SARIKEI – More than 30,000 people gathered at the Sarikei Sports Complex on 8 August for the opening ceremony of the Sarikei Division Sarawakku Sayang Programme, marking the sixth stop of the Sarawakku Sayang Tour.
The large turnout brought together members of the local community, state leaders, government department heads and other guests for the programme.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.
During the event, the Premier highlighted the need for Sarawak to continue developing its human capital as technology advances and the state’s economic requirements become increasingly sophisticated.
He placed particular emphasis on the engineering sector, saying that future engineers would need to combine strong technical knowledge with digital skills.
According to Abang Johari, Sarawak’s development requires a new generation of engineers who are capable of adapting to technological changes while maintaining a strong foundation in their respective fields.
He said digital knowledge and technological competency would play an important role in helping engineers improve the efficiency, productivity and quality of development projects.
The Premier also linked technological skills with Sarawak’s broader economic ambitions, noting that the state needs to strengthen its competitiveness as it moves towards a knowledge and innovation-based economy.
He said continued economic development would be important in enabling Sarawak to reach a level of competitiveness comparable with developed countries.
Such progress, he added, should ultimately contribute to better living standards and improved well-being for the people.
The Sarawakku Sayang programme also featured the presentation of several Sarawak Government initiatives to eligible recipients.
Among the assistance distributed was the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution, or SKAS, which was presented to 10 recipients comprising senior citizens, households and single individuals.
The programme also highlighted support for education.
A total of 10 recipients received benefits under the Free Higher Education Scheme, also known as FTES.
Another six recipients were presented with assistance from the Sarawak International Secondary School Foundation, or YSISS.
The presentations formed part of the wider programme aimed at bringing government initiatives closer to communities in the Sarikei Division.
The Sarawakku Sayang Tour has been held at different locations across Sarawak, with the Sarikei programme serving as its sixth destination.
The event provided an opportunity for members of the public to participate in activities and witness the presentation of government assistance to selected recipients.
The presence of state leaders and government representatives also highlighted the role of the programme in connecting communities with various state initiatives.
Among those attending were Sarawak Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar was also present.
Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and other guests of honour attended the ceremony.
The Sarikei gathering brought together government representatives and members of the public at the Sarikei Sports Complex, with more than 30,000 visitors recorded for the opening ceremony.
The event also provided a platform to highlight the state’s focus on human capital, education, economic development and assistance for eligible members of the community.
