DALAT – A significant community engagement initiative concluded in the Mukah Division this weekend, bringing together government agencies, elected representatives, and local residents under a unified theme of care and importance.
The event, titled ‘Kamek Prihatin, Kitak Penting’ (We Care, You Are Important), was held at Stadium Perpaduan in Dalat, serving as a platform for various departments to connect directly with the public.
The outreach programme was organised by the Ministry of Women, Children and Community Wellbeing (KPWK) in close collaboration with several key agencies. Partners included the Sarawak Social Welfare Department, the Mukah Division Social Welfare Office, and the Dalat District Office.
This multi-agency approach ensured a comprehensive range of services and information was available to attendees, reflecting the state’s commitment to holistic community development.
One of the notable participants in the exhibition segment was the Public Works Department (JKR) of the Mukah Division. Led by Division Engineer Ts. Haji Awang Dasuki bin Haji Awang Dol, the department set up an informative display detailing ongoing and completed infrastructure projects.
The exhibit covered a wide geographical area, including the state constituencies of Daro (N.43), Jemoreng (N.44), Dalat (N.56), Tellian (N.57), and Balingian (N.58).
The primary objective of the JKR’s participation was to provide transparency regarding physical development in the region. Visitors were given the opportunity to review the status and progress of various construction and maintenance works supervised by the department.
By showcasing these achievements, the agency aimed to keep the community informed about how public funds are being utilised to improve local facilities and connectivity.
The official closing ceremony of the two-day event was officiated by Yang Berhormat Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Asfia bin Awang Nasar, the Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
His presence underscored the significance of the programme in fostering stronger ties between the government and the people. The Speaker’s role in closing the event highlighted the legislative assembly’s support for grassroots initiatives that prioritise social wellbeing.
Several other high-profile dignitaries attended the programme, demonstrating broad political and administrative support.
Yang Berhormat Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah, the Minister of Women, Children and Community Wellbeing, was present alongside Yang Berhormat Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department responsible for Law, MA63, and State-Federal Relations. Their attendance reinforced the federal and state alignment on social welfare priorities.
Local representation was also strong, with several State Assembly Members joining the event. Yang Berhormat Dr. Haji Safiee bin Haji Ahmad (N.43 Daro), Yang Berhormat Encik Rosyton Valentine (N.57 Tellian), and Yang Berhormat Encik Abdul Yakub bin Haji Arbi (N.48 Balingian) engaged with constituents and participated in the proceedings.
Additionally, Encik Bujang Rahman bin Seli, the Resident of Mukah Division, along with heads of various departments and agencies, contributed to the smooth execution of the programme.
The ‘Kamek Prihatin, Kitak Penting’ slogan served as a reminder of the reciprocal relationship between the authorities and the community. It emphasised that government efforts are driven by a genuine concern for the populace, while acknowledging the vital role residents play in the state’s progress.
Such events provide a rare opportunity for face-to-face interaction, allowing officials to hear firsthand concerns and feedback from the ground.
For the residents of Mukah, the event offered more than just information; it provided a sense of inclusion in the development process. By displaying tangible results of infrastructure projects, the JKR helped bridge the gap between planning and public perception.
This transparency is crucial in building trust and ensuring that community expectations are managed effectively.
The collaboration between KPWK and its strategic partners sets a precedent for future outreach efforts in Sarawak. By combining social welfare services with infrastructural updates, the programme addressed both the soft and hard aspects of community living.
This integrated approach ensures that development is not just about buildings and roads, but also about the people who use them.
As the event drew to a close, the focus remained on sustained engagement. The interactions initiated at Stadium Perpaduan are expected to lead to further dialogue and cooperation between the agencies and the local population.
The success of this outreach reinforces the message that every individual matters in the broader narrative of Sarawak’s growth and prosperity.
