wow, banyak suda saya nampak thread tempat2 d sabah ni. nda silap ada 3 ka soo saya mau tambah lagi 1 thread tempat di sabah ni jadi ada 4 la semuanya hehehe...

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Labuan (Jawi: لابوان) is the main island of the Malaysian Federal Territory of Labuan. Labuan is best known as an offshore financial centre and a tourist destination for nearby Bruneians and scuba divers. The name Labuan derives from the Malay word labuhan meaning anchorage.

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The Federal Territory comprises Labuan Island (75 km²) and six other smaller islands (Pulau Burung, Pulau Daat, Pulau Kuraman, Pulau Papan, Pulau Rusukan Kecil, and Pulau Rusukan Besar) that, together with Labuan, have an area of 92 km². The islands lie 8 km off the coast of Borneo adjacent to the Malaysian state of Sabah and the independent State of Brunei Darussalam and are on the northern edge of Brunei Bay facing the South China Sea. Labuan is mainly flat and undulating and the highest point is only 85 metres. More than 70 percent of the island is still covered with vegetation.

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Bandar Labuan, formerly known as Victoria, is the major town and port and faces Brunei Bay.

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a view of Labuan skyscraper from labuan square....

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Labuan history shipwreck sites.

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Labuan's places of interest.

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City center

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Labuan Waterfront

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Labuan Financial Park

The Labuan War Cemetery is located on the small Island of Labuan situated in Brunei Bay off the north west coast of Borneo. It is on high ground close to the airport overlooking the harbour. It is the only war cemetery in North Borneo and was specially created as a cemetery for deceased POW's from all over Borneo.

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After the war in 1945, the remains of many unidentifiable POW's were found along the route of the infamous march from Sandakan to Ranau - (Ranau being more than 257 kilometres inland from Sandaken). These remains and others taken from scattered graves throughout Borneo were taken to a then existing cemetery in Sandakan which was already laden with a large number of POW graves. However this primary burial ground was in a flat sea coast area and at certain times was liable to heavy flooding which for obvious reason made it impractical to continue using it as a cemetery. Therefore the War Cemetery on the Island of Labuan was created and all the deceased from the Sandakan cemetery were transferred.

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Labuan Sheraton, the leading 4 star hotel in Labuan.

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Any new pics of the new ferry terminal? It's been a while I haven't been there. Things there mahal lah except for some duty free stuffs like chocs.

Any new pics of the new ferry terminal? It's been a while I haven't been there. Things there mahal lah except for some duty free stuffs like chocs.

http://www.atsa.com.my/sw_09.asp >>> I dunno this site you had been before, but, i hope this site post the latest pic of the ferry terminal.

What?? Mahal?? Hahaha...people visit they juz to buy choco and wine. Other things they won't buy.

Any new pics of the new ferry terminal? It's been a while I haven't been there. Things there mahal lah except for some duty free stuffs like chocs.


this ferry terminal looks soooOO grand from both internal and external. it seems to be like airport terminal.

this ferry terminal looks soooOO grand from both internal and external. it seems to be like airport terminal.

yes, the new Ferry terminal is outstanding and so great....

Bart, actually Labuan is one of two Malaysia's Federal territories (the other one is Kuala Lumpur), however this island has its own administration, so it's not part of SABAH state. :)

^^ so, any pics of the ferry terminal??

Any new pics of the new ferry terminal? It's been a while I haven't been there. Things there mahal lah except for some duty free stuffs like chocs.

here you go.... but i only have 1 pic of the ferry terminal....

http://www.123mycodes.com/image-editor/images/endresults/45adabddab131.jpg

here you go.... but i only have 1 pic of the ferry terminal....

http://www.123mycodes.com/image-editor/images/endresults/45adabddab131.jpg

i can't see the pic :(

Good thread created.... since labuan is the 2nd duty free island in malaysia.

This island must be very peaceful like langkawi.... since ahchuan posted the 4 wreck dive sites map. sure will go diving 1 day....

Forumers, anything special in Labuan island beside of duty free? Can somebody introduce Labuan island??

Bart, actually Labuan is one of two Malaysia's Federal territories (the other one is Kuala Lumpur), however this island has its own administration, so it's not part of SABAH state. :)

There are THREE federal territories in Malaysia lah: Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and ..... Putrajaya.

Can someone change the thread title to just "Labuan"?

Labuan hab industri gas, minyak


LABUAN: Kerajaan komited dalam memajukan Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan menjadi setanding negeri lain, sejajar perkembangan pesat pulau itu yang berada di tengah-tengah laluan perkapalan rantau ini.Menteri Wilayah Persekutuan, Datuk Zulhasnan Rafique, berkata Labuan berpotensi menjadi pusat perkapalan atas faktor perairan laut dalamnya.

"Kedudukan itu menjadikannya berpeluang cerah muncul sebagai hab industri gas dan minyak serta makanan halal di rantau ini.

"Perkembangan itu berupaya membawa pulangan lumayan kepada pelbagai sektor merangkumi perniagaan, pelancongan, pengangkutan, penginapan dan restoran.

"Sehubungan itu, kerajaan merangka pelbagai dasar bagi memastikan pembangunan di Labuan terus rancak supaya ekonomi negara dan Labuan dapat dijana," katanya merasmikan sambutan Hari Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan ke-23 di Dataran Labuan, malam kelmarin.

Hadir sama Timbalannya, Datuk Wira Abu Seman Yusof; Ahli Parlimen Labuan merangkap Pengerusi Perbadanan Labuan, Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Perbadanan Labuan, Datuk Basiran Saban.

Zulhasnan berkata, kerajaan melakukan perancangan teliti dalam melaksanakan pelan pembangunan di ketiga-tiga Wilayah Persekutuan secara sistematik dengan mengambil kira keperluan serta kehendak masyarakat.

"Hasilnya, pembangunan pesat dan mapan dapat dinikmati semua pihak di ketiga-tiga lokasi," katanya.

Beliau turut meminta semua agensi kerajaan bersatu dalam memantapkan sistem penyampaian perkhidmatan masing-masing dan terus berusaha mengurangkan karenah birokrasi supaya keperluan warga Wilayah Persekutuan dipenuhi.

Shading Trees
by Wingless Fay

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Woww....Labuan so long din updates liao....thx bart.

Nice photos...seem like Labuan very peace la...hahaha...

Bart...do you hav any pics of the matrikulasi??

yup, i luv labuan for it's peace and tranquility. nope....... sorry la ahh..... but i take it on my next visit there...... and the marina project pics of course

There are THREE federal territories in Malaysia lah: Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and ..... Putrajaya.

Can someone change the thread title to just "Labuan"?

Originally it was part of SABAH, and therefore i guess even under federal territories now...many Labuan people still have a heart of SABAHAN. However, no matter what we are all Malaysian....:) never mind lah PutraMaya ! :lol:

Woww....Labuan so long din updates liao....thx bart.

Nice photos...seem like Labuan very peace la...hahaha...

Bart...do you hav any pics of the matrikulasi??

you got an offer to enter Matriculation?? congratz!!

^^ Wah...how you noe I kena pilih masuk de??? So clever!!! Wait, or Pablo tell you tht???

Btw..thx. I have long for this campus. YES!!!

^^ Wah...how you noe I kena pilih masuk de??? So clever!!! Wait, or Pablo tell you tht???

Btw..thx. I have long for this campus. YES!!!

you did mention that you are going to Labuan to study in another thread. so i guess you got accepted into Matriculation when you mentioned it ;)

you did mention that you are going to Labuan to study in another thread. so i guess you got accepted into Matriculation when you mentioned it ;)

What??? I did mentioned??? When and where?? Which thread?? I really never say out where I study one lo...weird..

Big plans for Labuan
Friday April 27, 2007
By EDDIE CHUA
TheStar

GLASGOW: Global defence and aerospace company BAE Systems wants to turn Labuan into a world-class naval and commercial shipbuilding hub in Asia within the next five years.

Its managing director for Asia-Pacific, Steve Meighan, said BAE would collaborate with Labuan Shipbuilding and Engineering (LSE) shipyard to carry out commercial and military maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities in the region.

“The venture will not only benefit BAE and the shipyard but also the country’s economy and maritime industry,” he said.

BAE, through its naval ships business based in Scotland, will work with LSE to built two additional Jebat-class frigates as part of the programme to modernise the Royal Malaysian Navy.

The Malaysian Government has nominated LSE, owned by Realmild Sdn Bhd, as the lead Malaysian facility. LSE will work with BAE to undertake significant elements of the construction, assembly and launch of the two vessels.

Meighan said the plan to turn Labuan into a world-class shipbuilding facility would create substantial employment opportunities in Malaysia, with emphasis on graduate opportunities.

“Under the apprenticeship programme, some 300 young Malaysians, fresh from the school, will be trained in batches at BAE shipyards in Britain as pipefitters, electrical and electronics technicians, steelworkers and painters,” he said.

“The in-house training facilities would give LSE a suitably skilled workforce for the future.”

wow..... i hope a bridge connecting labuan and the mainland will be included in this plan.....

BAE support for Labuan Shipyard
From Lee Shi-Ian
April 27 2007
BusinessTimes


BAE Systems Surface Fleet Solutions will help train 300 apprentice engineers and an additional 50 skilled engineers from Malaysia in Scotland

GLASGOW: There are plans to make Labuan Shipyard and Engineering (LSE) a world-class facility with the capability for ship repairs and, more importantly, shipbuilding, within two years.

The first step is to train 300 apprentice engineers and an additional 50 skilled engineers from Malaysia in Scotland.

BAE Systems Surface Fleet Solutions (SSFS) will conduct the training together with six other partners including the Malaysian Government and LSE.

BAE have supported LSE in a number of initiatives, including supporting an apprenticeship programme in Malaysia, BAE Systems managing director (Asia Pacific) Steve Meighan said.

"This will give LSE the opportunity of training a suitably qualified workforce for the future which will benefit Malaysia in the long term," he said.

BAE has recruited 61 graduates since 2001 under its graduate programme with recruitment across all disciplines.

The programme is a two-year wide UK development programme and has been considered successful in terms of recruitment.

BAE also has an apprentice programme where craft and technical apprentices are recruited between the ages of 16 and 18.

Over the past five years, about 500 apprentices have been recruited by BAE and there are plans to recruit 120 apprentices this year.

"It was an honour and recognition for BAE last year when we won the 'Best Large Employer' award at the 2006 Scottish Modern Apprenticeship Awards," Meighan said.

"The National Vocational Training Department and National Occupational Skills Standards governs vocational qualifications in Malaysia."

"However, the continued development of those who have qualified needs to continue and this includes a sound grasp of the English language."

Writing, speaking, listening and knowing terminal technology are vital steps towards making Malaysia an international site for shipbuilding and repairs.

Local graduates should also complement their vocational skills with a formal academic qualification to an internationally recognised standard - National Certificate in Engineering.

"The benefits include developing in-house training capability in LSE through qualified trade trainers," Meighan said.

"However, the 350 Malaysian trainees will be trained at the BAE shipyard in Glasgow where they can gain experience and first-hand knowledge."

"Shipbuilding accounts for just five per cent of the work that goes into constructing a warship now with technical aspects accounting for more than 50 per cent."

Meighan said training for combat systems and equipment integration would also be provided for the Malaysians as this was part of the technology transfer.

Production of two frigates that Malaysia is buying from BAE will only commence after the signing of the contract and it will take another 12 months for the steel pieces to be burnt, cut and shaped.

By that time, Malaysia should have attained the standard and equipment for shipbuilding and will be capable of putting the frigates together.

Meighan declined to disclose when the contract would be signed saying there was only about 20 per cent of discussions to be completed.

Source : http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp

New tax structure for Labuan IOFC likely to be included in 2008 budget
By SABRY TAHIR

KUALA LUMPUR: A new tax structure for companies operating at Labuan International Offshore Financial Centre (Labuan IOFC) is most likely to be announced in the 2008 Budget, said Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (Lofsa) chairman Tan Sri Dr Zeti Ahktar Aziz.

She said a new company structure would also be introduced to cater to the demands in the offshore environment.

Speaking at a media briefing on the Lofsa 2006 Annual Report on Monday, Zeti said reviews on taxes were Lofsa's ongoing efforts to make Labuan more attractive foreign players amid rising competition for other IOFCs.

She said Lofsa was working closely with the Finance Ministry on further tax reviews, including tax cuts for businesses in Labuan.

Zeti, who is also Bank Negara Governor, added that there were significant changes made for Islamic finance in the last Budget.

The authorities are also expected to come up with a review of the entire legislation relating to the Labuan IOFC, she said.

Zeti said Labuan IOFC was currently repositioning itself through identifying niche business, looking beyond traditional products and services and capitalising on its strengths.

She said Lofsa planned to further enhance regulatory and supervisory framework while improving incentives and business environment for niche areas including insurance, trust fund management and offshore leasing industry.

For the year ended Dec 31, 2006, Lofsa’s revenue rose to RM19.8mil from RM17.6mil previously, with a surplus of RM2mil compared to RM3.3mil in 2005.

Airlines and destinations :
AirAsia (Kuala Lumpur)
FlyAsianXpress - (Kota Kinabalu, Miri)
Malaysia Airlines (Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur)
wikipedia.org

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By: ian narmi

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Gosshhh....I need to see some photos of matriks labuan b4 I go there!!!! Nazrey...got any?? :D

http://img02.picoodle.com/img/img02/8/5/1/f_529m_2ef9428.jpg

Owwhhh~~ I saw a mini Eye of Malaysia!! Hehehe....

LBU airport sudah tukar wajah already lah !

Gosshhh....I need to see some photos of matriks labuan b4 I go there!!!! Nazrey...got any?? :D


hey ahchuan,ur going to matriks labuan arr??which intake??1 year or 2 year?

here is the friendster group of matriks labuan
kolej matrikulasi labuan (http://www.friendster.com/group/tabmain.php?statpos=mygroup&gid=39944)
many photos of KML
hehe.i was a student there..suffer oo selalu no water..but enjoy ur life in matriks..post photo of labuan lah pulak..

Matriks Labuan is among the best I heard in terms of academic performance. Top 3 I think.

hey ahchuan,ur going to matriks labuan arr??which intake??1 year or 2 year?

here is the friendster group of matriks labuan
kolej matrikulasi labuan (http://www.friendster.com/group/tabmain.php?statpos=mygroup&gid=39944)
many photos of KML
hehe.i was a student there..suffer oo selalu no water..but enjoy ur life in matriks..post photo of labuan lah pulak..

Thx bro!! Of coz the 1 year course. Hehehe...

Oh..really?? So, u r ex-student KML la...:D, no water?? Did'nt boiled water meh??

Matriks Labuan is among the best I heard in terms of academic performance. Top 3 I think.

Well, I did heard some of ppl said KML not good, displines prob...like gangsterism all tht...I scare...

huhu..as far as i know,matriks labuan never get top 3 antara matriks..top3 from below adalah..:ohno:
yep,many discipline problems,but that happens to all matriks...in terms of academic,its hard for labuan to compete with other matriks in semenanjung..maybe becoz of the teaching staffs..could also be because of the mentality of matriks students..huhuhu..every year labuan is filled up with 3000 matriks students fr sabah,sarawak,n some fr semenanjung..its a very small island,but u know laa,the cigars,liquors are extremely cheap here..so this is the heaven for KML students..they go clubbing at night until early in the morning,even on weekdays..life here agak liar..hehehe..i think antara semua matriks in msia,matriks labuan is the closest to town..so student will enjoy more than study..thats why their perfomance not as good as students of other matriks..huhuhu..but that doesnt mean all students are bad aa..hey,ahchuan,take gud care when ur in matriks...jangan terpengaruh pulak..:) :)

Next time i visit u in Labuan ya :D:D..:lol::lol:

No :nono:...I go there to study...not playing, drinking or wat so ever...I am a good boy...:D Moreover...I dun drink any beer...sorry la, liquors cant rangsang me de...YUPE!!

Hahaha...Pablo, come la. Hehe...

Hi guys!! Juz back from labuan campus for holiday!!:banana: :banana: :banana:

nice to have you back ;) .post more pics lah ^^

^^ Sabar bah!! Hehehe.

Hi guys!! Juz back from labuan campus for holiday!!:banana: :banana: :banana:

hi! nice to see you again! so how's matriculation?

^^ Nice. So much fun there. Met many frenzz, especially from sarawak. Pictures later.....:D

lol..kaamatan holiday aa..
pak mus still there??

^^ Haha....of coz still there la. Mr. James teach me kuliah maths. So funny, his class wont sleep de. :D

Here are some photos of Labuan Matriculation Campus.....

The view from top of Menara Pentadbiran....

The girls' Dormitories....

