KUCHING: The state government has announced a grant of RM1 million to the state Ex-Servicemen Association (Persatuan Veteran ATM) to finance its various activities and commitment including those of its branches statewide.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said that the grant was in appreciation of the contributions, dedication and sacrifices made by the former heroes.
“It was due to them that we are now enjoying such great peace which has led to our prosperity and success. You all had to face live bullets in the defence of our state and nation. Sarawak in particular, will continue to remember and appreciate such heroism and loyalty,” he said at a dinner held by the association on Saturday night before its 62nd annual general meeting yesterday.
Present at the dinner were the deputy president of the
national association Major Datuk Sazali Ismail, his state counter-part Roland Demong Radin and state Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force chief Lt-Jen (R) Datuk Stephen Mundaw.
Uggah added that the association and its branches statewide can always bring their problems and issues to the attention of the state government.
“You can communicate with Mundaw who can bring your problems like housing, the lack of regular income and other issues to us. He can be your bridge to the state government,” he said.
On improving their livelihood, Uggah who is also Agriculture Modernisation, Native Land and Regional Development Minister suggested they take up modern precision farming.
“Our state is in the midst of transforming our agriculture into a modern, progressive and income generating sector.
“Our Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg wants Sarawak to be a fruit, vegetable and meat producing and exporting state by 2030.
“Many programmes, assistances and plans are being implemented in furtherance of this objective,” he said.
He suggested that the association organise trips for its members to the Rampangi Integrated Agriculture Station to learn about precision farming.
Uggah further added that the government too had planned to set up more agro-parks statewide to help those interested but who did not have land.
“There are now tremendous opportunities in the sector with ever increasing demands.
“Countries like Singapore want more and more of our live pigs and fruits, fish and vegetable while China wants endless supply of durian.
Uggah stated that the association could talk to farmers’ organisation or the Agriculture Department to find out suitable courses and programmes for its members.
“We are ready to work with all of you. We prefer to give you the fishing hook and rod so that you stand on your own feet and can fish for yourself, instead of the government giving you fish all the time,” he said.
“We would prefer to work closely with the association which can help us to further unite our people.
“We are moving in the fast lane in developing our beloved state and have no time for any racial extremism or religious bigotry.”
On criticism by a certain businessman recently on the country’s armed forces, Uggah said he disagreed with his remark.
In his speech earlier, Roland expressed his disappointment with the same remark.
He said that it was due to their contributions and sacrifices that the country’s business sector had been able to enjoy great success and prosperity in an environment of peace and security.
He also called on members of the association and its branches to continue to look out for the 17,800 or so veterans in the effort to look after their welfare.
He later presented ‘Pingat Setia Sentiasa Berjuang’ to 10 heroes.
