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108 schools in Serian Division have been temporarily closed after the Air Pollutant Index (API) crossed 200. The closure covers schools in the Serian area, including six in Tebedu. Home-based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) will continue during the closure. As of 4pm on Aug 12, API readings were 202 in Serian and 212 in Tebedu. Kuching and Samarahan were among 11 other Sarawak areas recording unhealthy readings between 101 and 200. State authorities said the haze may continue over the next few days, partly due to transboundary smoke from Kalimantan. Children, older people, pregnant women and those with respiratory or heart conditions are advised to limit outdoor activities when air quality is unhealthy. Location: Serian Division, Sarawak Details: Schools will reopen based on the latest API readings and official instructions. Source: https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/08/12/108-schools-in-serian-division-temporarily-closed-as-api-exceeds-200/ What do you think? Photo: The Borneo Post

Sarawak Stadium upgrade hits 22.55% — all SEA Games venues on track for Q1 2027 completion {img0} Sarawak's preparations for the 2027 SEA Games are picking up pace. JKR Sarawak director Datu Ir Cassidy Morris inspected several sports venues on Aug 11, and the numbers look solid. Sarawak Stadium's upgrading and refurbishment has reached 22.55% progress, targeted for completion in January 2027 — well ahead of the SEA Games in September. Other venues also progressing: Stadium Perpaduan: 13.31%, completion Feb 2027 Lawn Bowl Arena: completion Jan 2027 Wushu Training Centre: completion Feb 2027 SLTA complex: completion March 2027 Cassidy stressed that all projects must be completed on time without compromising quality and safety. The Q1 2027 timeline leaves enough room for testing and final inspections before the Games. Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: Sarawak Stadium 22.55% done; 5 venues being upgraded; all targeted for Q1 2027 Source: DayakDaily Getting ready for SEA Games 2027 — are you excited?

Haze blankets Sarawak — Serian hits API 190, Kuching at 167 as unhealthy air spreads across 11 areas {img0} Another hazy day in Sarawak. As of 6pm yesterday (Aug 11), Serian recorded the highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading in the state at 190 — firmly in the unhealthy range. Kuching wasnt far behind at 167, while Samarahan (168), Bintulu (159), Sibu (155), Sri Aman (157), Samalaju (155), Sarikei (155), Mukah (154), and Miri (142) all logged unhealthy readings. Only Limbang (73) and Kapit (78) managed moderate air quality. At the same time, METMalaysia issued a thunderstorm warning for Bintulu (Tatau) and Sibu (Selangau & Sibu) valid until 9pm, which could bring some temporary relief. With API levels expected to remain elevated, residents across Kuching and Sarawak are advised to limit outdoor activities and wear masks when necessary. Location: Serian, Kuching & multiple areas across Sarawak Details: API 190 in Serian; 11 areas record unhealthy readings; thunderstorm warning for Bintulu & Sibu Source: DayakDaily What do you think? Should schools be closed when API crosses 150?

[image: 1786442816734-airborneo-resized.jpg] AirBorneo Airways has joined the government-backed FLYsiswa air travel subsidy initiative, helping ease the cost of domestic flights for eligible Malaysian students. The state-owned airline announced today that it will participate in the programme spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport (MOT), supporting higher education students travelling between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan. What students get: RM400 digital voucher for domestic economy flights Enhanced baggage allowance Complimentary or discounted date-change options Eligibility: Malaysian students enrolled in public higher education institutions (IPTA) How to redeem: Check eligibility at subsidiudara.mot.gov.my Book via AirBorneo website or mobile app Redemption period: Aug 11 to Nov 30, 2026 Travel period: up to Dec 31, 2026 AirBorneo CEO Megat Ardian Aminuddin said the cost of air travel should not be an obstacle for students studying away from their families. "For many young Malaysians studying away from home, particularly between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, the cost of flight tickets should never be an obstacle to spending quality time with family," he said. Source: The Borneo Post Sarawak students, time to check your eligibility!

[image: 1786442802657-fire-resized.jpg] A fire broke out at a house in Lorong Foochow 1W, Taman Orchid, Kuching this afternoon, damaging an estimated 70% of the property. According to Bomba, a call was received at 2.15pm today. Firefighters from Tabuan Jaya station were deployed with backup from Batu Lintang and Padungan stations. 21 firefighters and three Fire Rescue Tenders (FRTs) were involved in the operation. The team used four water lines and six nozzles, with 200 feet of hose connected to a fire hydrant. Firefighters also used a defensive technique to establish a firebreak and contain the blaze. The affected permanent-structure house measured approximately 30ft by 60ft. No casualties were reported in the incident. Location: Lorong Foochow 1W, Taman Orchid, Kuching Details: 70% structural damage, fire under control, 21 firefighters deployed Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Sarawak tops all Malaysian states with RM14.2 billion revenue in 2024 [image: 1786410347360-sarawak-revenue-resized.jpg] Sarawak recorded the highest state government revenue collection and largest surplus among all Malaysian states in 2024, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). The State Socioeconomic Report 2025 showed Sarawak collected RM14.2 billion in state revenue — more than double Sabah's RM6.8 billion, which was the second highest. Sarawak also posted the country's largest state government surplus at RM1.5 billion, followed by Sabah at RM470.9 million, Terengganu (RM212.2 million), Selangor (RM142 million), and Johor (RM103.6 million). The report also noted Sarawak's economy grew by 3.2% in 2025, below the national GDP growth of 5.2%. Source: DOSM State Socioeconomic Report 2025 Details: Sarawak's revenue doubles Sabah's; largest state surplus in Malaysia Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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