 6 084 333288 Tel: 6 084 333188Email: tanahmas@streamyx.com Website: www.tanahmas.com.my

HotelYour new address in BorneoWhether visiting Kuching for businessor pleasure - ‘Check-in, Chill-out’ inthe newest international hotel, PullmanKuching. Fabrice Mini, General Managerof Pullman Kuching welcomes localresidents and visitors to the 389spacious guest rooms equipped withlatest technological in-room connectivitydevices, Pullman Bed, LCD Televisionswith a large selection of internationalchannels, high speed Internet access, inroom safety box and Pullman in roomfitness workout equipment.The hotel boasts a total of 3,660sqmof meetings and event space with9 comprehensive banquet andconferencing venues. The stateof-the-artballroom is the largesthotel banquet space in the city,accommodating up to 1,500 peoplefor a sit-down banquet.Pullman Kuching is set to be popularwith extensive food and beverageoptions, with five food and beverageoutlets. Puzzle, the hotel’s all-daydining restaurant offers a relaxingal fresco dining experience as well asprivate dining rooms. Internationaldishes with a focus on regional cuisineare available all day and into the nightfrom interactive cooking stationsor a la carte. Nu Er Hong the hotel’sChinese Restaurant is a contemporaryenvironment with an open conceptkitchen filling the restaurant withatmosphere and energy. Nu Er Hongalso offers private dining options.Déjà Vu, the hotel’s relaxing andcosy lounge at the lobby, offershouse pouring and wide selection ofcocktails and is the perfect locationfor casual business discussions orrelaxing with acquaintances. Liquidis the hotel’s superlative poolsidevenue with DJ’s each weekendevening and serving wide selectionof cocktails, fresh juices, healthysnacks and many more in a modernurbane lounge style or poolsidedaily. Café Ch@t is designed to keepguests connected while serving uphome made pastries and cakes, icecream and deserts.A PERFECT BALANCE BETWEENSERENITY AND CONVIVIALITYGuests can maintain regular workoutroutines at the hotel’s contemporaryfitness centre, with knowledgeablesupport staff, modern equipment andlatest body exercise programs. It’s alsothe place to relax their mind, bodyand spirit in the large spa facility with7 treatment rooms and an outdoorswimming pool with sundeck.Be one of the first guests to experience the stay at Pullman Kuching withan exceptional soft opening rate of RM188++ for Superior Room andRM228++ for Deluxe Room and available till until January 31, 2010.Nestled in the city’s golden triangleand atop the hill of Jalan Mathies,Pullman Kuching is just a mere20 minutes’ drive from KuchingInternational Airport and adjacentto Hills Shopping Mall, a two-storeycity lifestyle shopping centre. Guestscan easily venture on foot to discoverthe city’s diverse selection of shops,restaurants, temples and bazaars.For reservations and enquiries, please call +60 82-222 888 or email to H6332@accor.com or visit the hotel’s website atwww.pullmankuching.com or www.accorhotels.com.Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 37

HotelRates fromRM135++*5 Star rooms at affordable price* terms & conditions apply.Hock Lee Centre, Hotel Tower, Jalan Datuk Abang Abdul Rahim, 93450 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 484888 Fax: (6) 082 484999 Email: reservation@360kuching.com Website: www.360kuching.com38 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

Rates from RM 49.99 nett *HotelLuxury for Less…Wisma Phoenix, Jalan Song Thian Cheok, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 236060 Fax: (6) 082 237070Email: reservation@360xpress.com.my Website: www.360xpress.com.myLatest budget boutique hotel in Kuching CityFacilities and Amenities:- Ensuite bathrooms- 24 hours reception- Complimentary use of airconditioning units- Complimentary use of hair dryer- Complimentary use of towels- Complimentary toiletries (soapand shampoo)- Complimentary use of minibarfridge- Complimentary use of wiredinternet access in every room- Complimentary use of wifi inhotel lobbyMASSecret Recipe- Complimentary use of washingmachines and dryers in laundryroom- 32”LCD TV with more than 16local, cable and satellites channels- Security room safe- Bottled drinking water- Luxury shower- 5 star beds and satin cotton sheets- Tea & coffee making facilities- Airport transfer (minimum charge)- RFID Security Door LocksTuneHotel* terms & conditions apply.Be among the first to experience the clean,warm and comfortable rooms of this brandnew hotel in the heart of Kuching City and becaptivated by its charm. Comprising 98 roomsin the Wisma Phoenix building, 360 XpressCitycenter promises guests a top-notch staywith its range of facilities at budget prices.Every room has direct internet access, showerfacilities, air conditioning, channel TV services,tea/coffee making facilities and more; all thesecome complimentary when you check in. Inaddition, the hotel uses only high qualitylinens with anti dust 5 star quality beds andguests can also make complimentary use ofthe washing machines and dryers in the laundryroom. Great care and much thinking hasbeen incorporated into the concepts for thisboutique hotel to ensure guests will enjoytheir stay and make return trips often!For those new to Kuching City, Wisma Phoenixis adjacent to the Central Business Districtand in close proximity to places of interest andrecreation; in fact, all are within minutes walkaway while restaurants, food, boutiques andentertainment outlets are also all convenientlynearby.Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 39

HotelThe most convenient place for business, pleasure and relaxationBintulu is the centre of Sarawak’semerging corridor of developmentalong its seacoast, making it abusiness venue for new industriesand enterprises. When comingto Bintulu, the best place to make your hotelreservation is The Regency Plaza Hotel, locatedright in the heart of the bustling town. Strategic forbusiness purposes and convenient for shoppingand pleasure activities, this is the ideal venue fortravellers and family alike to bed for the night.Choose from a range of superior to deluxefrom the 161 rooms available here and chancesare you will enjoy the relaxing atmosphere ofthe hotel and its charming staff. Each room isbeautifully decorated with just the right ambiencefor a relaxing stay and amenities here will ensurethat your needs are fulfilled. These include TV,PLAZA HOTEL • BINTULUSARAWAK • MALAYSIAIDD phone, tea/coffee making facilities, 24-hourroom services while business clients can makeuse of the business centre inside the hotel forcontacts with offices around the world. Furthermore,the ample conference, seminar rooms can caterfor different business requirements and purposes;all you need to do is to tell them your needs andthe rest will be taken care.When it comes to having meals with clients,friends or family gathering, the coffee house isexcellent as there are regular promotions andnew dishes with local and international flavoursto suit every taste. In fact, they pride themselveson preparing new exciting dishes with locallysourced materials and also imported ones, allto create that lasting impression on their clientswhich is made up of locals and foreigners.Due to the location of The Regency Plaza Hotelthere is hardly any need to hop in taxis to get towhere you want to go; shopping, banking andentertainment facilities are all within walkingdistance from the hotel. When the day is done,take time out for a dip in the pool at the top ofthe hotel and take in the view from there whilerelaxing with your favourite drink and watchingthe sunset for the day.www.theregency.com.my116, Taman Sri Dagang, Jalan Abang Galau, 97000 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 086 335111 Fax: (6) 086 332742 Email: rihbtu@yahoo.com40 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

HotelRAJAH COURT HOTELKUCHING • SARAWAK • MALAYSIACaring for your needs, with style!Ask any one who has stayed at Regency Rajah CourtHotel Kuching and you’ll likely hear praises about itshospitality and choices of accommodation to suit differentbudgets. From single room for short business trips tolarge apartments for corporate meetings or exclusiveprivate family stay in penthouses, the clean and pleasantlyfurnished rooms come with range of bed sizes andamenities you expect in four star hotels. Mindful too thatthe hotel’s location is ideally between the city and airportwhich means no heavy traffic congestions and noises butquiet surroundings for enjoyable stay.For meals and daily necessities, the hotel’s food outletcan cater to your needs while within walking distancesare different dining and shopping conveniences, includingbanking and entertainment centres. Regency Rajah CourtHotel is also near to major industrial centres in Kuching cityand is the preferred choice for many corporate executivesdue to this close proximity factor. Furthermore, car rideto the central business district is a mere fifteen minutesfrom here and main government offices in northern partof the city are less than thirty minutes away.It is not surprising that Regency Rajah Court Hotel pridesitself on repeat guests; most come back here wheneverKuching is on their scheduled list. Every guest is treatedwith a smile and requests are conscientiously followedthrough with care that endears guests to the hotel. As forother facilities like conferencing and banquet dinners, thehotel can arrange for small meetings of four to events for300 people at any one time, all carefully carried out withpride and convenience to the events’ host and organisers.Similarly, family outings here are well remembered fortheir fun and splashing time by the pool as well as gardenparty and pool side barbeques!Check out Regency Rajah Court Hotel at their websiteand discover a whole new way of spending quality timewhile staying in one of Kuching’s best hotels without theusual city noise and bustle. You could be one of thoserepeat guests after the first stay here as the services andconveniences of the hotel easily wins over discerningcustomers. Call them for your next trip to cat city Kuching; itcould change the way you look at hotel stay in future!www.theregency.com.myFor enquiries and reservations, contact us at The Regency Rajah Court Hotel • Lot 6115, Section 64, Jalan Tun Razak, 93450 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 484799, 484791 Fax: (6) 082 482750 Email: rihkch@yahoo.comJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 41

