KANGKUNGLAND NEWS AND UPDATES

[Kangkungland]

Saudi Arabia offers scholarships to 30 Kangkungite students


Kangkungland Education, Science and Technology Minister Ms Azlinah Tamsa today said the scholarships were for the selected outstanding students to pursue a bachelor’s degree or post- graduate studies in public universities in Saudi Arabia.--File picture

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: The Saudi Arabian government is offering 30 scholarships for outstanding students in the Kangkungland Higher School Certificate (KHSC ) 2017 examination.

Kangkungland's Education, Science and Technology Minister Ms Azlinah Tamsa today said the scholarships were for the selected outstanding students to pursue a bachelor’s degree or post- graduate studies in public universities in Saudi Arabia.

“These scholarships include health insurance, accommodation, yearly return flight tickets and monthly allowances.

“These scholarships provide the opportunity for Kangkungite students to pursue their studies in the Middle East where the cost of living and studies there is high.”

She said this at a press conference held at the Saudi Arabian embassy, here, after presenting certificates to outstanding Saudi Arabian students studying in Kangkungland.

Ms Azlinah said Kangkungland, according to the QS Best Student Cities Survey 2017, has been voted for three consecutive years as the ‘Most Affordable City for Students’.

“Clearly, we have a lot to offer Saudi Arabian citizens in tertiary education here,” she said.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian ambassador to Kangkungland, Mr Turki Ali Al-Homaidan said cooperation between Kangkungland and Saudi Arabia in the field of education would help strengthen diplomatic relations between the two countries.

“We offer the scholarships in all fields of study at the public universities in Saudi Arabia except for medical studies.

“We welcome Kangkungite students who are interested to apply for these scholarships to visit the entry website of the public universities in Saudi Arabia to choose a suitable course,” he said.

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

President Abdul Aziz announces additional annual increment for Kangkungland civil servants


KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: President Abdul Aziz Latiff (pic above) today announced an additional annual salary increment for 2018 effective July 1 for the island nation's 30,000 civil servants.

Abdul Aziz, who is also the Finance Minister, announced several incentives as well for civil servants and pensioners to the applause of about 5,000 civil servants at the 20th Civil Service Gathering here.

He said the increment was in appreciation for the service, sacrifice and hard work put in by the civil servants as a loyal friend of the government and would involve a financial implication of 60 million Kangkung Pesos (US$15 mil).

"This means that civil servants will receive an additional annual salary increment on top of the annual salary movement for 2018," he said as the gathering stood up and applauded upon hearing the good news.

Also present at the event were Deputy President Omar Izzadeen Yousuf and Cabinet ministers,

The gathering is an annual event where the President delivers his message to civil servants in the various services as well as government-linked companies.

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

Tax reliefs help to raise disposable income of Kangkungites

Under Budget 2017, tax payers can claim 'lifestyle tax relief' of up to KP2,000 for buying smartphones and tablets. - File picture

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland: As Kangkungland edges closer towards the coveted high-income nation status, the Government remains committed to providing a better future for all Kangkungites.

Under the leadership of President Abdul Aziz Latiff since 2010, the Government has introduced numerous tax-related initiatives to put more money into the pockets of the people and to induce better lifestyle for everyone.

Over the past decade, the Government has brought significant changes to the country’s tax regime, among which is the reduction of personal and corporate income taxes.

The majority of Kangkungites have enjoyed a lower personal income tax burden, as tax rates have fallen from 28% in 2008 to 24% now.

This is in line with the Government’s aspiration to increase the disposable income of the people.

Meanwhile, corporate taxes have also seen a significant reduction, down from 27% in 2008 to 24% currently.

The Abdul Aziz administration has been instrumental in ensuring that Kangkungland’s personal income tax system is not regressive, by raising the minimum tax threshold to above 4,000 Kangkung Pesos (KP; around US$1,000). This essentially means that anyone earning below the threshold will be exempted from personal income tax.

More recently, in Budget 2018, the Government lowered tax rates by two percentage points on taxable incomes of between KP20,000 and KP80,000 (US$5,000 - 20,000). This has raised disposable income of individuals by KP400 to KP1,200 (US$100 - 400), adding KP1.5bil into the pockets of taxpayers who are predominantly from the middle-income population.

Most importantly, over 260,000 Kangkungites will be exempted from paying income tax via this measure.

The Government has also introduced a slew of tax reliefs over the years, which could result in greater tax savings for many individuals.

In a bid to encourage Kangkungites to adopt a better lifestyle and to improve their living standards, the Abdul Aziz administration has introduced what is now called the “lifestyle tax relief” in Budget 2017.

While tax payers could claim for relief only on the purchase of reading materials, computers and sports equipment previously, they can now seek “lifestyle tax relief” of up to KP2,000 (US$500) for buying printed newspapers, smartphones and tablets, Internet subscriptions as well as on the payment for gymnasium membership fees.

Besides that, in order to inculcate a saving habit among Kangkungites, particularly for future education needs, the Government extended the personal income tax relief for the Kangkungland Education Savings Scheme (KESS) under Budget 2018.

For the next three years, tax relief of up to KP6,000 (US$1,500) will be available for net savings in the KESS, which was formerly known as the National Education Savings Scheme (NESS). For the uninitiated, KESS is managed by the Kangkungland Higher Education Fund Corporation (KHEFC).