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/19052007002.jpg

The boys' Dormitories

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/25052007006.jpg

Dewan Mutiara

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Astaka...

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/25052007008.jpg

View from plane....the whole campus.

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Menara Pentadbiran, where all lecturers office and tables, as well as bilik pengarah...:D

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Inside MP...."lobby"...

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"Triangle" staircase...

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Outside view....

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Library....

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Old design...:D

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This is all I got so far....more pics in my next holiday...:D.

Thats what I call facilities :okay:

Real nice.

^^ Haha....of coz still there la. Mr. James teach me kuliah maths. So funny, his class wont sleep de. :D

hehe..he's good..funny,wit those 'dirty' jokes..haha..so far no water problem ka thr??
kasbah still ketua felo??

^^ Hahaha...Yeah, he very kotor, olweys said "bulls**t" during kuliah. I can kira tht he saying like 10 times liao. So, what was ur batch??

Well, still la. No water for the whole day....yupe, Mr. Kasbah still ketua felo, and he oso very funny la. Hahha...lol...

looks nice!!

you take plane to Labuan?? is it cheap?? how much is the ferry?? and how long is it on the plane and on the ferry?

^^ :lol: Why?? Wanna go visit me or vacate in Labuan??? :D

Well, the 1st day to labuan naik plane lo...it took juz 25-30 minutes only....well, I balik to KK naik ferry...took about 3 hours!!!

Hmmm....ferry tu, memang cheap la, but....3 hours lo, wat to do...tahan la on the sea. Plane as usual....RM100+++ with MAS...Airsia FAX...maybe < RM100 guahh....

Here are some photos of Labuan Matriculation Campus.....

The view from top of Menara Pentadbiran....

The girls' Dormitories....

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/19052007002.jpg

The boys' Dormitories

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/25052007006.jpg

Dewan Mutiara

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/25052007007.jpg

Astaka...

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/25052007008.jpg

View from plane....the whole campus.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u156/AhThien/labuan4.jpg

:)
umm...thanks Ahchuan.teringat zaman muda2.

wow..thanks for sharing, looks nice and brand new :D:D

Source : http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=50722

Labuan bridge closer to reality with study
Labuan: The Government has allocated RM5 million to study the feasibility of the proposed Labuan-Menumbok bridge.

Member of Parliament Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman said consultants would be appointed and the studies would include hydrographic survey, the connecting points between Labuan-Menumbok, the shortest, safest route and other details.

Suhaili said the report would then be submitted to the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) in the Prime Minister's Department for assessment and decision. He said the latest development regarding the bridge is the first "tangible evidence" of the possibility of the link taking shape in the near future.

Suhaili since becoming MP in 1999 had been zealously pursuing the project and made headway when former Agong Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail during a visit here said efforts should continue to convince the Federal Government on the practicality of such a link with the mainland.

The Royal endorsement spurred Suhaili to keep bringing up the issue with the Federal Territory Minister. The proposal for the bridge was first officially made known in the Labuan Master Plan (1997-2006) of the Labuan Development Authority.

What was listed in the plan was that the project, then estimated to cost RM550 million, should be undertaken by the private sector.

It was proposed to be built from Tanjong Aru here to Membakut.

However current estimates for the bridge is expected to be more than double. By comparison, the Penang Bridge built in 1996 cost RM850 million. The distance between Labuan and Menumbok is said to be 17 nautical miles based on the winding route the present ro-ro ferry takes.

Another mention of the bridge was made in 2003 by then Sabah Industrial Development Minister, Datuk Wences Anggang, who spoke of a consortium developing it at a cost of RM10 billion with the bridge connected to Pulau Daat.

Suhaili's comments on the bridge came about following a question on whether the bridge was still being considered with the airport having been upgraded for RM36 million.

On the airport, Suhaili said it was scheduled for a soft opening next month and arrangements were made to invite Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi for the occasion.

The upgraded airport has a longer runway which would enable wide-bodied aircraft to land and also a more spacious terminal.

When announcing the upgrading plans, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy stated that an exclusive "open sky" status would be granted to Labuan, enabling aircraft from countries which had not made arrangements with Malaysia to land.

The new airport is also expected to gain from the spillover from the second most busiest airport in Malaysia- the KK international Airport.

In the meantime, the complaint against the new airport is that though not well completed yet, motorists were already being charged parking frees.

Labuan to invest RM400m to reclaim land
By Tamimi Omar, 29 Jun 2007 11:40 AM
THEEDGEDAILY


Labuan Corporation is looking at investing RM400 million to reclaim some 200ha of land to further expand its role in the oil and gas industry.

Chairman Datuk Suhaili Abd Rahman — who is the Labuan Federal Territory member of Parliament — said that with the investment, Labuan would be able to cement its role as one of the petro-chemical zones in the country.

In line with the growth of the oil and gas industry on the 92 sq km island, the corporation is considering allowing for the reclamation of land to make room for the further development of the petro-chemical zone in the Ranca-Ranca industrial estate.

Suhaili said it would study the possibility carefully before beginning works, but that the area had already been identified.

"We are hoping the plan will take off by next year and it will be a gradual process, with maybe the first 200 acres in Phase I, and the remaining over the 10th Malaysian Plan," he told reporters after officiating Scomi Engineering Bhd's machine shop here yesterday.

Suhaili said that the idea was mooted by the Federal Territories Ministry, due to the increasing demand of the industry.

He said the federal territory was also looking for corporate entities to finance the reclamation via private finance initiative (PFI), and was willing to offer incentives to get investors to come to Labuan.

Suhaili said the federal territory would likely offer incentives such as giving 80% of the land to the investors and keep the remaining 20%.

"Eighty percent of the reclaimed land will go back to the investors, while 20% to the government. This may not be the actual agreement but it could be the basis (of the agreement)," he said.

by loi_jonathan1

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Far East close to buying Sheraton Labuan
By Vasantha Ganesan
July 6 2007
BusinessTimes


A source says the deputy chairman of the Hong Kong-listed group made a successful bid for Sheraton Labuan for RM31.5 million

HONG Kong-listed hotel and property group Far East Consortium International Ltd is close to buying its second hotel in Malaysia - the five-star Sheraton Labuan Hotel for some RM31.5 million.

Sources familiar with the matter said Far East outbid a handful of offers made for the 182-room hotel, which is being sold as part of the Faber Group Bhd's debt-restructuring scheme.

"Tan Sri David Chiu (Tat-cheong, deputy chairman) of Far East made a successful bid for Sheraton Labuan for some RM31.5 million," a source told Business Times.

Attempts to reach Far East officials in Hong Kong for comment by telephone were unsuccessful.


The hotel was initially put up on offer for RM55 million in 2004. In 2005, the sale price was dropped to RM40 million. There were still no takers.

In late 2005, Faber Group's liabilities were novated to Jeram Bintang, a special purpose vehicle being managed by MAA Bancwell Trustee Bhd.

Faber Group transferred its hotel and commercial assets to Jeram Bintang and issued preference shares to Jeram Bintang as part-settlement of liabilities.

Far East bought its first hotel in Malaysia, the 502-room Sheraton Subang Hotel and Towers in Selangor, last August for RM120 million.

Following the buy, it took over the hotel management contract from Sheraton in Penang on April 1 2007 and is now operating the hotel under the Dorsett brand.

Far East had said that it plans to test the market in Penang for about a year before it considers buying the 237-room hotel and a 20-floor commercial building called Penang Plaza, which has an estimated value of RM60 million.

This property had an indicative price of RM85 million previously.

In a recent interview, Peter Frawley, Starwood's regional vice-president for Southeast Asia, told Business Times that Sheraton Labuan has an interior designer looking at what work needs to be done at the hotel.

Starwood is the owner and operator of the Sheraton brand hotels.

Frawley, who described Chiu as a "visionary", had also said that plans to renovate Sheraton Subang are in the pipeline.

by akina2008

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New, bigger RM27m market for Labuan

http://www.newsabahtimes.com.my/mediafiles/picture/2717/p8a.jpg?1185854286

LABUAN: A bigger market equipped with modern facilities as well as bus and taxi stations will begin construction early next year on a reclaimed site near the existing market building here.

Member of parliament for Labuan, Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman yesterday announced the project will cost some RM27 million.

He was speaking to members of the Labuan Media Club who paid him a courtesy call at his office to submit the minutes of the club’s first meeting. Suhaili is the club’s patron.

The group was led by its chairman, Jainudin Djimin and those present included deputy chairman, Kenneth Koh, vice chairman, Sohan Das, secretary, Wahidah Abdullah and treasurer, Toh Poh Tong.

Meanwhile, Suhaili the chairman of Labuan Corporation said other projects in the pipeline are a RM35 million marina near the Labuan International Water Sports Complex and a RM9 million walkway along Jalan Merdeka.

There are also plans to build a multi-storey carpark worth RM15 million and a Bumiputera Commercial Centre that will have a convention centre and capacity to contain up to 3,000 people.

by kieh_89

http://img27.picoodle.com/img/img27/9/8/23/f_38m_14b0a32.jpg

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floating restaurant at International seasport center, Labuan.
by baotong

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1016/760381348_64e691c8d7_o.jpg

^^ I went to this restaurant b4. Hehehe.....so sedap their food.

Here are pics of Labuan Matriculation College.....

Library (Ground Floor)

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Library (1st Floor)

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Reception Counter

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Recreational Center

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Media Room

Menara Pentadbiran Office (Reception floor)

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1st FlooR (College Staffs Office)

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2nd Floor (Science Units office = Chemistry, Physics, Biology)

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3rd Floor (Mathematics Unit and Science Infomatic Unit Office)

No pics....hehe, sorry.

4th Floor (English Unit and Account Unit Office)

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5th Floor (Sports Unit and Lounge)

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View from 5th floor

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Kuliah Hall aka Dewan Kuliah(inside)

Dewan Kuliah 1

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Dewan Kuliah 2(sofa style)

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Dewan Kuliah 5(smaller)

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Continued from Labuan Matriculation Campus Pics....

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Here some pics of Labuan International Seaport (Perlabuhan Antarabangsa Labuan)

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Pics contunued.....

Departure hall

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Outside of the terminal (Going to the ferry express)

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The ferry express

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View from Labuan Intl Seaport.....

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nice pics! i like the seaport! :cool: hey.. can carry cam into the classroom ah?

^^ Can. I using my HP to take pics.

pearl of the orient
by xushisofim

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@ Labuan Airport
by jcccorner

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1399/1209130772_e702cd9901_o.jpg

by kieh_89

http://img01.picoodle.com/img/img01/9/9/20/f_02m_fac2bb0.jpg

pearl of the orient
by xushisofim

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1130/1273238090_ca752d6013_b.jpg

Wrong coordinates kah or disorientation ? That is pic of Labuan, not Penang lah !! :)

Eh, forgot what I wanted to say in first place now !

Can anyone oblige with a pic or two of the interior of newly renovated Labuan airport ? Preferably of check-in area, arrivals gate, holding lounge. Many thanks in advance

Labuan Intl Airport

Newly renovated....

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Labuan's Financial Park

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Labuan's State Library

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Ah Chuan,
Thanks for those pics of LBU and good to see you back in action !
Alas, the airport is (as suspected) another KCH, MYY, BTU, BKI T2 KLIAConsult clone project :ohno:

Labuan bridge will benefit all, says Musa
Saturday January 5, 2008 MYT 3:15:05 PM
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
TheStar

KOTA KINABALU: A bridge from Labuan to mainland Sabah is important towards the development of the island, Sabah and also for Sarawak.

Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman said setting up a bridge would bring about a direct “win-win” situation for the federal territory of Labuan as well as the Klias peninsula in south-western Sabah.

“We are keen to pursue the plan for a bridge between Labuan and the mainland as its benefits are immense,” Musa said after launching Sabah Progressive party think-tank Progressive Institute of Public Policy and Analysis (PIPPA).

The newly-formed PIPPA, headed by former deputy chief minister Datuk Tham Nyp Shen, is carrying out a feasibility study on the proposed 8km bridge and would provide the state with a report.

Musa said that such feedback on various concepts by an independent non-government linked think-tank will get the support of the state in the measures to develop various industries in the state.

They have been talking and talking bout it for ages....lets just hope it will become reality rather than just a political gimmick!:bash:

They have been talking and talking bout it for ages....lets just hope it will become reality rather than just a political gimmick!:bash:
I would strongly suggest you do not hold your breath waiting for this to turn real ! If there is/are any real economic justification to splurge on constructing such a link, would have already been done decades ago. Political justification also doesn't look too convincing, at the moment

Though I do look forward to be proven wrong on this matter, I must admit !

Pulau Bum Bum, a 15-minute boat ride from Semporna town, is an island comprising largely Bajau-Suluk people. Its name means “meeting place” in local language.

The island has about 27,000 people, mainly fishermen, who send their children to five primary schools and one secondary school. One proposal is to build a RM100mil bridge to the island (construction of a bridge from Semporna to Pulau Bum Bum in Sabah).

read more here.... http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/2/16/nation/16896982&sec=nation&focus=1

So Labuanites are angry when they heard dis....:bash:

^^ Hmmm...the island has 27,000 people??? That is a huge number for a small island...but still, labuanites of coz would be angry lo...

Yesterday, was a miserable day...is 1st of feb, the Malaysia's Wilayah Persekutuan holiday....everyone back for kampung...the ferry packs with people and vehicles...

Here are some pics to share, from Labuan to Menumbok(Sabah)...where this was the 1st time I on the ferry and so full of people and cars....so congested...

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The last 3 pics were oledy reach Menumbok...people were getting to go out from tht ferry...

But still, in the journey from lbn to menumbok on the ferry....it was nice and very windy...

Leaving Labuan
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Ujana Kewangan/Financial Park
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On the ferry
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Wah Ah Chuan, thanks for those pics ! Compared to what we endured all those years ago on the 'old' ferry, that can be considered very luxurious. How long was the journey ?

A mentally taxing question, how to kill 5 hours in Menumbok ?

(My wife has steadfastly refused any suggestion we repeat our driving holiday to Labuan since !)

by PicHarmonics by ARTEo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/philosoffee/)

http://img33.picoodle.com/img/img33/4/2/3/f_01m_67ca1ac.jpg

Wah Ah Chuan, thanks for those pics ! Compared to what we endured all those years ago on the 'old' ferry, that can be considered very luxurious. How long was the journey ?

A mentally taxing question, how to kill 5 hours in Menumbok ?

(My wife has steadfastly refused any suggestion we repeat our driving holiday to Labuan since !)

Errr....nearly 2 hrs lo. Of coz...very fun on tht ferry. Very windy. Love the sea ther. I prefer morning ride....it makes the sea shining. :D

I dun get wat ur mentally question.....

I dun get wat ur mentally question.....

What happened was we did not manage to board the morning sailing, had to wait for the ferry to go to Labuan and get back to Menumbok for second sailing, five hours later. So, what can one do at Menumbok for 5 hours ?!
(hakka : dhen dhau soh !) :)

^^Lolx...simple. Next time be more punctual. ;)

Err...if still cant board on the ferry(maybe u really late or something)..then...err....hmm....I really dunno la. Juz pretend tht day is ur bad day lo...cuz menumbok really nothing to do...lolzz...

wah....the labuan airport is so empty....not bz at all...

^^Lolx...simple. Next time be more punctual. ;)

Hah hah - not quite, we were there quite early in fact. You must remember back in those days no booking system, just turn up and wait. I remember we were the second car in queue which couldn't fit unto the ferry (got some big lorries in front, took up more space) - very frustrating ! But valuable experience, otherwise nothing to talk about now ! :)

wah....the labuan airport is so empty....not bz at all...

Those pics I took at early morning....around 7am like tht....

Hah hah - not quite, we were there quite early in fact. You must remember back in those days no booking system, just turn up and wait. I remember we were the second car in queue which couldn't fit unto the ferry (got some big lorries in front, took up more space) - very frustrating ! But valuable experience, otherwise nothing to talk about now ! :)

Well, as I noe..tht ferry can occupy about 50 cars. Including lorries, trucks. I think la...hehe..

waaaaa!!!! sy rindu mao blik labuan oooo.....

Some photos to share.....

Dataran Labuan

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Pics continued....

Grand Dorsell Hotel

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Labuan Waterfront

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Financial Park/Ujana Kewangan

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Labuan Times Square

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Labuan International Airport

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My God!!! what's with Times Square? why every city wants a times square??

^^ Dunno why.......sick of hearin "times square"....:ohno::ohno:

i think this time square phenomenon not only in Malaysia but other countries as well.btw,i really like the rendering but whos the developer? anyway thanks to ahchuan for the update.

http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=57542

Hehe, i will only believe this if there's any sign of real construction of this, but seriously, 1 million population in Labuan sounds very dense even when compared to KL!

