BETONG – The Penurin Women’s Bureau celebrated its 19th anniversary with the Merarau Council programme held at Rumah Sibat Banyan, Penurin, on Saturday. The event highlighted the bureau’s role in strengthening women’s participation in community development and fostering cooperation among local residents.
Organised jointly by the Penurin Women’s Bureau and the Penurin Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), the programme also served as a fundraising platform to support annual activities and planning.
Officiating the ceremony, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and State Assemblyman for Layar, emphasised the importance of women’s active involvement in community programmes.
He noted that their contributions could significantly enhance both social and economic development in the area. Datuk Gerald also announced an allocation of RM5,000 to the Penurin JKKK as support for the initiative.
Meanwhile, Dato Dr. Richard Rapu, Member of Parliament for Betong, described the Women’s Bureau as a pillar of strength for the JKKK. He stressed that empowering women aligns with efforts to improve the community’s economic and educational standards. In his speech, he also pledged RM5,000 to the Penurin Women’s Bureau.
The ceremony was enlivened with various activities, including the sale of merarau table tickets, lucky draws, birthday cake cutting, and stage performances. The event concluded in a warm and harmonious atmosphere, reflecting the strong community spirit of Penurin.
Among those present were Tuai Rumah Panjang Penurin Sibat Banyan, Head of the Penurin Women’s Bureau Demei Luta, UKAS Officer of Betong Division Tony Malang Chabu, Head of St Augustine Church Betong Father Rentap Nuang, and Councillor Tebari Megong.
The anniversary celebration underscored the bureau’s ongoing commitment to empowering women and strengthening community ties. Leaders reiterated that such initiatives are vital in ensuring sustainable development and fostering unity in Betong and beyond.
