MUKAH – The upgrading of fences at the Catholic Christian Cemetery along Jalan Mukah–Oya has been highlighted as a key community project under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) 2025, with Tellian State Assemblyman Royston Valentine personally inspecting the progress on Tuesday.
The RM200,000 initiative, implemented by the Dalat and Mukah District Council (MDDM), is aimed at strengthening public facilities while ensuring the cemetery grounds remain secure and well-maintained.
Royston explained that the new fencing would serve multiple purposes, including safeguarding the area from wild animals, livestock, and vandalism.
He stressed that a durable boundary would help preserve the cemetery’s condition and prevent encroachment, thereby easing administrative responsibilities for church committees and local communities.
“The construction of this new fence is not only important in terms of security, but also serves as a protective barrier for the cemetery area from threats from wild animals, livestock and vandalism.
A strong fence will ensure that the cemetery area is better preserved and free from any damage. It also sets official boundaries to avoid overlap or encroachment, thus facilitating administrative matters by church committees and local communities,” he said during the inspection.
Royston further noted that the project would enhance the upkeep of the cemetery, making it more organised and manageable.
He emphasised that the fencing would support community-led maintenance activities such as gotong-royong, while also creating a calm and respectful environment for families visiting their loved ones.
He added that the initiative reflects broader efforts to improve local infrastructure under RTP 2025, which prioritises projects that directly benefit communities.
“The construction of this fence will facilitate gotong-royong and maintenance work by the community. In addition, it creates a calm and orderly atmosphere for the heirs who come to visit,” he remarked.
The assemblyman expressed hope that the upgraded fencing would deliver long-term benefits, ensuring the cemetery remains a dignified and well-protected space for future generations.
Community leaders have welcomed the project, noting that it demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing public facilities in Mukah.
The fencing upgrade is expected to be completed within the year, providing both practical improvements and symbolic reassurance to the local population.