HotelSabah’s Premier Boutique HotelThe Jesselton is recognised as the premier boutique hotelin Kota Kinabalu with a rich history and contemporarysetting, right in the heart of the bustling city. Its classicalcolonial façade is distinctive in this modern city and insidethe exquisite finishing immediately attracts and endearguests to the setting.People are the biggest asset of the Jesselton; its friendlyand caring staff make everyone feel at home whenever theyare here for a stay or for a meal at the fine Italian restaurant.With 32 well appointed rooms, guests are assured ofsuperior personalised services during their stay resulting ingracious and unforgettable experience. In house amenitiesare also top of the range where every room enjoys satelliteTV channels and IDD phone/Internet services, marbleflooredbathrooms, complimentary bathrobes, mini bar,room services and much more, all for the guests to feel athome and to have a relaxing and enjoyable stay.Treat guests or business partners to the Bella Italia RistoranteCafé in the hotel for a truly memorable experience andcouples will surely be swayed by the romantic atmosphere ofthe venue and its fine cuisine featuring diverse specialtiesfrom local delights to foreign inspired ones.For a more formal setting, the Jesselton’s Turnbull Room,aptly named after the last Governor of British North Borneo,is the perfect setting for board meetings, businessdiscussions or even themed dinners and cocktail partiesfor special groups. As always, the cosy and exquisitesurroundings with manageable numbers make events atJesselton a runaway success.Guests of Jesselton too will be thrilled to know that theycan even get to ride in a vintage and authentic Londoncab which belongs to the hotel and enjoy the twentyminute ride to the airport. Alternatively, they can alsochoose the limousine for that ride in style to the KotaKinabalu International Airport. In this Land Below theWind state, the Jesselton is the hotel to stay wheneverSabah is on your itinerary as it is your assurance of a trulymemorable experience!69, Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Tel: 6 088 223333 Fax: 6 088 240401Email: jesshtl@po.jaring.my Website: www.jesseltonhotel.com42 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

The “In” place for pleasure and adventureSet in the midst of a lush tropical rainforest, Borneo Tropical Rainforest Resort is the placefor pleasure and adventure; the “In” venue for everyone.“Interesting” – Place for relaxation, simple pleasures and whole lot of Nature!“Inviting” – Always something new to learn and explore, always welcoming“Invigorating” – Refresh yourself and family by living next to Nature.“Incredible” – Facilities for family stay and corporate team buildingexercises that match expectations and more!It’s ‘inexcusable’ not to make your next outdoor adventure to BorneoTropical Rainforest Resort for both pleasure and bonding with naturethat’s so close and personal!For January 2010 Only ... Rooms from RM130.00++ inclusive of breakfast for 2 persons(usual price RM180.00++). Huge discounts on day trip tickets. Please enquire.KM36 Miri-Bintulu Road, Lot 15, Block 2, Sibuti Land District, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 085 407198, 019 8852193 Fax: (6) 019 8340113 Email: info@borneorainforestresort.comMiri Office: Lot 101, Airport Road, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 085 613888 Fax: (6) 085 613808Enjoy UnlimitedBroadbandat home with yourFREE WiFi Modem!2009 Broadband Service Provider of the Year2009 Data Communications Provider of the Year2009 Managed Service Provider of the YearFrost & Sullivan Malaysia Telecoms AwardsCall 100 | Click www.i-italk.com.my | Visit TMpointSame combo. Same price.More value.MORE BROADBAND!Month (Kuching) Temperature RainfallJanuary 2010 18.9˚C - 34.6˚C much rainFebruary 2010 18.9˚C - 34.7˚C much rainMarch 2010 20.1˚C - 35.2˚C much rainWeather Forecast (January - March 2010) For Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu & MiriMonth (Sibu) Temperature RainfallJanuary 2010 16.5˚C - 35.2˚C much rainFebruary 2010 17.9˚C - 35.4˚C much rainMarch 2010 18.5˚C - 35.7˚C moderateMonth (Bintulu) Temperature RainfallJanuary 2010 19.2˚C - 33.5˚C much rainFebruary 2010 19.9˚C - 33.5˚C much rainMarch 2010 20.3˚C - 34.3˚C much rainWeather forecast provided by courtesy of Meteorological Services Department of Malaysia.Month (Miri) Temperature RainfallJanuary 2010 17.8˚C - 33.3˚C much rainFebruary 2010 19.5˚C - 33.9˚C moderateMarch 2010 19.6˚C - 35.4˚C moderateJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 43

FoodChinese New Year & Valentine’s DayDouble CelebrationSaturday, 13 th February 2010Eve of Chinese New YearAurora Court All Day Dining RestaurantFamily Reunion Feast6.30pm to 10.00pmA sumptuous Chinese buffet dinner specially preparedby Chef Nam Jan & his Team for this auspicious occasion.Dinner is inclusive of Yee Sang for toasting and free flowof soft drinks and Chinese tea.RM78++ (adult) RM38++ (child aged 5 to 12)Victoria Arms Pub“Enter the Tiger” Countdown PartyCover Charge @ RM25 (Entrance + 1st Drink)Tiger Specials all night longDraught @ RM55++per jugA bucket of 5 Bottles @ RM78++In associationwithRoom Promotion:GONG XI FA CAI ROOM PACKAGE3 Days 2 Nights Stay from RM220++ per room onwardsValid from 8 th February to 28 th February 2010VALENTINE’S DAY ROOM PACKAGEFrom RM288++ onwardsInclusive of one night room accommodation, dinner for 2persons on the 14 th February 2010 and buffet breakfastfor 2 persons on the 15 th February 2010 at Aurora CourtAll Day Dining Restaurant.*Applicable for check-in on the 14 th February 2010 only.Sunday, 14 th February 2010Chinese New Year & Valentine’s DayAurora Court All Day Dining Restaurant“Double Happiness” Buffet Dinner6.30pm to 10.00pmA perfect combination of Chinese and Westernfavourites to celebrate this unique double celebration.RM88++ (adult) RM38++ (child aged 5 to 12)Ristorante BeccariValentine’s Candlelight Dinner7.00pm onwardsFeaturing our Chef de Cuisine’s deluxe 6-courseItalian set dinner with entertainment providedby our Resident Pianist.RM118++ per personVictoria Arms PubValentine’s Dinner & Dance7.00pm onwardsIndulge in a romantic 4-course western set dinnerwith your loved one and then party on through thenight with our Resident Band, H20 and DJ Chris.RM88++ per personSunday, 28 th February 2010Aurora Court All Day Dining Restaurant“Chap Goh Mei” Buffet Dinner6.30pm to 10.00pmSavour our tantalizing Chinese Buffet spreadprepared by Chef Nam Jan & his Team to roundoff the Chinese Lunar Year celebrations in style.RM55++ (adult) RM29++ (child aged 5 to 12)44 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010For Bookings and Enquiries, please contact Merdeka Palace Hotel & SuitesJalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. P.O. Box A298, 93804 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Telephone: (6) 082 258000 Aurora Court ext. 8061 • Ristorante Beccari ext. 8080 • Victoria Arms ext. 8070Facsimile: (6) 082 425400 Email: info@merdekapalace.comwww.merdekapalace.com

foodBreakfast or Lunch in class!Kuching City’s latest Coffee Bar & Bistro is a unique outlet– not only is it located inside a campus but the peoplemanning the counters are all students! UCSI Coffee Bar& Bistro, located at Jalan Tun Jugah, opens its doors thismonth with a seating capacity of 40 and serving hotelstandard dishes. So, expect your orders to come wellgarnished in fancy style as in any reputable hotel deliveredby an impeccably dressed waiter or waitress.Food choices will include the full range of sandwichesand burgers, western style dishes as well as oriental andlocal delicacies. Similarly the beverages too will be of thestandard you expect to find in hotels around town butwithout the premium prices as the ambience and settingis certainly more sparse in comparison to those high endUCSI Coffee Bar &Bistro provides practicaltraining to studentsoutlets. Also, expect most of the clientele here to be young,IT savvy and a tinge of urgency in their eating habits.All those working behind the counters are hospitality andtourism diploma, degree programme students who areexperiencing first hand the demands of their chosenprofessions. As part of their industrial training, thework will give them the edge in experience and also earnsomething for their pocket money while understanding theindustry’s expectations. In between running errands andworking towards their graduation their supervisors will bekeeping an eye on their performances and giving pointers tomake them true professionals in the field one day.UCSI’s latest venture in the setting up of the bistro isjust another step towards providing quality and practicaleducation to its students. The on-the-job training for itsstudents will certainly give them the edge when venturinginto the real world as they can easily adapt to newenvironment with some practical experience as well.Students and parents can rest assured when enrolling atUCSI that the educational standard is high and graduatesare trained in their respective professions to enable themto fit into every working environment.For further information contactLot 2498 Block 16, KCLD, Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350 Kuching , Sarawak, MalaysiaTel: (6) 082 455255 Fax: (6) 082 455015Website: www.ucsi.edu.my(Opening hours: Monday to Friday 8am - 3pm)Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 45