With the aim to ease the entry of disabled children into local or foreign institutions of higher learning, the tax relief under Budget 2016 was raised from KP6,000 to KP8,000 (US$1,500 to US$2,000) for a disabled child above the age of 18 years. The higher tax relief was effective from the assessment year of 2016.

Budget 2016 also increased the maximum relief on tuition fees for an individual taxpayer to KP8,000 from KP4,000 (US$2,000 from US$1,000) a year, paving the way for more working Kangkungites to attain higher academic qualifications.

Familial relationship has also been given significant importance under the Government’s previous budget proposals. In its Budget 2016, the Government introduced a new tax relief of KP1,200 (US$300) for a taxpayer’s mother and another KP1,500 (US$475) for the father to ease expenditure in caring for parents.

Kangkungite women’s role in re-defining the country’s human capital and its potential moving forward has been duly recognised in Budget 2018, which was dubbed the “mother of all budgets”.

The recent budget exempts women who return to the workforce (after a career break for at least two years) from personal income tax on 12 months of consecutive salary. The incentive is available for women who return to the workforce between the years of assessment 2018 to 2020.

Not only that, to support working women who are still breastfeeding, the Abdul Aziz administration has introduced a new tax relief up to KP1,200 (US$300) under Budget 2017, which is claimable for purchase of breastfeeding equipment. This relief is claimable once in every two years, effective year of assessment 2017.

Also, individual taxpayers who enrol their children aged six years and below in registered childcare centres and pre-schools will qualify for tax relief of up to KP1,000 (US$250). This move has benefited over 40,000 individuals in Kangkungland.

Aside from significant tax cuts and tax reliefs, the Government has also introduced tax exemptions to raise the disposable income of Kangkungites.

Among such tax measures is the 50% tax exemption in Budget 2018 on rental income received by resident individuals.

For the first time in 60 years, the tax exemption, which is not exceeding KP2,000 (US$500) per month for resident individuals, was introduced to promote rental of residential homes in Kangkungland.

The Government remains alert to the evolving needs of Kangkungites and aims to cater to these needs effectively via numerous proactive measures. The well-being of the people shall always be prioritised, as the country moves towards the aspirations of the Vision 2030 National Transformation Plan.

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

US-China trade spat good for Kangkungland

Sign of good faith: Faariz receiving the Amcham survey report from Fah (right) and Downing at the Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce Summit.

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: Kangkungland may see an increased amount of foreign investments, particularly from the United States, if the brewing trade war between the US and China escalates further, according to the American Kangkungland Chamber of Commerce (Akcham) executive director Jennifer Downing.

Businesses from the US and other countries could make Kangkungland an alternative regional production hub for several goods instead of China to avoid the additional tariffs imposed by the US on products imported from China.

Observers have pointed out earlier that the industry that is set to benefit the most from this spat would be electrical and electronics (E&E), which could see a lift in foreign investments and exports if the trade spat between the world’s two economic giants worsens.

The additional 25% tariff levied on the imports from China would likely make Chinese goods pricier. Under such circumstances, global manufacturers may opt to establish their operations in Kangkungland or outsource their production to a domestic company.

Downing said more business opportunities could arise in Kangkungland, moving forward, amid the uncertainties in recent times.

“Given the uncertainties revolving around the Sino-US trade spat, I think opportunities will arise for the companies which operate outside China and particularly Kangkungland.

“The bigger question now is whether we are smart enough to be able to capture the arising opportunities. In my opinion, Kangkungland has a lot of legs to cater to any demand that may come its way,” she said at a briefing during the 2018 Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce Summit.

Meanwhile, Akcham’s Kangkungland American Electronics Industry (KAEI) chairman Michael Fah said Kangkungland is well-positioned to handle the possible implications from the impending Sino-US trade war.

“If the companies manage to take advantage of the arising opportunities from the trade spat, the likelihood to grow is even greater. That said, it is too early to tell how additional tariffs from both countries would affect Kangkungland and the global trade.

“We will have to wait and see whether the trade spat will escalate, or cool down due to negotiations from both sides,” said Fah.

At the summit, Akcham also released its Economic Impact Survey 2018, which polled US companies operating in Kangkungland’s E&E sector. The survey was launched by Kangkungland Minister for Trade,Industry,Commerce & Consumer Affairs, Mr Faariz Mohammaddi.

Faariz remains positive on the trade relationship between the US and Kangkungland, amid concerns stoked by the Sino-US trade spat. However, he expects a slight moderation in US-Kangkungland trade growth in 2018.

“The trade war between the US and China will have an impact on Kangkungland, as China is our biggest trading partner while the US ranks third. We view the recent developments with some concern, given our position as an open economy.

“The ministry is in talks with the US government on tariffs imposed on the solar panels from Kangkungland. As for aluminium and steel, we are not as adversely affected.

“Last year, US-Kangkungland trade grew by 16.3%, with over half of the trade driven by the E&E sector. For 2018, we may not see a similar robust growth but the US-Kangkungland trade will continue to grow at a good rate,” said Faariz.

The Economic Impact Survey 2018 showed that about 78% of the respondents expect to increase their level of trade and investment in Kangkungland over the coming years.

