A comment from Hadi Awang, a PAS supremo, who was quoted as saying that voters in Batang Ai wore loincloth or "Cawat" in Bahasa Malaysia, that's why they voted for the ruling coalition the BN. The voters, most of whom were the Dayak Iban tribe, used to have their ancestors wearing loinscloth.
The comment no doubt drew angry responses from the BN leaders, especially Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and from other Dayak-based parties such as the SPDP. They were so offended by the comment which is taken literally and demanded public apologies from the Opposition leader. The demands were in the mainstream newspapers for the past four days.
Hadi was interviewed by a national news agency about this disparaging comment, but did not retract his comments, instead he said he did not intend offend the culture of the Dayak Iban in that constituency. He was "referring to the BN leaders who had fooled the people in Batang Ai".
To many people of Sarawak that I have talked to some took offense and some did not, depending on one's political leaning. But for me, such degrading comment is not new to me, I have had several racial and degrading comment on what and who we were. I chose and still choose to take such comments as an impetus to do well. I took these degrading comments positively and when later they'd learned that I was better on many counts then them, eventually they gave very high respect to me and they would normally offer apolgies. Not because I demanded any apology.
The way I see it, this 'degrading' comment is meant to wake us up and do something RIGHT. People will respect us eventually. There's no point in demanding any apologies. The way I see it, we should do something right first.
That 'something right' may be subjective, but I my experiences had taught me, anything that is right will show eventually. .. with great impact too!
The Mighty Hornbill....
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Saturday, July 25, 2009
EXTREME HEAT
The past weeks have been the hottest weeks that I've ever experienced in Sarawak, especially Sibu town.
I could not determine exactly what the reading has been on the thermometer, but was sure that it had been extremely hot that my head went spinning and at times I felt like vomiting, even in the shade of the office and coolness of the air-conditioners. I mean, I've never felt so drained out, burnt to the core due to the etreme heat.
Can this be the result of global warming millions of people are talking about? Are we now paying for the horrible mistakes our forefathers had committed in destroying the world due to industrial revolution, million of cubic meters of industrial smokes release in the air for 27/7 around the world, trees being cut down in unbridled manner....?
While some weather 'expert' was quoted as saying that it's because of the El-Nino phenomenon which is now bringing havoc with it, but what remains to be asked is that "How did the El-Nino weather phenomenon come about? Isn't it because of the result of man's abusive work over the land he works on?"
The weather change - changing into bad bad weather - has killed thousand of people over the years for the past ten years. I wonder what will it be like in a hundred years from now? All of us living now may not be around that time, but what will certainly remain is the weather, but one that will perhaps be worse that what we see now.
I can't even imagine how serious it will be like then, if NO ONE has ever done anything about it.
What can we do, anyway? There's alot we dan do, but alot of determination required, too.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
I could not determine exactly what the reading has been on the thermometer, but was sure that it had been extremely hot that my head went spinning and at times I felt like vomiting, even in the shade of the office and coolness of the air-conditioners. I mean, I've never felt so drained out, burnt to the core due to the etreme heat.
Can this be the result of global warming millions of people are talking about? Are we now paying for the horrible mistakes our forefathers had committed in destroying the world due to industrial revolution, million of cubic meters of industrial smokes release in the air for 27/7 around the world, trees being cut down in unbridled manner....?
While some weather 'expert' was quoted as saying that it's because of the El-Nino phenomenon which is now bringing havoc with it, but what remains to be asked is that "How did the El-Nino weather phenomenon come about? Isn't it because of the result of man's abusive work over the land he works on?"
The weather change - changing into bad bad weather - has killed thousand of people over the years for the past ten years. I wonder what will it be like in a hundred years from now? All of us living now may not be around that time, but what will certainly remain is the weather, but one that will perhaps be worse that what we see now.
I can't even imagine how serious it will be like then, if NO ONE has ever done anything about it.
What can we do, anyway? There's alot we dan do, but alot of determination required, too.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Monday, July 20, 2009
FACELIFT
As you might notice there's a face lift to this blog. This reflects boldness and willingness to accept new ideas that might be beneficial to mankind.
I will continue to touch on issues that impact us positively and negatively, then offer my thoughts on them and hopefully some improvements to improve our lives as a result.
That will include political matters, cultures, medicines, better life's practices and so forth.
