Rayong dismisses criticism, highlights ongoing devt efforts in Engkilili

ENGKILILI (March 23): Engkilili assemblyman Dr Johnical Rayong Ngipa has dismissed allegations that he had failed to serve the people, describing such claims as baseless and unfair.

He stressed that his efforts in securing funds and implementing development projects in the constituency have never ceased, as he remains committed to ensuring that the people of Engkilili are not left behind.

“My role in securing funds for development and infrastructure progress in this constituency has never stopped because I do not want my people to be left behind,” he said when speaking at a ‘Leaders with the People’ event at Corizzon Nyambong House, Tawai Ili, Sri Aman on Saturday.

Rayong said the involvement of various parties, including the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), community leaders and government agencies, is crucial in ensuring the effective implementation of development plans in rural areas.

He also said that such collaboration reflects the Sarawak government’s continued commitment under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to prioritise the welfare of the people through a ground approach.

“For more than 20 years, as your elected representative, I have worked together with the (state) government to plan and implement various initiatives for the community.

“This proves the continuity of leaders’ efforts to remain close to the people,” he said.

He noted that the Engkilili constituency, including Skrang Ili, spans a vast area from interior settlements to other villages, requiring continuous attention, particularly in infrastructure development and community wellbeing.

“Close cooperation between political leaders, community chiefs such as the Temenggong, and government agencies is crucial to ensure that every plan can be implemented effectively,” he said.

Rayong also stressed that he would continue to channel allocations under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), Minor Rural Projects (MRP) and house repair initiatives totalling RM8 million annually in a transparent manner.

He said various infrastructure developments have been implemented since he became assemblyman, including roads, clean water supply and electricity.

Among upcoming projects are a mini stadium to be built in Marub Baruh, the upgrading of Engkilili into a full district, and the construction of a small fire station.

“These three major projects have been pursued since 2016 during the time of former chief minister Adenan Satem and will soon be realised,” he said.

Dr Rayong added that the proposed stadium, estimated to cost RM17 million, was initially planned along the Pan Borneo Highway before being relocated to Marub Baruh.

He said he had recently met Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah to discuss the project further.

He also highlighted the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS) as a reflection of the state government’s concern for the people, while stressing that education remains a key pillar in the state’s development agenda.

At the same event, he announced RTP grants of RM10,000 each to the Women’s Bureau and the main JKKK of Corizzon Nyambong House, as well as RM100,000 for longhouse repairs in 2026, bringing the total to RM120,000.

The PBB Women and Youth wings also received RM5,000 each.