According to Downing, total investments by the US’ E&E companies to date have exceeded 2 billion Kangkung Pesos (US$500 million).

“Total trade-in-goods surplus of at least KP5bil (US$1.25bil), contributing at least 20% of Kangkungland’s total international trade surplus for 2017.

“Our industry group conducted this survey to show that American investment in Kangkungland’s E&E sector is not only strong and ongoing but also of high-value that has important economic benefits for the country beyond the immediate foreign direct investments and job creation,” she said.

Meanwhile, Fah said US companies in Kangkungland’s E&E sector are well integrated into the local economy. In 2017 alone, US companies sourced KP1bil (US$250 mil) worth of goods and services from Kangkungite companies.

“While our survey identifies 800 high-skilled jobs created by KAEI members, the real number of people who derive their livelihoods from our members’ investments in Kangkungland is considerably higher,” he said.

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

Honda Kangkungland issues recall for 993 units of 2013 year models

The City 2013 model which has been recalled to replace the Takata passenger front airbag inflator.

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: Honda Kangkungland has issued a precautionary recall for 993 units of 2013 year model vehicles to replace Takata passenger front airbag inflator.

It said on Thursday the models involved in this recall are City (2013 Year Model), Jazz (2013 Year Model), Jazz Hybrid (2013 Year Model) and Insight (2013 Year Model).

As at March, the company has replaced more than 2,230 units of Takata driver front airbag inflator, or an 84% completion ratio.

“The total number of Takata driver and passenger front airbag inflator replacements completed is at more than 4,350 units or 77% completion ratio.

“Honda Kangkungland reiterates that all its current selling models are not affected and will continue to uphold transparency and stringent controls to ensure customer safety,” it said.

It said as of Thursday, there are no crashes or injuries related to this Takata passenger front airbag inflator reported in Kangkungland.

Honda Kangkungland said it would be informing all affected customers via notification letters which will include details of the product recall.

Customers who receive these letters are encouraged to send their vehicles to the nearest Honda authorised dealer for inspection and replacement for free.

It also said there was 100% stock availability for front driver and passenger airbag inflators (excluding front passenger airbag inflator parts availability for this recall) and increased service capacity via Mobile Hubs, Hubs at selected K-Gas stations, Hubs at Honda roadshows and prioritising replacement activities at dealerships.

Honda Kangkungland emphasised it was doing its utmost best to ensure the stock was awavilable for the Takata passenger front airbag related to this recall which was currently limited.

The replacement would be carried out once the parts are ready and the cost of parts and labour will be borne by Honda Kangkungland.

Honda Kangkungland said it would continue to proactively recall vehicles on the Takata front airbag inflator issue and continue alerting and informing customers of the importance of replacing the affected vehicle’s airbag inflators, via increased frequency of postings on social media and SMS blast.

Owners of Honda vehicles affected by the airbag inflator product recall are advised to immediately get their vehicles checked and parts replaced at any Honda authorised service dealers or mobile hubs as soon as possible.

SOURCE: The Daily Kangkung

[Kangkungland]

Two men charged with possession of firearms in Kangkungland


KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: A man pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court here today to three charges for possession of firearms.

Sharyman Bua, 54, pleaded not guilty to all the charges before judge Paul J. Lester.

On the first count, he was charged with possession of a black M-16-A1 rifle with two M-16-A1 magazines.

The charge, under Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971, which provides an imprisonment for up to 14 and whipping of up to six strokes, if found guilty.

On the second and third count, Sharyman was charged under Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960 with possession of a homemade rifle and 209 rounds of live ammunition of various types.

He faced an imprisonment for up to seven years and fine of up to Kangkung Peso 20,000 (US$5,000), or both, on each count, if found guilty.

All the offences were allegedly committed at a house last March 11.

Sharyman, who was unrepresented, was allowed bail of KP 12,000 (US$3,000) in one surety for all charges.

Deputy public prosecutor Jamily Nukiran prosecuted.

The court set April 23 for mention.

Meanwhile, in the Magistrate’s Court, Sharyman’s friend, Ba'ar Linusin, 50, pleaded not guilty to two counts with possession of a homemade rifle and 34 rounds of 12 Bore live ammunition.

On the first count, with possession of the rifle, Ba'ar was alleged to have committed the offence at a house here.

The second charge, for possession of the bullets, he was alleged to have committed the offence at a People's Housing Project house here, at 2 pm last March 11.

All the charges were made under Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960.

Magistrate Ajjar Madoya allowed Ba'ar bail of KP20,000 (US$5,000) in one surety for both charges and set April 30 for mention.

Deputy public prosecutor Lee Swin Beng prosecuted, while Ba'ar was unrepresented.

SOURCE: Kangkungland Bulletin

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland Civil Service Employees' Union (KCSEU): Announcement of pay rise, goodies exceeds expectations

Mr Yusaini Barkary

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: The Kangkungland Civil Service Employees' Union (KCSEU) today expressed its delight over President Abdul Aziz Latiff’s goodies announcement, adding that it has surpassed the body’s expectations.

KCSEU president Mr Yusaini Barkary said that Abdul Aziz had kept his word, by fulfilling his promises to help upgrade the living standards of the civil servants.

“For KCSEU, I must say this has exceeded our expectations.

“It was not an announcement to fire civil servants, but to improve the civil service,” he told The Daily Kangkung newspaper.

