Sibu longhouses to receive RM700,000 under MRP, RTP for repairs, upgrades, says Dr Annuar

SIBU (Feb 10): A total of RM700,000 has been allocated for repair and upgrading works at Rumah Sebastian Juntan and Rumah Henry Nor longhouses here under the Minor Rural Project (MRP) and Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), said State Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.

He said the allocation reflects the government’s commitment to improving the comfort and welfare of longhouse communities, particularly ahead of major festive celebrations such as Gawai Dayak.

“At Rumah Sebastian, which is more than 100 years old and has historical significance as it was once visited by the Sultan of Terengganu, our priority is to repair the ruai (communal area) as it is the main space used by the community to hold functions and celebrations,” he told reporters during a site visit to the longhouses near here.

According to Dr Annuar, RM250,000 has been allocated for repairs to the ruai at Rumah Sebastian, while RM240,000 is set aside for the repair of individual units. Meanwhile, RM200,000 has been allocated for improvement works at Rumah Henry Nor.

“In addition, RM70,000 has already been used to improve the drainage system, and another RM130,000 will be utilised for roof repairs and ruai upgrading works for Rumah Henry Nor,” he said.

He added that contractors have been instructed to complete the projects before the Gawai celebration.

“The most important thing is that these projects will provide greater comfort to residents, especially during festive periods.

“For the Iban community, the ruai is heavily used throughout the Gawai season to host various gatherings and ceremonies,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tuai Rumah Sebastian expressed his appreciation to Dr Annuar for personally visiting the longhouse at Mile 6 to inspect the project sites.

“We are grateful to Datuk Dr Annuar for the attention given to our longhouse. There are 19 doors involved in the MRP project, which includes repairs to the walls and ceiling of the ruai, while 43 doors are covered under welfare-related projects,” he said.

He added that a new public toilet will also be constructed under the RTP project and hoped that all works would be completed in time for the Gawai celebration this June.