Again, am open for your suggestions and constructive ideas.
Happy blogging...
The Mighty Hornbill....
I will continue to touch on issues that impact us positively and negatively, then offer my thoughts on them and hopefully some improvements to improve our lives as a result.
That will include political matters, cultures, medicines, better life's practices and so forth.
Again, am open for your suggestions and constructive ideas.
Happy blogging...
The Mighty Hornbill....
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
H1N1 FLU SUBSIDING?
In today's newspapers, the dreaded H1N1 flu or swine flu infected persons had been discharged from all the hospitals in Sarawak. That appears to be a good piece of news for all of us.
According to the report, the minister concerned, Dr. George Chan said there were 33 cases, including the latest ones, were discharged on Tuesday.
Is the dreaded virus subsidising? Chan said the State Health Department was now working on stopping the "mitigation" of the flu. Meaning to say that the focus is to prevent the spread of the virus internally. Out of the 'imported' ones, there were as of Tuesday 12 cases involving locally transmitted patients. And that's the main objective of the department - to stop the spread or transmission of the flu.
The report also said that the those known to contract the flu after that will be asked to have "self isolation" at their respective homes and not to be admitted in the hospital, thus lessening their exposure to other people. Only those very sick and and weak would be admitted.
Whatever the moves are, let's hope that it's the beginning of disease dying out, while everyone of us are asked to continue practising self hygiene, by always washing our hands with soaps.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
According to the report, the minister concerned, Dr. George Chan said there were 33 cases, including the latest ones, were discharged on Tuesday.
Is the dreaded virus subsidising? Chan said the State Health Department was now working on stopping the "mitigation" of the flu. Meaning to say that the focus is to prevent the spread of the virus internally. Out of the 'imported' ones, there were as of Tuesday 12 cases involving locally transmitted patients. And that's the main objective of the department - to stop the spread or transmission of the flu.
The report also said that the those known to contract the flu after that will be asked to have "self isolation" at their respective homes and not to be admitted in the hospital, thus lessening their exposure to other people. Only those very sick and and weak would be admitted.
Whatever the moves are, let's hope that it's the beginning of disease dying out, while everyone of us are asked to continue practising self hygiene, by always washing our hands with soaps.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Monday, July 13, 2009
IDENTITY CRISIS
As we've discussed in the preceding blog, the Orang Ulu, which conists many minority races, include among others the Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit, Berawan, Lun Bawang, Penan, Punan and more. These groups of people are lumped under the Orang Ulu communities.
Again, as mentioned previously this name was NOT from these groups of people, but given by ''other" races to them to identify all the people due to the lack of name, or perhaps identity.
But until now these people seem to suffer this identity crisis. There's no specific physical attributes that truly differentiate them from the Chinese, for example, besides their Bahasa Malaysia capability. Others would mistake them for a Chinese, as they easily pass for one.
The name Orang Ulu, according to many people gives the perception of a primitive and backward connotation. Sometimes derogatory! This becomes a problem.
So, change of name is necessary to change that perception.
We'll continue in the next blog...
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Again, as mentioned previously this name was NOT from these groups of people, but given by ''other" races to them to identify all the people due to the lack of name, or perhaps identity.
But until now these people seem to suffer this identity crisis. There's no specific physical attributes that truly differentiate them from the Chinese, for example, besides their Bahasa Malaysia capability. Others would mistake them for a Chinese, as they easily pass for one.
The name Orang Ulu, according to many people gives the perception of a primitive and backward connotation. Sometimes derogatory! This becomes a problem.
So, change of name is necessary to change that perception.
We'll continue in the next blog...
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Sunday, July 12, 2009
IDENTITY
For most people belonging to a certain race, identity is not an issue. For it is because they are already known to belong to a certain group and their identity is not a problem. In case of Sarawak for example, an Iban when identified as such is not a problem at all, because he or she is known as an Iban.
But for the "Orang Ulu" communities, it's a totally different issue. The term Orang Ulu describes all the many ethnic groups lumped under this category, who live or come from the upper reaches of rivers in Sarawak. The term came about from 'outsiders' who did not know what race these people were when they came down rivers to buy supplies. In other words, due to a lack of name (identity) thus the Orang Ulu term came to stick to these people.
