Two-day event in Kuching empowers community leaders in rural development
KUCHING – A total of 69 community leaders from the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly constituency of N.01 Opar successfully attended a two-day seminar held in Kuching from 27 to 28 July 2025.
This was the first time such a seminar was organised, with efforts led by the N.01 Opar Service Centre, supported by the KMKK Bidayuh Salako Rara Association and the Lundu District Office as the main secretariat.
The participants included 58 village chiefs (Ketua Kaum), 7 penghulu, 3 pemancha, and 1 temenggong.
The main aim of the seminar was to strengthen the role of community leaders (KMKK) in promoting rural development, infrastructure improvement, and socioeconomic progress in their areas. The seminar also acted as an important platform to share government policies and improve communication between grassroots leaders and government agencies.
KMKK plays an important role as the link between the government and the people. They do not only lead their communities but also help to share information, assist in development projects, and push for positive changes in villages and longhouses.
The organisers said that for development to succeed, strong cooperation is needed between the people and the government. Agencies such as the District Office, Public Works Department (JKR), Agriculture Department, Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID), Land and Survey Department, Forest Department, and KMKK all play vital roles in achieving balanced and sustainable progress.
These government departments are not only in charge of carrying out projects but also help communities understand and take part in the development process. By working together, they can better identify the needs and challenges in the Opar area and come up with effective solutions.
The seminar received positive feedback and highlighted the strong cooperation between KMKK and the government. Participants were reminded that the success of any government programme depends on the teamwork of all involved—especially the KMKK, who are considered the backbone of peace and harmony in the community.
KMKK were also encouraged to take what they had learned from the seminar and apply it in their own villages. Every small effort, if done sincerely, can bring great benefits to the community.
A special thank you was given to all who helped make the seminar a success, including the speakers, organisers, and all KMKK who attended. It is hoped that the knowledge gained during these two days will help them carry out their daily duties more effectively.
Among those present at the seminar were GKCDA Chief Executive Officer YBhg Datu Ik Pahon Joyik, Lundu District Officer Tuan Awang Yusuf bin Awang Mohamad, Lundu District Council Secretary Hjh Norashikin bt Brahim, as well as officers from GKCDA, the District Office, UKAS, and speakers from various technical agencies including JKR, JBALB, DID, the Agriculture Department, and others.
The seminar closed with a strong call for continued dedication, honesty, and love for the community. The leaders were reminded to always serve with integrity and unity. With strong cooperation from all sides, DUN N.01 Opar can be an example of excellence in community development.
