As 2024 draws to a close, leaders from Miri’s diverse community are looking ahead with hopes and aspirations for a brighter future.
From fostering inclusivity and environmental awareness to addressing socio-economic challenges, their resolutions provide a roadmap for a more united and prosperous 2025.
Councillor Tan Lek Jin envisions a future where Sarawakians enjoy health, wealth, and stability.
“I’d like to see Sarawakians staying healthy, achieving stable and high incomes, and attracting more investors to the state,” he shared.
Tan emphasised the importance of political stability under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government.
“A stable GPS government is key to Sarawak’s long-term prosperity and success. We must ensure its strength to secure our future,” he added.
Tan’s vision for Sarawak highlights the essential role of economic development and governance in ensuring that all citizens can thrive.
Councillor Karambir Singh Honey, the chairman of the Miri Indian Association (MIA), hopes to see Miri embrace a greener future in 2025.
“I would love to see our community take greater strides toward environmental consciousness,” he said. He emphasised initiatives like enhanced recycling programmes, the creation of more green spaces, and community-driven conservation projects as ways to protect Miri’s natural beauty.
Karambir believes efforts can help ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for the next generation.
“By working together, we can make a real difference in preserving our environment for years to come,” he noted.
In addition to environmental goals, Karambir envisions a year of unity and collaboration across Miri’s diverse cultural groups.
“Mutual support and inclusivity are key to fostering a vibrant community. This is particularly important as we confront the rising tide of self-centred racial attitudes,” he stressed.
He also called for enhanced economic development to benefit all residents.
“A thriving economy, paired with a strong community spirit, will propel Miri into greater prosperity,” he concluded.
Kevin Hii, Publicity and Information Secretary for SUPP Pujut Youth focused on the importance of empowering young people in Sarawak.
“I’d like to see more youth stepping up as leaders to drive meaningful change in our state,” he said.
Hii also advocated for increased opportunities for education and career advancement for young Sarawakians.
“By equipping our youth with the tools they need to succeed, we can build a future where they play a central role in shaping Sarawak’s progress,” he explained.
His vision reflects the growing recognition of youth as key drivers of innovation and progress in the region.
Iban community leader Penghulu Randi Elon shared his hopes for the recently announced 2025 budget and its impact on rural and urban communities.
“Residents, particularly in rural areas, are looking forward to infrastructure improvements such as better roads, clean water supply, and electricity,” he said.
Financial assistance for low-income groups, including the Rahmah cash contributions (STR) and Rahmah basic contributions (SARA), is another area of focus.
“Such measures can ease the burden of the rising cost of living,” Randi pointed out.
He also highlighted the need for job creation, particularly in green technology and sustainable industries, as well as support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through micro-loan programs and capital assistance.
For his administrative area in Miri, Randi hopes to organize large-scale programmes that encourage community collaboration and development.
“It’s important for the Village Security and Development Committees (JKKKs) to play an active role in identifying and distributing government assistance to those who need it most,” he said.
The aspirations of Miri’s leaders reflect a shared commitment to progress, inclusivity, and sustainability.
From empowering the youth and promoting environmental awareness to addressing rural-urban disparities, their visions underscore the need for collective action to create a brighter future.
As Miri steps into 2025, the community’s leaders are united in their desire to build a thriving, united, and prosperous city for all.
Their resolutions are reminders that with determination and collaboration, a better future is within reach for everyone.