FoodHainanesechicken rice atIf Hainanese chicken rice is whatyou’re after and a classic contemporarysetting is what you want, then lookno further than Little Hainan @ JalanTun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce. Little Hainansits strategically amidst a concentrationof housing estates, office blocks,colleges and tuition centres. With anexterior of deep red and dark grey,and a big signboard, the restaurantisn’t a hard one to spot.Little Hainan’s business partner LyndaPhua explains that the modern concepteatery, which opened its door inOctober this year, is a family businessand that this particular restaurant is athird generation outlet. The restaurantwas named so simply due to thefact that a Hainanese family ownsand runs it. As for the word “Little”,Lynda explains that it was inspiredby the popular Singaporean tv series“Little Nyonya”.Enticing though the restaurant’sconcept is, the stars of the show arereally its wide range of dishes, whoserecipes are closely guarded. “Mymother is the main chef here and therecipes are handed down from mygrandparents,” says Lynda.A must-try at Little Hainan is ofcourse its Hainanese Chicken Rice,a mouth-watering dish of succulentsteamed chicken meat served withball-shape fragrant rice, pickles, chillidipping and a bowl of soup.The BBQ Pork Rice is perfect for thosewho prefer pork to chicken. Slicesof juicy barbecued pork are servedtogether with ball-shape rice andcondiments. Can’t decide betweenBBQ Pork Rice and Hainanese ChickenRice? The BBQ Pork & Chicken Riceoffers the best of both worlds at justabout the same price.A favourite among the customers isthe Mixed Rice, which features threekinds of succulent meat includingBBQ Pork, sweet and savoury ‘Lou’Pork as well as Steamed Chicken.The Curry Rice also features mixedmeats. The spicy curry gravy gives thedish a moderate amount of heat, andgoes well with the meats and savouryrice. A must-try if you’re into spicy stuff.Meanwhile, a sweet and aromatic soysauce counter-balances the fattinessof the pork belly slices in the ‘Lou’Pork Rice, without overwhelmingthe meat’s natural flavour. The ‘Lou’pork also comes served with fragrantball-shape rice. ‘Lou’ eggs are soldseparately and go perfectly with the‘Lou’ Pork Rice, or you can just havethe eggs on their own.Besides the rice dishes, Little Hainanis also popular for its Laksa and KoloMee, especially in the morning. Otherthings to look out for are MushroomChicken Pao, Little Char Siew Pao,Kuih-Muih and a variety of toasts,among other things.Little Hainan opens daily exceptMonday, with breakfast served from8.30am to 11am and Chicken Riceavailable from 11am to 2pm and5.30pm to 8.30pm. Lynda says thatthe restaurant, which sits over 60people at a time, sees its most numberof customers during lunchtime.Little Hainan • Ground Floor, SL 6, Lot 3023, Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce, 93150 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 239899 Email: little.hainan@gmail.com ( Open daily except Monday )46 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

Tantalising kopitiam fareFeed your hunger for tantalising localcoffee shop fare at Atok Kopitiam.Owned and managed by brothersKhairel Anwar and Khairul Azizi, thecoffee shop occupies the groundfloor of the DUBS Commercial OfficeCentre, directly behind HSBC building.Atok Kopitiam serves some of thebest local favourites, which is why it’sno surprise that this humble coffeeshop became an instant hit amonglocal foodies after opening not morethan three months now.The menu is extensive, with dishesthat tantalise the taste buds. TheMi Jawa, Khairel says, is one of thecoffee shop’s most popular items.The dish consists of yellow noodles,bean sprouts, beef and egg in a spicycoconut gravy. Try Atok Kopitiam’smouth-watering Nasi Ayam Percik,which comes with a whole chickenleg topped with home-made ‘AyamPercik’ gravy made with coconut milkand various spices. The dish comesserved with steamed rice and sambal.The spicy Mi Kari (Curry Noodles) hasa lingering after-taste and is perfectfor cold days. A fiery and slightlysweet curry gravy is poured generouslyover springy yellow noodles. Chickenand potatoes complete the dish.If you don’t want noodles with yourcurry, you can order Roti & Kari Ayaminstead. The dish is basically chickencurry with white bread on the side.Khairel recommends the Mi Bakso.You’ll get to choose from Kway Teow,48 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010yellow noodles or bihun (rice vermicelli)for this dish. A slightly spicy soup madewith aromatic spices is poured onto thenoodles and bean sprouts are addedfor that extra crunch. According toKhairel, the special thing about theMi Bakso is the fact that it comes servedwith home-made beef meatballs.Different from the ones you buyin the supermarket, Atok Kopitiam’smeatballs have strong hints of pepperand more intense beef flavours. Theyalso have different textures than theones you can easily get in supermarkets.“Everything in our coffee shop is homemade.For instance our meatballs aremade with fresh beef that we minceourselves by hand. You can taste thedifference between our meatballs andthe ones available in supermarkets,”explains Khairel.If you want something simple, ordera bowl of Kolo Mee. This Sarawakianspecialty dish consists of noodlesflavoured with soy sauce and toppedwith fresh seafood as well as meat.Another one of Atok Kopitiam’smust-try items is its Nasi Lemak. Thesambal for this dish has a perfectbalance of sweetness from the sugar,saltiness from the belacan (prawnpaste), heat from chillies and tanginessfrom tamarind juice.“We don’t make our sambal too hotbecause some people cannot toleratetoo much heat. Those who like itspicier can ask for our Ayam Penyetsambal to go with their nasi lemak,”said Khairel. “For the rice, we use thenormal fragrant rice. Coconut milk andpandan leaf are added to give the ricerichness and aroma,” he added.Atok Kopitiam’s Nasi Lemak comeswith a choice of Rendang Daging,Chicken Curry, Sambal Udang orFried Chicken. Crispy anchovies, friedpeanuts and half an egg accompanythe traditional Malay favourite.You cannot go to Atok Kopitiam andnot try its two specialties – Nasi AtokKopitiam and Mi Atok Kopitiam.Khairel explains that these two itemsare unique to the coffee shop andare not available elsewhere. “ForMi Atok Kopitiam, customers canchoose either yellow noodles, crispyfried kolo mee or kway teow,”he said.The sauce that goes onto thenoodles is made with peanuts andhas an earthy flavour to it. ‘Cili Padi’is used in this home-made sauceand the heat is balanced out with atouch of sweetness. It tastes a littlelike satay gravy but richer and notas smoky. The dish is garnished withbean sprouts, cucumber, prawns,chicken and calamari.The Nasi Atok Kopitiam offers a uniqueset of flavours. The rice is cooked withmince beef and flavoured with specialingredients that also give it a brownishcolour. The rice is served with a fierysambal and fried chicken, and garnishedwith half a salted egg, pickled vegetablesand keropok.Atok Kopitiam is not only patronisedfor its mouth-watering noodles andrice dishes. There are also other lighteralternatives, which are perfect forbreakfast or afternoon tea. Try somesausage rolls. Chicken sausages arewrapped up in white bread and coatedwith breadcrumbs before deep-friedtill crisp and golden. These deliciousmorsels are topped with a generousamount of chilli sauce and mayonnaise.Still too heavy for you? Then ask forsome Roti Bakar instead. The RotiBakar, or toast, can be enjoyed ontheir own or with a cup of hot coffeeor tea and half-boiled eggs.Atok Kopitiam’s menu offers so muchmore than those mentioned here. Head onover to Atok Kopitiam at L1-01 GroundFloor, DUBS Commercial Office, Jln Petanak,93400, Kuching. Tel: (6) 013 8416621(Open daily from 7am to 6pm)