^^The island itself having very hot temp. How can fit in one million ppl??? If really happen, the residents there suffering from "hot temp disease"....:ohno:

^^The island itself having very hot temp. How can fit in one million ppl??? If really happen, the residents there suffering from "hot temp disease"....:ohno:

It is hard to imagine island that is so small (92 square km) like Labuan can fit 1 million people (as if it will ever such number)...one question is how do they transport 1 million people in such a small place...

Lolzzz....stupid developers!! They nvr think bout the consequences, yet wanna said tht to fit in 1 million ppl in such a small island.....:bash::ohno::bash: Those developers said crapzzz....

Aiya, tey will not tranfer 1 million ppl in one time de lo....years by years ppl will transfer slowly to labuan. I thnk so. If me, I dun wan live at Labuan, facilities too low standard....haha, so sorry to said tht....

DAILY EXPRESS NEWS
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Labuan MoU for a US$20b floating city

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/7344/labuanix6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/7344/labuanix6.22b2d016e4.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=147&i=labuanix6.jpg)

Labuan: A US$20 billion memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed here for a "floating city" that would serve as "showcase" of resort development in Asia, based on concepts used in USA, Europe and other advanced countries.

The project is expected to be completed in 15 years after the appointment of a turnkey contractor. When completed, it would boost the island's population to 1 million.

"Mafa Resort Smart City" as it is called, would be built on 1,500 hectares of reclaimed land and shaped like a whale. It stretches from the northern tip to the southern end of the island. the floating city would be connected to Labuan via a bridge near the Kampung Lubang Temiang/Kerupang area.

These details were revealed during the MoU signing ceremony. The project is undertaken by Mafa Group Corporation Sdn Bhd and a consortium led by MS Azam Holdings Sdn Bhd, Naturelink Industries Co., Corejati Sdn Bhd and Nccorp Netcomm Technology Sdn Bhd.

Member of Parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Haji Mahal, who witnessed the signing, said Labuan welcomes any project that benefit the island and hoped it would be a success. A mega project like this would surely elevate the status of the island," he said.

The main signatories were Ab Hamid Neemat and Mdm Naznah Sotan both executive Directors of Mafa, Edmundo President Azam holdings, Ali Azam, Director of Azam holdings. Others were Dr Tamayuki Takano for Corjati, Anicia Welte President of Philippines' rockwell Trading Inc and PAC Asia Construction and Development Corporation.

A Mafa spokesman said the project was undertaken in Labuan because of its strategic location. The focus is on the main components, namely tourism, deep-sea fishing and education and each would have related supporting facilities, Labuan as an international business and financial centre, duty free and tourist destination were other considerations.

When completed, it would be Malaysia's biggest floating structure. Among the floating items would be an 18-hole golf course, club-house, township, mosque, floating and moveable bridge and theme park.

When completed, Labuan is expected to have a world-class advanced integrated deep-sea fishing port owned and operated by Malaysian. Other facilities would be marina, sea sports facilities, and an Oceanarium.

^^ gosh are they mad or what?? is there such a demand in Labuan?? and such a project will damage the environment around the island

1 million for Labuan? it must be joking
Even now the population of Kuching and KK together still won't fit 1 million ---

NO CITIES in Borneo island (incl. Indonesia cities) have reached 1 million population, the most populated one is Banjarmasin City in South Kalimantan with (only) 700,000 people

DAILY EXPRESS NEWS
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Labuan MoU for a US$20b floating city

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Labuan: A US$20 billion memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed here for a "floating city" that would serve as "showcase" of resort development in Asia, based on concepts used in USA, Europe and other advanced countries.

The project is expected to be completed in 15 years after the appointment of a turnkey contractor. When completed, it would boost the island's population to 1 million.

"Mafa Resort Smart City" as it is called, would be built on 1,500 hectares of reclaimed land and shaped like a whale. It stretches from the northern tip to the southern end of the island. the floating city would be connected to Labuan via a bridge near the Kampung Lubang Temiang/Kerupang area.

These details were revealed during the MoU signing ceremony. The project is undertaken by Mafa Group Corporation Sdn Bhd and a consortium led by MS Azam Holdings Sdn Bhd, Naturelink Industries Co., Corejati Sdn Bhd and Nccorp Netcomm Technology Sdn Bhd.

Member of Parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Haji Mahal, who witnessed the signing, said Labuan welcomes any project that benefit the island and hoped it would be a success. A mega project like this would surely elevate the status of the island," he said.

The main signatories were Ab Hamid Neemat and Mdm Naznah Sotan both executive Directors of Mafa, Edmundo President Azam holdings, Ali Azam, Director of Azam holdings. Others were Dr Tamayuki Takano for Corjati, Anicia Welte President of Philippines' rockwell Trading Inc and PAC Asia Construction and Development Corporation.

A Mafa spokesman said the project was undertaken in Labuan because of its strategic location. The focus is on the main components, namely tourism, deep-sea fishing and education and each would have related supporting facilities, Labuan as an international business and financial centre, duty free and tourist destination were other considerations.

When completed, it would be Malaysia's biggest floating structure. Among the floating items would be an 18-hole golf course, club-house, township, mosque, floating and moveable bridge and theme park.

When completed, Labuan is expected to have a world-class advanced integrated deep-sea fishing port owned and operated by Malaysian. Other facilities would be marina, sea sports facilities, and an Oceanarium.

This must be a joked. Project like this will never be realised. I see no reason why this project is happen in Labuan. Should make that project in KK then we are talking abt 0:50 chances of success.

Labuan sets target of 50,000 companies by 2012
by Kevin Tan, 25 Jun 2008 12:05 PM
THEEDGEDAILY

KUALA LUMPUR: The Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (Lofsa) had set a target of registering 50,000 companies in Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (IBFC) by 2012, Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah said.

Winding up the debate on the Labuan Offshore Financial Services (Amendment) Bill 2008 in Dewan Rakyat yesterday, Ahmad said Lofsa had been rebranded the IBFC and it had a new sense of direction by focusing on niche products such as private equity funds and Islamic banking.

In term of Islamic banking, he said the IBFC had US$4 billion (RM13.2 billion) worth of Islamic funds and was the first to issue a US$500 million sukuk.

“As of March 2008, there are 6,425 offshore companies registered in the IBFC,” he said, adding there were 58 banks operating there with total assets amounting to US$26.6 billion.

The deputy minister revealed that IBFC was also hosting 132 insurers with more than US$600 million in capitalisation, 106 leasing companies with US$16 billion in leases, 22 fund management companies and 46 listed instruments worth US$16.1 billion.

To further develop IBFC, Ahmad said his ministry would discuss the potential of having an open sky policy for Labuan and raise the matter with the relevant ministries. “With easy access, it will be more conducive for Labuan to become a premier financial centre in the world,” he added.

On the news that South Korea had blacklisted Lofsa, Ahmad explained that seven South Korean companies operating in Labuan did not declare their income to the Korean tax authority after the 1997 economic crisis.

Under Korean laws, offshore companies were not required to pay tax but the tax authority still decided that they had to pay taxes since the owners were Koreans, he added.

In this context, he said that Financial Times.com was the one that used the word blacklist in its news report on the matter. There were 123 South Korean companies still operating in the IBFC, he added.

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Labuan Times Square

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Souyrce : http://labuantimessquare.com/

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Where's Labuan Times Square?
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by 姽婳将军

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where's exactly the location of Labuan Times Square?

where's exactly the location of Labuan Times Square?

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Red circle.Behind Dataran Labuan or Labuan square :)

i juz love labuan so much..cheap beer, chocalate and fantastic boat ride from kk...

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Red circle.Behind Dataran Labuan or Labuan square :)

Awesome location! I call it good city planning.....would also create a nicer-looking skyline downtown with all the amenities within walking distance. What's more, it is waterfront property. That is hot.

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Red circle.Behind Dataran Labuan or Labuan square :)

^^thanks! nice location :)

how far is the island to mainland Sabah?
wasnt there a proposal to connect the island to the mainland then...

The island and Borneo mainland are within visual sight of each other, but frustratingly separated physically. Used to take 2.5 hours ferry ride each way. I believe this has now speeded up due to new equipment though still hours required

Proposal for bridge linking island to island will crop up every so often, roughly about the time when elections are due :)

how far is the island to mainland Sabah?
wasnt there a proposal to connect the island to the mainland then...

^^Based on my experience, it's better to reach Labuan island from Muara port, Brunei Darussalam... it will only take about 45 minutes by ferry:)

^^Based on my experience, it's better to reach Labuan island from Muara port, Brunei Darussalam... it will only take about 45 minutes by ferry:)

The proposal for the bridge connect from Labuan to Menumbok(mainland) which is 15 minutes by speedboat....:D

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im guessing everyone on that island knows everyones names..i've always thot that labuan is the size of tasmania.. :nuts:

Please visit this link for more info about labuan http://www.labuan.net/

Untuk Tingkatkan Hubungan Dua Hala
LABUAN CADANG WUJUD BANDAR KEMBAR DENGAN MELAKA

LABUAN, 14 Dis - Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan bercadang untuk mewujudkan Bandar Berkembar dengan Melaka bagi meningkatkan hubungan dua hala antara kedua-dua negeri.

Timbalan Ketua UMNO Bahagian Labuan, Datuk Yunus Kurus berkata, beliau dan pihak Pelancongan Labuan akan ke Melaka untuk mengadakan perbincangan mengenai perkara tersebut dalam masa terdekat ini.

"Tujuan hubungan tersebut diadakan bagi membantu sesama negeri meningkatkan ekonomi terutama melalui sektor pelancongan.

"Kita akan ke Melaka dalam masa terdekat bagi mengadakan perbincangan dengan Kerajaan Negeri Melaka," katanya pada sidang akhbar selepas merasmikan Road Show Promosi Pelancongan 'Jom Ke Melaka'! di Ujana Kewangan di sini, hari ini.

Yunus mewakili Ahli Parlimen Labuan, Datuk Yusof Mahal merasmikan Road Show itu yang merupakan lokasi ketiga, selepas Ipoh di Perak dan Kota Bharu di Kelantan.

Sementara itu, Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pelancongan, Kebudayaan dan Warisan Negeri, Datuk Seet Har Cheow berkata, beliau akan mengajukan cadangan tersebut kepada Ketua Menteri, Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam.

"Cadangan ini memang bagus memandangkan kedua-dua buah negeri adalah negeri pelancongan dan saya akan bawa perkara ini kepada Ketua Menteri untuk dipertimbangkan," katanya yang mewakili Mohd Ali bagi Road Show Promosi Pelancongan 'Jom Ke Melaka'! di lokasi ketiga, Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan.

Dalam perkembangan lain, Har Cheow berkata, seramai 2,683 penduduk Labuan telah melawat Melaka dari Januari hingga Oktober 2008.

"Jumlah ini meningkat kepada 267 orang berbanding tahun lepas iaitu 2,416 bagi tempoh yang sama dan bagi sepanjang temph 2007 pula adalah seramai 2,526 orang.

"Saya percaya jumlah penduduk Labuan ke Melaka sehingga hujung tahun ini akan meningkat dan turut merealisasikan sasaran pelancong ke Melaka seramai 6.8 juta orang," katanya lagi.

Hadir sama di majlis perasmian tersebut, Setiausaha Kerajaan Negeri, Datuk Omar Kaseh, ahli-ahli EXCO kerajaan negeri Melaka dan Ketua-ketua jabatan serta para pemimpin daripada Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan.

The Chimney / Information Centre

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Labuan Bird Park

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Pancur Hitam Beach

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Peace Park

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UMSKAL

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Botanical Garden

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World War 2 Memorial

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Labuan Clock Tower

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Labuan International Sea Sport Complex / Labuan Marine Museum

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Manja Rasa Restaurant

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Labuan Airport

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Road View

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Labuan Square

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Labuan Times Square (U/C)

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Swordfish Sculpture at one of Labuan Roundabout

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Perbadanan Labuan / Labuan Library

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IOFC - Financial Park / Beta Service Apartment (Hotel) / Kompleks Ujana Kewangan / Labuan Convention Hall / Sheraton Hotel / Waterfront Hotel / Shopping Mall

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Labuan Needs A Bridge, Says CASH

LABUAN, Jan 10 (Bernama) -- The Consumer Association of Sabah and Labuan (CASH) has joined in the chorus to build a Labuan-Menumbok bridge, describing it as a great help for Labuan economy in the long run.

Its president, Datuk Patrick Sindu, told Bernama that Labuan was in urgent need of a bridge for its economy to improve.

He said the bridge should be undertaken because it would benefit Sabah, Labuan and Sarawak.

"In the long term, it would also tremendously benefit the island, such as through increased sale of houses to mainland buyers and easier supply of goods from Sabah, including fresh products with cheaper prices, apart from boosting trade and tourism," added Sindu.

The bridge was first officially mentioned in the Labuan Development Plan (1997-2015) when Tun Daim Zainuddin was finance minister. The plan had suggested that it be a private sector initiative.

The present state of the bridge project is that a feasibility study is being undertaken by University Malaysia Sabah (UMS).

The Government has allocated RM5 million for the study and it is expected to be completed soon.

Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce secretary Chin Chee Kee said the island's physical link with Sabah was important because it would ensure Labuan was not bypassed with the full completion of the Pan-Borneo Highway.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman had said that setting up a bridge would bring about a 'win-win' situation for the Federal Territory of Labuan, as well as the Klias peninsula in southwestern Sabah.

The newly-established Sabah Progressive Party think-tank, Progressive Institute of Public Policy and Analysis (PIPPA), headed by former deputy chief minister Datuk Tham Niyp Shen, is carrying out a feasibility study on the proposed bridge and will provide the state with a report.

However, there is a nagging fear that with the bridge, Labuan would be `connected' and as such, its free port status may be withdrawn. The free port is one of the strong appealing points of the island to tourists.

There is also the other fear that Labuan, which merely has a land mass of 77.69km, may not able to handle additional traffic from the mainland. Already, the island is hard-pressed for parking spaces around the town during peak hours.

The proposed Labuan bridge will span over 17km, based on the present route taken by the Labuan-Menumbok ro-ro ferry (carrying vehicles).

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just build the bridge and we do not have to take ferry / speedboat to that island anymore

Labuan Needs A Bridge, Says CASH

LABUAN, Jan 10 (Bernama) -- The Consumer Association of Sabah and Labuan (CASH) has joined in the chorus to build a Labuan-Menumbok bridge, describing it as a great help for Labuan economy in the long run.

Its president, Datuk Patrick Sindu, told Bernama that Labuan was in urgent need of a bridge for its economy to improve.

He said the bridge should be undertaken because it would benefit Sabah, Labuan and Sarawak.

"In the long term, it would also tremendously benefit the island, such as through increased sale of houses to mainland buyers and easier supply of goods from Sabah, including fresh products with cheaper prices, apart from boosting trade and tourism," added Sindu.

The bridge was first officially mentioned in the Labuan Development Plan (1997-2015) when Tun Daim Zainuddin was finance minister. The plan had suggested that it be a private sector initiative.

The present state of the bridge project is that a feasibility study is being undertaken by University Malaysia Sabah (UMS).

The Government has allocated RM5 million for the study and it is expected to be completed soon.

Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce secretary Chin Chee Kee said the island's physical link with Sabah was important because it would ensure Labuan was not bypassed with the full completion of the Pan-Borneo Highway.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman had said that setting up a bridge would bring about a 'win-win' situation for the Federal Territory of Labuan, as well as the Klias peninsula in southwestern Sabah.

The newly-established Sabah Progressive Party think-tank, Progressive Institute of Public Policy and Analysis (PIPPA), headed by former deputy chief minister Datuk Tham Niyp Shen, is carrying out a feasibility study on the proposed bridge and will provide the state with a report.

However, there is a nagging fear that with the bridge, Labuan would be `connected' and as such, its free port status may be withdrawn. The free port is one of the strong appealing points of the island to tourists.

There is also the other fear that Labuan, which merely has a land mass of 77.69km, may not able to handle additional traffic from the mainland. Already, the island is hard-pressed for parking spaces around the town during peak hours.

The proposed Labuan bridge will span over 17km, based on the present route taken by the Labuan-Menumbok ro-ro ferry (carrying vehicles).

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just build the bridge and we do not have to take ferry / speedboat to that island anymore

^^

i think if the bridge were built, others would still like to use that ferry or speed facility as an option.... that's bcoz due to the scenic view of labuan town from the sea that makes it beauty... i luv to take picture of it and mine with the labuan town as the background.... and i think others too.... just forget the hot atmosphere hehehehe :)

Build Labuan-Menumbok bridge, says group
Wednesday January 14, 2009

LABUAN: The Consumer Association of Sabah and Labuan joined in a chorus for the building of the Labuan-Menumbok bridge by saying it will be a great help for the island’s economy in the long run.

