KUCHING: A dialogue was held with residents of Sg Laong at Rh Ngumbang Tia, Sg Laong Atas.
Assistant Local Government Minister Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil said among the issues discussed was the non-fulfilment of an independent oil palm mill project in Sg Laong.
He explained that the issue was company management problems. Also, its establishment was not through the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) and the Ministry of Modernisation of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development (Manred).
“I hope we all remain united and cooperate in our efforts to continue to resolve development issues that we have inherited in this area.
“Do not easily believe the instigation of some parties because they just want to see us divided for the sake of their political interests,” he said in a Facebook post last Sunday (Aug 23).
Penguang also announced a Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant to the longhouse’s Village Safety and Development Committee (JKKK) amounting to RM15,000 as well as RM5,000 to its Women Bureau.
MRP grants amounting to RM15,000 were also given to JKKKs of Rh Adelyn Minda, Rh Merenggai, Rh James Banggau and Rh Labo Abit.
“The Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) project to upgrade the entrance road and parking area of Rh Adelyn Minda costing RM100,000 was completed recently.
“In addition, the RTP project for electrical connection to Rh Subi will begin soon. Rh Subi is also one of the recipients of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) Longhouse Loan Scheme (PPRP) worth RM195,000 last year. Apart from that, Rh Subi also received a longhouse repair allocation worth RM13,000 earlier this year.”
On behalf of his wife, Penguang also presented a wheelchair from Sarawak Badan Amal Tenaga Isteri-isteri (Sabati) to a senior citizen from Rh Adelyn Minda.
“I would also like to thank all the community leaders, village chiefs, and council members who have shown improvement in their services and I hope that they will continue to strive and further improve the quality of their services.”
Also present were Alexander Asing, a political secretary to the Chief Minister; Marudi District Council chairman Cr Edward Mendai and other community leaders.