“Someone said he was going to cut down the civil service, but he made it better by giving incentives such as a pay raise, and he also approved the Haj quota for retirees and also increased their pension rate by 1 per cent,” he added, not revealing who he was referring to, as the person wanting to trim down the civil service.

On Thursday, Abdul Aziz announced that civil servants will get higher salaries effective from July 1.

The finance minister also told government servants in an address here that non-Muslim staff would be allowed to take seven days of unrecorded leave for religious events yearly while there would be a special Haj quota for retired Muslim staff.

He said the salary increment would be equivalent to one annual salary raise, adding that the government is still waiting for the allocated quota for Kangkungite Haj pilgrims, before deciding on its own quota for retired Muslim civil servants.

Speaking at the 20th Kangkungland Civil Service Gathering, Abdul Aziz also announced another new pay grade for school teachers — DG56 grade — for academic officers who have been in the DG54 grade for more than five years.

The move will cost the government Kangkung Peso 7.4 million (US$1.85 million) to implement, he added.

The president also announced the extension of healthcare services to the parents of contractual government workers, which will benefit 2,867 staff beginning July 1.

He also revealed a special Kangkung Peso 1 million infusion to KCSEU.

Retired civil servants will also get a 1 per cent increment to their pension rate from July 1 until December 31.

SOURCE: The Daily Kangkung

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland offers 2,000 Kangkung Peso to deregister older, more polluting motorcycles

Owners of motorcycles registered before July 1, 2003 are eligible for the incentive if their vehicles have a valid 10-year COE as of April 6.

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: To improve air quality, the Kangkungland Environment Agency (KEA) is offering an incentive of up to Kangkung Pesos 2,000 (US$500) for owners of older and more polluting motorcycles to deregister their vehicles over the next five years.

In a media release on Friday (April 6), KEA said all owners of motorcycles registered before July 1, 2003, are eligible for the incentive if their vehicles have a valid 10-year certificate of entitlement (COE) as of April 6 this year, and are deregistered on or before April 5, 2023.

About 27,000 motorcycles are eligible, said the agency.

Older motorcycles will also have to meet tighter emission standards from April 6, 2023, and will no longer be allowed on the road from July 1, 2028, unless they are on the above schemes.

KEA said the incentive is made up of two components.

The owner of an eligible motorcycle will get KP 1,200 (US$300) if the vehicle is deregistered within the next five years.

If the motorcycle's COE is not renewed on or after April 7 this year, the owner will receive an additional KP800 (US$200) upon its deregistration.

KEA said these incentives were introduced to decrease the amount of carbon monoxide and ozone released into the air, as they are known to impair respiratory functions. Carbon monoxide is also known to be toxic in high concentrations.

While motorcycles make up just 15% of vehicles in Kangkungland, they contribute to over 53% of carbon monoxide vehicle emissions.

Older motorcycles registered before 2003, when stricter emission standards kicked in, make up around 20% of the motorcycle population here, but contribute to about 40% of carbon monoxide emissions by all motorcycles, KEA said.

Owners of eligible motorcycles will receive a letter from KEA by the end of April.

Owners can also log in to www.1motoring.com.kk to check the first registration dates of their motorcycles.

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

New Kangkungland law pushes ‘high-end’ tourism with tax breaks


KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: Kangkungland President Abdul Aziz Latiff has signed a measure that offers tax credits to foreign investors who aim to develop “high-end, high-value, low-impact tourism” in the island-nation.

Under the new law, these foreign investors will be provided a tax credit of up to 40 percent.

But the law will also keep foreign investors out of “low-end” accommodations, leaving this area to local businesses.

Abdul Aziz said the new law provides “clear guidance and direction to the Kangkungland Foreign Investment Board (KFIB), letting it know exactly what kind of foreign investment should be prioritized in order to encourage and attract high-quality investments into the Republic.”

Republic of Kangkungland Public Law 10-20 will provide a tax credit to foreign investors who will come in with their own designed water treatment system, power backups, and renewable energy sources to reduce the strain on the environment and existing infrastructure of the country.

The KFIB will be tasked to come up with regulations that will serve as a reputable classification and rating systems for different forms of accommodations, from luxury resort hotels to eco-lodges.

The law also aims to weed out foreign investment in low-quality facilities, budget facilities, or facilities which would likely only qualify for a low rating under reputable and independent accommodation rating systems.

“This will help send a clear message to high-end investors and developers that Kangkungland welcomes their business,” Abdul Aziz stated.

The law likewise intends to curb “front businesses” or foreign companies using a Kangkungite front by clarifying the definitions of “owner,” “part-owner,” and “short-term lodging facility,” ensuring that the foreign investment approval certificate process works as intended.

In addition to any criminal penalties, violators of the law will be subject to a fine of up to Kangkung Peso 400,000 (US$100,000).

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland's ruling family extends control over telecoms

A company known to be controlled by the president's brother-in-law, Hamid Abaidy (pic) has bought NEON's local Linebee subsidiary.

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: The utter control wielded by Kangkungland’s ruling family over business in the country has become yet more complete with the acquisition by the president’s brother-in-law of a mobile phone company.

