KAPIT: A total of RM5,000 was pledged for the activities of Kapit Foochow Association recently by the President of Sarawak Federated Foochow Association, Dato Dr Ngu Piew Seng.
He made the pledge when officiating at the Kapit Foochow Association ‘Fellowship Gathering and Committee Members’ Installation Banquet’ held at Kapit Civic Centre here on Sunday
In his address, Ngu reiterated his stand that he is never against the government adding that in reality, being the leader, it is his responsibility to voice the issues raised by the grassroots on the ground for the attention of the government so that remedial measure to be taken.
“As president of the Sarawak Federated Foochow Association, I travelled extensively to visit the various affiliated Foochow Association state wide. Through dialogue session, they (local Foochow leaders) reflected to me on the issues on the ground. It’s my responsibility to act as their mouth piece to voice the issues raised by people on the ground for the attention of the government so that remedial measures could be taken,” said Ngu at the event.
“The objective is to inform the government or relevant authorities to take remedial actions to address the issues. I firmly reiterate my stand that I never act against the government because I do not criticise the government of the day. I am just playing my part as a leader of the Foochow community to channel the people’s grievances to the government,” stressed Ngu.
He observed that Kapit people are very loyal BN supporters. “They voted for the government candidates. This is proven in the State or General Elections. When the people fully demonstrate their support to the ruling government, I hope the government in return could expedite the infrastructure and amenity development in Kapit Division for the benefits of the community. I hope in near future there’s road connection here. The ongoing road construction Jalan Kapit-Song-Kanowit hopefully could to be completed by 2018 and only then we can drive from Sibu to Kapit with ease,” he said.
Ngu advised the Foochow here to fully co-operate with other Chinese clans (Chiang Chuan, Kwang Tung) and also the Bumiputera communities (Dayak, Orang Ulu, Malay and the other minority ethnic groups).
“Chinese in Kapit is a minority in the predominantly Dayak based communities. Work closely with one another and the Bumiputera communities in order that your voice could be heard and earn the respect from others. At the same time support the Chinese community leaders led by Temenggong Tan Kian Hoo and his team who were appointed by the government to serve the people when needs arise,” said Ngu.
He also handed out the ‘angpow’ to the senior Foochows who were 65 years old and above.
The highlight of the evening saw Ngu witnessing the installation of the committee members Kapit Foochow Association 2017 to 2018.
Among those at the function were Vice President of World Federation Fuzhou Association Datuk Dr Wong AikLoung, Vice President The Federation of Foochow Associations of Malaysia Dato Sri Wong Ing Soon as well as chairman of Kapit Foochow Association Sii Bang Ee and his committee plus local dignitaries and 600 guests.