Kuching Vocational College celebrated 181 SVM graduates in August, while reporting that 90.79 per cent of its diploma students had found work related to their field. [image: 1786669594232-20260814-kuching-vocational.jpg] Photo: The Borneo Post Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii told the graduation ceremony that Sarawak's expansion in energy, infrastructure, technology, automation and digital industries will require more technicians and practically trained workers. He argued that vocational education should not be treated as a second-class route. College director Michael Akien said all 181 students who completed the 2026 Sijil Vokasional Malaysia were eligible to continue to the Diploma Vokasional Malaysia level. What the employment figure does — and does not — show The 90.79 per cent figure referred to the college's diploma students securing field-related employment. It was not described as the employment rate of the 181 new SVM graduates, who had only just completed that level and could continue their studies. That distinction is useful for students comparing pathways. SVM can lead into DVM, while diploma outcomes give a separate indication of how closely training matches jobs. Before applying, students should compare the actual course, workshop exposure, industry placement, certification and entry requirements rather than relying on one overall percentage. The report highlighted demand in mechanics, electrical work, construction, automation, technology and hospitality. Students should still check current course availability directly with the college or the national TVET portal because programmes and intake conditions can change. 2026 SVM graduates: 181 Reported field-related employment: 90.79% among diploma students Sources: The Borneo Post · Malaysia TVET portal

A prolonged dry spell left about 500 residents in four Padawan villages short of water after their wells and gravity-fed systems dried up. [image: 1786669582960-20260814-padawan-water.jpg] The affected communities were Kampung Sitang, Kampung Biya Nusaraya, Kampung Biya Parang and Kampung Peremas. Their village chiefs channelled requests for help through the Padawan Sub-district Office after local water sources could no longer meet daily needs. At the time of the Aug 13 report, the Welfare Department had delivered bottled water to Kampung Biya Nusaraya and Kampung Biya Parang. That detail matters: assistance had started, but the report did not say that every affected household in all four villages had already received supplies. This was a rural-source shortage, not a citywide Kuching outage. Communities that depend on wells and gravity-fed systems can run short much earlier during a dry spell. Kampung Bangau, Kampung Petang and other upper Padawan villages were also identified as being at risk if dry weather continued. Residents facing the same problem should report it quickly through their village head or the Padawan Sub-district Office so demand can be recorded and aid coordinated. Official rural water notices can also be checked through JBALB Sarawak. Affected: Four Padawan villages, about 500 residents Photo: DayakDaily Sources: DayakDaily report · JBALB Sarawak

Haze remains a health concern across Sarawak Air quality in nine Sarawak locations was still in the unhealthy range at 4pm today, according to the Natural Resources and Environment Board’s Daily Haze Watch. The affected locations are Serian, Samarahan, Kuching, Tebedu, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah and Lundu. Kuching’s Air Pollutant Index (API) eased slightly from 177 at 8am to 174 at 4pm. The Kuching Division Health Office advised residents to cut down on outdoor activities, wear a mask if going outside is unavoidable, drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous exercise. Children, seniors, pregnant women and people with asthma or heart and respiratory conditions should take extra care. Seek medical attention if you develop worrying symptoms. [image: 1786615608468-sarawak-haze-aug13.jpg] Source: The Borneo Post Photo: Roystein Emmor / The Borneo Post What is the air like in your area?

An ART construction error damaged an 850mm water main along Jalan Tun Jugah on Aug 13, affecting supply to about 20,000 users. The pipe had been moved to a new alignment before piling began, but the contractor reportedly failed to distinguish the old route from the live one. Sarawak Utilities and Telecommunications Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said consultants, engineers and contractors had been told to tighten site supervision, with work stoppage possible if negligence continued to disrupt the public. [image: 1786583362057-art-pipe.jpg] Photo: TVS What residents should take from this This article records the Aug 13 incident; it is not a live outage notice. People finding the page later should check Sarawak Water's current advisories before assuming their area is still affected. At the time, agencies were instructed to prepare enough water tankers for affected communities. For any future construction-related disruption, residents should note the exact address, the time supply stopped and whether neighbouring streets are affected when filing a report. That makes it easier to distinguish a local pipe issue from a wider supply problem. The bigger accountability issue is underground-utility mapping. Moving a pipe is not enough if drawings, site markings and contractor briefings are not updated together. The promised tighter supervision should therefore be judged by whether repeat strikes stop, not only by how quickly one break is repaired. Incident location: Jalan Tun Jugah, Kuching Reported impact: About 20,000 users Sources: TVS report · Sarawak Water official site

A 29-year-old woman has claimed trial over an alleged injury to a 20-day-old baby at a Kuching confinement centre. The woman pleaded not guilty at the Kuching Sessions Court on Aug 12 to a charge under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001. The charge alleges that she negligently handled and lifted the baby from a cot in a way likely to cause physical injury. The incident was alleged to have happened between 12.30am and 1.30am on Aug 4. The baby was reported to have suffered a closed fracture of the right humerus. The court granted RM10,000 bail with two local sureties and ordered the accused to report to a police station once a month. Pre-trial case management is fixed for Sept 14. The charge remains an allegation, and the accused has pleaded not guilty. Location: Kuching Sessions Court / Kuching Details: The case is being prosecuted under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001. Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

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: 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?

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?

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?

"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?