Association president Datuk Patrick Sindu said that Labuan was in urgent need of the link.

He said the bridge should be undertaken as it would benefit Sabah, Labuan and Sarawak.

“There will be increased sale of houses to mainland buyers and easier supply of goods from Sabah, including fresh products at cheaper prices, apart from a boost in trade and tourism,” said Sindu.

The bridge was first mentioned in the Labuan Development Plan (1997-2015) during the time when Tun Daim Zainuddin was finance minister.

It recommended the project as a private sector initiative.

A feasibility study on the bridge is being undertaken by University Malaysia Sabah.

The Government has allocated RM5mil for the study and it is expected to be completed soon.

Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce secretary Chin Chee Kee said a physical link of the island with Sabah was important as it would ensure Labuan was not bypassed with the completion of the Pan-Borneo Highway.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman had said the bridge would bring about a win-win situation for the Federal Territory and the Klias peninsula in southwestern Sabah.

The newly-established Sabah Progressive Party’s think tank, Progressive Institute of Public Policy and Analysis headed by former deputy chief minister Datuk Tham Niyp Shen, is carrying out a feasibility study on the bridge and will provide the state with a report.

However, there is a nagging fear that Labuan’s free-port status may be withdrawn if the bridge was built.

There is also the fear that Labuan with a land mass of 77.69 square km may not able to handle traffic from the mainland.

Already, the island is hard pressed for parking space during peak hours.

The bridge will span over 17km, based on the route taken by the Labuan-Menumbok roro ferry. — Bernama

RM1.8m homestay activity centre for Labuan

Email us your feedback at fd@bizedge.com


LABUAN: A RM1.8 million Homestay Activity Centre will be established in Labuan to boost tourism in the island, Labuan Tourism Action Council chairman Datuk Suhaili Abd Rahman said yesterday.

He said Patau-Patau 2 village had been identified for the centre where tourists could experience the daily chores of the villagers and their culture.

“Labuan will place emphasis on the homestay programme to attract more tourists, especially foreigners, to the island,” he said when launching the Labuan Tourism Portal here.

Suhaili said more villagers would be encouraged to participate in the programme to help the government turn Labuan into a premier tourist destination. — Bernama

Homestay centre to boost Labuan tourism


LABUAN: A RM1.8mil Homestay Activity Centre will be established in Labuan to boost tourism in the island, said Labuan Tourism Action Council chairman Datuk Suhaili Abd Rahman.

He said that Patau Patau 2 village had been identified as a centre for tourists to experience the daily routine and culture of villagers.

“The centre will emphasise the homestay programme to attract tourists, especially foreigners, to the island,” he said when launching the Labuan Tourism Portal here recently.

Suhaili said that more villagers would be encouraged to participate in the programme to help the Government turn Labuan into a premier tourist destination.

He said that 65 villagers were providing accommodation to foreign tourists under the programme. — Bernama

RM2.7mil infrastructure for Labuan

Labuan: A total of RM2.7 million worth of infrastructure development projects were awarded to 28 contractors on this duty-free island as part of the Government's initiative to help local contractors to stay afloat in view of the glum economic climate.

The projects, only for Class F contractors, disbursed through Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) under the Prime Minister's Department, were in line with the RM7 billion stimulus package announced by the Government.

The projects given out through a computerised voting process saw 162 local contractors participating.

It was carried out by ICU officials led by Federal Territories Director Datuk Mohd Zaharil Kasim.

"It is a fair and transparent voting process. We don't practise unhealthy ways as claimed by certain quarters. We are trying to be as fair as possible.

"It is through an open registration before voting is conducted," he told a media conference after the voting.

Meanwhile, Labuan Member of Parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Mahal said though only RM2.7 million was allocated to Labuan from the RM600 million apportioned to parliamentary constituencies, he believed more funds would be set aside for the island in future.

The funds were to provide basic amenities for the people and for reconstruction of damaged basic infrastructures by natural disasters, he added.

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Labuan Islands and Beaches

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A step closer to Labuan-Sabah bridge
By RUBEN SARIO


LABUAN: A long-awaited bridge linking Sabah and this international offshore financial centre (IOFC) appears to be one step closer to reality.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said he would be asking the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) to have a re-look at the proposed project that had been bandied about since 1997.

“Something of this magnitude is not immediately possible but it should be given due attention,” he said after launching the halal distribution hub at Kiansam, some 20kms from downtown Labuan yesterday.

He said a bridge between Sabah and Labuan would be good for the island as it would spell more tourism arrivals apart from easing the entry of raw materials from the mainland for industries here.

Last year, Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Zulhasnan Rafique said the government had appointed Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) to conduct a RM5mil feasibility study linking the southwestern Sabah settlement of Menumbok and Labuan.

The study would look into the pros and cons of a bridge with an estimated span of 17km and a price tag of at least RM550mil as stated in the Labuan Development masterplan drafted in 1997.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman had said that such a bridge would spell a “win-win” situation for the state and Labuan.

Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce president Chin Chee Kee said the island’s physical link with Sabah was important because it would ensure that Labuan would not be bypassed when the Pan-Borneo Highway is completed.

Halal hub set to bolster Labuan's economy
By : Roy Goh

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A seafront view of the site which will be turned into Labuan’s Halal hub. — NST picture by Datu Ruslan Sulai


LABUAN: A halal food production hub looks set to become an economic catalyst for the island here.

The 40ha site in Kiamsam near here, to be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today, is another step to take development on the island to new heights.

Labuan Corporation chairman Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman said yesterday that the RM86 million project would focus on seafood production with potential investors already identified.

"The corporation has embarked on a smart partnership with a private company and is looking into several other potential ventures that will turn the hub into a bustling centre. We are planning to offer attractive incentives."

The first phase of the project will be the construction of a processing plant, a joint venture between the Labuan Corporation and GP Ocean, a food processing and packaging company, followed by the setting up of other industrial infrastructure and office blocks.

A fish landing jetty built by the Malaysian Fisheries Development Board within the area earmarked for the hub is already operational as well as another jetty built by the Customs Department.

"There will also be supporting facilities such as an ice factory, a research and development centre, storage facilities and processing plants."

Suhaili said the hub's main selling point would be its "Traceability" system, a digital coding programme that helped to identify information of the food source and allowed halal product clients to find out more about what they were buying.

"The first products likely to come out from the hub are canned sardines for export to the Middle East, Europe and the US.

"The hub will be a catalyst for Labuan because it will help boost the economy to a larger scale apart from creating spin-off economic activities."

He added the project would be funded by the Federal Territories Ministry.

PM: Bridge link will be good for Labuan


LABUAN: A long-awaited bridge linking Sabah and this international offshore financial centre (IOFC) appears to be one step closer to reality.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said he would be asking the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) to have another look at the proposed project that had been bandied about since 1997.

“Something of this magnitude is not immediately possible but it should be given due attention,” he said after launching the halal distribution hub at Kiansam, some 20km from downtown Labuan, yesterday.

He said a bridge between Sabah and Labuan would be good for the island as it would spell more tourist arrivals apart from easing the entry of raw materials from the mainland for industries here.

Last year, Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Zulhasnan Rafique said the Government had appointed Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) to conduct a RM5mil feasibility study linking the south-western Sabah settlement of Menumbok and Labuan.

The study would look into the pros and cons of a bridge with an estimated span of 17km and cost at least RM550mil, as stated in the Labuan Development masterplan drafted in 1997.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman had said that such a bridge would spell a “win-win” situation for the state and Labuan.

Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce president Chin Chee Kee said the island’s link with Sabah was important because it would ensure that Labuan would not be bypassed when the Pan-Borneo Highway is completed.

Bridge link to prosperity
By : Roy Goh

http://www.nst.com.my/Friday/National/2497439/insidepix1
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi being briefed about the Halal Distribution Hub as he takes a closer look at a model set up at an exhibition booth at the site. With him is his wife, Datin Seri Jeanne Abdullah (second from left).


LABUAN: Labuan island will benefit with a bridge link to Sabah, the prime minister said.

Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi yesterday said industries here could prosper with better access to raw materials from the neighbouring state.

He said this during the ground-breaking of the Halal Distribution Hub at Kiamsam near here, which is expected to act as catalyst for the Federal Territory of Labuan's seafood production industry.

Abdullah said a feasibility study by the Economic Planning Unit was necessary to find out how best the link could be developed.

Since 2007, the government had allocated RM5 million for the study undertaken by Universiti Malaysia Sabah. Consultants had been appointed to conduct hydrographic surveys as well as look into the possible connecting points between the island and the sub-district of Menumbuk on the mainland.

The proposal to build the bridge first appeared in 1997 in the Labuan Master Plan by the Labuan Development Authority (now Labuan Corporation). Over the years the topic had re-surfaced but the proposal did not take off except for the latest feasibility study which is due to be completed at the end of this year.

"The halal hub would need a supply of raw materials if it were to progress and the potential is big because the halal industry generates a trade volume of about US$2 trillion (RM7.5 trillion) worldwide annually.

"I hope someday Malaysia will be a key distributor of halal products and this can be achieved with effort and the right strategy," he said.

Abdullah also said the development of the halal hub needed participation from small and medium entreprises.

"This is where the communities can take part in its growth," he said in the ceremony also attended by Federal Territories Minister Datuk Zulhasnan Rafique, Labuan Corporation chairman Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman and Labuan MP Datuk Yussof Mahal.

The hub's main selling point would be its "traceability" system, a digital coding programme that identifies the food source.

Full study into Labuan bridge
By : Joniston Bangkuai




LABUAN: A feasibility study of the proposed RM1 billion Sabah-Labuan bridge is expected to be completed by year-end.

The study is being conducted by Universiti Malaysia Sabah.

The outcome of the study will determine if the proposed project is included in the 10th Malaysia Plan.

Federal Territories Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Zainal Abidin said the main focus of the study was on the economic viability and benefit of the project to the people of Labuan and Sabah.

"As the new Federal Territories Minister, I am also trying to get feedback from the relevant quarters in Labuan on the proposed bridge," said Raja Nong Chik, who is on his first visit here since his appointment.

His visit here coincided with the 25th anniversary of Labuan as a Federal Territory.

Raja Nong Chik said a careful study of the proposed project was necessary as its implementation would require huge funds.

"Considering that it is a mega project, the government will have to be really sure of its benefits," he told a press conference after attending a briefing by the Labuan Corporation (LC).

While here, Raja Nong Chik attended the Labuan International Sea Challenge and held dialogues with community leaders and non-governmental organisations.

On the appointment of LC's new chairman, Raja Nong Chik said he was in the process of getting views from community leaders on the matter.

"I don't want to leave this (appointment of a new LC chairman) hanging.

"We hope it won't be too long."

The post of LC chairman has been vacant following the expiry of the term of office of its previous chairman, former Labuan MP Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman, on March 31.

Raja Nong Chik said that although the LC had been without a chairman for more than a month, its operations had not been critically affected.

Labuan bridge study to be completed by year-end
Written by Bernama
Monday, 04 May 2009 23:43

LABUAN: The feasibility study on the proposed bridge linking Labuan and the Sabah mainland is due to be completed before the end of the year.

Federal Territories Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin said today that once the study was completed, it would be submitted to the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) for a thorough perusal.

He said that in view of the economic situation, the bridge would be brought under the 10th Malaysia Plan.

The study is being carried out by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the funding has been approved by the government.

It had been reported that the study would cost RM5 million.

"The bridge will bring about positive changes to Labuan and Sabah's economic development, especially in bringing in more tourists to the island. But we have to look at the current economic scenario, as this is a mega project that may cost us more than RM1 billion," he told reporters after his two-day maiden visit to Labuan.

However, the government had to take various factors into account to ensure that it would benefit all the people and not just certain parties, he said. — Bernama

Ferry Terminal
by jbeaulieu
http://www.flickr.com/photos/41782752@N00/2623566975/in/set-72157608341024107/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3225/2623566975_fcb9214ba6_b.jpg

From www.labuanweb.com

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Labuan bridge study to be completed by year-end
Written by Bernama
Monday, 04 May 2009 23:43

LABUAN: The feasibility study on the proposed bridge linking Labuan and the Sabah mainland is due to be completed before the end of the year.

Federal Territories Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin said today that once the study was completed, it would be submitted to the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) for a thorough perusal.

He said that in view of the economic situation, the bridge would be brought under the 10th Malaysia Plan.

The study is being carried out by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the funding has been approved by the government.

It had been reported that the study would cost RM5 million.

"The bridge will bring about positive changes to Labuan and Sabah's economic development, especially in bringing in more tourists to the island. But we have to look at the current economic scenario, as this is a mega project that may cost us more than RM1 billion," he told reporters after his two-day maiden visit to Labuan.

However, the government had to take various factors into account to ensure that it would benefit all the people and not just certain parties, he said. — Bernama

owh...cant believe they still planning to build the brigde...=.=" this may make those sea transport companies on "fire"~lol~

Labuan Airport
by iniakupake

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/05/25/07/52/3756430_816x612.JPG

Labuan targeted to be premier IBFC
Published: 2009/06/18

LABUAN is targeted to be the premier international business and financial centre (IBFC) in the Asia Pacific by five years, according to its promoter Labuan IBFC Inc Sdn Bhd.

"We will measure that by looking at Labuan's business growth. Already we are growing faster than many other jurisdictions," its chief executive officer Martin Crawford told reporters in Kuala Lumpur today.

Crawford said the year-on-year growth has been significant with many of the category groups growing between 30 and 50 per cent.

"In fact, one of them grew at 67 percent. But some other jurisdictions (offshore financial centres), they are not growing that well. We are gaining market share and we intend to be the premier IBFC in the Asia Pacific by five years," he said.

Earlier, Crawford presented a paper titled "Why Waste a Crisis - Unlock Opportunities" at a seminar jointly organised by the Malaysian Institute of Accountants and Labuan IBFC at the Securities Commission.

Labuan was declared an international offshore financial centre in October 1990 with the Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (LOFSA) being the regulatory body to spearhead and coordinate efforts to promote and develop Labuan as an IOFC.

However, in early 2008, a rebranding exercise took place with the launch of the Labuan IBFC by LOFSA, a new identity designed to be more reflective of Labuan's new focus.

Asked what could be the benchmark to be a premium IBFC, Crawford said: "Premier is the qualitative statement as well as the quantitative one. It is not just numbers."

"We could relax (legislations) in Labuan and make it very easy and get a lot of numbers but at the end of the day we will also buy in a lot of problems. It is going to be quality growth and not just quantity growth," he said.

"IFBCs around the world all have good attributes but we just want to be known as the premier one. The best of the best," he added.

On its plan to have representatives in other regional centres, Crawford said that Labuan IBFC Inc was working closely with other Malaysian bodies such as Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) and Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA), which have offices in other locations.

"Right now we are using other agencies to help spread the word. We are training their people to talk about Labuan," he said.

"Ultimately, if we have sufficient funds, we would like to open offices in other locations, probably in the Middle East and Hong Kong," he added.

Labuan IBFC is now focusing on the five key areas of international holding companies, private and public investment funds, captive insurance, Islamic finance, and wealth management products like expatriate pensions.

Asked whether Labuan IBFC was thinking of new focus areas, Crawford said: "The word ''focus'' is very important because certain jurisdictions around the world have built a reputation being good in one or two things."

"We don’t want to spread ourselves too thin. We want to be very good for those five areas," he said.

On the registration of companies this year, Crawford said it was looking at 15 per cent growth for this year despite the global economic downturn.

"The registration of company is still growing. We had a growth of 10 per cent when comparing on first quarter to first quarter basis. Some other jurisdictions were minus 20 per cent, on that same criteria," he said.

"So there is a big flow of business from some centres towards our centre. We hope that by maintaining our standard and quality we will catch some of that flow and have those companies in Labuan," he added.

According to him, a 10 per cent growth can be considered as "quite good" amid the current weak economic scenario.

On the recent announcement allowing Labuan holding companies to establish their operational and management office in Kuala Lumpur, Crawford said: "It is going to be a fantastic offer."

"Many companies that are based in Singapore and Hong Kong are now talking to us, asking when can a Labuan company be in Kuala Lumpur.

With the facility of Kuala Lumpur, talent and infrastructure, it is going to be very significant. We are pushing that," he said.

A reviewed legislation governing all facets of business and operations in Labuan IBFC will be tabled at the current Parliament session, he added. - Bernama

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Ujana Kewangan, Labuan
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by Roslan Tangah (aka Rasso)
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by phenography
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^^ Wow spelling error "Business"

Err sorry to say this, but I think the topic title (Labuan, Sabah) is a mislead. Labuan is not part of Sabah. Anyway anyone can correct this?

