KANOWIT – The Kanowit 2025 Project has been launched with a strong focus on supporting the elderly community while promoting inclusion, social cohesion and economic growth. The initiative was highlighted during a seminar and cultural programme in Kanowit, which brought together community leaders, cultural experts and government representatives.
The event was attended by Ngemah National Councillor Anyi Jana Madah, who emphasised the importance of creating platforms that address the needs of the elderly while fostering unity across generations.
He described the project as a symbol of commitment to building an “anti-ageing community”, where seniors are empowered to remain active, engaged and valued.
Among the activities planned under the Kanowit 2025 Project are Unity Aerobics, Fun Runs, powerboat and RC boat races, archery sessions and riverside recreational events.
These activities are designed not only to encourage healthy lifestyles, but also to strengthen community bonds and provide opportunities for intergenerational interaction.
Minister of Rural Development, Dato Sri Aaron Ago Dagang, expressed support for the initiative, noting that such programmes can serve as catalysts for both social inclusion and local economic growth.
He highlighted that the project also aims to create a mega market hub, which will benefit traders, micro-businesses and creative entrepreneurs, while providing services and products tailored to the elderly.
Organisers explained that the programme is also a seminar on stimulating the “ageing economy”, recognising the potential of seniors as contributors to economic activity.
By encouraging micro-businesses and community trading, the project seeks to transform the elderly population into active participants in local development rather than passive recipients of aid.
Anyi Jana Madah stressed that the Kanowit 2025 Project should continue to evolve as a platform for inclusion, cooperation and community resilience.
He urged residents to embrace the initiative as a way of ensuring that no group is left behind in the state’s development agenda.
The event also saw participation from Machan Assemblyman Allan Siden Gramong, Kanowit Election Officer Jacqueline August, Datuk Mohamad Azfan Mohd Amir from the Office of National Inclusion and Integration, Political Secretary Dr Stephen William, and Sarawak State Integration Director Dirwana Azool, among others. Their presence underscored the project’s significance as a collaborative effort between government, community leaders and civil society.
Observers noted that the Kanowit 2025 Project complements broader state-level initiatives such as the Sarawak International Conference on Ageing (SICA) 2025, which aims to address the challenges of an ageing population and promote policies of inclusion and social protection.
Together, these efforts reflect Sarawak’s commitment to becoming a socially inclusive developed state by 2030.
For Kanowit, the project is expected to bring long-term benefits by improving the quality of life for seniors, boosting local businesses, and positioning the town as a model for inclusive rural development.
