Compiled from 10am to 4pm.
Work begins on border CIQS complex in Nabawan – Construction on the Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, and Security (CIQS) complex at Kampung Bantul, Nabawan, has commenced with land clearing and leveling underway. Pensiangan MP Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup highlighted this during an appreciation ceremony for the Nabawan District Office, emphasizing collaboration between civil servants and government leaders for local development. The project is part of the RM560 million allocated in the 2025 budget to bolster Malaysia’s border infrastructure.
Youth exodus threatens Sabah’s future, warns GBBM- The exodus of young Sabahans seeking opportunities abroad is harming the State’s families and development, said Sabah GBBM Chairperson Veronica Ongot. At the group’s Chinese New Year gathering, she called for urgent action on job creation, infrastructure, and education access. Advisor Chin Vui Kai linked these challenges to Sabah’s incomplete Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) implementation, urging a push for Sabah’s 40% revenue share to fund crucial projects. Chin also warned of the risks of further losing Sabah’s rights and resources without proper MA63 advocacy.
Minister urges harmony amid criticism of PAS actions – Sabah’s harmony across races and religions must be preserved, said Community Development Minister Datuk James Ratib. Ratib criticized a cartoonist and PAS leaders for opposing a Christmas celebration at a federal ministry, calling their actions divisive. “Sabah’s diversity has been its strength, and we must ensure this legacy endures for generations,” he said, adding that even peninsula residents value Sabah’s inclusive culture.
UMS student housing project to begin by 2025 – Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) will gain 1,610 new apartments to house 6,732 students and staff under a RM1.3 billion project. A memorandum of understanding was signed between Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) and developer Zecon Berhad. The 8ha site near UMS Medical Faculty will remain under MUIS ownership through a Build, Lease, Maintain & Transfer model, creating up to 600 jobs. The project is slated to start by late 2025.
File Proposals for Sandakan Tourism Jetty – Tourism players in Sandakan tourism players have been urged to submit formal proposals for a dedicated tourism jetty to boost access to nearby islands. Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew emphasized the need for written submissions to MOTAC to secure funding. Liew also called for better facilities and more direct flights to prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Compiled from 5pm to 11pm.
James Ratib eyes another term as Sugut rep – Sugut Assemblyman Datuk James Ratib intends to defend his seat in the upcoming 17th state election, saying his candidacy depends on the Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah president.
Proposal for new R&R area in Sandakan- Minister of Entrepreneur Development Datuk Ewon Benedick has proposed building a Rest and Recreation (R&R) area at Mile 32 to support small entrepreneurs and road users. He clarified that the project is separate from the Pan Borneo Highway construction.
Flash floods hit Miri after heavy rain – A downpour from 2pm caused flash floods at Jalan Miri-Pujut and Jalan Cahaya. Resident Doreen Chia expressed concern over worsening flood conditions and called for urgent solutions.
Security guard acquitted of attempted rape charge – The Court of Appeal freed 32-year-old Arshad Masdin from a charge of attempting to rape a university student in 2018, overturning his earlier conviction and 13-year jail sentence.
100 dialysis machines for Sabah hospitals under consideration -Datuk James Ratib, Sabah’s Community Development Minister, said the State Cabinet is reviewing his proposal to provide 100 dialysis machines for government hospitals. Many current machines are outdated, leaving patients underserved. He also urged subsidies for low-income patients burdened by treatment costs.
CNY fires and road accidents rising, says Fire department -House fires and road accidents have increased during the past three Chinese New Year celebrations, according to Sabah Fire and Rescue deputy director Lizalman Abu. He urged greater safety measures during festivities, highlighting 45 house fires and 53 road accidents in 2024.
Sibu toy shop raided for selling fake firearms – Police arrested a toy shop owner and employee after confiscating 60 imitation firearms worth RM35,000. The case is being investigated under the Arms Act 1960, which imposes fines or imprisonment for owning or selling fake weapons.
Man placed on peace bond for machete threat -A 30-year-old man was placed on a six-month peace bond for attempting to attack his supervisor with a machete over a workplace dispute. The Magistrates’ Court convicted him under Section 67 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
Labuan studies RM22 million ferry terminal upgrade – A feasibility study for upgrading the Roll On–Roll Off (Ro-Ro) Ferry Terminal is underway, focusing on technical requirements and infrastructure improvements. The RM22 million project was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last year.