Labuan was made a Federal Territory, increasing the number of federal territories to three. Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya are the other two.

Flag
Labuan

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Kuala Lumpur

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Putrajaya

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/d/d5/Flag_of_Putrajaya.png/800px-Flag_of_Putrajaya.png

Tenure of DG of Labuan authority unit extended
2009/07/04
LABUAN, Sat:

Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (LOFSA) announced the extension of Datuk Azizan Abd Rahman's tenure as the director-general of LOFSA for another two years with effect from July 1, 2009.

Azizan has held the position since July 2005.

He began his career in the Banking Supervision Department of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) in 1979. Azizan's career at BNM spanned several positions in the areas of finance, supervision and examination.

Currently, he is a Board Member and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Labuan Corporation. He also serves as an Exco member of the Malaysia International Islamic Financial Centre.

He holds a Bachelor’s Degree (Hons) in Accounting from the University of Malaya and Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of Queensland, Australia and is a member of CPA (Australia) and a Chartered Accountant of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants.

In LOFSA, Azizan has overseen the realisation of several key initiatives to position Labuan as a premier international business and financial centre, including the rebranding of Labuan in January 2008 as Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (IBFC), establishment of a separate entity that undertakes the promotion and marketing of Labuan IBFC, and the flexibility of co-location for Labuan holding companies in Kuala Lumpur as part of the national financial liberalisation measures.

Under Azizan''s helm, LOFSA had also undertaken a holistic review of the legislative framework designed to create a flexible, facilitative and frictionless business environment in Labuan IBFC. -- BERNAMA

Err sorry to say this, but I think the topic title (Labuan, Sabah) is a mislead. Labuan is not part of Sabah. Anyway anyone can correct this?

Labuan was made a Federal Territory, increasing the number of federal territories to three. Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya are the other two.

I do know that. I mean the title for this thread (Labuan, Sabah), can anyone correct it? It's kind of embarrassing...

Labuan is not part of Sabah...That's incorrect ..Hope our mod to ensure that!

Labuan Corp To Formulate Plans To Woo Investors
July 08, 2009 00:06 AM

LABUAN, July 7 (Bernama) -- Labuan Corporation is formulating a long-term plan to further boost the island's development and position it as an attractive investment destination.

Newly-appointed Labuan Corporation chairman Datuk Ahmad Phesal Talib said the plan, similar to the Federal Territories Ministry's plan, would focus on human capital, environment, economy and infrastructure development.

"We are not only formulating a strategic plan but also include in it an action plan. We have programmes running till 2013," he told reporters after a dialogue with village heads, business community and heads of department here Tuesday.

Ahmad Phesal, who is also Federal Territories Ministry Secretary-General, said that the corporation would ensure all development projects would benefit the people.

"We cannot deny that the allocation given to Labuan is huge. Projects should, therefore, benefit the people at all levels," he said.

He also said that there were several issues that needed to be resolved in Labuan including high prices of goods, the creation of an identity for Labuan, and the shortage of warehouses for investors.

-- BERNAMA

Labuan Corp To Formulate Plans To Woo Investors
July 08, 2009 00:06 AM

LABUAN, July 7 (Bernama) -- Labuan Corporation is formulating a long-term plan to further boost the island's development and position it as an attractive investment destination.

Newly-appointed Labuan Corporation chairman Datuk Ahmad Phesal Talib said the plan, similar to the Federal Territories Ministry's plan, would focus on human capital, environment, economy and infrastructure development.

"We are not only formulating a strategic plan but also include in it an action plan. We have programmes running till 2013," he told reporters after a dialogue with village heads, business community and heads of department here Tuesday.

Ahmad Phesal, who is also Federal Territories Ministry Secretary-General, said that the corporation would ensure all development projects would benefit the people.

"We cannot deny that the allocation given to Labuan is huge. Projects should, therefore, benefit the people at all levels," he said.

He also said that there were several issues that needed to be resolved in Labuan including high prices of goods, the creation of an identity for Labuan, and the shortage of warehouses for investors.

-- BERNAMA

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Bas Mini @ Labuan
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1Malaysia Run In Labuan On Sunday
August 13, 2009 13:21 PM

LABUAN, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- Labuan island will celebrate the 1Malaysia spirit on Sunday with the first-ever run in the country with the patriotic theme.

Labuan Member of Parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Mahal said the 1Malaysia Run 2009 was to support the government in instilling greater understanding of the 1Malaysia concept.

"We are proud to have such an event. Furthermore, Labuan becomes the first territory in Malaysia to run the event.

"If the idea of 'Bangsa Malaysia', which was engendered through Vision 2020, becomes the final destination, then 1Malaysia is the roadmap that guides us towards that destination," he added.

The 3km run starting from Labuan Square is organised by Yussof's office in collaboration with government agencies such as the Labuan Information Department, Radio Malaysia Labuan, Special Affairs Department, Labuan Musuem and Labuan Cooperation Department.

Participants from the government and private sector, schools and Universiti Malaysia Sabah Labuan will be taking part.

The sponsors include Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (LOFSA), Asian Supply Base (ASB), Petronas Methanol, Sabah Shell, Labuan Liberty Port Management (LLPM), Bintulu Port Sdn Bhd and Rak Perdana Holdings.

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seronok rasanya bla melihat kampung halaman terus membangun dan membangun
:banana::banana:

2,000 people join first ever 1Malaysia Run
17th August, 2009

http://www.newsabahtimes.com.my/mediafiles/picture/7047/1708_SILAT.jpg?1250483062

WARM UP... a mass aerobic exercise to limber up muscles.

LABUAN: More than 2,000 people from all walks of life joined the first ever 1Malaysia Run 2009 in Labuan despite the spread of the Influenza A (H1N1) on the island.

Participants ran the 3-kilometre stretch from Labuan Square proudly displaying the national flag of Jalur Gemilang with the 1Malaysia logo emblazoned in their t-shirts.

“We are proud to be the first to do the 1Malaysia Run in support of the Prime Minister’s 1Malaysia concept to unite the many races in the country,” said member of parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Haji Mahal on Sunday.

“If the idea of ‘Bangsa Malaysia’, which was mooted through Vision 2020, is the final destination, then 1Malaysia is the roadmap that guides us towards that destination,” he added.

Among those taking part in the run were primary and secondary school students, students of higher learning institutions, civil servants, NGOs, and members of the public.

Alfred Nikko Duaka, 10, a student of SK Pekan 1 feels proud to be part of the run.

“I joined in the run because I wanted to be among the first to take part in the 1Malaysia Run 2009. I feel proud to be part of it,” he said.

Juliana Anistasia, 13, and Elvinna Jane Sibil, 14, from SM St Anthony and SMK Labuan feel the same way and agreed that the run was a great platform to unite the people particularly on the island.

“We are worried by the spread of H1N1 but since Labuan is the first to hold such an event, we do not want to miss it,” said Elvinna.

Juliana put on a mask while running as a precaution.

Halimah Abidin entered with one major goal in mind.

“I just want to finish it!” said Halimah, laughing.

“I’ll be doing what’s called the ‘Galloway’ where you run at a certain pace, then walk until you get closer to the finish line. Of course, I plan to run to the finish line,” she said.

The run was organised by the Labuan Member of Parliament Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Communication and Culture through its departments such as the Labuan Information Department, Radio Malaysia Labuan and Special Affairs Department.

The Labuan Corporation, Public Works Department, Public Services Department, Health Department, traffic police and RELA also assisted in the event.

Labuan Information director Haji Mohd Taib Ubah said the people of Malaysia should start to appreciate and grasp the meaning of the 1Malaysia concept.

“We cannot just be told what 1Malaysia is all about. We should think and analyse what it really means and how it benefits Malaysians in general,” he said.

From flickr

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Grand Dorsett Labuan is FEC's jewel in Malaysia
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2009/08/24

THE Sheraton Labuan is possibly the best Malaysian acquisition made by Hong Kong's Far East Consortium International Ltd's (FEC) chief executive officer Tan Sri David Chiu.

The hotel, bought by FEC in 2007, has since been renamed Grand Dorsett Labuan Hotel and tops the list as the best return on investment among the group's five hotel assets in Malaysia.

The RM32 million investment on the hotel is expected to be recouped by 2011, just four years since its purchase.

It is a commendable feat, given that the 13-year-old hotel has never undergone a renovation exercise since its opening in 1996.

Far East bought the five-star hotel built at a cost of RM80 million from the Faber Group in 2007.

Over the past two years, the hotel has been recording improved performances with gross operating profit (GOP) reaching a high of 40 per cent from about 30-odd per cent previously.

GOP is gross revenue (from rooms, food and beverage, laundry or business centre) minus cost of operations (wages, electricity and amenities).

"GOP is up by 10 per cent," its general manager Hubert Wilfred told Business Times during a recent visit there.

Occupancy at the 178-room hotel in 2008 was 81 per cent and it garnered RM265 in average room rate (ARR).

This year, the hotel expects to fill just as many rooms as last year, but sees a marginal decline in ARR.

In the first half of the year, the hotel's corporate business declined to 63 per cent from 66 per cent last year.

Therefore, it is looking at improving its leisure business as well as push further for government business, particularly in the oil and gas sector.

Wilfred, however, feels that more should be done to help woo leisure tourism to the island. This duty-free island is not just about financial services, but has its holiday attractions as well including beautiful beaches and diving locations.

In 2008, the island received 733,053 visitors, 8.4 per cent up from 2007. Of this, only 84,299 or 11.5 were foreigners. Tourists from Brunei made up a fifth of the foreigners followed by Indonesian and Vietnam at a tenth.

While tourist arrivals have grown at an average of 7 per cent from 2003 to 2005, based on initial indication the numbers are expected to decline this year.

Maiden facelift for Grand Dorsett since 1996 opening
Published: 2009/08/24

THE Grand Dorsett Labuan Hotel has started a RM15 million makeover exercise, its first since opening 13 years ago.

Traditionally, hotels undergo renovation exercises every seven to 10 years, to keep them fresh and relevant.

Grand Dorsett Labuan is looking to create a more contemporary surrounding by incorporating modern furnishings.

"The hotel has never been upgraded before. We have started with the replacement of carpets, televisions and furnishing," said general manager Hubert Wilfred, who has been heading the hotel since 2000. "It should take about two years, and we hope to complete it by end-2010 or early 2011."

Wilfred said that the rooms, measuring 36 sq m to 38 sq m, will see major changes in the drapery and walls.

One major transformation at the hotel will be the expansion of its coffee house, Victoria's Brasserie, which will incorporate al fresco seating facility that will provide an additional 60 to 70 seating from 128 now.

An upgrade of Fun Pub, its most profitable food and beverage outlet, is also on the cards.

The hotel's room revenue to food & beverage revenue is split 65:35.

Grand Dorsett Labuan, previously the Sheraton Hotel Labuan, is a five-star property. The hotel is currently classified as an international class hotel, pending rating from Tourism Malaysia.

The renovation exercise is timely, as it is understood that there may be two new hotel openings on the island.

However, Wilfred remains unfazed by this scenario.

"If there are any new hotel openings, there will be a period of time where people want to try out something new. But, at the end of the day they will return for our services and the friendly people we have at our hotel," he said.

From flickr

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Manja Rasa Restaurant

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Financial Park Building
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Labuan Go Skate Day 09
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Labuan's offshore industry stays on growth path
By Rupinder Singh
Published: 2009/09/02

http://www.btimes.com.my/articles/labu01/pix_topright

THE offshore industry in Labuan has continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace, despite the global economic downturn.

Labuan IBFC Inc Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Martin Crawford attributed the growth to its marketing efforts throughout Asia and Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

"Certain international offshore financial centres have seen a marked decrease in activity. In Labuan's case, however, we continued to grow. Perhaps not as fast, but yet positive growth in many areas," Crawford said at a live session with NST Online in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Labuan IBFC Inc is the marketing and business development agency for the jurisdiction of Labuan, while the Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (Lofsa) is the regulator which license, supervise and regulate the entities set up in the Labuan International Business and Financial Centre.

Crawford said the best way to market was to influence the "intermediaries", who in turn advise corporate and individual clients on how to conduct their international business.

"They (intermediaries) could be accountants, lawyers, tax advisers, and so on. We also run seminars and attend conferences which these audiences will attend."

To grow the business in Labuan, the government and Lofsa have introduced greater liberalisation measures, allowing certain companies to operate solely from Kuala Lumpur.

"This will be attractive to overseas companies looking for an alternative Asian headquarters to locate to. In 2011, insurance entities will be afforded this flexibility, too," Crawford said.

Labuan IBFC recently underwent a major revamp with new laws, increased marketing and strong international presence.

Crawford said the move raised awareness of Labuan, but much still needed to be done.

"An important job for us is to raise awareness of how Malaysians can benefit using Labuan IBFC," he said.

Labuan is unique compared with other international financial centres (IFCs) as it grants investors access to Malaysia's network of double-tax treaties, yet has a separate legislation to Malaysia, and has low tax and operating costs lower than most other IFCs in the region.

Crawford said that Labuan, with a strong base in banking, insurance, company incorporation and Islamic finance, could assist Malaysia to compete more effectively in the region.

"We also see Labuan working in collaboration with other financial centres such as Singapore and Hong Kong, which have large private banking and fund management industries and are looking for efficient jurisdictions to house their investments. Much of our time and energy is spent in this pursuit."

Labuan has always worked towards the development of Islamic finance in the country and this bodes well for the centre.

The recent decision by Petroliam Nasional Bhd to issue its US$4.5 billion (RM15.9 billion) bond programme, including an Islamic bond of RM$1.5 billion (RM5.3 billion), via Labuan gives credence to its claim of being at the leading edge in the Islamic finance market.

RM365mil water pipeline to Labuan

Labuan: The island will have surplus water supply by the end of next year when the second RM365 million undersea water pipeline between here and Sabah - to increase water supply from the Padas river - is completed.

Federal Territories Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin said this after breaking of fast at the Masjid Nurul Iman, Kampong Sungei Bedaun with community leaders, representatives from NGOs and others.

He said with the completion Labuan would have 88 million litres per day - more than the 56 million litres daily which the island needs.

The 25.7km pipeline will be connected to the treatment plant and a reservoir.

Presently most of the water supply is from another pipepline connected to the river. Over the years, due to tremendous development, the island began to face water rationing.

In 2004 the daily water consumption rate was reported at 34 million litres per day with an excess of one million litres. But now it has shot to 56 million litres per day with the Labuan Water Department resorting to building 5 tube wells to overcome the problem. Eleven more such wells are planned.

Recently, Deputy Education Minister Dr Hj Mohd Fuad Zarkashi, visited the Matriculation college and assured the 2,000 students and staff inconvenienced by water shortage at the college that a tube well be built within a month to solve the college's problem.

The present shortage of water in Labuan is 20 per cent.

The Minister, who also distributed "Duit Raya" packets of RM100 each to less fortunate people also assured the people that by the year 2010 there would be "zero" hardcore poor in Labuan.

Presently Labuan had 58 in the "hardcore" poor bracket and other 204 in the "poor" category. Raja Nong said several programmes had been implemented for them and this included building 23 units of new houses and repairing 39 units.

The poor were also helped in fishing equipment and tailoring and cooking courses. Raja Nong said the Prime Minister had allocated RM100 million to help the hardcore in the country.

Also at the function were Member of Parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Mahal, Chief Secretary of the Ministry Dato Ahmad Phesal Talib, Labuan Corporation (LC) CEO, Dato Basiran Sabah, LC Advisory Council Chairman, Datuk Yunus Kurus and Sungei Beduan Ketua Kampong Abd Latif Amdam. 800 people attended the faction.

In a separate function earlier in the day wife of the Minister, Datin Nafesah Raja Nong delivered Hari Raya goodies to Special People at the Community-based Rehabilitation centre.

Labuan’s water woes to be solved next year
Wednesday September 9, 2009

LABUAN: Labuan’s water woes will be a thing of the past when a RM365mil undersea pipeline from Beaufort in Sabah is completed by the end of next year.

The assurance came from Federal Territories Minister Raja Datuk Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin.

He said that water supply to Labuan was currently 20% short of the demand of 56 million litres a day.

He said the Petronas plant here used a large quantity of water.

Right now, Labuan only had 32 million litres for the public, he said.

“It is inadequate. I will write a letter to Petronas CEO Tan Sri Hassan Merican and suggest the company source water from mainland Sabah to meet its factory’s needs,” Nong Chik told reporters after presenting Hari Raya goodies to 200 people in Kampung Sungai Bedaun here on Saturday. — Bernama

Labuan’s water shortage: UMS wants to assist
10th September, 2009

LABUAN: Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) wants to help resolve the water shortage here and will soon conduct a research on sea water filtering system.

Vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kamaruzaman Ampon said a team of researchers comprising a lecturer and engineering students would carry out the research.

“We want to use this research as our pilot project to turn sea water into clean water,” he said when attending the breaking of fast with UMS students here this week.

He said the university would provide the funding for the research.

According to Dr Kamaruzaman, the system is being used by some countries and as such, it could also be used here.

Meanwhile, he said the UMS campus here has been experiencing water shortage since June.

Labuan water department director Haji Sulaiman Kamisan said although the island received supply from the water treatment plant in Gadong, Beaufort, it is not enough to meet the demand of the 87,000 residents.

Labuan Needs More Funding To Develop Tourism, Says MP
October 06, 2009 12:40 PM

LABUAN, Oct 6 (Bernama) -- Labuan will request more funds from the Tourism Ministry to boost its tourism industry to be comparable with that of other popular tourism states in the country.

"Labuan has the potential to host international events similar to those of Langkawi which is currently hosting Lima (Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition) and Le Tour De Langkawi," Labuan Member of Parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Mahal told Bernama Tuesday.

Among the tourism projects that needed funding were the Labuan bazaar, marine parks and aggressive promotion to tap the markets in Southeast Asia.

He said that these were the projects deferred from the 9th Malaysia Plan to be implemented under the 10th Malaysia Plan.

He said Labuan would focus on high-growth regional markets, namely Asean, China, Japan and Korea.

Currently, four hotels were being constructed and were expected to be completed next year.

Asked how the tourism sector could sustain its growth, Yussof said this was done by focusing on the tourists' needs, continuously seeking to satisfy their changing and dynamic requirements and by introducing more value-added tourism products to the market.

Increased branding and continuously meeting the standards set by the international tourism bodies were also key, he said, adding that homestay programmes and education tourism would be promoted.

Labuan.. I dunno before about this city..its not familiar.. I just know Serawak (Kuching) n Sabah (Kinabalu, Sandakan, Tawau) in Borneo.. n right now from this thread I found Labuan as the federal territory ^^ How can it be..is it new territory in Malaysia??

Labuan.. I dunno before about this city..its not familiar.. I just know Serawak (Kuching) n Sabah (Kinabalu, Sandakan, Tawau) in Borneo.. n right now from this thread I found Labuan as the federal territory ^^ How can it be..is it new territory in Malaysia??

I hope this link helps...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labuan

Labuan Chosen For Project To Become 'Prosperous Town'


LABUAN, Nov 18 (Bernama) -- The Federal Territory of Labuan has been chosen for a national pilot project to turn the international offshore financial centre into "Prosperous Town".

Labuan Corporation (LC) has been given the task of formulating an action plan for the project.

LC chief executive officer Datuk Basiran Saban said a consultant had been appointed to assist in the plan and draft at least 85 indicators to realise the objective.

"Labuan will undertake this pilot project. We have been chosen by the federal government for this project," he said after officiating the Excellent Village Award 2009 ceremony organised by Kemas and LC in Kampung Sungai Lada here Wednesday.

Aspects to be emphasised include education, health, development, security, cleanliness and unity.

"All the 27 villages through their village heads will be briefed on the indicators to be achieved before Labuan can be elevated into a prosperous town," Basiran said.

He said to achieve the prosperous town status meant that Labuan must be equipped with various industries, sustainable developments and prosperity in the villages.

Basiran also said that LC was now focusing on environmentally friendly projects.

"We are now focusing more attention to environment. Any development taking place must also taking into account the environment impact," he said.

For the Excellent Village Award, Kampung Sungai Lada emerged as the winner, defeating 19 other villages which took part in the competition.

-- BERNAMA

^^Good effort! :okay: ...btw are there any ways to boost this tiny island's population?

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2718/4113870566_5878fc34ed_o.jpg

Labuan mosque & airport

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2492/3791020468_70c2b97273_o.jpg

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2656/4124772154_21ee83de3a_b.jpg

Labuan to develop idle land for agriculture
Thursday December 3, 2009

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/12/3/southneast/p2labuan.jpg

Fertile: File photo giving a bird’s eye view of part of Labuan island
where plans are afoot to develop 400ha of idle land for agriculture.

LABUAN: Labuan, which has been overdependent on food imports from the mainland of Sabah and other states, plans to develop 400ha of idle land on the island for agricultural activities.

State Farmers Organisation general manager Sahbudin Jair said the island brought in 60,000 tonnes of vegetables and 48 tonnes of fresh meat monthly.

To reduce the island’s dependence on the mainland for its food, an action plan was drawn up, he said.

He said, during a recent briefing on the 10th Malaysia Plan, some 400 farmers and livestock breeders had agreed to develop the land for agriculture

Sahbudin also said the organisation planned to rope in school-leavers and graduates for training in various agricultural skills.

He said the local councils would need to designate certain areas on the island as agricultural zones.

“Currently there are farmers engaged in vegetable farming, but not on a big scale. It is more like growing vegetables in their backyard,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (DPMML) Labuan chapter president Yussof Mohammad said the chamber had identified agricultural projects on 60ha in Kiansam and expected them to take off early next year.

Yussof said that DPMML was scrutinising eligible trainees for a joint-venture project with the Agriculture Department to breed goats and chickens.

“We need full-time trainees to undergo six months of training before being allowed to conduct their own livestock breeding.

“We will then help them secure credit facilities from Agrobank or Tekun,” he said. — Bernama

Zero Hardcore Poverty In Labuan Targeted Next Year
December 28, 2009 20:35 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 28 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing has set a target of zero hardcore poverty among household heads in Labuan next year.

Its minister, Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin said the Labuan Corporation would continue to strive to achieve the zero hardcore poor target in the territory in 2010.

"Under the (poverty) eradication system that is being carried out, where an assessment was carried out on hardcore poor household heads who had received aid or undergone aid programmes, it was found that 45 hardcore poor household heads had been taken out of the hardcore poor list and placed into the poor group.

"To date, the number of hardcore poor household heads stands at 24," he said in a statement, here Monday.

Raja Nong Chik said that during his visit to Labuan today, he gave away hampers to the 24 remaining hardcore poor household heads concerned.

According to statistics, there were 69 household heads who were categorised as hardcore poor in Labuan throughout this year.

Earlier, Raja Nong Chik officially opened the Bukit Kuda Government Quarters, Labuan comprising four blocks of buildings for government officers and staff in the Management and Professional Group and the Support Group.

Besides housing facilities, the complex also has two units of kindergartens while several other facilities are being built under phase three including a hall, surau and water tank estimated to cost RM11 million.

-- BERNAMA

Labuan bridge to be considered
30th December, 2009
http://www.newsabahtimes.com.my/nstweb/fullstory/34903

LABUAN: The proposed bridge to connect Labuan and mainland Sabah may only be considered after a feasibility study carried out by University Malaysia of Sabah (UMS) said Federal Territory and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin.

“I have not seen the study officially but we will have to look at the viability of the proposed project before we can include it in the 10th Malaysia Plan…and we do not know whether the people of Labuan will be in favour of the project,” he said after a government quarters opening ceremony in Kampung Bukit Kuda, here yesterday.

On whether the proposed project had been briefed to the Prime Minister, he said: “I have yet to propose anything to him on the project. And if the project is listed as priority by the government then we have no problem of including it in the 10th Malaysia Plan.”

It was reported that the feasibility study would cost the government a whopping RM5 million.

The proposed bridge from Tanjung Aru here to Membakut is expected to cost an estimated RM550 million.

The study would look into pros and cons of a bridge with an estimated length of 17km, as stated in the Labuan Development master plan that was drafted in 1997.

The Malaysian Malay Chamber of Commerce, Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Labuan Chamber of Commerce and Indian Chamber of Commerce have jointly issued a statement on the need to see the project materialize since it would stimulate economic activities for Labuan and Sabah.

Raja Nong Chik had early this year said that the main focus of the study was on the economic viability and benefit of the project to the people of Labuan and Sabah.

He had also said that a careful study of the proposed project was necessary as its implementation would require huge amount of funds.

Former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi who visited Labuan, was also reported to have said that he would ask the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) to have another look at the proposed project that had been bandied since 1997.

Abdullah had also said that a bridge between Sabah and Labuan would be good for the island as it would spur more tourist arrivals, apart from easing the entry of raw materials from the mainland, for industries here.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman said that such a bridge would spell a ‘win-win’ situation for the state and Labuan.

RM27m for housing govt staff in Labuan
Published on: Thursday, December 31, 2009
http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=69837

http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/upload/labuan%20kunci2.jpg

Labuan: Labuan Corporation (LC) has spent RM16 million allocated under the 9MP to build 64 units housing for civil staff serving on the island.

The houses are for the management, professional and supporting category.

The housing estate, know as Civil Staff housing, at Kg Bukit Kuda, has been completed and handed to LC last July.

Federal Territories and Urban Well-being Minister Dato Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin, who officially opened the housing estate said under phase three of the project another RM11 million would be spent for a hall, surau and water tanks.

The Minister, who was accompanied by his Deputy Datuk M Saravanan, MP Datuk Haji Yussof Mahal and Chairman of LC, Dato Haji Ahmad Phesal Talib, hoped the new housing estate would solve the housing needs of civil servants here.

Raja Nong Chik also handed hampers to 24 people living under the poverty line. He said Labuan Corperation would strive to attain the zero hard-core poor.

He said there were 69 such households this year but with the implementation of 11 programmers and available funds of RM1.8 million, 45 were no longer in this category.

LC hoped that by next year the remaining ones would also be out of the category.

Among the programmes implemented for them are building new houses, renovating old ones, programmes to improve income, short term enterprises and assistance for investment in Amanah Saham Wawasan with the RM10,000 allocated by Housing and Local Government Ministry.

For education purposes RM100 was given to 132 poor students.

RM10m to solve Labuan’s squatter woes
Monday January 4, 2010

LABUAN: A total of RM10mil has been allocated to resolve the squatter problem in Labuan, said Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Raja Datuk Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin.

He said the allocation was to build low-cost flats over four phases in Kampung Sungai Bangat.

“We still have squatters in Labuan and efforts are in the pipeline to resolve the problem,” he said after launching quarters for civil servants and the extension of the National Land Code to Labuan in Kampung Bukit Kuda here.

Areas with squatters in Labuan include Kampung Rancha-Rancha, Kampung Sungai Bangat, Kampung Muslim and Kampung Kiansam. — Bernama

Efforts to preserve Labuan mosque for history
Published: Tuesday January 19, 2010 MYT 2:56:00 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/1/19/nation/20100119150126&sec=nation

LABUAN: The oldest mosque here may not be demolished after all to make way for road expansion by the Public Works Department (JKR).

This follows protests by villagers who want Masjid Jamek Adam Kampung Lajau to be preserved instead.

The mosque, which is over 40 years old, was declared open by first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj on Dec 16, 1967.

A local official, who declined to be named, said the issue would be resolved amicably and that the mosque be retained for its historical value.

In late 2008, the Federal Territory Fatwa Council gave its approval for the mosque’s demolition -- only when the new mosque was completed.

It is learnt that the new mosque would be built on a plot of land to be acquired within Kampung Lajau under the Land Acquisition Act 1960 (Act 486).

Labuan Member of Parliament Datuk Yussof Mahal said local authorities must conduct a thorough study and review the proposed demolition.

He suggested that the old mosque be turned into a centre for religious knowledge or library. -- Bernama

Labuan Banks Get Nod To Co-locate In Other Parts Of Malaysia
January 19, 2010 20:16 PM
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsbusiness.php?id=469551

LABUAN, Jan 19 (Bernama) -- Labuan banks have been given added flexibility to establish their office or offices in other parts of Malaysia other than its office in Labuan with immediate effect.

In a statement here Tuesday, the Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (Lofsa) said the recently-introduced policy was an expansion of the initiative introduced in May 2009 that allowed Labuan holding companies to set up their operational and management offices in Kuala Lumpur.

"This is also part of the financial liberalisation package that was announced by the prime minister in April 2009," it said.

Lofsa said the policy would provide the opportunity for the banks to establish their operations in Kuala Lumpur and other parts in the country.

"It is also targeted to attract more international banks to choose Labuan International Business Financial Centre as a base for their regional operations and leverage on the offerings of first class infrastructure, facilities, human capital and professional services that are available in Malaysia," it said.

It said among the criteria for establishing the office/offices outside Labuan were that the application must be submitted to Lofsa prior to its establishment and the applicant must continue to have an office in Labuan.

-- BERNAMA

Labuan Witnessing Continous Development
January 31, 2010 09:29 AM
By Jalani Hasan

LABUAN, Jan 31 (Bernama) -- The Federal Territory of Labuan, after going through various economic challenges in its 26 years of being a federal territory, continues to develop, especially in its physical form.

Various development and human capital planning is going on for continuous development to realise the federal government's efforts to make Labuan Malaysia's first peaceful and prosperous city.

In an exclusive interview with Bernama in conjunction with Federal Teritory Day, Labuan member of parliament, Datuk Yussof Mahal, said the city as an oil and gas centre; and an offshore financial centre; now awaits the completion of four hotels of three and four-star rating.

He said RM317 million was allocated for Labuan under the Ninth Malaysia Plan to make sure Labuan was not side-lined in development to make it at par with other states.

"With the completion of the hotels, there will be employment opportunties for local residents besides increasing choice of accomodation," he said.

Yussof said the Labuan Times Square shopping centre, which can be one of Labuan's economy growth catalysts, will be ready this year.

In human capital development, there was an international-standard lawn bowls arena, a futsal court, a cultural waterfront (Anjung Budaya), Siswazah Corner and a public marina which collectively were worth almost RM100 million.

Yussof said the federal government had approved the building of Sekolah Menengah Agama and Maktab Rendah Sains Mara under the 10th Malaysia Plan.

He said another project was a RM79 million prison under construction and scheduled to be ready at the end of the year.

That project site would also have -for the convenience of local residents- a community hall, a mosque, a recreation centre, and shops.

Besides that, he said, there was a halal-hub project that witnessed the building of a halal food distribution centre, the Labuan Halal Distribution Hub, costing RM89 million in Kiansam and which will change Labuan's landscape.

The centre would be a platform for a "branding exercise" for Malaysian halal products for both domestic and international markets.

The halal hub could play an important role in determing that the quality of products adhere to high stringent standards to elevate Labuan to the global stage as when the city was accorded Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) status in the early nineties.

Yussof said the hub was a continuation of the Sabah Development Corridor that will be the supplier of raw products to the Labuan Halal Distribution Hub.

With the hub in Labuan, added value can be given to local food products and hence prepare them for export to the global market, he said.

The Halal Distribution Hub project was planned considering the rich ocean resources of the island which could be produced into food products and pharmaceuticals.

The project will cover an area totalling 25 hectares. The owners of the land are Labuan Corporation which has 4.5 hectares, Malaysia Fisheries Development Board (LKIM) which holds 8.75 hectares, Customs Department which has 0.75 hectares, and private parties who own the remaining land.

Among the important components in the development of the first phase will be the prototype system for Halal identification and verification, strategic business plan, and other facilities such as processing centre, cold storage, laboratory and offices.

Yusoff said a meeting between Federal Territory and Rural Wellbeing Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin and leaders of the Labuan Chamber of Commerce discussed the need for a bridge to link Labuan to mainland Sabah which was very much desired by the people of Labuan.

Meanwhile, he said the tourism industry of Labuan was given a boost by the Tourism Ministry when it approved a homestay project valued at RM1.8 million at Patau-Patau two years ago.

To date, 85 people have participated the project in offering accomodation ala traditional and village lifestyles that displays the customs of the Labuan community to both domestic and foreign tourists.

-- BERNAMA

Waterfront Labuan Hotel

http://www.tourmalaysia.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/labuan.jpg

Beautiful island but less effort by government to develop this so-called free tax island...

I am OK with the government plan to build bridge connecting Sabah and Labuan. But then a negative impact towards having a bridge is traffic congestion on the island...

LOFSA to be renamed Labuan Financial Services Authority
Published: Wednesday February 17, 2010 MYT 12:50:00 PM

KUALA LUMPUR: Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (LOFSA) will be known as Labuan Financial Services Authority (Labuan FSA) with the enactment of four new Acts that came into force on Feb 11.

The laws will dramatically improve Labuan and completely change the way the duty-free Island conducts its financial services business, it said in a statement on Wednesday.

"The changes have taken into consideration all aspects so that we are ahead of accepted international standards and practices," said Labuan FSA Director-General Datuk Azizan Abdul Rahman.

They complement the range of products and services readily available and to provide investors with a wider choice of financial products to maximise investment opportunities, he said.