Reported history tell us this appeared to be the case, especially when leaders from these races identified themselves a "representatives of the Orang Ulu" during the Rajah Brooke reign.
The term had in fact been made official perhaps in one of the Sarawak Gazettes and thus making the term stuck to identify these minority groups.
Over the years though, lots of people from these communities have become successful in business, private employment and government sectors. Still, this does not help catapult the identity of these peoples.
Lately however, there's been effort to correct this, but at the time of writing this, the issue has not yet seen any decision yet. But, at the same time, many see the NEED to change this term into one that is able to represent the true identity of these groups of ethnic people.
We'll continue with this issue in "blogs" to come, for now this should give a brief background on why identity is paramount to these communities.
THE ABOVE PICTURE SHOWS WHAT AN "ORANG ULU" TRADITIONAL COSTUME LOOKS LIKE.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Friday, July 10, 2009
TRADITIONAL COSTUMES
In Sarawak, which has some 27 ethnic groups, its people take pride in showcasing their traditional costumes.
The Iban tribe, Orang Ulu community as well as other ethnic tribes would normally go at great length to dress their best and show them to visitors.
They would do this during festive seasons or some special days or even during official functions. Just recently this was the case of several maidens and beautiful women who showed their traditional costumes to the visitors.
There were the Iban costumes and the Upper River people's costumes, which made the night one could remember for a long time.
We, too would like to see how others would look like and appreciate them. This would make mutual respect and acceptance of one another, thus peace and stability prevail. At least this is the scenario in all Sarawak state.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
The Iban tribe, Orang Ulu community as well as other ethnic tribes would normally go at great length to dress their best and show them to visitors.
They would do this during festive seasons or some special days or even during official functions. Just recently this was the case of several maidens and beautiful women who showed their traditional costumes to the visitors.
There were the Iban costumes and the Upper River people's costumes, which made the night one could remember for a long time.
We, too would like to see how others would look like and appreciate them. This would make mutual respect and acceptance of one another, thus peace and stability prevail. At least this is the scenario in all Sarawak state.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER RINGGIT
Each and everyone of us has to earn our living and that's a fact. And the fact also is that we go at great length to pursue that money, even leaving our loved ones behind.
The saddest thing is that when you are alone and lonely in your room in that faraway places and begin to ask that dreaded question. "What am I doing here all alone?" And..."Gosh, there's got to be a better way to earn a living..."
Well, have you ever gone this far? The pains of being alone and helpless is torture, to say the least.
But, as we struggle on for another day and we hope to earn another dollar, or ringgit in case of Malaysians, then move on and on until your in pain.
With pictures of your loved ones, those who depend on you for their livelihood, we then continue to struggle on, hoping to achieve that target and then hopefully all has been succefull, then finally get home and be with your loved ones.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
The saddest thing is that when you are alone and lonely in your room in that faraway places and begin to ask that dreaded question. "What am I doing here all alone?" And..."Gosh, there's got to be a better way to earn a living..."
Well, have you ever gone this far? The pains of being alone and helpless is torture, to say the least.
But, as we struggle on for another day and we hope to earn another dollar, or ringgit in case of Malaysians, then move on and on until your in pain.
With pictures of your loved ones, those who depend on you for their livelihood, we then continue to struggle on, hoping to achieve that target and then hopefully all has been succefull, then finally get home and be with your loved ones.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
YOUR PLACE UNDER THE SUN
Whether you are an average person or some one who has done extraordinary things, you have a place under the sun.
In fact, you have the every opportunity to put your name at the forefront of the community in the world.
The issue is that not everyone wants to pay for the price and willing to create a name that will be the talk in coffee-shops, offices and even in family circles. But they want to be known and popular.
AS for me though, I may not want to be this person, but I do want to do something within my capability to be remembered by close friends who, for better or worse, will accept me and remember me as it is.
What about you?
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
In fact, you have the every opportunity to put your name at the forefront of the community in the world.
The issue is that not everyone wants to pay for the price and willing to create a name that will be the talk in coffee-shops, offices and even in family circles. But they want to be known and popular.
AS for me though, I may not want to be this person, but I do want to do something within my capability to be remembered by close friends who, for better or worse, will accept me and remember me as it is.
What about you?