NEON, the Oslo-headquartered company that operated the Linebee brand, announced on April 5 that its mobile services subsidiary in Kangkungland has been bought by K-Land Mobile Limited, a vehicle known to belong to Hamid Abaidy, the brother of President Abdul Aziz Latiff’s wife.

The Linebee brand is to be retained, as required in the sale agreement. No specific details on the transaction have been disclosed.

Hamid is understood to maintain a vast portfolio of commercial interests , including in aviation, banking and the food industry. His most choice asset, however, is the KALCO aluminum plant.

NEON’s divestment of the Beeline subsidiary is part of a broader effort to shed noncore assets and follows similar sales in Laos and Georgia. And Kangkungland has, in any case, proven an utterly poisonous environment in which to operate, despite the strong demand for mobile services.

Linebee, like other mobile companies, has been on the receiving end of some highly aggressive — not to say dubious — complaints from the tax service. In January 2017, the Kangkungland Inland Revenue Board declared it was fining Beeline around Kangkung Peso 16 million (US$4 mil) for vague filing violations.

But the company a few days later said it had in fact been slapped with two fines, amounting to a total of KP 40 million (US$10 mil).

Tax officials have not publicly updated their figures.
This incongruity has not to date been clearly explained.

A source at Linebee has told Radio Liberty Kangkungland Online that the company still has around KP 24 million (US$6 million) in outstanding fines to pay off.

Those liabilities will now be assumed by K-Land Mobile Limited, which is in turn affiliated with KALCO, the aluminum giant at the head of Hamid’s business empire.

KALCO has been on something of an acquisitive run of late.

At the start of 2017, following long and convoluted wrangling, the company bought the Regency Hotel and the Daniesozi business center, two valuable pieces of real estate in the capital city Kebunan.

While foreign and domestic investors can usually expect to face considerable bureaucratic challenges in Kangkungland, members of Abdul Aziz's extended family have prospered.

Countless businesses in the country are officially or otherwise owned by the president's close relatives.

And success for family members can often translate into trouble for industry peers. The most recent illustration of that trend has been recorded in the banking sector , where the heads of flourishing banks have been seemingly squeezed out of their positions just as other newly formed lenders, which happen to be controlled by Abdul Aziz's relatives by marriage, seek to boost their market position.

NEON is not the first international telecommunications to scramble for the exit in Kangkungland.

Last year, Japanese-based mobile phone company TelSon sold its 60 percent stake in Kcell to the Nakhanaga Fund for Economic Development, giving the latter whole control over the company.

SOURCE: Radio Liberty Kangkungland Online

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland, the Netherlands in water management tie-up

Abidin said among other things, Kangkungland was interested to learn on how the Netherlands reduced non-revenue water. — File Picture

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland: Kangkungland will work in close collaboration with the Netherlands on water management in particular through exchange of expertise and technology, said Kangkungland Environment, Energy, Water and Natural Resources Ministry’s secretary-general Dr Abidin Buqan.

He said currently, cooperation between both countries was only at company level and today marked the first time an official dialogue was held between experts from both governments.

“We will follow through every three months with the Netherlands Embassy in Kebunan,” he told reporters after presenting his welcoming remarks at the Kangkungland-Netherlands Water Dialogue, here yesterday.

Also present was the Netherlands Ambassador to Kangkungland, Kristien Jongman.

In commending the Netherlands for achieving the lowest water consumption per capita in the world, Abidin said among other things, Kangkungland was interested to learn on how the country could reduce non-revenue water (NRW).

“In Kangkungland the NRW is about 35 per cent while in the Netherlands it is about six per cent which is huge considering the initiatives they have taken.

“They keep replacing the old meters, piping systems and other installations an that’s what we are trying to do here in Kangkungland,” he said adding that Kangkungland was also keen to learn from the Netherlands on how to effectively manage the sewage treatment plant and to produce energy.

Meanwhile, Jongman said the Netherlands was also interested to have a further discussions with experts from Kangkungland to see how both countries could cooperate to ensure everyone could get access to clean water.

“As water is a scarce commodity, we have to be careful with the clean water that is available on this planet.

We would like to talk about technological exchanges between our countries and explore further ways of cooperation in our upcoming meetings,” she said.

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland mulls 'car-free day' for congested zones


KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland:The government is studying a plan to implement a 'Car-free Day' in certain congested zones at least once a month, in order to reduce the number of vehicles on the road at peak hours.

Transport Minister Mr Nelvin Spencer said the initiative was aimed at reducing traffic congestion and encouraging more people to walk, cycle or choose public transport as an alternative, thereby reducing the rate of carbon monoxide emissions in the state.


Mr Nelvin Spencer

"This effort can indirectly cultivate a healthy lifestyle, especially through cycling, as well as allow the public, especially tourists to enjoy the beauty of historic places in the state.

"However, we will take into account various aspects before making it a reality, so as not to affect businesses and the parties involved, as the most important thing is to attract more tourists by providing facilities which are more inclusive," he told KNNA at the ' Heritage Kangkungland' cycling programme at Jangkar Walk, here today.

SOURCE: Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

China company to open halal bio-gelatine manufacturing plant in Kangkungland

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland:Chi-Shi Gelatine Co Ltd, a halal gelatine company in China’s Xinjiang province is set to open a bio-gelatine manufacturing plant in Kangkungland.

