SIMUNJAN: Kampung Sungai Lingkau Hilir received a major infrastructure boost during its festive 2025 Gawai Dayak Ngiling Bidai celebration, with Simunjan Assemblyman (ADUN) Awla Dris announcing a total allocation of RM180,000 for two key development projects under the Rural Transformation Project (RTP).
Awla revealed that RM100,000 has been earmarked for the construction of new village lane roads, covering five key routes around the village. He noted the importance of safe and accessible road infrastructure to improve the daily movement and well-being of the residents.
“The government remains committed to improving rural infrastructure to ensure better quality of life and safety for our communities,” he said during his speech on Saturday.
In addition, a separate RM80,000 project for the construction of a multi-purpose storage facility has also been approved. The facility, funded through the RTP ADUN allocation, will be implemented by the Simunjan District Council (MDS) and is aimed at supporting community events, emergency equipment storage, and gotong-royong activities.
“We hope MDS can expedite the implementation so the facility can serve the village effectively,” Awla added.
Looking ahead, the Assemblyman encouraged the villagers to identify a suitable site for the proposed construction of a futsal court, aimed at promoting youth engagement and healthy living through sports.
“We want our youth to be involved in positive recreational activities. But we need community input to identify the best location so the proposal can be studied and submitted,” he said.
The Ngiling Bidai ceremony, symbolising the official end of the Gawai Dayak season, was rich in tradition and community spirit. It featured customary rituals including ngetas ranyai and ngiling bidai, led by Awla and his entourage.
Also in attendance were Awla’s wife Napsiah Abang Kaderi, Simunjan District Officer Sanuyah Mohamad, Simunjan Police Chief DSP Rafhan Kepli, and other community leaders and local representatives.