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Monday, July 6, 2009
AT THE MERCY OF H1N1 SWINE FLU
As a journalist, I have the opportunity to interview those in the authority, especially those who are vested to take care of the public interest. In this case, the health security of the people, in light of the deadly, highly contagious Swine flu that is now sweeping the world.
Just a few weeks ago, the world was shocked to hear about the the latest unknown virus called H1N1 or swine influenza first detected from Mexico. Then, it takes only weeks the virus travels around the world at a blinding speed!
The problem is the the antidote to the virus! The only drug available known to help is called 'tamiflu', but many have died also despite having given dosages of the drug.
Now it's in Sarawak and as of yesterday it was 10 cases in the morning, but in the afternoon another four cases were recorded!
When I asked the Public Health Minister, who was accompanied by his Health Director about preventive precautions, the was so simplistic that all of us could not believe our ears! It's the same 'washing of hands, personal cleanliness' line! The question is is there no better answer or are we at the MERCY OF THE H1N1 FLU!
Give me your opinion, please.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Just a few weeks ago, the world was shocked to hear about the the latest unknown virus called H1N1 or swine influenza first detected from Mexico. Then, it takes only weeks the virus travels around the world at a blinding speed!
The problem is the the antidote to the virus! The only drug available known to help is called 'tamiflu', but many have died also despite having given dosages of the drug.
Now it's in Sarawak and as of yesterday it was 10 cases in the morning, but in the afternoon another four cases were recorded!
When I asked the Public Health Minister, who was accompanied by his Health Director about preventive precautions, the was so simplistic that all of us could not believe our ears! It's the same 'washing of hands, personal cleanliness' line! The question is is there no better answer or are we at the MERCY OF THE H1N1 FLU!
Give me your opinion, please.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Sunday, July 5, 2009
MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE
I am a strong believer in making the most out of life. I have seen people who are miserable about their lives, complain endlessly, blame other people and everything else is wrong, except themselves.
Sounds familiar, huh? Well, like I said I am and will be a firm believer in making the best out of life. You see, the good thing is that you can decide what to do with your life and there's no one else stopping you, except God and YOU yourself.
The good thing is that when you make the best of what you have and create your own opportunities, your life can be very, very meaningful and fulfilled.
What's your experience? Who do you believe in?
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Saturday, July 4, 2009
UNIFYING FACTOR
The BCF Chinese procession, which took place last night, saw political divide, racial differences and personal squabbles put aside for a few short hours in a unifying procession.
The touching sight was one that many would remember for a long time. People from all walks of life came together and made the five-kilometer walk a historic event after a long absence.
Members of the governing political parties, whose squabbles and internal bickering were out in open, saw them walk side by side. In fact, a contingent, which was among the hundreds contingents that came in full force, was that of the Opposition Party, Democratic Action Party or DAP. Another contingent was also another opposition party, the Parti KeAdilan Rakyat or PKR.
This was Sibu or Sarawak for that matter. Despite their differences there was still unity and sense of belonging existing among the beautiful people of Sarawak.
We all pray that we continue to be united in our cultural existence and be proud of it.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
The touching sight was one that many would remember for a long time. People from all walks of life came together and made the five-kilometer walk a historic event after a long absence.
Members of the governing political parties, whose squabbles and internal bickering were out in open, saw them walk side by side. In fact, a contingent, which was among the hundreds contingents that came in full force, was that of the Opposition Party, Democratic Action Party or DAP. Another contingent was also another opposition party, the Parti KeAdilan Rakyat or PKR.
This was Sibu or Sarawak for that matter. Despite their differences there was still unity and sense of belonging existing among the beautiful people of Sarawak.
We all pray that we continue to be united in our cultural existence and be proud of it.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
BORNEO CULTURAL FESTIVAL
The Borneo Cultural Festival or BCF is here again. The annual cultural extravaganzas began some eight years ago and bas been showcasing all the Sarawak's 27 distinct ethnic groups.
It also features other cultural dances from several parts of the world, especially those from the Asian regions.
Traditional foods and dishes are also aplenty, including fruits and demonstration of how handicrafts are being made.
Also on show will be the famed tribal tattoos, featuring the Iban and Orang Ulu (Up-river people) ethnic groups.
If you have not made it here, the 7-day BCF will end on Friday, July 10.
So, make it fast before it ends for the year.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
It also features other cultural dances from several parts of the world, especially those from the Asian regions.
