Latest news with #RuralTransformationProgramme
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Uggah mulls training pet dogs to protect fruit, vegetable gardens from wild monkeys
Uggah (centre) presents an agricultural project grant to a recipient during the event. Also seen is Dr Richard (third left). SPAOH (June 29): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas is considering the idea of training pet dogs to protect fruit and vegetable gardens to address the wild monkey problem in Bukit Saban. The Bukit Saban assemblyman said this issue discourages longhouse residents from planting crops such as fruits and corn, and that the monkeys have long been a menace to farmers in the area. 'We have tried various options before, but to no avail. Let us now think of how we can train dogs to guard our farms and chase these marauding monkeys away,' he said at a Gawai Ngiling Bidai luncheon at Rumah Mendit Unsu in Penom, Ulu Paku here today. He said many longhouse residents already keep dogs as pets, and suggested that with proper training, they could help protect agricultural plots from destructive animals. 'This could be a practical and cost-effective solution, especially as we are planning a 1,000-acre agropark here,' he said. Uggah also took the opportunity to remind dog owners to vaccinate their pets to ensure that Betong remains free of rabies. Joining him at the event was Betong MP Datuk Dr Richard Rapu, where both leaders handed over government allocations under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) and Minor Rural Project (MRP) funds, along with agricultural aid to longhouse residents. More than 600 people attended the gathering, including members of longhouse security and development committees, women's bureaus and longhouse chiefs' associations. Dr Richard in his speech assured residents that the state and federal leaders were aware of the challenges they faced, particularly in relation to water supply disruptions, electricity outages and poor internet connectivity. 'As soon as we are informed, we immediately contact the relevant service providers for action,' he said. He added that some of the internet disruptions were due to thefts of wiring components at transmission towers and called on the community to help safeguard these facilities. Later, Uggah distributed 5,268 bags of fertiliser worth RM1.042 million to 439 pepper farmers from 51 longhouses, and 3,960 bags of fertiliser worth RM249,480 to 165 oil palm planters from 45 longhouses. Bukit Saban douglas uggah embas pet dogs wild monkeys
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Jalan Apollo park upgrade fulfils 20-year wish of local residents
Lau (fourth left), Tiang (fourth right) and his team pose for a photo session during the visit to the park. SIBU (June 27): The first phase of the upgrading works of the community park in Jalan Apollo here has been completed, thanks to Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) funding under the Pelawan constituency. Deshon West Development and Security Committee chairman, Kapitan Lau Sei Kwong, yesterday said that the construction began in November last year and was completed in March this year. State Deputy Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Minister, Datuk Michael Tiang, who is also Pelawan assemblyman, visited the site with his service team and Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) officials to inspect the completed work. Lau noted that residents had hoped for the vacant land to be developed into a park for over 20 years. 'It was only after YB Tiang was elected and actively engaged with the community that the idea was brought to life using RTP funds,' he said. The first phase focused on improving the park's drainage system and laying grass, while stone benches and solar-powered street lights were also installed. 'The second phase will involve the construction of cement walkways and basic fitness equipment. If funding allows, we also hope to build a pickleball court in the future,' Lau added. He described the park as a place not only for children to play but also for residents to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. Lau said Tiang had made the enhancement of community parks one of his campaign promises. 'In recent years, several parks in the Pelawan constituency have been upgraded, and similar efforts will continue to promote healthy, green, living spaces in residential areas.'
