KUCHING: Bawang Assan is in urgent need of a new, younger leader to spearhead development in the area, says Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) president Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Speaking at the SUPP 65th Anniversary Celebration and Gawai Dayak Mantar Majlis organized by the SUPP Bawang Assan Branch, Dr Sim highlighted the area’s prolonged lag in infrastructure development.
Dr Sim proposed Councilor Kevin Lau as the most suitable candidate to lead Bawang Assan. “He is young, energetic, and essential for guiding Bawang Assan towards a better future,” Dr Sim stated. Kevin Lau currently serves as the SUPP Community Development Team Leader of the Bawang Assan Branch and is a Member of the Sibu Rural District Council (MDLBS). Within the MDLBS, Lau holds the position of Chairman of the Standing Committee on Environment and Public Health. He is also the youngest son of Temenggung Dato Vincent Lau.
Dr Sim, who also serves as the Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, reassured that despite Bawang Assan’s challenges, it remains a priority for him and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Recently, Abang Johari approved a special allocation for Bawang Assan through the Rural Transformation Project (RTP). “You are not alone. The Premier and I always care about Bawang Assan,” said Dr Sim, explaining the significance of the special RTP allocations and the appointment of a National Assembly Member from Bawang Assan.
Regarding the ongoing water supply issues in Bawang Assan, Dr Sim committed to bringing the matter to the relevant ministry. He also announced that Bawang Assan would be included in the Sibu city redevelopment project.
The event saw the attendance of notable figures including SUPP Deputy President I Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem, SUPP Vice President Datuk Ding Kuong Hing, SUPP Youth Leader Datuk Michael Tiang, SUPP Bawang Assan Branch Chairman Senator Robert Lau Hui Yew, Sibu Municipal Council Chairman (MPS) Clarence Ting, and the chairman of the event organizer, Councilor Kevin Lau.
