People-Friendly Project expanded to boost rural development in Sarawak

SIBU (Nov 29): The ‘People-Friendly Project’ (PMR) will continue to be strengthened and expanded to rural areas to improve infrastructure and enhance the welfare of local communities, said Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii.

The Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability hailed the programme as having ‘significantly contributed to rural development since its implementation’.

“The government remains committed to assisting rural communities, particularly longhouse residents who require support in various aspects.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to people-oriented policies and ensuring that development reaches rural areas,” he said, commenting on the delivery of PMR assistance to five longhouses that recently received construction materials.

These longhouses are 12-unit Rumah Ujang Brinau at Sungai Baron; Rumah Bala Gawan at Ulu Minan with 39 units; Rumah Sapa at Sungai Tong Lai with 25 units; Rumah Imah Tuah at Sungai Setubah with nine units; and Rumah Buan Nyambar at Sungai Setubah with 17 doors.

Huang added: “The programme focuses on basic development and welfare, aiming to help longhouse residents carry out repair works and improve living conditions, enhancing comfort and safety.

“This assistance not only eases their burden but also brings positive changes to daily life, especially amid rising living costs and increasing prices of goods.

“Programmes like this will continue from time to time so that more residents can benefit.”

Also present during the site visit were the Sarikei Parliamentary Service Centre officer Wong Soon Mee and Sarawak State Development Office (SDO) assistance engineer Nina Azirina.