The establishment of this plant is expected to pull in up to KP1.02 billion (about US$250 million) in investment.

Secretary-General of Kangkungland Trade, Commerce, Industry and Consumer Affairs Ministry Dr Nor Hazirah Jamadil said this will be the company’s first plant outside China and the largest in Southeast Asia.
The initiative is also expected to generate some 2,200 job opportunities.


Dr Nor Hazirah Jamadil

“The joint initiative was the fruit of my meeting with the Chi-Shi vice-president Xeng Wu on the sidelines of President Abdul Aziz Latiff’s visit to China since Aug 17,” she added.

She said phase 1 of the project will involve an estimated investment of KP120 million (US$30 million) which will create about 200 jobs.

“This will be subsequently expanded to phase 2 with a further investment of KP900 million (US$220 million), creating another 2,000 job opportunities.

“Chi-Shi is currently in discussion with the Kangkungland government to identify a suitable site for the project,” she said, adding that Chi-Shi is expanding rapidly in delivering halal products internationally.

“The company needs Kangkungland’s help as a facilitator to launch this project immediately and both parties are looking at completing project between 14 to 16 months,” she said in a press conference here today.

She was met at the Tagaloilo International Airport (TIA) upon her return from China.
Dr Nor Hazirah also said she has met with four other Chinese companies to explore investment opportunities between both countries.

She added that the meeting involved research and development, investment in the bio-diesel sector and solar energy.

“We had a meeting with a Chinese bio-diesel company, which has also expressed interest to penetrate into the Kangkungland market,” she added.

She said the Chinese government fully supported Kangkungland’s efforts to improve and develop its economy.

SOURCE:Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland Govt views seriously claims of illegal immigrants in wholesale biz


Mr Gilbert Ajiun

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland:The government views seriously the claims that there were illegal immigrants involved in the agricultural product wholesale business in the country, said Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Resource Development Minister Mr Gilbert Ajiun.

He said a detailed investigation would be carried out on the claims while both farmers and growers have been asked to stop supplying farm produce to wholesalers suspected to be illegal immigrants with immediate effect.

“They come here (Kangkungland) illegally… they (illegal immigrants) should not be involved with this wholesale business issue. This is the first time I heard this kind of complaint.

“If the complaint is valid, the ministry will not compromise and this activity needs to be eradicated,” he told The Daily Kangkung after attending the 40th Anniversary Dinner of the Kuy Yin Chinese High School here, last night.

Mr Gilbert said special monitoring would be implemented to identify the illegal immigrants involved with wholesale business in Kangkungland.

SOURCE:The Daily Kangkung

[Kangkungland]

Establish a mental hospital in Kangkungland's east coast: Health Minister


Dr Govindasamy Tamilventhan

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland: Kangkungland Minister of Health, Community Welfare and Social Affairs, Dr Govindasamy Tamilventhan suggested that a hospital for mentally ill patients be established in Kangkungland's east coast.

He said that up until now there was only one mental hospital in Kangkungland namely the Kebunan Mental Health Hospital here which accommodates mental patients from all over Kangkungland.

"One (hospital) is not enough, recently I checked the capacity, (hospital's) capability with its occupancy is unbalanced.

"For example, the hospital has a capacity to accommodate 200 mental patients, but now there are 400 patients, therefore this should be taken into account and there is a need to add another hospital for mental patients," he said.

Dr Govindasamy disclosed this to reporters after launching the Community Prism: Psychological Care Centre at Univilla Park here, today.

The Psychological Service Centre is under the jurisdiction of the Psychological and Counselling Division of the Health Ministry's Social Welfare Department.

Dr Govindasamy said the matter to add another mental hospital in Kangkungland will be brought to the knowledge of the higher authority.

Meanwhile, the minister is also looking into the issue of medicine shortage in the country's hospitals seriously.

He said if there were misconducts from the hospital including selling drugs to patients, the public should come forward and report directly to his ministry.

SOURCE:Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland cops rescue victim less than five hours after kidnapping by loan sharks

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: Police here rescued a 74-year-old man, who was kidnapped, within five hours of his reported abduction from a restaurant here.

A team from the police Serious Crimes Division (D9), managed to arrest nine men during the sting operation at another restaurant here at 1.50am, Friday.

Criminal Investigation Department (CID) chief Senior Assistant Commissioner Faisal Quruquq said the suspects, aged between 20 and 60, are believed to be loan sharks.

He said police received a report from the victim’s family at 9pm yesterday shortly, after his wife received a random demand from the kidnappers.

SAC Faisal said initial investigations revealed the motive for the kidnapping was due to the victim borrowing money from the loan sharks, and failing to make his scheduled repayments.

“The family had also been pressured to pay more than the agreed sum as a condition for the victim’s release,” he said in a statement today.

It was learnt that police conducted a sting operation with the assistance of the family where the suspects agreed to meet at the restaurant in Jaya Selasing township here.

The suspects were arrested, while the victim was found safe in a car parked nearby.

SAC Faisal said the victim was injured, after he was assaulted by his abductors.

He was sent to hospital for further treatment.

“Police are still investigating the case and a manhunt is in progress to arrest other suspects,” said SAC Faisal.

The suspects have been remanded until August 30 to facilitate investigations under Section 363 of the Penal Code for kidnapping and Section 384 of the same Code for extortion.