Traditional foods and dishes are also aplenty, including fruits and demonstration of how handicrafts are being made.
Also on show will be the famed tribal tattoos, featuring the Iban and Orang Ulu (Up-river people) ethnic groups.
If you have not made it here, the 7-day BCF will end on Friday, July 10.
So, make it fast before it ends for the year.
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Thursday, July 2, 2009
A MATTER OF DREAM AND PURPOSE
Ever wondered why some people appear to be more successful than others? Over the course of my life, I've met many people who said that they had heavy burdens to carry, while others looked outwardly having everything going well for them, as if they did not have much burden to carry.
Depending on how you look at things, regardless of what situation your are in, the difference truly is depending how you percieve at your situation.
I would like to take a true experience I had in mid-80's. At that time, I was working in a Japanese company. But, each day went on very tough for me, for there were few days that went without quarrels and misunderstanding with my Japanese boss.
Because of that, I had a very miserable time for the first six months. I recall the times when I went around the city to look for new jobs. I just could't stand my boss.
One day however, after a morning shower and still indsie the bathroom, my thoughts of going to work and to face my boss were occupying my mind. But, as I looked into the mirrow, suddenly a thought came to my mind - a question!
The question was this: "Roger, are you a loser or a winner?" You see, I came up with an anwer right away, too. I said: "I AM A WINNER!"
You know what? When I to work that morning, things did not change! But I DID change was my ATTITUDE and PERCEPTION towards my so called "problems".
You know what happened later? I stayed with that company for two years, until the project was completed. The good thing that happened to me was that my salary was increased almost 100% and I was always made in charge of my section whenever my immediate boss was on leave or travel to Japan.
So, I'm sure you do have one good experience of your life that is helpful for others. Why not share it?
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Depending on how you look at things, regardless of what situation your are in, the difference truly is depending how you percieve at your situation.
I would like to take a true experience I had in mid-80's. At that time, I was working in a Japanese company. But, each day went on very tough for me, for there were few days that went without quarrels and misunderstanding with my Japanese boss.
Because of that, I had a very miserable time for the first six months. I recall the times when I went around the city to look for new jobs. I just could't stand my boss.
One day however, after a morning shower and still indsie the bathroom, my thoughts of going to work and to face my boss were occupying my mind. But, as I looked into the mirrow, suddenly a thought came to my mind - a question!
The question was this: "Roger, are you a loser or a winner?" You see, I came up with an anwer right away, too. I said: "I AM A WINNER!"
You know what? When I to work that morning, things did not change! But I DID change was my ATTITUDE and PERCEPTION towards my so called "problems".
You know what happened later? I stayed with that company for two years, until the project was completed. The good thing that happened to me was that my salary was increased almost 100% and I was always made in charge of my section whenever my immediate boss was on leave or travel to Japan.
So, I'm sure you do have one good experience of your life that is helpful for others. Why not share it?
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
ON H1N1 SWINE FLU AGAIN
Gee, I'm glad that my runny nose isn't too bad, after all. Can't pin-point exactly what caused it. But, I'm almost certain it was due to the fact that I was "baked" under the sun a day prior to yesrterday. On top of that, I guess, it was that I could not fell to sleep much earlier as I wanted, for I was kept away due a thick tea I took the same evening.
This morning, I thought of waking up late, but then I again, there's much to do today. Still, it's not too bad. I feel fine.
I also look forward to doing alot of things I would feel I'll enjoy.
On the H1N1, today's paper says Sarawak recorded the sixth case, it's worrying. It seems that no one, I mean NO ONE, including the authorities can do anything about it. We are at the mercy of the this viral disease.
The only hope now is for someoine to discover its antidote.
What does the Bible prophecies say about this. Refer to Mathew and Revelations!
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
This morning, I thought of waking up late, but then I again, there's much to do today. Still, it's not too bad. I feel fine.
I also look forward to doing alot of things I would feel I'll enjoy.
On the H1N1, today's paper says Sarawak recorded the sixth case, it's worrying. It seems that no one, I mean NO ONE, including the authorities can do anything about it. We are at the mercy of the this viral disease.
The only hope now is for someoine to discover its antidote.
What does the Bible prophecies say about this. Refer to Mathew and Revelations!
THE MIGHTY HORNBILL...
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