food SabahAnytime you drop by Kota Kinabalu, Sabah with acraving for genuine Italian cuisines, Little Italy is theonly place to go. Their trademark is serving guests withpleasure and ensuring the meal is worth every cent soeveryone ends up with a full stomach and happy mood.Located on the ground floor of Capital Hotel, it is justopposite Wisma Merdeka Shopping Centre in what’spopularly known as Kota Kinabalu’s entertainment area.The guests are from all over the world and locals alsomake a bee- line here, as the family styled recipe is simplydelicious. Also, the sauces and pastas are made fresheveryday for that authentic and aromatic flavour, especiallywhen cooked inside the stone oven. With quality ingredientsas the basis for the great taste, it is no wonder Little Italywas awarded Sabah Tourism’s coveted prize in 2003.Many satisfied customers also commented on their fastand efficient services, which makes the restaurant a trulyfamily oriented place for everyone.The choices of dishes here are surprisingly large andeach a delightful experience. Start with the appetizers(antipasti), which comes in eight choices followed by theSpring pasta with another five choices to suit every taste.Their home made pastas has a roll call of fifteen differentstyles and for those with discerning taste, try the classicrecipes made with the freshest ingredients.Servingfamily styledItalianCuisineswith a smile!Naturally, pizzas are big favourites too. The pizzas arebaked in a stone oven to add a unique flavour. Regularcustomers often ask for the House Specialties of Crespelleal forno, Risotto ai frutti di mare, Zuppa di mare andmany more.Next is the list of main courses like Filetto ai funshi (NewZealand beef fillet served with fresh mushrooms sauce),Agnella alla cariglia (grilled lamb chops with choices ofvegetables) and Pollo alla cacciatora (chicken served withrice or pasta). No meal is complete without dessert andthe choices here include ice creams, Tiramisu, pepita andcakes of different flavours.At Little Italy, lunch or dinner is a treat for everyone andthe cosy atmosphere makes dining here a pleasure. Theproof is in their guests-list of satisfied customers from allover the world who have tasted the authentic home madedishes and given their thumbs up to Little Italy in KK.www.littleitaly-kk.comGround Floor, Hotel Capital, Jalan Haji Saman, 98813 Kota Kinabalu. • PO Box 146, 89407/Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.Tel/Fax: (6) 088 232231 Email: emiliano.kl@gmail.com (Open 10.30am – 11.00pm daily)Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 49

Penang Assam LaksaRojak PenangFoodRoti Bom AyamPenangRumah Hijau continues to entice foodlovers with its charming restaurantsetting and some of the best halalcuisines in Kuching. Well-known forits Ayam Penyet and Rojak Tambiamongst many other things, thisnifty little eatery, a bright green houselocated at 24A & 24B Rubber Road,93400 Kuching has been enjoying asteady stream of customers, especiallyduring breakfast and lunch. Thismonth, customers can expect morefrom Rumah Hijau, with brand newitems introduced in its menu.A star item in the menu is thePenang Assam Laksa. Rumah Hijau’sSalina Mohd Salleh said she decidedto add the Penang Assam Laksain the restaurant’s menu as it wasdifficult to find the dish anywhere inKuching. To make sure that it tastesas authentic as possible, Salina MohdSalleh flew to Kuala Lumpur andPenang to sample for herself theexotic dish.Rumah Hijau’s Penang Assam Laksaconsists of rice noodles, juliennecucumber, pineapple cubes, ‘bungakantan’, thinly sliced vegetables andhard boiled egg. The gravy is madewith fresh fish, ‘bunga kantan’,‘daun kesum’ and other ingredients.rumah hijauRUMAH HIJAU CAFE owned by Teras Resipi Sdn Bhd • 24A & 24B, Rubber Road, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.H/P: (6) 016 5891947 Fax: (6) 082 234560 Email: rumahhijaucafe@gmail.com Blog: www.rumahhijaucafe.blogspot.com (Opening from 8am to 5pm)50 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010favouritesatSpicy, tangy and slightly sweet, thePenang Assam Laksa is available forboth breakfast and lunch.Another Penang favourite is the RojakPenang. This rojak is different fromthose found here in that it consistsof fruits such as apples, guava andkedondong. The ‘pitis’ or rojak pasteis homemade and has a silky smoothconsistency. The amount of rojakpaste used is just enough to coatthe chunks of cut fruits and is notoverwhelming, so you can still tastethe natural flavours of the fruits asyou bite into them.Besides the Penang favourites, therestaurant also introduced two othernew items perfect for breakfast andafternoon tea - Roti Bom Ayam andRoti Bom Cheese. Roti Bom, which isa common offering at mamak stalls,may not be something new, but RumahHijau’s version of the deep-frieddelicacy is more unique in presentationand has a different, more refinedtaste. Take a bite into the frieddough and get ready to be pleasantlysurprised as an explosion of flavoursfill your mouth in an instant.Roti Bom Ayam is savoury with hintsof sweetness, and has tiny bits ofchicken meat for added chewy texture.A delicious curry sauce comes servedwith this tasty treat.The Roti Bom Cheese is crispy on theoutside, with a filling that is rich andsilky. There’s an intense sweetnessin the filling, which is balanced outwith the saltiness of the cheese. Thistreat goes perfectly with a cup of hottea or black coffee.Meanwhile, Salina Mohd Salleh saidthat Rumah Hijau’s Ice Lemon Tea is ahuge hit with the customers, mainlybecause it provides a cooling sensationespecially after meals consisting ofhot and spicy items.“So if you want Penang Assam Laksaand Rojak Penang, you know whereto find them now. But do makereservations beforehand because it’salways a full house here at RumahHijau,” said Salina Mohd SallehAyam Penyet

FoodIf good food and pleasant surroundings are conditions foryour patronage, then Favourite Café is the place to go asthis air-conditioned (or outdoor seating) venue offers veryaffordable varieties of dishes. The list goes from vegetablesto french fries, fish to light meals of noodles, laksa, porridge tofull dinner sets like claypot to fried rice complemented byinteresting assortment of drinks with colours and flavours.Favourite Café!Good food at affordable prices makesthis the choice of manyWhether it is hot spicy dishes like Tom Yam, Rendang ormega grilled pork chops, chicken chops, you’ll be surprised bytheir assortment of daily specials that make the place idealfor family outing or meeting with friends and colleagues.The portions are definitely adequate for most people andpresentations are also good; just one look will tell that youare getting value for your money! Group visits are bestas then everyone can sample different dishes by sharingportions of each and parents need not worry about choicesas children favourites like sausages, ham, nuggets, fish balland chicken wings are all available.Located along Jalan Laksamana Cheng Ho in Kuching,the café operates from 8am to 10pm, Mondays to Saturdayswhile Sundays the closing is at 2pm. Clean surroundingsmake the café a favourite for repeat customers though mostadmit the prices are a real draw. Yuppies make this theirideal getaway with friends and chat online in corners andalso outside in the fresh air and sunshine. Afternoon teabreaks are recommended as their range of cold drinksquickly reduces stress of the day and side orders of tempurafried squid, onion rings, toasts and others liven you up forthe later part of the day.The café can accommodate up to forty at any one sittingbut don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table duringthe peak hours. For the health conscious, their HealthyFusion drinks are just thirst quenching – ice blended freshmilk with variety of choices of ingredients and can be evensugar free. Try Favourite Café for your next meal and youwill be pleasantly surprised!Ground Floor, Lot 3144, Block 10, KCLD, Jalan StampinLaksamana Cheng Ho, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 418592Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (Mondays - Saturdays), 8am - 2pm (Sundays)Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 51

B1A54533NOV090036 mydinner flyer_X1.aiDigital: D 9/11/2009 10.30pmmydinner flyer_X1.aial: D 9/11/2009 10.30pm0036 mydinner flyer_X1.aiDigital: D 9/11/2009 10.30pmCYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACKCYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACKB1A54533NOV09HOW•G5-40HOW•G5-40B1A54533NOV09HOW•G5-40

ShoppingMega fun eventsat Bintang Mega Mall in Miri54 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010A host of mega events will behappening at the Bintang MegamallMiri from this month onwards thatwill lead to the grand opening inMarch, a testimony of their energeticorganising skills for what’s set tobecome Miri City’s largest ShoppingMall. And you can be sure that thesewill showcase the many new thingshappening in the Resort City and anatural attraction for everyone fromnear and far.What better way to highlight the newmegamall than have a Fun Fair from28 th December 2009 to 13 th January2010. Fun is the word and shoppers,children and parents will be entertainedby the variety of stalls on display atthe fair. To be held outdoor, the vastspectacle is a gala event for everyoneto enjoy and have fun with rides, luckydraws, fishing skills and colourfuldisplays at every corner.To usher in the upcoming ChineseNew Year celebrations, there will bea Bintang Megamall show on 24 thJanuary featuring Malaysian artistVivian Lea and three other local singers.Fans of the star and followers shouldnot miss this opportunity to get closeto the stars and catch their livelyperformances on stage. In additionto the songs there will also be threedifferent performances from thedance teams featuring traditionaland Chinese dances to wow thecrowd. Up and coming performersin the shape of young kids will beshowcasing their new dance routinestoo and these will certainly be energeticand lively as parents and peers willadd to the festive cheers.