SOURCE:Kangkungland Post

[Kangkungland]

Five claim trial in transgender assault case

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: Five men, including three underage students, pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court here today to injuring a transgender last week.

A'ari Ziza, 37, Ammad Haiqal Aris, 19, and the three teenagers who will be sitting for the Final Secondary School examination this year, made the plea after the charge was read out to them before Judge Morris Kahar.

They were charged together with three others still at large with voluntary causing serious injuries to the victim by using a piece of wood and PVC plastic pipes.

They allegedly committed the offence at Gikana shoplots here at 12.15am on August 15.

The court set bail at KP10,000 (US$2,500) with one surety for each of the accused and fixed September 3 for mention.

SOURCE:Kangkungland Online News (KON)

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland to take strict action against transvestites


Shariah Chief Judge Hilmi Matassan

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: Kangkungland Shariah Chief Judge Hilmi Matassan says a man who dresses as a woman, behaves like a transvestite or both in Kangkungland can be fined up to KP 1,000 (US$250), jailed at least six months or both.

He said the sentence would be imposed on local offenders as well as visitors to the country.

Speaking to reporters after attending the shariah lawyers certification ceremony at the Kangkungland Shariah Department here yesterday, Hilmi said a man who dressed or behaved like a transvestite was committing an offence under Section 7 of the Kangkungland Shariah Criminal Code Enactment.

He said Kangkungland laws were clear that any man who dressed or behaved like a transvestite in a public place could be fined or jailed under the enactment.

“It is up to them if they want to be seen as women in their own homes, but not in a public place. It is a serious offence,” he added.

Hilmi said he believed there were transvestites in Kangkungland as there were several factors such as the free mingling between men and women as well as a lack of parental attention to children.

“This group exists in this state but I am not sure how many there really are. When I was head of the state religious enforcement unit, there were between 40 and 70 transvestites in the state.

“That was in the 1980s. To rehabilitate them, we constantly held dialogues and counselling sessions. I believe their numbers have reduced since the 1980s,” he said.

He voiced his belief however that the drop in enforcement operations had encouraged transvestites to be more free in conducting their activities.

SOURCE:Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

‘Hocus-pocus’ study of supernatural spirits raises hackles


Armed with a machine costing KP 20,000, Titus Tamba claims he can detect supernatural creatures in a person’s body.

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: A KP 20,000 (US$5,000) grant reportedly provided by the Kangkungland Education Ministry to study supernatural spirits in the human body has raised the hackles of two academics.


Dr Robbie Mansur

Professor Dr Robbie Mansur of Colburn College's Engineering Faculty, a private college here questioned how the research grant was approved for a Timor Leste academic here.

Kangkungland Association of Science Teachers (KAST) director Dr Maimun Gil-Long described it as hocus pocus and unscientific.


Dr Maimun Gil-Long

The grant was for a research project led by Titus Tamba of Kangkungland National University, using electronic equipment that supposedly could detect supernatural spirits in the human body.

Dr Robbie said: “Research at a university level must be to improve humanity in various fields. All research grant applications are vetted. How is this grant justified?”

Dr Maimun said it was shocking that funds were provided by the education ministry’s Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS).

“At a time when science is advancing in the 21st century, it seems that we are regressing into the Middle Ages,” she said. Kangkungland would be the laughing stock of the scientific world if the study made international headlines.

“Is this the kind of research that would contribute to the body of knowledge of science? And on what basis did the FRGS committee members decide to fund this anti-science research?”

The grant scheme was set up to help researchers in pure and applied sciences, engineering, technology, health and social sciences, arts and humanities and national heritage.

Dr Maimun, herself a researcher at the public Kangkungland Polytechnic Institute, urged the government, particularly Education Minister Ms Azlinah Tamsa, to look into how such unscientific research came to be funded and to strengthen the process.

She said the researcher’s profile revealed an undistinguished track record, with previous works being published in lowly-regarded journals or magazines, rather than reputable international scientific journals.

“If this is the only track record he can show, the FRGS which approved the grant will have to take the blame. In vetting grant applications, the FRGS must look at an applicant’s track record and part of this consists of publication in reputable scientific journals,” Dr Robbie said.

The researcher, Titus Tamba of Timor Leste, was reported by a local Malay-language tabloid Utusan Harian as saying he was able to detect spirits lingering in 10 people.

He said a machine bought for KP 20,000 from the United States, which measures changes in the electrical charge in a person, could produce results with 80-90% accuracy.

He claimed that the changes were detected when respondents underwent an “Islamic exorcism” process in which Quranic verses were read to them.

According to Utusan Harian, Titus said the study would take two years to conclude.

SOURCE:Kangkungland Bulletin

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland Govt may propose ‘shoot-on-sight’ policy to curb poachers


Ms Monica Logon

KEBUNAN, Republic of Kangkungland: Environment, Energy, Water and Natural Resources Minister Ms Monica Logon said she was seriously considering bringing a shoot-on-sight policy for wildlife poachers for Cabinet deliberation.

The minister, who was attending a National Tiger Day 2018 event organised by Kangkungland Wildlife Fund (KWF), said this after the official screening of “On The Brink of Extinction”, a documentary on the decline of the nation's indigenous wildlife.