"These far-reaching changes cover all financial activities at the Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) from banking, insurance, leasing and company incorporation right through to the creation of Islamic financial products and services," he said.

The new laws allow for the creation of Labuan Foundation, limited liability partnerships, protected cell companies (insurance and mutual funds), shipping operations, Labuan Special Trust and financial planning activities. - Bernama

Beautiful island but less effort by government to develop this so-called free tax island...

Actually Labuan roads are indeed better than you can find in Sabah, furthermore the kampungs are clean. That cleanliness reminds my parents of their childhood in Sabah where the countryside used to be clean...

Actually Labuan roads are indeed better than you can find in Sabah, furthermore the kampungs are clean. That cleanliness reminds my parents of their childhood in Sabah where the countryside used to be clean...

hi im new here..

Yup 100% agreed. i have been to Labuan for few times and I must say im amazed with the development and furthermore the island its so clean...the airport its huge...totally huge and the city layout is very much organized. Thumbs up to the government and looking forward the completion of LABUAN TIMES SQUARE and I heard there will be more new hotels are in the midst of completion. LABUAN TRULY A HIDDEN GEM, visit to LABUAN SQUARE, DORSETT LABUAN ( i love this hotel)., LABUAN WATERFRONT HOTEL (used to stayed here, very nice hotel, love the swimming pool), SEAFOOD HAVEN (the floating restaurant), LABUAN MARITIME MUSEUM and many more....hope government will enhance more. cheerssssssssss

Labuan becoming an isolated island
Published: Friday February 26, 2010 MYT 12:17:00 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/2/26/nation/20100226122257&sec=nation

LABUAN: If everything goes according to plan, Labuan will be an attractive holiday and business destination by 2015.

However, its residents are sceptical it can be achieved, unless the problem of high prices of goods on the island is resolved.

Various quarters have expressed their concern through various channels about their fear of Labuan becoming an isolated island, a distant cry from the 1980s when it was declared a free tax island and attracted many visitors.

A meeting at the Labuan Domestic Trade, Consumerism and Cooperatives Office recently was told that the price of consumer goods in Labuan was 20 to 30 percent higher than in other states.

The main reason is due to transport cost as almost all consumer goods are brought in from mainland Sabah using the ferry service.

With most cargo sent to mainland Sabah, the Merdeka Port in Labuan is void of activity.

Chairman of the Labuan Consumers Action Council, Fauziah Datuk Mohd Din told Bernama that the only thing cheap in Labuan were vehicles and liquor.

"Visitors come to Labuan only for the entertainment because of cheap liquor, besides the GROs at entertainment centres," she said.

She said if nothing was done to solve the problem, the free tax island status accorded to Labuan was no longer suitable.

One suggestion to overcome the problem is to build a bridge linking Labuan and mainland Sabah at Menumbok.

Meanwhile, several residents want continuous efforts be made to resolve the problem of high prices.

Chong Mei Yuen, 42, said the setting up of the Federal Agriculture Marketing Authority's (FAMA) farmers' market would provide an alternative for residents to spend wisely.

"A kilogramme of Spanish mackerel can be bought at RM14 at the farmers' market compared with RM18 at the market," she added.

Rashid Johan, 38, a government servant from the peninsular, is feeling the pinch.

"When I was transferred to Labuan three years ago, I thought the cost of living here was lower because of its status as a free tax island, but it is not so. The pricea of goods here is very high," he added.

An operations manager of a shopping centre, Mary Anne Lin, 41, said prices of goods at the premises were fixed based on the transportation cost incurred.

Jennifer George, 44, a supplier, said she obtained her supply of goods without going through middlemen or agents to avoid paying extra charges.

Hotel operators are also affected with a drop in occupancy rate.

Terence Kim, 51, a sales manager at a four-star hotel here, said the number of visitors to the island had dropped compared with the 1980s and 1990s when Labuan was a shopping haven. - Bernama

RM3b for Labuan development projects
Published: 2010/02/28

An allocation of RM3 billion had been submitted to the Finance Ministry for approval to carry out various development projects in Labuan under the 10th Malaysia Plan, said Minister of Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin.

He said it would be a special gift for Labuan in conjunction with its 26th anniversary in the Federal Territory, if the Finance Ministry approved it.

"Labuan needs a whopping RM3 billion for the implementation of various development projects and this is the amount being requested from the Ministry of Finance for consideration under 10th Malaysia Plan," he told reporters after participating in the lawn bowl open tournament in conjunction with the Federal Territory Day, last night.

He said the massive allocation was required to transform the island into a developed and well-organised federal territory.
Labuan received RM317 million in the 9th Malaysia Plan, and among the development projects implemented were the RM89 million halal hub project in Kiansam, public marina, a futsal court, lawn bowls arena, a cultural waterfront and graduates' corner as well as maintenance and upgrading works on basic facilities.

"Of course Labuan will not be left behind, there will be a lot of things that need to be done and plans are on the cards. What we can say now is that the project will be more people-centric," he added. -- Bernama

Federal Government Is Focussed On Eradicating Poverty In Labuan
February 28, 2010 23:44 PM

LABUAN, Feb 28 (Bernama) -- Development agenda in Labuan will be continued under the 10th Malaysian plan with focus on poverty eradication, housing and providing quality service, Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin said.

"The ministry does not only think about the welfare of residents in Kuala Lumpur, but is always looking for ways to enhance the quality of life of residents in Labuan" he added.

He was speaking at the closing of the Federal Territories Day at the Dataran Labuan tonight.

Meanwhile, Labuan Member of Parliament Datuk Yussof Mahal advised residents in Labuan to seize opportunities provided by the government to improve themselves.

--BERNAMA

From flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4395494218_158cf4b0f1_b.jpg

UMS students stage picket over shortage of water
3rd March, 2010

LABUAN : About 1,000 Universiti Malaysia Sabah International Campus yesterday staged a peaceful picket outside the campus due to the persistant water supply problem they have been facing for the past seven months.

The picket started at 9am until 12pm with students carrying banners expressing their dissatisfaction over the persisting problem.

Police kept a close watch on the picket but no untoward incident happened.

Student leader of the picket, Herry Anto Hishamudin, handed over a memorandum to the university’s administrative officers demanding the water supply problem to be resolved immediately.

Several students when met claimed that some 100 students had decided to quit studying due to the problem.

Labuan has been facing water problem over the past one year and it is becoming more critical now with the ongoing dry season which is expected to end sometime in September.

The problem was said will only be resolved by year end when the 25.7km pipeline from Beaufort is ready. The pipeline will channel clean water from the mainland to the island. -JAINUDDIN DJIMIN (jainudin@newsabahtimes.com.my)
---------------------

After 46 years of Sabah (labuan) got independent from British, Sabah@Labuan still facing the basic utilities supply problem like water and electricity. What is the point to have so many shopping mall and hotels but no electricity and water supply?

What a SHAME huh!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/eyeofheaven/labuan.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/eyeofheaven/infrastructure_labuantown.jpg
City center

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/eyeofheaven/LabuanWaterfront.jpg
Labuan Waterfront

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/eyeofheaven/labuan1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/eyeofheaven/Labuan2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/eyeofheaven/Labuan_FinancialParkComplex.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v229/eyeofheaven/LabuanFinancialPark2.jpg
Labuan Financial Park

First time visit labuan forum. I must say I am really surprise and impress this small island has developed so much. I may pay this island one day when I go to KK :cheers:

From flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4395494218_158cf4b0f1_b.jpg

This is beautiful. How's the traffic in labuan ??

Bridge Between Labuan And Mainland Sabah Economically Viable
March 18, 2010 16:04 PM

LABUAN, March 18 (Bernama) -- A study on the proposal to construct an 11 km-long bridge linking Labuan and mainland Sabah through Menumbok has been completed and it will be economically viable, says Universiti Malaysia Sabah Labuan International College (UMSKAL) director Prof Dr Haji Shariff AK Omang Al Haj.

He said this to Bernama when contacted on Thursday on the comprehensive study jointly carried out by University Kebangsaan Malaysia and University Malaysia Sarawak.

The report is to be handed over to the Ministry of Federal Territories and Urban Well-Being this week.

Dr Shariff who is also head director of the Labuan-Menumbok Bridge Project Consultation said the study which took 11 months to complete, laid out three possible routes for the bridge, namely from the south, middle, and east side.

The eastern route would link Tanjung Aru here to Mempakul next to Menumbok on the Sabah mainland and is considered the most practical one as it doesn't interfere with the commercial shipping lane or the Labuan-Menumbok ferry path.

The middle route would go through Pulau Dahat and Menumbok (9.3km) and the southern route from the town centre here to Menumbok (11.3km)

These two routes however are considered to be impractical because they interfere with the shipping lane and also involve high construction cost, Dr Shariff said.

He said the study also put the estimated cost at a whopping RM3 billion, adding that it would rise to RM6 billion if construction is delayed.

The study also said the bridge was necessary to solve the problems of limited air access and uncomfortable sea connection, and to provide an alternative means of faster transportation in case of emergency.

The construction of the bridge, which has been long been awaited by Labuan residents and those living in Menumbok as well as the surrounding areas, can boost tourism industry. It would also provide economic spin-off to the local populace and thus benefit the whole nation.

It would not affect the air and sea transport system but on the other hand would provide more options to people travelling.

If the bridge becomes a reality, he said infrastructures of the town centre especially roads would have to be upgraded to avoid congestion.

However, the study also pointed out if the number of population rises to 200,000 in the town centre, there was possibility that the town might be paralyzed.

"Therefore, Labuan town will need to be expanded or enlarged through several sea reclamation and upgrading of the island's entire roads networks," he explained.

Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin had said that his Ministry had requested a total of RM3 billion in allocation for various development projects in Labuan and were awaiting the Economic Planning Unit (EPU)'s approval.

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Labuan, Datuk Yussof Mahal, said the findings of the study augured well for the island and the people, as a whole.

-- BERNAMA

He said the study also put the estimated cost at a whopping RM3 billion, adding that it would rise to RM6 billion if construction is delayed.
The guy main psycho blackmail or what ?! :nuts:
If potential for cost over-run is like that, proposal is blatantly NOT VIABLE to start with
Unless one is already laying groundwork for all the anticipated variation orders to follow on :ohno:


If the bridge becomes a reality, he said infrastructures of the town centre especially roads would have to be upgraded to avoid congestion.

The 3B to 6B estimation include these costs or not ?
If gonna cost extra, likely to be much much more more
Then the whole thing makes sense financially ?


..... there was possibility that the town might be paralyzed.
Wah, so dangerous
And they still concluded project is 'viable' and (I quote) "..... augured well for the island and the people, as a whole" :lol:


..... his Ministry had requested a total of RM3 billion in allocation for various development projects in Labuan and were awaiting the Economic Planning Unit (EPU)'s approval.
Meaning everything else in Labuan has to come to a complete halt just for sake of 'the bridge' ?!

^^^^^^^^^^^^

nda sah tu kalo 'cost rise to RM6 billion' tu ada sedikit % nya yg akan masuk dalam poket 'org2 yang tertentu' tu :)

I am in favor for the construction of the bridge. Accessibility to Labuan is now at a mercy of available capacity by ferry operators. Flight frequency also are not an option for many travellers even though cheap tickets are now within reach for many. Who knows, maybe during the construction of the bridge, water pipelines will also be integrated with the bridge itself to end Labuan water woes.

However, I do agree that congestion would be a detrimental effect of the proposed bridge towards Labuan. Maybe, Labuan should from now on emulate traffic planning system imposed in Singapore, adapt the strategy to be used in Labuan. Labuan Corporation better start planning now if they want to reap economic benefits from the bridge, but at the same time maintain the tranquility and peace that the people on the island and tourists are now enjoying.

never been to labuan b4,so

IS the sea between labuan and mainland were deep??
if it shallow can always build causeway??

is there a lot of commuter to and from labuan? will the numbers and the toll collection big enough to at least pay up the construction cost?

is there a lot of commuter to and from labuan?
If you count current commuters, not too much
But the numbers will surely balloon if a bridge is there
But grow by how much ?

..... the toll collection big enough to at least pay up the construction cost?
Toll collection is something totally alien to the Sabahan psyche :nuts:
I can forsee people will boycott the bridge if this is imposed !

Labuan MoU for a US$20b floating city
15 May, 2008 , DAILY EXPRESS NEWS

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/7344/labuanix6.jpg

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/7344/labuanix6.22b2d016e4.jpg

Labuan: A US$20 billion memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed here for a "floating city" that would serve as "showcase" of resort development in Asia, based on concepts used in USA, Europe and other advanced countries.

The project is expected to be completed in 15 years after the appointment of a turnkey contractor. When completed, it would boost the island's population to 1 million.

"Mafa Resort Smart City" as it is called, would be built on 1,500 hectares of reclaimed land and shaped like a whale. It stretches from the northern tip to the southern end of the island. the floating city would be connected to Labuan via a bridge near the Kampung Lubang Temiang/Kerupang area.

These details were revealed during the MoU signing ceremony. The project is undertaken by Mafa Group Corporation Sdn Bhd and a consortium led by MS Azam Holdings Sdn Bhd, Naturelink Industries Co., Corejati Sdn Bhd and Nccorp Netcomm Technology Sdn Bhd.

Member of Parliament Datuk Haji Yussof Haji Mahal, who witnessed the signing, said Labuan welcomes any project that benefit the island and hoped it would be a success. A mega project like this would surely elevate the status of the island," he said.

The main signatories were Ab Hamid Neemat and Mdm Naznah Sotan both executive Directors of Mafa, Edmundo President Azam holdings, Ali Azam, Director of Azam holdings. Others were Dr Tamayuki Takano for Corjati, Anicia Welte President of Philippines' rockwell Trading Inc and PAC Asia Construction and Development Corporation.

A Mafa spokesman said the project was undertaken in Labuan because of its strategic location. The focus is on the main components, namely tourism, deep-sea fishing and education and each would have related supporting facilities, Labuan as an international business and financial centre, duty free and tourist destination were other considerations.

When completed, it would be Malaysia's biggest floating structure. Among the floating items would be an 18-hole golf course, club-house, township, mosque, floating and moveable bridge and theme park.

When completed, Labuan is expected to have a world-class advanced integrated deep-sea fishing port owned and operated by Malaysian. Other facilities would be marina, sea sports facilities, and an Oceanarium.

Any news update?!!

Labuan set to be mature financial centre
By ELAINE ANG Thursday April 8, 2010
http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/4/8/business/6010280&sec=business

KUALA LUMPUR: Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) is targeting 20% growth in the number of companies incorporated in the jurisdiction this year versus 2009.

According to Labuan IBFC Inc Sdn Bhd chief executive officer David Kinloch, the growth will be supported by its new and amended legislation, which took effect Feb 11, as well as aggressive marketing strategies.

Labuan IBFC Inc is the marketing agency for Labuan IBFC.

“We have spent a great deal of time in the past 21 months promoting the Labuan name and we intend to continue to do so aggressively.

“We have board approval to open a representative office in Hong Kong on Sept 1. We are also looking at China, India as well as Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and other emerging economies,” Kinloch told StarBiz.

He aims to promote Labuan as the international business and financial centre for South East Asia.

“We are looking at public companies moving into the region. There is definitely a place for Labuan as a regional banking centre for large companies as the economy expands,” he said.

Labuan IBFC is also upgrading the level of professional services offered by the jurisdiction and widening the range of products offered.

It is recruiting specialists in banking, trusts and Islamic finance to complement the existing specialists in tax and insurance.

In addition, four new laws and another four were amended to transform the business scene in the jurisdiction.

The new laws in force comprise the Labuan Islamic Financial Services and Securities Act 2010, Labuan Financial Services and Securities Act 2010, Labuan Foundations Act 2010, Labuan Limited Partnerships and Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2010.

Meanwhile, the four amended Acts are the Labuan Companies Act 1990, Labuan Business Activity Tax Act 1990, Labuan Financial Services Authority Act 1996 and Labuan Trusts Act 1996.

Kinloch said the powers of the regulator, Labuan Financial Services Authority, had been increased which should lead to better administrative efficiency.

The recent new legal framework has also effectively opened up Labuan to Malaysians as they can deal openly with and through Labuan for international finance and trading.

Up to August 2008, only certain areas were opened up to Malaysians and specific approval was required for Malaysians to use Labuan IBFC’s products and services.

The new foundation and trust laws allow Malaysian citizens to not only hold overseas properties and assets in Labuan trusts and foundations but also Malaysian properties as well.

The new leasing laws enable leasing not only for aircraft but also for offshore equipment, high-value heavy plant and machinery leased for and by Malaysian entities.

Labuan holding companies have also since last year been permitted to set up a regional headquarters or management office in Kuala Lumpur in keeping with the Government’s move to liberalise the financial sector.

