Gawai event with reps a platform for locals to express needs

SIMANGGANG: The Gawai celebration organised by the Lingga and Batang Lupar service centres has provided a platform for the locals to express their aspirations and needs.
 
In addition to fostering stronger bonds between the people and their elected representatives, the event aimed to strengthen social ties and cooperation in building a better community.
 
Among those present were political secretary to the Premier Senator Susan Chemerai Anding, Batang Lupar Member of Parliament (MP) Mohamad Shahfizan Kepli, and Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor.
 
During her speech, Susan highlighted the extensive development projects planned by the Sarawak government until 2023, covering areas such as infrastructure, economy, and education.
 
On the same note, Shahfizan emphasised the significant agricultural potential of the Lingga constituency, particularly in rice cultivation.
 
He stressed the importance of providing support and aid to farmers in the area to enhance productivity and efficiency through access to modern agricultural technology, financial assistance, and effective farm management training.
 
In light of this, Shahfizan called upon local residents to explore opportunities for obtaining assistance from government agencies that aim to support rural entrepreneurs through grants and marketing initiatives.
 
Meanwhile, Dayang Noorazah announced an allocation of RM227,300 for all the village development and security committees (JKKK) of longhouses in Lingga state constituency.
 
This allocation, provided through the Minor Rural Projects (MRP), demonstrated her commitment to the development and wellbeing of the villages.
 
According to Dayang Noorazah, this allocation would enable the JKKK, a crucial body in advancing and safeguarding the welfare of the villages, to undertake small-scale projects that would positively impact the local community.
 
She expressed gratitude to the Sarawak government for the ongoing development projects in Lingga, particularly the construction of the Lingga-Sebuyau road and the Batang Lupar 2 Bridge, which would improve road transportation.
 
Apart from the presentation of certificates to village chiefs in the Lingga state constituency, the event was also enlivened with entertaining performances and a Ratu Kebaya competition.