KAPIT — Rural communities have a shared responsibility in ensuring environmental cleanliness and sustainability, said Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Bumiputera Law and Custom) and Bukit Goram Assemblyman, Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat.
Speaking at the conclusion of the “Community Development Programme: Environmental Cleanliness a Shared Responsibility” held at Rumah Kenyalang, Nanga Sengkeranji, Sungai Menuan on Saturday, Jefferson emphasised that environmental hygiene must be a communal effort.
“Cleanliness is not just a personal obligation. Everyone must be involved. The community must stop throwing rubbish into the river. This not only pollutes the environment but also affects public health and overall quality of life,” he said.
He underscored the importance of cooperation between local authorities, community leaders and residents in driving development efforts and raising awareness. Tribal leaders and headmen, he added, must take a proactive role in disseminating information and ensuring continuity of community-focused programmes.
In a significant development, Jefferson announced a RM12 million allocation for road repair works in the Menuan area to improve connectivity. He also revealed that a ferry project connecting to Menuan has been approved by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, a move that will enhance rural mobility and transport infrastructure.
Future plans include the construction of a new National Secondary School (SMK) and the expansion of hospital facilities in the area, both aimed at uplifting the education and healthcare standards for residents.
The programme also witnessed the distribution of community development funds, including:
- RM10,000 to Rumah Kenyalang
- RM5,000 to Sekolah Kebangsaan Lepong Menuan
- RM5,000 each to 15 longhouses around Sungai Menuan
Among those in attendance were Kapit District Officer Cerisologo Sabut, Kapit District Council Deputy Chairman Councillor Martin Bilun, and Acting Secretary Opang Malay.
This initiative highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening community welfare while promoting a clean and sustainable environment in Sarawak’s rural heartlands.