The acrobatic lion dance will alsotake to the stage to bring in earlycheers for the auspicious New Yearwhile the dragon dance troupe willgive a tantalising display of power andsilky skills for the graceful mythologicalcreature. Bintang Megamall’s preopeningshows are a taste of thingsto come for city folks here; there willbe regular events lined up for the restof the year to entertain shoppers andvisitors while showcasing the talentavailable in the city and state.Shoppers will be just on time for lunaryear goodies on display at the BintangMegamall Chinese New Year Bazaarto be held from 3 rd - 13 th February atthe front of the mall. These stalls ondisplay will feature the latest in fashionand goodies from all over the worldto usher in the year of the tiger. Foodand fruits, cakes and cookies, drinksand special brews will entice the youngand old alike to the bazaar which willfurther add cheers to the coming newyear. Make sure that you and yourfamily are in the Resort City duringthese dates to join in the celebrationsthat’s bound to be the largest of theirkinds in the northern part of Sarawak.Bintang Megamall welcomes everyoneand for those wishing to know moreabout these events or participatein them, they should contact themanagement below:Bintang Megamall Miri ushers in theNew Year with hosts of events for everyoneShoppingWhen you are shopping at Bintang Megamall in Miri it isquite common to see many young people at the 3 rd floor,especially at the cyber café. The café offers internet accessfor everyone and is also a fun place for those who are intoonline game challenges or chatting across the IT highway.Now that the old and new wings of the Mall has joined up,the entire 3 rd floor is still the place for all things electronics.Starting from basic computer hard and soft wares tohandphones, gadgets and all the way to home theatresystems; all you ever want is here. In fact, this is the onlyplace you need to search for any product that is electronicas it will surely be found here!Sports enthusiasts can sweat it out at Megalane Eastbowling centre with their friends before attending the showsin the Star Cineplex. Food outlets include San FranciscoCoffee, Green Apple Organic (Organic food product store)and many others. Children will be bewildered by the toysat Toy ‘R’ Us and so everyone in the family can have theirfun time while at Bintang Megamall. It’s an entertainment,pleasure and sports centre all in one venue!BINTANG PLAZA Sdn Bhd • P.O.Box 491, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. Block 9, Jalan Miri-Pujut MCLD, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 085 438877 Fax: (6) 085 425852 Email: info@bintangplaza.comJan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 55

ShoppingWisma SanyanAny visitor to Sibu, the confluenceof the mighty Rajang River and IganRivers, will catch a glimpse of WismaSanyan and all of its magnificence.The Pride of Sibu, standing tall at125 metres, is the tallest building inSarawak and the pinnacle landmarkof this bustling and thriving town. It isadjoining to the largest town square inSarawak (32 acres) which is uniquelydesigned with wide open space forleisure activities and is also the venuefor the popular annual Borneo CulturalFestivalWisma Sanyan, 三 洋 大 厦 in Chineseorin jawi, with its 22 officelevels and 5 shopping levels, is the focalpoint of Sibu’s business and economicactivity with all 123 retail shop lots, 6showcases as well as 7 kiosks offeringthe A to Z of everyday life. From thenewest fashion trends to the latest hightech gizmos, they are all available underone roof. The pride of Sibu, WismaSanyan, boasts a tenancy of 1500 anddaily public traffic of 2000 people!For the comfort and convenience ofshoppers, 24 hour security, lift andescalator services as well as basementparking are but just some of the manyfacilities available.Located right in the heart of Sibu town,Wisma Sanyan houses many state andlocal government offices including SibuMunicipal Council (SMC) from Levels19 to 24, Sibu Rural District Council(SRDC) from Levels 17 to 18, JabatanKerja Raya (JKR) from Levels 14 to 16,Sibu Resident Office at Level 9 and SibuDistrict Office at Level 8.For food connoisseurs, internationaland local favourite brands like KFC,Pizza Hut, McDonald’s Kiosk, 1901 HotDog as well as Japanese, Korean andChinese themed restaurants are readilyavailable. Blue Splendour, the residentChinese themed banquet restaurant,is especially popular with Sibu locals56 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010The Pride of Sibufor wedding receptions and specialfunctions.Wisma Sanyan Anchor Tenant Ria byParkson offers a great variety of needsfor the everyday shopper such as apparelfor men and women, branded cosmeticsand even clothes and toys for toddlers,Giant the Anchor Supermarket suppliesthe local population with great bargainsfor everyday food staples. Furthermore,Wisma Sanyan boasts a very impressivelist of branded shops such as Levi’sStore, The Body Shop, Aussino, Osim,Panasonic Lumix station, Lea Centreand Lea Sports Centre, Public Bookstore,as well as Quality Bird Nest. Thishuge array of tenant mix and brandshas helped Wisma Sanyan maintainits status as Sibu’s best one stopshopping centre.Sibu, like the other divisions of Sarawak,enjoys a great mix of cultures andhas always been proud of its manycelebrations and festivities. Every LunarChinese New Year, hundreds if notthousands of Sibu people come back tothis warm and endearing hometown.Many drive back from neighbouringtowns like Kuching, Sarikei, Bintulu andMiri or even as far as Kalimantan andBrunei to enjoy gatherings with familymembers during the Chinese NewYear’s Eve dinner. Some stay for a fewdays while some stay for weeks.It is a great time as friends and relativesgather in each others’ houses andshare about their lives and recenthappenings. Wisma Sanyan wouldbe especially packed with shopperslooking for the right festive apparel.Another celebration is the GawaiDayak held each year on 1 st Juneby the state indigenous communitywho takes pride in their vast andrich cultural heritage. During thisperiod, the local community cometogether to celebrate this harvestfestival by indulging in local delicacieswhich includes the traditional ricewine.This is followed by the annual BorneoCultural Festival during the monthof August or September, a culturalexchange not only between localraces but also a showcase for differentinternational cultures like Korea andMongolia.Hari Raya Puasa or Hari Raya Aidilfitri isone of the most significant celebrationfor Muslim community in the stateHari Raya Puasa signifies the end ofRamadhan, a month-long fastingperiod and time for abstinence,reflection and worship. During thistime, stalls selling all kinds of localMalay food are set up at the annualRamadhan Bazaar, right across fromWisma Sanyan. It is indeed a sightto behold and quenches almost anygastronomic appetite.Wisma Sanyan is also the perfect placeto hang out during the Christmasfestive season . The joyous occasion isalways made more endearing withcaroling sessions by local corporategiants. As many would agree, WismaSanyan has become a very popularvenue for many exhibitors who requirea spacious area. Wisma Sanyanhas become the annual venue forthe SHEDA (Sarawak Housing and RealEstate Developer’s Association) PropertyExhibition and numerous governmentexhibitions.Having a link bridge to the adjacentRH Hotel has provided the hotelguests with convenient access asit directly connects to the Level 2shopping podium floor of WismaSanyan. This link is only the beginningof a series of future developmentprojects as Wisma Sanyan shallembark on a quest to continuecementing itself at the forefront ofan urban Sibu lifestyle.The Management office is Pelita Towerview Sdn. Bhd.Suite 26.02, Level 26, Wisma Sanyan, No.1, Jalan Sanyan, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 084 349772, 349773 Fax: (6) 084 345772