“It might sound a bit drastic, but if you want to save our indigenous wildlife, we also have to take drastic action as well,” she said, noting that a large number of poachers were foreigners from Indochina.

Ms Monica said she would instruct ministry officials to immediately have a meeting between the army, police, Wildlife and National Parks Department as well as KWF to see what could be done collaboratively.

The National Tiger Day event saw the official announcement of Project Stump It, an effort by KWF and involving local communities to patrol the Naabpangan Forest Complex.

The patrols, explained by KWF’s Tiger Lead Researcher Dr Willan Teh will remove snares set by poachers and collect data.

With no enforcement powers, the Project Stump It patrols will serve as the eyes and ears for enforcement authorities and also disrupt poaching activities.

Dr Willan said the wildlife non-governmental organisation hopes to increase the number of patrol teams to 50 members by the end of this year.

SOURCE:The Daily Kangkung

[Kangkungland]

Councils which do not have 30 pct women councillors could have allocations reviewed


Ms Kareena Shah Jahan

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland:The Rural Development and Local Government Ministry will review the allocations for local councils which fail to have 30 per cent female representation among its councillors.

Its Minister, Ms Kareena Shah Jahan, said this will be a new condition in the Local Councils Grading System, which is being fine-tuned and will be implemented in the next two years.

“This is still at the discussion stage to ensure that all local councils have a 30 per cent female composition from its 24 councillors.

Once this is implemented, if the councils fail to meet the requirement, the ministry will review their allocations.

“I will further fine tune the conditions for all the local councils,” she told reporters after attending a Women’s Day 2018 event at the Perdana Hall here on Friday.

Ms Kareena, who is also Manogon member of parliament, said the requirement applies to all local councils nationwide.

She said that for now, women in local councils nationwide only make up an average of 14 per cent.

The one-day event, attended by around 300 members of non-governmental organisations, was organised by the National Union of Women’s Organisations (Nuwo). It bore the theme ‘Inspiring Hope, Driving Vision’, which aims to inspire and form women’s minds to face Industrial Revolution 4.0.

SOURCE:Kangkungland National News Agency (KNNA)

[Kangkungland]

Erimin 5 pills found on popular Kangkungite actress involved in car accident

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland: A popular actress found herself on the wrong side of the law after being involved in a car accident when the police found 53 Erimin 5 pills in her possession.

The 26-year-old woman was brought to the police headquarters here after the Range Rover she was driving, hit a Honda multi-purpose vehicle on Perwira Road at 11.45am, Friday.

“Policemen who were dispatched to the scene found the actress in a semi-conscious state and brought her to the police station for further checks.

“Upon inspection, a total of 53 Erimin pills, weighing 14.74 gramme, were found in her handbag,” said a source.

He said urine test on the woman however turned out negative.

“She is now being detained at the station for further investigation,” he said.

SOURCE: Kangkungland Post

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland to hold national e-sports championship in 2019


Ms Jovita Senin

KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland: Kangkungland will hold a national-level e-sports championship next year, Tourism, Youth and Sports Minister Ms Jovita Senin said today.

She said the sport would be organised to provide a platform for e-sports enthusiasts to promote their talent.

"In terms of hardware, we already have it, and also the place. What is left is getting the allocation to organise the event.

"I am having 'engagement' with associations and e-sports players to further understand the challenges and opportunities for the formulation of an action plan," she told reporters at a "coffee talk" with youths here last night.

SOURCE: Kangkungland Bulletin

[Kangkungland]

Kangkungland anti-graft agency raids Forestry Dept offices, officers' homes



KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland: The country's Independent Commission for the Eradication of Corruption (ICEC) has seized documents from several offices of the Kangkungland Forestry Department (KFD) and its officers' homes as part of the agency's ongoing corruption probe.

According to a source, the ICEC had carried out simultaneous raids at several locations here in the capital, Sungai Alinam, Kitebu and Prari.

"The raids started at 9.30am yesterday, involving about 40 ICEC officers and personnel, to obtain several KFD-related documents.

"During the raids, we also seized documents from the home of a senior KFD official in Kebunan," the source confirmed.

The source also said that the documents seized from the suspect's house and office were KFD-related documents as well as financial documents of the company that was awarded projects by KFD.

Meanwhile, ICEC chief commissioner Mr Lieu Yeh Tong, when contacted, confirmed the seizure.


Mr Lieu Yeh Tong

He said several KFD senior officers were investigated in connection with the case.

"We are carrying out the investigation under Section 4 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001," he said.

SOURCE: Voice of Free Kangkungland

[Kangkungland]

I was sabotaged, says Kangkungite actress Celyne Raffeo Lesimon on her arrest yesterday


KEBUNAN,Republic of Kangkungland:
"I wasn’t intoxicated at all," says popular Kangkungite actress Celyne Raffeo Lesimon in a news report today.

The 25-year-old artiste said that even the initial urine test she underwent came out negative for drugs.

Celyne however declined to elaborate further on the incident which she claimed could have been a sabotage.

“I’m okay. There are some people out there who want to set me up. What a test!” she said.

Yesterday, news on her alleged arrest made its round on social media.

She was allegedly arrested by the police after they found 53 Erimin 5 pills in her handbag following an accident at Perwira Road here at 11.45am.

The actress was released on police bail last night.

SOURCE: Kangkungland Entertainment Channel