SIMUNJAN: The Sarawak Government has greenlit the proposal to upgrade the Dewan Mesra Simunjan, aiming to enhance comfort for the local community during various activities.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg confirmed the decision, echoing the suggestion put forward by Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris.
“Awla requested for us to enlarge this hall, God willing, we will fulfil it,” he said when officiating at Simunjan district-level Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri at Dewan Mesra Simunjan here today (May 1).
Abang Johari said the upgrade will involve expanding the existing hall rather than constructing a new building.
This, he added, will include additional facilities to accommodate the needs of the residents, ensuring events like weddings can be hosted comfortably.
Although the estimated cost of the project is yet to be determined, the expansion aims to provide more space both inside and outside the hall for community activities.
“The estimated cost is still unknown, but it will surely incur some expenses. There is still land available in this area for us to expand.
“Activities such as exhibitions can later utilise the additional outdoor space of the hall. Inside, it can be used for activities like forums,” he added.
Earlier in his speech, Awla had emphasised the necessity for a more spacious hall due to overcrowding during events.
As such, he requested the Sarawak government to consider providing a larger hall in Simunjan.
Also present were Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali and State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.