ProductsEza ® Superlaywww.ezasuperlay.comThe smart investment for allcarpet and laminate flooringinstallationFire test on Eza Superlayand self extinguish Class O,BS 476 pt7: 1987/Type FWhen walking on carpeted area, youwill feel the softness under your feet;it is not the carpet but the underlaylayer that gives the soft cushion.Good quality underlay is the key togreat under-foot feel, in public placeslike offices and corridors as well asprivate living rooms and bedrooms.So, investing in underlay like Eza ®Superlay is the smart way to ensurecomfort, reliability, as well as costsavings in the long run. Eza ® Superlayis made from German technology andis a registered trademark patented.Water test onEza Superlay and testedshows no leakingMega HotelPullman HotelImperial HotelDynasty HotelEza ® Superlay is made from crosslinkedpolyethylene foam and issuitable for all floor installations asit has many superior qualities likeresilient and no water absorption,grease resistance, impervious to mildewand meets fire and water safetystandards. Its lightweight compositionensures user friendliness and is also anexcellent thermal insulator, whichultimately reduces electricity bill,shock and sound absorber, providingyou with extra comfort and relaxation.More importantly, the next time thecarpet needs changing, there is noneed to change the underlay asEza ® Superlay is durable and so iscost saving.Each Eza ® Superlay comes in a 1.2meter width/roll making it easy towork with, minimising extra handsto handle the job. The effect on thefoot is felt immediately when youstep onto the material as it givesgreater softness and proven to beresilient to heavy traffic areas as well.As it is impervious to water, there isno worry of liquid sipping onto thefloor below leading to mildew andhosts of other problems. The smartinvestor knows too that installingEza ® Superlay will go a long way toenjoying satisfaction from the underlayin cost saving, comfort, safety andreliability and durability.For more information and product knowledge, please call Eza Carpet Distributor Sdn. Bhd.No. 226, Lot 33 Green Road, 93150 Kuching, Sarawak, MalaysiaTel: (6) 082 411366, 245311 Fax: (6) 082 422311, 246311Email: sales@ezasuperlay.com website: www.ezasuperlay.com58 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

Classic artProductspieces inglassPremium Glass excelsin producingglass works with atouch of artGlass is classic in itsbeauty and appeal,every piece tells a storywhether a paper weight or gift itemto table tops or classy wall panels.Everlasting and weather resistant,glass stands the test of time withoutcompromising on quality nor pollutingor contaminating in any environment.“Glass is certainly ‘alive’ if youthink about it as it can be shaped,coloured and built to your personaltaste. At Premium Glass we prideourselves on creating works of artfor all our clients, big or small as webelieve that glass should not be justanother piece of the jigsaw but anintegral part of the whole picture,”Jessica Lee, Marketing DirectorPremium Glass, said. “As one ofthe pioneers in the glass industryin Sarawak we have, since 1992,been making steady progress in ourproducts in both quality and rangeof possibilities. Our guiding mottohas always been to offer art, not justglass with every piece we deliver andthis has led us to be the favouredchoice when it comes to all thingsglass in Sarawak.”A distinct aspect of Premium Glassis that it offers concept and designfor clients resulting in unique custommade products that are stylish andoutstanding. Many of these privatelycommissioned works are on displayin public places like hotels, corporatelogos, murals, signages and officepartitions. With its own in-houseexpertise and skilled craftsmen,Premium Glass is confident of deliveringquality products that are to clients’expectations at reasonable prices.Apart from these custom designedprojects, the company also makesstandard products like table-tops,shelves, shower screens, vanity andfull-length mirrors. It also offerssandblasting and 3-dimensionaletching, beveling and edging and itsproducts can be incorporated withmarble, wood, plastics and metalsgiving rise to imaginative piecesof art works and design concepts.The possibilities are endless andPremium Glass will give each piecethat personal touch of class as itscommitment to make every producta work of art.For more information or enquiries, visit Premium Glass at Lot 719, Muara Tabuan Light Industrial Park, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysiaor call (6) 082 366308 or fax (6) 082 366318Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 59

DestinationTelok MelanoPulau Talang-Talang BesarLundu LunduNaturally beautiful !Rafflesia at GunungGading National Park60 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010Siah BeachThe most westerly towns in Sarawak,Lundu and Sematan are amongstthe jewels in the state’s triple S –sand, sun and sea! The district ofLundu covers both towns, Lunduthe riverine town while Sematanis a coastal town facing the SouthChina Sea. Here too are some of themost exhilarating sights you will everfind in Sarawak; the world’s largestflower, the Rafflesia in Gunung GadingNational Park about five minutesdrive from Lundu and sparkling clearwater with coral growing right bythe shore at Tanjung Datu NationalPark, about two hours boat ride fromSematan while giant sea turtles comeashore to lay eggs at Talang-Talangislands, just off Sematan. Snorkeling ordiving can be arranged for visitors tothese two favourite sea parks to geta close-up views of the wonders ofthe undersea world here. Alternatively,these two towns have some of thewidest beaches in the state at, SiarPandan Lundu and surroundingSematan. Other interesting beaches areat Rambungan, Stoh and Sampadi.

Tanjong Datu National Parkkeropokpre-determined season, its bud firstsprouting out from the ground andblossoms into a flower some ninemonths later! However, photoenthusiasts will not regret hikinghere as the multitude of floweringplants abound in this area and withthese comes the natural preys andpollinators like bees, butterflies, birdsand other insects. Visitors can optto stay within the park in the chaletsor resthouses or stay in the town’shotels and inns which makes findingfood easier at night!Destinationorganising night events to encouragemore patrons to visit the area andstaying for the night with culturalshows and karaoke among thefavourites of the locals. The councilhas also put in place a series ofannual events for the towns tofurther enliven the value of visits tothe area with seaside events amongthe obvious choices. The Beach tugof-waris shaping up to be a crowdpuller as the sport is ideal for anyages and sizes; all you need to dois show up and pull for all you areLundu is the nearer town, abouttwo hours leisurely drive fromKuching city. It is a favourite placefor many city folks to drive up fordelightful seafood and local fruitsand vegetables and soaking up thesun at the beaches. The town is acozy mix of old wooden shophouseswith sprinkling of modern shopsselling everything from crafts to dailynecessities. Traditional Malay Villagesare still found here where the localsexcel in the making of ‘keropok’, thefish and prawn crackers that goes wellwith everyone as a surprise gift fromhere. Lundu is also the administrativecentre for the area and amenitiesmatch those found in the city, minusthe hassle of long queues andpacked clinics!Sematan thrives from its sea wealthwith catch of the day going to thecity’s restaurants. It also does a fairamount of trade with neighbouringKalimantan, Indonesia and hasbegan to grow in leaps and boundswith the increase in weekend visitorsto the seaside resorts springing upin the area. Located about half anhour’s drive from Lundu, Sematanis turning up to be a paradise forweekend get-aways and seasideproperty-ownership among the richand famous.If sand and sea is not to your liking,there is always the mountain trekkingto think about when in Lundu. Thenational park is ideal for thoseinto jungle trekking and a series ofwaterfalls along the trails make theeffort of hiking up Gunung Gadingworth the while. Spotting theRafflesia is more of luck as theparasitic plant flowers without aNight boat ride along the rivertributaries for spotting animals andinsects among nature lovers arenot well developed here yet. TheLundu district council has stepped upworth and hopefully win some prizes!Future events will involve groups andcorporate sponsored teams for bothsocial fun and get together in spiritof harmony.Lundu, Sematan - Sarawak’sseaside jewels for fun, adventureand relaxation as well as mountainexplorationPesta Sematan Sematan Long Jetty Pandan BeachLundu District Office • 94500 Lundu, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: 6 082 735007 Fax: 6 082 735599Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 61

DestinationLonghouse homestay with a differenceHomestay in a different country,state or region is always interestingas it provides guests total integrationinto the lifestyles of the hosts, anexperience that just cannot becompared. Kampung Belimbing,about 60 kilometers from Kuching,is a Bidayuh village with a difference;the folks here practices Islam, havingconverted from pagan beliefs backin the early 60s. Today, this thrivinglonghouse style village is a model oftraditional Bidayuh lifestyle with allthe rich traditions of the tribe thateveryone can share.Villagers of Kampung Belimbing aremainly padi farmers, following in thefootsteps of their ancestors, plantinghill padi on alternate plots of land everycouple of years in rotation. Guestscan sample the rituals of planting,harvesting, and Gawai during thevarious months of the year andparticipate in them while enjoyingtheir homestay here. First time ‘farmers’like homestay guests will learn quicklythe difficult process of planting,weeding, harvesting or husking padibut they will have plenty of fun doingit! In between these ‘hard labour’guests can sample simple pleasures ofpicking wild ferns for lunch, catchingfish for dinner or looking for durians(when in season) and other fruits.Alternatively, take a swim in the riverwith clear flowing water or jungletrek around the village where theworld’s largest flower, the Rafflesiasometimes do blossom; there willalways be something interesting todo any time of the year!Getting to know the culture of thevillage folks means sharing theirdance, songs and bamboo craftsskills and these activities are alwaysthe highlight of homestay. Dressed inthe finest traditional costumes guestsand hosts dance away to the beatof drums and gongs while guitarsand other instruments add to themelody of sounds. The different setsof men and women dances ensurelively routines for everyone and themerry making carries on through thenight. Chances are too that guestswill want to learn the cooking stylesand techniques here as the simple butaromatic food easily arouse interest.Weaving with bamboo, rattan orcarving can also be skills to pick up asthere is a craft-making workshop inthe village dedicated to these activities.For Friday prayers the mosque here isadequate for all present.Every guest for the homestayprogramme will stay with a hostfamily and share living quarters withinthe ‘bilik’ or rooms in the longhouse.The basic necessities will be providedand this is an opportunity to trulyexperience Bidayuh lifestyle with adifference!A Bidayuh village of Muslim faith followers,Kampung Belimbing promises to be aninteresting offering for everyonePADAWAN MUNICIPAL COUNCILKota Padawan, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 615566 Fax: (6) 082 611832Email: mpp@tm.net.my Website: www.mpp.gov.myFurther information contact: Encik Raiee Omar (Pemilik/Ahli Homestay/Pengusaha), Hp: (6) 019 8769167, Email: abashomestay@yahoo.com62 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010