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Govt-backed loan empowers Rh Digat residents to rebuild longhouse with better facilities
Rumah Digat residents show their signed housing loan agreements under the HDC scheme. SIBU (June 26): A long-held dream is finally taking shape for residents of Rumah Digat Kasi in Nanga Sebindang here, as a government-backed housing loan will enable the replacement of their ageing longhouse with a safer, more modern structure. Twelve families signed agreements on Tuesday under the Sarawak Housing Development Corporation (HDC) loan scheme, paving the way for the construction of 12 new longhouse units valued at RM50,000 each — a total investment of RM600,000. The signing ceremony, held at the longhouse, marked more than just a legal milestone; it signified a turning point for a rural community that has long been left behind by urban development. 'This is more than just a housing project; it's about dignity, comfort, and a safer future for our rural communities,' said Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira in a statement yesterday. 'We began site preparations as early as 2022 under the Rural Transformation Programme. The government doesn't just make promises; we act.' He added that structured housing development in longhouse communities reflects the government's broader commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that no community is left out, no matter how remote. The loan scheme, introduced by HDC, is aimed at rural communities that often face challenges in accessing conventional loans. With support from the state, families now have the opportunity to build safe, more resilient homes, replacing worn-out timber structures with a new beginning. The Tamin Constituency Service Centre has been instrumental in assisting residents through the loan application process by acting as a bridge between government agencies and the people. 'The bond between leaders and the people is the reason this project is possible. It is about trust, cooperation, and shared goals,' said Gira. Villagers, many of whom never imagined owning structurally sound homes in their lifetimes, expressed overwhelming gratitude for the opportunity. 'We thank the government and YB Christopher for walking this journey with us. Our children will now grow up in a home we can be proud of,' said one resident after signing the loan agreement. housing loan longhouse rebuild Rumah Digat
Borneo Post
24-06-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Yap: People's well-being remains SUPP's top priority
Yap (sixth right) and others jointly lead the cake-cutting ceremony for the Parent's Day programme. KUCHING (June 24): The Sarawak United Peoples' Party (SUPP) Kota Sentosa Branch remains committed to bringing about people-centric development to the constituents of the Kota Sentosa seat, said its chairman Wilfred Yap. The Kota Sentosa assemblyman said drainage systems, road safety, and public facilities had been improved through various initiatives, including allocations from the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP). 'We continue to work tirelessly to uplift the standard of living and infrastructure in our area, including support for schools and community organisations,' he said during the Parent's Day dinner organised by the SUPP Kota Sentosa Women Section on Sunday. Yap noted that the progress witnessed in Kota Sentosa today was not by chance, but the result of sustained effort, careful planning, and the solid foundation laid by the leaders and pioneers of SUPP. 'Their sacrifices and contributions deserve deepest gratitude and continued recognition,' he added. 'As current leaders, members and supporters, it is our shared responsibility to carry this legacy forward with unity and determination. 'We must remain focused on delivering meaningful progress, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring a better future for all residents of Kota Sentosa.' He also expressed appreciation to the Women Section for organising the event, which he believed held deep meaning and significance for the local community. The event, he said, served as a timely reminder of the invaluable role parents play in shaping the lives of their children and nurturing responsible citizens. 'The values embodied by parents—care, sacrifice, responsibility, and unconditional love—are the very principles that SUPP stands for in our service to the people. 'Just as parents prioritise the well-being of their children, we in SUPP Kota Sentosa have consistently placed the needs and interests of our constituents first,' said Yap.
Borneo Post
24-06-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Rep: People's well-being remains SUPP's top priority
Yap (sixth right) and others jointly lead the cake-cutting ceremony for the Parent's Day programme. KUCHING (June 24): The Sarawak United Peoples' Party (SUPP) Kota Sentosa Branch remains committed to bringing about people-centric development to the constituents of the Kota Sentosa seat, said its assemblyman Wilfred Yap. He said drainage systems, road safety, and public facilities had been improved through various initiatives, including allocations from the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP). 'We continue to work tirelessly to uplift the standard of living and infrastructure in our area, including support for schools and community organisations,' he said during the Parent's Day dinner organised by the SUPP Kota Sentosa Women Section on Sunday. Yap noted that the progress witnessed in Kota Sentosa today was not by chance, but the result of sustained effort, careful planning, and the solid foundation laid by the leaders and pioneers of SUPP. 'Their sacrifices and contributions deserve deepest gratitude and continued recognition,' he added. 'As current leaders, members and supporters, it is our shared responsibility to carry this legacy forward with unity and determination. 'We must remain focused on delivering meaningful progress, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring a better future for all residents of Kota Sentosa.' He also expressed appreciation to the Women Section for organising the event, which he believed held deep meaning and significance for the local community. The event, he said, served as a timely reminder of the invaluable role parents play in shaping the lives of their children and nurturing responsible citizens. 'The values embodied by parents—care, sacrifice, responsibility, and unconditional love—are the very principles that SUPP stands for in our service to the people. 'Just as parents prioritise the well-being of their children, we in SUPP Kota Sentosa have consistently placed the needs and interests of our constituents first,' said Yap.
