Neighbourhood watch areas to promote unity

SIBU: Residents of rural areas are encouraged to form Neighbourhood Watch Areas (KRT) to promote unity within their communities, particularly at the grassroots level.

Sibu Division assistant unity officer Muhamad Zulkefli Mohamad Nazri, said that by 2023, the division had established a total of 96 KRTs across districts including Sibu, Selangau, and Kanowit.

“Among these, Selangau district has only five KRTs, Kanowit has around 30, with the majority situated in Sibu,” he said in a press conference after Sungai Pak KRT coordination meeting here on Friday (Jan 26).

Zulkefli said that the formation of KRTs primarily involves urban areas, potentially overlooking the benefits in rural settings where awareness might be lacking.

He outlined four primary objectives of KRTs: Prosperous, Safe, Clean, and Beautiful KRT Action, focusing on impactful activities.

However, Zulkefli emphasised that establishing KRTs requires adherence to specific criteria based on resident applications from designated settlements.

“Criteria include factors like population density and area size, with urban areas needing at least 1,500 residents and a maximum area of 10 hectares,” he clarified.

Zulkefli also said that KRTs receive up to RM6,000 annually for organising relevant programmes and activities, including meetings.

He added that those who are interested can visit their office at Wisma Persekutuan, Jalan Persiaran Brooke.

At the meeting, Sobri Sandom and his committee were re-elected as the chairman of Sungai Pak KRT for the 2024-2025 term.