DestinationHome away fromhome experiencing traditionalBidayuhAnnah RaisHomestayin SarawakPADAWAN MUNICIPAL COUNCILKota Padawan, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 615566 Fax: (6) 082 611832Email: mpp@tm.net.myWebsite: www.mpp.gov.myEscape from the drudgery of cityliving to a quiet, relaxing and enjoyablehomestay in a longhouse while inKuching. Annah Rais is a Bidayuhlonghouse located some 60km in theheart of a tropical jungle with crystalclear streams, waterfalls and even anatural hot spring!Annah Rais traditional charms is passeddown from its 500-year old history ofliving harmoniously with nature wherepresently over 80 families here sharetheir living quarters with guests fromfar and near. The families here aremostly traditional farmers cultivatingpadi, cocoa, pepper, rubber andutilising the jungle’s produce tosupplement their food. Guests getfirst hand exposure to trying out theseactivities like tapping rubber, planting,harvesting padi (depending on season),fishing and hunting while collectingfresh jungle ferns for lunch or dinner.Apart from learning these farming skills,you can also try playing traditionalmusical instruments, while relaxing inthe longhouse with 3 meals preparedfrom local delicacies for fresh andwholesome organic food.Put on trekking shoes and makeyour way to the three-tier waterfallfor a cool refreshing swim with thecascading water falling on your back.Sit back and enjoy the jungle’smelodies while having your picnicin the scenic surrounding. Naturally,you will learn about jungle survivalskill from your guide and identifyingherbs, spices, wild-life during the trip.On the way back drop by the local areajungle spa, a hot spring where you cantry the warm water. Or if you are themore adventurous, try out bamboorafting and spear fishing.Evenings are fun-time to learn thedelicate dancing steps to the beatof gongs while swaying the body inrhythm to the tempo. In between,you may want to try out the localbrew of healthy herbal drinks andthe intoxicating tuak, a rice-basedwine that has a strong punch whenyou least expect it! Whatever yourinclination, all these are withinwalking distance to your room wherecomfortable, clean quarters await everyguest here for a good night sleepand waking to the calls of nature orthe local cockerel.Come, experience the pleasures ofliving in the midst of a tropical rainforestwith absolutely no distractions andshare the smiles of the folks at AnnahRais longhouse where memories willguide you back for more!Annah Rais Longhouse • No.71, Kampung Annah Rais, Jalan Borneo Height, Padawan, 94200 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Further information contact: Cr. Edward Stephen Kurik (hp : 016-8674175)Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 63

PeopleSustainabledesignsfor everyoneMike Boon places importance in ideals andlifestyle to make designs work for individuals and societyWhile everyone is talking about global warming, very feware actually doing much about it. Award winning architectMike Boon simply walks the talk when it comes to beenvironmentally friendly and sustainable; in fact he makesthis alternative lifestyle part of how he interacts with society.“Anyone can choose to change the way they live; it’s allin the mind and being prepared to reorient yourself to thenew way,” he explained. “Certainly we have to face theconsequences of our choices and I can’t tell if I will besuccessful or not with what I have decided to do,” hefrankly stated. Lest anyone starts branding him for hisalternative lifestyle pursuit, he repeatedly expressed thathe doesn’t have a terminology for it and is neither interestedin such either. The choice he made resulted in the buildingof his house, which is energy efficient as well as suited tohis family needs while offering wide choices for diversifiedrange of other uses and configuration.“It is more like a commute when it comes to the house,”he readily admitted as it has become a meeting place forhis friends and colleagues, stage show rehearsals for hischildren, slide and film show presentations, exhibitions ofphotography and even Tai Chi practice! These activitiesare centred around the open concept of the groundfloor design which is a wide area with minimal furniturewhile the first floor living quarters offer privacy withunparalleled connectivity.“Quite a number of people have been here to have alook and some I don’t even know!” he said. “What isimportant is that they understand the concepts and thereasons behind the design but at the same time, this iscertainly not for everyone too,” he stated clearly. “Whatworks for me may not be for others but if people areprepared to opt for alternative designs that can be moreenvironmentally sustainable, then we are heading in theright direction towards helping our sick earth.”Mike graduated with a degree from Australia and havingmet, talked to wide range of people and travelled tomany places during his career, his ideas may soundextreme to some but all that is second nature to him.He took it upon himself to use knowledge and skills tobe socially and environmentally responsible which inmany ways is a departure from the norm that society isaccustomed to. To him, designing energy saving buildingsthat are environmentally sustainable need to be tailored fitto the given area and requirements as there is no onesolution for all. He was the PAM Architectural Steel awardwinner in 2009 (M+M House), Gold Winner ACASIA 2008(Conservation of Old Kuching Court House) and numerousothers during the course of his 18 years in the field.“End of the day you can’t please everyone so I guessyou have to do things the way you think is right for youand your lifestyle. I just hope that people can be moresensitive to the growing needs to be sustainable for theglobal community and it is always necessary to make thestart with yourself and what you do,” he professed.64 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010Photographs by courtesy of Wixin Photography – Fong Wui Fyn, Charles Kung, Barry Wong and Siew Kung Kiong

Dato Peter T.S. NgGroup President and ViceChancellor UCSI UniversityIt’s been perceived over the last decadethat Malaysian education standardhas fallen when compared on a globalscale. What is your view on this?This is a yes and no answer. Itdepends on how you measure thestandard of education. If it’s measuredby how the Western world dictatesan advancing university should beor what they feel is a competitivefactor, then yes we have declined asa nation in terms of ranking. On theother hand, I would say that oureducation standard has not fallenbecause some universities in Malaysiahave started dictating their ownterms and references. What we feelwould be the actual benchmarkfor what the quality of educationshould be. Therefore, we no longerput emphasis on what the Westernworld dictates to us. If you are talkingabsolute dollars and cents, of courseour universities would not be able tocompete. Realistically, how can wecompete? Universities in the US, forexample, operate on a couple of billionUSD. Here, our universities operate onmuch less than that. If the standardof our education is measured by this,then yes we are indeed losing out.Having said that, I would say no, thestandard of Malaysian education willnot drop if we dare to challenge thewestern world and say listen we don’tlook at the absolute amount in termsof operating budget. Let’s look at whatwe are good at from the Asian world.From that perspective we dare to saywe are getting better and we aredriving ourselves towards a specificdirection. We are making Asianuniversities stand out in areas thatwe feel are of significant value to oursociety and this part of the world.What are the specialised majors ofUCSI when compared to other collegesand universities in the state/nation?We are driven by our own strategicanalysis on programmes that will addvalue to the community we serve. In thiscase, at the Sarawak campus we havemade our own study and analysis, thatcourses in Hospitality & Managementare very much lacking in this part ofMalaysia. UCSI Sarawak campus offersspecialised programmes under theFaculty of Hospitality & Management.Our degree programmes are in Event& Tourism Management, HospitalityManagement and Commerce whilethere is a Diploma in Hotel Management.If you are wondering why Commerce ispart of it, that’s because the world isso connected now. So if you are talkingabout staging an event, for example,you are no longer marketing to justMalaysians. You market it globally.Therefore there is a lot of interconnectivityin terms of internationalbusiness. So UCSI offers B-Commercethat focuses on international business.I’m happy to say that UCSI offers thefull package for hospitality programmes.You’ll find that with other institutions,maybe three or four others are offeringonly up to diploma.Is the Event & Tourism Managementdegree programme relatively new?How is this programme relevant?Yes it is. Event management is noteasy. Most people don’t understandwhat it is. We need people whounderstands business prospectiveand how to event organise. Theymust understand how to pitch fora major or international event forexample. For any event at this level,they will be competing with peoplefrom Singapore, Indonesia, Philippinesand Brunei. So it is important tounderstand international businessand how to stage an event. To do so,you will require specific skills aboutevent management. There isn’t sucha programme available in the countryapart from at UCSI.The large number of unemployedgraduates in the nation is a point ofconcern for everyone. How best can thistrend be reversed and what are theoptions available to these graduatesat UCSI?PeopleI cannot comprehend why there is suchproblem. Why are graduates unemployable?The Malaysian Ministry of HigherEducation conducted a research recentlyon several institutions to find out thestatistics of students who are employedafter graduation. UCSI participatedin this research. The survey was tofind out how many graduates havebeen employed and in which area.The result was outstanding. 70% ofour students are already employedbefore graduating. I believe that thereason is because of our internshipprogrammes. Our students workwhile they study. Or they studyfulltime and stop for 2 monthsbetween November and December,and go out and work fulltime. So bythe time they leave UCSI, they wouldhave already gotten a fulltime job offerfrom their internship employer.So this is the unique arrangement thatwe have for our students. Its relevancylies in the fact that there is an acuteshortage of the right people in theright area. For example, for eventmanagement, you wouldn’t ask ahospitality graduate to event managebecause they won’t know how to. Ithas to be the right type of graduate.Therefore, you have to see the marketsituation. Where are the gaps and soforth? Then we come in to producegraduates who are industry relevant.Based upon that, I cannot comprehendwhy there are so many unemployedgraduates if every education providerhas done their job.What is UCSI doing in terms ofproducing graduates who are timerelevant and globally relevant?There are things we need toconsider in terms of producinggraduates who are “internationalised”.There must be a component in ourcurriculum that will make themwell-rounded. Make them stand outwherever they are. In other words,we are producing graduates whomust be exportable to other nations.UCSI is aware of that and that’s whywe have compulsory modules everystudent must undertake. We offersubjects which will teach them generalskills to produce graduates who arewell-rounded in key strategic areassuch as communication skills. Theymust be competent in technicalcomponents and be exposed towhatever is happening in the world.They will then become relevant and ifthey are employable in Malaysia, theyshould be employable in other countries.Jan-Mar2010BorneoTalk | 65

