Miri MP: Be patient on disbursement of promised RM100 mln by PM to fix schools, clinics

MIRI (July 17): Sarawakians and the state’s leaders are called on to have faith in the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in delivering his RM100-million pledge in federal funds for repairs of dilapidated schools and clinic upgrades in Sarawak.

Miri MP Chiew Choon Man said they should have patience and tact pending the disbursement of the funds.

“What is crucial to note is that the Prime Minister has made this commitment, and I am fully confident that he will fulfil his promise,” he said in response to a statement by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Dr Sim had earlier said Sarawak had not received anything yet, and they would keep track of the Prime Minister’s promise to provide the allocation.

Anwar during his visit to Sarawak last month announced that the Ministry of Finance would immediately channel RM100 million to the Sarawak government as reimbursement for the funds allocated for repairing and upgrading dilapidated schools and clinics in the state.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said this following Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s announcement during the state-level Gawai Dayak gala dinner on June 22 that the Sarawak government had allocated RM200 million for these projects.

Chiew pointed out that the Prime Minister had demonstrated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the people of Sarawak and Sabah through tangible actions, including the historic return of 55 plots of land to the respective state governments.

“The Prime Minister has granted Sarawak and Sabah the autonomy to decide on any projects valued at RM50 million or less, a significant step towards empowering the two state governments and recognising the unique needs of our regions,” he said.

While thanking Dr Sim for his concern about the long-standing issues, the Miri MP suggested that the state leadership engage in effective communication with the relevant federal department or officers to follow through on the process.

Conceding that the issue of dilapidated schools and clinics that has remained unresolved for decades is a concern, he said these basic necessities for the people will be a priority for the administration in the spirit of Malaysia Madani.

Chiew, who is also Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK) Sarawak leader, pointed out that the current federal and state leaderships share the common goal of solving the long-standing challenges and issues in Sarawak, particularly regarding dilapidated schools and clinics.

“I believe this can further assure and instil confidence in the people and foreign investors that the federal and state governments are working closely on the development of the state,” he said.

As a member of Parliament from Sarawak, he said he would personally assist in ensuring the disbursement of the promised RM100 million.

“I believe that through open communication and a collaborative approach, we can work hand-in-hand with the federal government to address the development priorities of Sarawak,” he added.