PUSA: The Beting Maro Carnival (KBM) 2025, scheduled for September, is expected to be a shot-in-the-arm for the local economy here.
Beting Maro assemblyman Razaili Gapor said the main focus is therefore to strengthen and elevate local products so they can be introduced on a wider scale.
“It is truly an opportunity for the community to showcase the uniqueness of our area in terms of food products, crafts, arts, culture and more.
“Ultimately, we hope to raise them to greater heights,” he said during the Beting Maro Aidilfitri gathering on Saturday.
According to him, several agencies will be involved, including the Nipah and Sago Development Board (SNDB).
“With SNDB’s involvement, we plan to hold seminars on the nipah industry, palm sugar (gula apong) and sago.
“In addition, other agencies have shown interest, such as Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak Branch, the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), and many others.
“This will therefore serve as a benchmark for us to elevate the community’s economy by promoting and strengthening local products.
According to Razaili the KBM will be held in Beladin for a duration of 10 days.
“In addition to the economic empowerment seminar, the main highlights include a regatta, traditional community sports, a community stage, and more.
“Hopefully, with the cooperation of all parties and support from government agencies, the dreams of the people of Beting Maro can be realised through KBM 2025,” he said.
In a separate development, Razaili stated that the Sarawak government, through the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), has approved an allocation of RM2 million for the installation of solar-powered street lights throughout the constituency.
“The latest update is that the tender process and contractor appointment have been completed. I expect installation to begin within two months in the identified areas.
“This is another facility that will not only illuminate areas that have long been in darkness due to a lack of street lighting but also brighten up villages and longhouses.
“I am confident this initiative will be very beneficial, and as we know, solar lighting is more energy-efficient,” he added.
It is understood that more than 300 solar lamp posts will be installed, with two types of lights—120-watt and 60-watt.
During the event, he also presented contributions to individuals who will be performing the Hajj pilgrimage next season.
Additionally, he distributed government grants under the Minor Rural Project (MRP) scheme to Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK), mosques, surau, as well as clubs and organisations.
In the spirit of Raya, he also handed out duit raya (festive money packets) to all.
