KUCHING: The Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (SHEDA) has reaffirmed its stance as being a non-political, non-governmental organisation (NGO).
Its president Augustine Wong Chung Ho said although SHEDA members may be involved in their personal capacity in various political organisations, elections or campaigns, SHEDA itself upholds political neutrality.
“Our Association’s primary objectives are to represent the interests of our members in the property development and construction industry in Sarawak and to help the property development and construction industry address concerns with relevant decision-makers and authorities.”
This came after SHEDA Kuching branch chairman Datuk Sim Kiang Chiok being widely reported to be campaigning in his bid to be nominated as the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) and Gabungan Parti Sarawak’s (GPS) candidate for the Stampin parliamentary seat.
Kiang Chiok, who is SUPP Stakan branch chairman was recently pushed by the party’s branch to recapture the Stampin seat which is currently held by Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen.
Stampin was previously held by SUPP since the constituency was created, but of late, has been a DAP stronghold for two consecutive terms.
At the same time, Wong stressed that SHEDA is not linked to or associated with any political party and emphasised that any political or government policy-related statement made by individual SHEDA members are not endorsed by the association.
“The SHEDA Constitution is clear that no member of SHEDA Branch is allowed to make any statement to the press or issue any press release concerning SHEDA’s policies or government policies without the sanction of the SHEDA president.”
He also took the opportunity to urge stakeholders to be mindful of comments made in public which were deemed to be associated with SHEDA.
“In the interest of maintaining healthy working relationships, proper representation and open communication, kindly verify such comments with the SHEDA President.
“SHEDA has spent many years working through industry issues with various parties. We understand that mutual trust and respect is required to enter into fruitful discussion and we remain committed to our objectives.”
He added that SHEDA will continue to prioritise working closely with the Sarawak Government and industry stakeholders for the progress of the housing and real estate development industry to benefit all Sarawakians.
