MARUDI – Strong collaboration between leaders and residents has been highlighted as a crucial factor in ensuring sustainable development within Sarawak’s longhouse communities.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) and Mulu State Assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala emphasised that unity among residents, combined with effective leadership, can drive progress and create harmonious living environments.
He pointed to the achievements of Rh Tanjong, where residents have successfully built a well-organised and comfortable longhouse community.
According to him, this demonstrates how commitment and cooperation can lead to meaningful development outcomes.
“The longhouse will continue to develop well if led effectively and supported by a strong spirit of unity among the residents,” he said.
Gerawat made these remarks while officiating the Leaders’ Meeting with the People, organised by the Tanjong Anak Nudong Longhouse Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) in Stapang B, Marudi.
He noted that the uniformity and layout of longhouses reflect the strength of leadership and serve as a foundation for more systematic development.
At the same time, he reminded community leaders that allocations under the Rural Small Project (MRP) must be managed transparently to ensure benefits reach all residents fairly.
Gerawat also expressed appreciation for the Sarawak Government’s ongoing support through the MRP and the Rural Transformation Project (RTP), both of which have contributed significantly to rural development.
During the ceremony, RM35,000 was allocated for the purchase of sidewalk tiles for the longhouse, while an additional RM7,000 was channelled to JKKK Rh Tanjong to support annual activities.
The event also marked the fourth anniversary of the longhouse being inhabited, celebrated with a cake-cutting ceremony that symbolised unity and the community’s achievements in building a better life.
Present at the gathering were Marudi District Office Administrative Officer Reagen Edwin, representing the District Officer, alongside Councillor Yanti Nyanggau, community leaders, and local tuai rumah.
The meeting underscored the importance of collective responsibility, with leaders and residents working hand in hand to strengthen the longhouse community.
By combining transparent governance with grassroots cooperation, the longhouse model continues to stand as a symbol of resilience and unity in rural Sarawak.