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

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari says investors are now scrutinising governance, transparency and integrity before deciding where to invest — not just physical infrastructure. [image: 1786064908262-premier1.jpg] Speaking at the Integrity and Excellence Day of the Sarawak Construction Industry 2026 (IECONS 2026) at CIDB Sarawak Complex in Kuching, the Premier said strong institutions, transparent processes, policy stability and integrity levels have become deciding factors for investment destinations. "Today, investors no longer look at physical facilities alone. They also assess the strength of institutions, transparency of processes, policy stability and the level of integrity," he said. He stressed that integrity must be built through strong systems, transparent processes, and principled leadership — not just enforcement after something goes wrong. [image: 1786064908490-premier2-resized.jpg] Abang Johari said Sarawak will continue strengthening governance through digitalised procurement, improved audit systems, and better risk management. He also highlighted the state's ombudsman system, with officers trained alongside MACC to be placed across government agencies. The Premier said the effort aligns with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024–2028, emphasising that integrity has become a strategic advantage in the global economy. Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi also spoke at the event, saying successful projects should not be measured by speed alone, but by quality, cost, and value delivered to the people. Location: CIDB Sarawak Complex, Kuching Details: IECONS 2026 | Premier's address on governance & integrity Source: DayakDaily What do you think — is Sarawak moving in the right direction on governance?

120 floats, 1,500 participants, and thousands of devotees — Kuching's annual Guan Ti Kung procession was a sight to behold. [image: 1786064897754-guanti1-resized.jpg] The steady beat of gongs and drums echoed through Lorong Ang Cheng Ho No. 7 as worshippers gathered to honour the deity in one of the city's most colourful annual celebrations. Lion and dragon dance troupes, giant mascots, and cultural groups from Kuching and across Sarawak took part in the grand procession, which made its way through 15 streets including Jalan Petanak, Jalan Padungan, Jalan Ban Hock, Jalan Bukit Mata, and Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman before returning to the starting point. [image: 1786064898368-guanti2-resized.jpg] Sacred rituals were performed inside the temple to ceremonially invite Guan Ti Kung's spirit into the deity's statue before the public procession began. Firecrackers erupted in rapid succession, sending bursts of red confetti through the air. The procession started at around 6pm and drew crowds of locals and tourists alike, many capturing the vibrant floats and performances on their phones. Location: Ang Cheng Ho, Kuching city centre Details: 120 floats | 1,500 participants | Route covered 15 major streets Source: DayakDaily Have you been to the Guan Ti Kung procession before? What do you think about Kuching's cultural celebrations?

A 19-day-old newborn allegedly suffered a fractured left arm while under the care of a confinement centre in Kuching — and the parents are demanding answers. The baby's parents were told at 1am on Aug 4 that their child's left arm appeared swollen. An X-ray at the hospital confirmed a fracture. They lodged a police report and requested CCTV footage from the centre. What they saw allegedly showed a staff member handling the baby roughly — pulling the baby's arm forcefully while changing clothes, striking the baby's hand during feeding, and other vigorous movements. [image: 1786010686135-baby-fracture.jpg] The confinement centre issued a statement Wednesday saying it's fully cooperating with authorities. The staff member involved is no longer working there and is under investigation. The centre said it's reviewing its procedures and training. Parents shared the incident publicly to seek accountability and to prevent similar incidents from happening to other families. Location: Kuching (confinement centre, name withheld pending investigation) Details: 19-day-old baby, fractured left arm, police report lodged, CCTV examined, staff member no longer at facility Source: DayakDaily Infant safety in confinement centres — should there be stricter regulations?

A 25-year-old man who jumped off Darul Hana Bridge into the Sarawak River after a tourist dared him has been fined RM200. The video of the stunt went viral on Facebook last month — and police tracked him down from the footage. He pleaded guilty to public nuisance in the Magistrate's Court, with Magistrate Ling Hui Chuan imposing the RM200 fine, or two days' jail if he can't pay. Here's how it happened: on the night of July 23, he was chatting with friends on the bridge when a group of tourists from Peninsular Malaysia heard them. He joked about being brave enough to jump — and one tourist challenged him to prove it. He said the dare wasn't about money, even though he was promised some. He jumped because he wanted to prove he was a "true Sarawakian". [image: 1786010616754-bridge-jump.jpg] The court heard the jump happened around 10.30pm and caused inconvenience to the public, which is why he was charged under Section 268 of the Penal Code. Location: Darul Hana Bridge, Kuching Waterfront Details: Fined RM200 for public nuisance; viral Facebook video from July 23 led police to identify him Source: DayakDaily Worth RM200 to prove you're a true Sarawakian? What do you think?

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari has called on AirBorneo to install in-flight Wi-Fi — starting with the Kuching-Kuala Lumpur route. [image: 1785978260201-airborneo-wifi.jpg] Speaking at SACOFA's 25th anniversary dinner in Kuching on Aug 5, the Premier said the state-owned airline needs to keep up with Sarawak's digital transformation. "If possible, AirBorneo should have Wi-Fi on its aircraft. At the moment, it does not have Wi-Fi. I have asked them to install it, at least on flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kuching so that passengers can stay connected while on board," he said. He also urged SACOFA to stay ahead of emerging telecom technologies, adding that Sarawak must prepare for a future driven by wireless tech, satellite connectivity, AI, and aerospace. AirBorneo currently does not offer in-flight internet on any of its routes. Location: Kuching Details: Premier calls for AirBorneo in-flight Wi-Fi, starting with Kuching-KL route Source: DayakDaily What do you think? Would you use it?