filmPreviewTel: 6 082 234 077Tuesday | Ladies Day, Ticket only RM6(not applicable for male and public holiday)Wednesday | Movie Day, Ticket only RM5(not applicable for movie marked (“) and public holiday)THE SPY NEXT DOORGenre: Comedy, Action Rated: PGIn Cineplex: 14 th January 2010Synopsis: While babysitting his neighbour’schildren, a mild-mannered man (JackieChan) winds up having to fight off secretagents after one of the kids inadvertentlydownloads a secret code.ALICE INWONDERLANDGenre: AdventureRated: PGIn Cineplex: 4 th March 2010PERCY JACKSON ANDTHE OLYMPIANS: THELIGHTNING THIEFGenre: Adventure, Sci-Fi Rated: PG-13In Cineplex: 11 th February 2010Synopsis: Trouble-prone teen PercyJackson is about to be kicked out ofschool but that’s the least of hisproblems. The gods of Mount Olympusand assorted monsters seem to havewalked out of the pages of Percy’sGreek mythology texts and into his lifeand they’re not happy. Zeus’ lightningbolt has been stolen, and Percy is theprime suspect. Now, Percy and hisfriends must embark on a cross-country adventure to catch the truethief, save Percy’s family, and unravela mystery more powerful than thegods themselves.Synopsis: 17-year-old Alice (Mia Wasikowska)attends a party at a Victorian estate only to find sheis about to be proposed to in front of hundreds ofsnooty society types. She runs off, following theWhite Rabbit (Michael Sheen) into a hole and endsup in Wonderland, a place she visited in a similarmanner 10 years before, yet doesn’t remember.Wonderland was a peaceful kingdom until the RedQueen (Helena Bonham Carter) overthrew her sister,the White Queen (Anne Hathaway). The creaturesof Wonderland, such as the Cheshire Cat (StephenFry), Tweedledee and Tweedledum (Matt Lucas) andthe March Hare (Noah Taylor), ready to revolt, waitfor Alice to help them. With the help of the WhiteQueen, the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp) and theCaterpillar (Alan Rickman), Alice starts seeing flashbacksof her original visit, back when she was seven.*All booked tickets must be collected 45 min before show times.We will offer these selected titlesfeatured in this issue at 20%*discount to BorneoTalk readers.Readers to cut-out coupon fromthe magazine and present it atThe Spring to enjoy thespecial offer.• Only original coupon isaccepted• This offer is valid at MPH TheSpring, Kuching, Sarawak only• Not valid with any other offersor promotions• This coupon is not exchangeablefor cash• Valid until 31 st March 2010MPH BOOKSTORES THE SPRING • Lot 114, 1 st Floor, The Spring Shopping Mall, Jalan Simpang Tiga, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: (6) 082 244 800 Fax: (6) 082 244 801 Website: www.mphonline.com Business hour: 10.00 am - 10.00 pmBOOK REVIEWSWeisberger Shoe BoxAuthor: Lauren WeisbergerISBN: 9780007850877Publisher: HarperCollinsRM89.90Now in a boxed set comes three deliciously witty and delightfully dishy novels by LaurenWeisberger. The Devil Wears Prada is about life at a glamorous fashion magazine, an empireruled by a legendary editor whose sense of style is topped only by her sense of self-importance.In Everyone Worth Knowing, get a sneak peak into a no-holds barred expose of theworld of the Manhattan super-rich. In Chasing Harry Winston three friends make a pact tochange one thing in their lives by the end of the year.66 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2010The Lost SymbolAuthor: Dan BrownISBN: 9780593054277, 9780385504225Publisher: Transworld and DoubledayRM99.90In this stunning follow-up to the global phenomenonThe Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown demonstrates once againwhy he is the world’s most popular thriller writer. TheLost Symbol is a masterstroke of storytelling — a deadlyrace through a real-world labyrinth of codes, secrets, andunseen truths . . . all under the watchful eye of Brown’smost terrifying villain to date. Set within the hiddenchambers, tunnels, and temples of Washington, D.C.,The Lost Symbol accelerates through a startling landscapetoward an unthinkable finale. As the story opens, Harvardsymbologist Robert Langdon is summoned unexpectedlyto deliver an evening lecture in the U.S. Capitol Building.Within minutes of his arrival, however, the night takesa bizarre turn. A disturbing object — artfully encodedwith five symbols — is discovered in the Capitol Building.Langdon recognizes the object as an ancient invitation . .. one meant to usher its recipient into a long-lost world ofesoteric wisdom. When Langdon’s beloved mentor, PeterSolomon — a prominent Mason and philanthropist — isbrutally kidnapped, Langdon realizes his only hope ofsaving Peter is to accept this mystical invitation and followwherever it leads him. Langdon is instantly plunged into aclandestine world of Masonic secrets, hidden history, andnever-before-seen locations — all of which seem to bedragging him toward a single, inconceivable truth.

Global Aspiration . . .A World-ClassUniversity By 2020Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) is Malaysia’s premierinstitution of higher learning that has experiencedphenomenal growth since its inception in 1956. Theuniversity has expanded nationwide with 3 satellitecampuses, 15 branch campuses, 9 city campuses, 19affiliated colleges and a smart campus for the future.With this vast network and a workforce of 15,000, theuniversity offers more than 300 unparalleled academicprogrammes in a vibrant and inclusive environment. Itis also home to almost 140,000 students. The Universityis distinctive in its commitment to help students achieveat the highest scholarly levels and to prepare them forcareers in public and professional practice in various fieldsof human endeavour. Its formation is based on a vision ofoutstanding scholarship and academic excellence that iscapable of providing leadership in all fields of internationallyrecognised professional study.UiTM has earned a reputation as being one of Malaysia’sinnovative and entrepreneurial universities through its research,innovation and links with business and industry. The diversityof its research spans the field of medicine, nanotechnology,photonics, bio-molecular science, mechatronics andlinguistics, to name but a few. Today, UiTM draws strengthfrom the initiatives of its founder leaders to aspire to beworld-class in all its endeavours - to explore the frontiersof knowledge, to master new technologies and harvestthe abundant riches of diverse cultures, markets and newindustries.The Sarawak branch, situated in Kota Samarahan nowoffers 33 programmes ranging from Pre Diploma to Ph.Dthrough various modes such as full-time, part-time anddistance learning. UiTM Sarawak works very closely withthe Sarawak State Government to ensure that the programsoffered meet the ever changing needs necessary forthe continuous development of Sarawak. UiTM Sarawakalso provides training and development, research andconsultancy services to both the public and private sectors.Sited on a sprawling 350-acre naturally green landscapein Bandar Ilmu Kota Samarahan, the campus provides aconducive environment for learning.Sarawak Campus, Jalan Meranek, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 677200 Fax: (6) 082 677300www.uitm.edu.my or www.sarawak.uitm.edu.my