In January, Labuan banks could co-locate one or more offices anywhere in the country to offer a full range of services but no retail banking activities are allowed.

This would be extended to the insurance industry next year.

“The outlook for Labuan IBFC is good. We have built the right foundation, infrastructure and are comfortable with our costing structure.

“We are bullish about the future. Labuan IBFC is ready to take its place as a mature international financial centre,” Kinloch said.

Labuan IBFC has over 7,400 companies, 60 banks, 150 insurance entities, 23 trust companies and many service providers including lawyers, accountants, tax consultants, audit and secretarial staff.

Labuan-Menumbok Ferry Service Proposal To Be Discussed In Next Cabinet Meeting - Musa Aman
May 17, 2010 18:02 PM

KOTA KINABALU, May 17 (Bernama) -- The proposed Labuan-Menumbok ferry service is to be discussed in the next state legislative meeting, following a call for better ferry services between the island and Sabah's mainland, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said on Monday.

Musa said he would meet and discuss the matter with state Infrastructure Development Minister Datuk Seri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, as it falls under the ministry's purview.

"I will ask Pairin to look into this matter seriously. I cannot elaborate now, but believe the minister can explain after a detailed study," he told reporters after chairing the state Integration and Good Governance committee meeting here Monday.

Musa was asked to comment on reports that the state government was denying landing rights to other ferry operators, although only the one ferry was servicing the Labuan-Menumbok route, namely Wawasan Perdana, operated by Labuan Ferry Corporation Sdn Bhd (LFC).

He added that in the meantime, the current operator would be asked to improve their services to fulfill the demands of the passengers.

Previously, Labuan Member of Parliament Datuk Yussof Mahal said the federal government was serious in resolving the long-standing of better Labuan-Menumbok ferry services, and had given the green light to have additional ferry services.

However, he said there were teething problems that needed to be resolved and that was the Sabah Government's stand for not giving "landing rights" to other ferry operators.

LFC on its part, has denied a monopoly over the Labuan-Menumbok service, claiming that there were about a dozen other speedboats operated by families, said servicing the route said executive chairman Peter Kong Ping Sen.

Kong yesterday was reported saying that they planned to commission a second ferry early next year as part of the company's long-term plan to improve its services.

Last month, 87,000 Labuan islanders had rejoiced the prospect of an alternative service when another operator, Isro Shipping, started its Labuan-Menumbok ferry service, but was later stopped after a week's operation, when Sabah Port and Harbour Department claimed there was no landing rights issued by the State Government, to Isro Shipping.

Department director Captain Chin Kui Foh said the company was only temporarily operating the ferry service while the existing Warisan Perdana, was on dock for repairs.

-- BERNAMA

The guy main psycho blackmail or what ?! :nuts:
If potential for cost over-run is like that, proposal is blatantly NOT VIABLE to start with
Unless one is already laying groundwork for all the anticipated variation orders to follow on :ohno:



The 3B to 6B estimation include these costs or not ?
If gonna cost extra, likely to be much much more more
Then the whole thing makes sense financially ?



Wah, so dangerous
And they still concluded project is 'viable' and (I quote) "..... augured well for the island and the people, as a whole" :lol:



Meaning everything else in Labuan has to come to a complete halt just for sake of 'the bridge' ?!

Absolutely nonsense! First said viable, then said will affect the whole town. To think that these people are holding the decision making positions, is ..... worrying:ohno:

Labuan Town View

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4617734183_90a6646abb_b.jpg

Tip of Labuan
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3333/4644567755_74823854ea_b.jpg

Manikar Beach Resort
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3377/4645181640_4c85251178_b.jpg

Labuan Halal Distribution Hub
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3381/4644562591_020d20d12a_b.jpg

Pulau Burung
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4645182238_ab23b9ba8d_o.jpg

Labuan Times Square
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4693236223_7efe0aa046_b.jpg


Taman Mahkota Impian
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4693872070_e642a0e88e_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4693872820_d962daeeb1_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4693873722_093b5ce364_b.jpg

Labuan... looks modern.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/4984753145_efae413eef_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/joyboyluv/4984753145/

UPDATE:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/plynoi/4995550427/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/4995550427_7a8d970753_b.jpg

Nice place.

Wednesday May 5, 2010
Labuan-Sabah bridge on hold

KOTA KINABALU: A bridge linking the international offshore financial centre of Labuan to the Sabah mainland will not be a reality for at least another five years.

Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Zainal Abidin said the proposed bridge was not a priority now.

“As such, it is not included in the 10th Malaysia Plan from 2011 to 2015,” he said when asked about the proposed structure, estimated to cost RM550mil if built now, during a visit to Labuan yesterday.
read in full here : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/5/5/nation/6189011&sec=nation


LABUAN, March 18 (Bernama) -- A study on the proposal to construct an 11 km-long bridge linking Labuan and mainland Sabah through Menumbok has been completed and it will be economically viable, says Universiti Malaysia Sabah Labuan International College (UMSKAL) director Prof Dr Haji Shariff AK Omang Al Haj.
.....
He said the study also put the estimated cost at a whopping RM3 billion, adding that it would rise to RM6 billion if construction is delayed.
previously quoted here : http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=422305&page=12

I'll be amazed if someone can explain the astounding variation in cost estimates, sort of like out by a factor of x5.5 :nuts:

can someone post pictures of the beaches in Labuan?.. I mean mainland Labuan not Rusukan or Kuraman islands.. I searched the web but haven't found any decent pics.. I thot Labuan as an island must be blessed with beautiful beaches right?? esp it's around the waters of Sabah

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2768/4302760284_2afc914d48_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/44816941@N08/4302760284/in/photostream/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5000848883_bdbdbdf348_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jewelle/5000848883/

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4024/5128188938_cbf47ae17c_b.jpg

Best Re invests RM480mil in Labuan

http://http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/12/14/business/7614909&sec=business (http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/12/14/business/7614909&sec=business)

PETALING JAYA: Best Re, a global syariah compliant reinsurance group, has invested US$150mil (RM480mil) in Labuan in a bid to strengthen the country’s position as an Islamic financial hub.

The capital injection would be made into Best Re (L) Ltd (non-life) and Best Re Family (L) Ltd.

The company, in a statement, said the Malaysian Government under the leadership of prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has carved a name for the country in terms of attracting foreign direct investments and providing world class facilities to grow Malaysia into a leading Islamic financing hub.


Riadh Karray ... we will continue to expand into new territories and increase the diversification of our business lines.
Best Re said this was why it chose to move its headquarters from Tunisia to Labuan and take advantage of the highly skilled talents that Malaysia had to offer.

The involvement of Best Re in Malaysia would be beneficial in terms of it providing expertise as a pioneer in the global reinsurance business, the company said.

Its general manager Riadh Karray said: “Best Re as the world’s oldest retakaful insurance group has high expectations for the future as it continues to diversify its portfolio in terms of products and markets.

“Banking on our reputation and knowledge of the markets, we will continue to expand into new territories and increase the diversification of our business lines.”

Meanwhile, Labuan Financial Services Authority director general Datuk Azizan Abdul Rahman said that “Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) is a pioneer and innovator in the Islamic capital markets with successful issue and listing of various securities based on syariah principles for global investors.”

“This has made Labuan IBFC an attractive destination for regional investment flows from international groups such as Best Re.”

Best Re was established in April 1985 as an off-shore reinsurance company with headquarters in Tunisia.

Fully owned by the Salama Group, Best Re is one of the world’s leading syariah compliant reinsurance groups.

Since its inception, Best Re has focused on developing a profitable reinsurance portfolio in the emerging markets of Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

It currently covers more than 90 countries through a network of four regional offices in Labuan, Beirut, Istanbul, Dakar (Senegal), Port Louis (Mauritius) and two contact offices in Beijing and Manila.

Waterfront Labuan Hotel Undergo RM30 Million Refurbishment
January 16, 2011 12:12 PM

LABUAN, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- Waterfront Labuan, one the oldest hotels here is undergoing a RM30 million refurbishment and rebranding exercise to keep up with the progressive economic development in the offshore financial centre.

The first phase of the extensive refurbishment of the formerly known Waterfront Labuan Financial Hotel had been completed, its executive chairman Tan Sri Chua Ma Yu to Bernama.

He said the refurbishment programme was carried out to keep up with the economic activities around the island especially in the oil and gas exploration and production activities, shipyards maintenance and shipbuilding, and offshore banking and insurance operations following the launching of the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) last year.

With the growing economic activities on the island, there was an increasing demand for better quality rooms, conference facilities and food and beverages outlets, he said.

He said since the opening of the hotel in 1994, it had been receiving many foreign and national leaders and that the refurbishment was to offer its clients up-to-date and modern accommodations for business or leisure.

Under the refurbishment project, all its 94 guest rooms were installed with security cards, wall-mounted LCD televisions and in-room wireless and data connections.

The conference rooms were also upgraded with the latest technologies, while the second phase will include an additional 74 rooms.

-- BERNAMA

huhu...miss Labuan a lot..
x taw bile dpt dtg lg after more than 10 years left Labuan..
its a lot of change..
rndu kt sek lame...SK Kerupang...

Labuan needs to create own identity to boost tourism, says deputy minister
Posted on April 25, 2011, Monday
http://www.theborneopost.com/?p=125789

http://www.theborneopost.com/newsimages/T04813.jpg
BIGGEST CATCH: Photo shot shows Dawos (second left) with Labuan
Corporation’s chief executive officer Zainul Abidin Abdullah (second right)
showing some of the catches during the IGFA 2011 at Labuan International
Sea Sports Complex here. IGFA 2011 kicked off on April 23 involving 128
participants from 40 countries. — Bernama photo

LABUAN: The Federal Territory of Labuan needs to create its own identity to compete with other states in the area of tourism, Deputy Tourism Minister Datuk Dr James Dawos Mamit said yesterday.

He said existing tourism products must be turned into tourism icons towards attracting both local and foreign tourists. The island, he said, should not depend on allocations to boost its tourism sector.

“Industry players must work together to assist in boosting the industry,” he told reporters after launching the International Game Fishing Tournament (IGFA) 2011 here.

Dawos also said the ministry was also looking at preserving the mangrove area of Kinabenua in a bid to conserve the island’s ecosystem. He said his ministry was lobbying for direct international flights to Labuan since the airport here had the capacity to handle bigger aircraft.

“We have been in touch with the Ministry of Transport to have direct flights to propel Labuan’s tourism industry further,” he added.— Bernama

Ministry Awaits Nod On Setting Up Of Firm To Run Labuan Halal Hub
By Jailani Hassan June 10, 2011 19:20 PM
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/state_news/news.php?id=593030&cat=sbe

LABUAN, June 10 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing is in the midst of obtaining the nod from the Finance Ministry on the memorandum of association pertaining to the setting up of a company to run the RM86 million Labuan Halal Distribution Hub.

Its secretary-general, Datuk Ahmad Phesal Talib, told Bernama the company, Labuan Halal Trace Malaysia, would be registered once the ministry gave the nod.

"We have discussed the establishment of the company with the staff to be recruited from Labuan Corp itself," he said.

Ahmad Phesal said a dedicated team would be tasked to headhunt potential clients to lease lots within the halal hub building.

Meanwhile, FT Minister, Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin, said the hub, with its stringent and high quality standards, would be able to raise the name of Labuan in the international arena just like it happened with the status of International Business and Financial Centre given to it in the early 90s.

He said this to reporters after addressing the monthly assembly with government departments and agencies here today.

Meanwhile, the hub at Kiansam, once it is fully operational, will be the centre of distribution for Malaysian halal products both for the domestic and international market.

The hub project was planned considering the rich ocean resources of the island which could be produced into food products and pharmaceuticals both for Muslims and non-Muslims.

The project will cover an area totalling 25 hectares.

Among the important components in the development of the first phase will be the prototype system for halal identification and verification, strategic business plan, and other facilities such as processing centre, cold storage, laboratory and offices.

-- BERNAMA

I think kan, it is better to change the name of the thread... Labuan is not under Sabah.. Its Wilayah Persekutuan. Same goes with Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur. Its not under Selangor.

Think tank to plan Labuan development
Posted on July 28, 2011, Thursday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2011/07/28/think-tank-to-plan-labuan-development/

LABUAN: Various unresolved issues have been identified for immediate solution from various quarters in the government in order to see the progress of Labuan.

The finding from a newly-established think tank group, was discussed in the first round of meeting yesterday by representatives of nine major sectors and to be forwarded to the higher authorities, including the Prime Minister.

The think tank is spearheaded by Labuan member of parliament Datuk Yussof Mahal with its members comprising academician, professional and players in the oil and gas, financial services, education, shipping, port services, tourism, chambers of commerce, women development and consumerism and development.

The issues include the need to look at aggressive business promotion for Labuan to increase the profile (image) of the island, the lack of basic infrastructure which has hindered investors to come to the island, creating international lifestyle, turning the University Malaysia of Sabah Labuan International Campus (UMSKAL) into a full-pledged university to cater for more programs to suit the local industries’ needs, ensuring the booming oil and gas sector supports the supporting industries, realising the government’s agenda of turning Labuan into a premier tourist destination and recommending for more flights into the island.

Yussof said the recommendation from the finding would be further discussed in the next meeting before forwarded to the Ministry of Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing and Prime Minister for endorsement and consideration.

“The establishment of think tank group is merely to assist the government in policy making as well as in decision making for the benefit of the people and the industries on the island,” he said.

Yussof noted that the nine sectors playing a vital role in the development of Labuan and members are allowed to voice out and give inputs to be concluded as recommendation to the government.

“We are glad to note that the think tank members have shown their commitment by giving ideas and inputs in order to see the prosperity of the island, and this is due to the fact they are all heads of the important sectors in Labuan who are eager to see the progress and development of the island for the benefit of all. It is a fruitful meeting,” he said.

All the members have unanimously agreed to come up with a four -year action development plan, with short-term and long-term review, for the island and would have its meeting once in every two months.

Yussof said Labuan had been recognised as an oil and gas hub and international financial services centre and had greatly helped placing the island on the world map, coupled with the mega methanol Petronas Labuan, which is the fourth largest in the world.

“But unfortunately, we are still lagging behind in terms of promotion. As such, this is one of the areas we are looking at to be improved,” he said.

A member of oil and gas sector, Datuk Harris Tan, chief executive officer of Asian Supply Base, highlighted the need for business promotion overseas, currently being carried out by his group.

“When we are overseas for business trip, we are not only promoting our facilities but also other sectors like financial services as well as incentives for investors being offered in Labuan,” Harris said.

Asian Supply Base (ASB) currently houses more than 70 major international oil and gas companies, including the world’s largest and second largest oil and gas companies – Shlumberger and Halliburton.

The think tank group members are CEO of Asian Supply Base Sdn Bhd, Datuk Harris Tan; CEO of Petronas Methanol Labuan, Khairol Anuar Shukri; CEO of Labuan Shipyard Engineering Sdn Bhd, Mohd Azman Nasir for oil and gas sector; Managing Director of Labuan Liberty Port Management, Mohd Alias Abnd Rahman (Port and Logistic Services); Director General of Labuan Financial Services Authority (Labuan FSA), Datuk Azizan Abd Rahman and Datuk Chin Chee Kee (Financial Services); Chairman of Indian Chamber of Commerce Labuan, Dahlif Singh; Malaysian Malay Chamber of Commerce President Datuk Haji Yussof Mohammad and Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce’s Wong Kii Yii (Business Sector); Director of UMSKAL, Professor Dr Sharif Omang (Education and Human Capital); Chairwoman of Labuan Consumer Action Council and Labuan Women Association, Fauziah Datuk Mohd Din; Director of Tourism Office Labuan, Maxwell Francis (Tourism), Deputy CEO of Labuan Corporation, Siti Maznah Awg Damit and Director of Planning of Labuan Corporation, Ibrahim Tambi for development sector.

DiGi starts 3G services in Labuan
Published: 2011/08/04
http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/articles/20110804142401/Article/index_html#ixzz1U47gur5K

DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd today launched 3G services in Labuan, covering 65 per cent of populated areas in the territory, and making it the fifth market centre in Sabah to enjoy the benefit of DiGi's Turbo 3G network.

"The newly expanded coverage area is timely as we see increasing demand for data usage among Sabahans," said DiGi's Head of Sabah Region Ng Chak Khin in a statement today.

Ng said DiGi intended to fuel the uptrend by aggressively expanding its 3G service to more market centres in the state, namely to Papar, Tuaran and Keningau by year-end.

"While we concentrate on building a more connected society in Sabah, we are also innovating to reach out to non-smartphone users so they can explore and enjoy the benefits of a mobile Internet lifestyle," he said. - Bernama