MIRI, Sept 7: State assemblypersons from Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) are capable of meeting the needs of rural folk for basic amenities as each one of them is given RM5 million annually for rural transformation projects (RTP).
Hence, the people must continue to have faith in the GPS government and stand solidly behind Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, who has been efficient and effective in managing the state’s affairs, said Dennis Ngau, the assemblyman for Telang Usan.
Speaking at an event in Long Tebangan, Sungai Akah, on Tuesday, Dennis assured those present that the state government would continue to give due attention to developing the rural areas, like what the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem did.
“What you see here today, including your longhouse village roads, is one clear proof that promises made by the state government will be fulfilled. This is part of our effort to uplift the living standard of the people,” he said at the village, which is about a seven-hour drive from Miri City.
On the recently passed Sarawak Land Code (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Dennis said the amendment had given the force of law to ‘pemakai menoa’ and ‘pulau galau’ (PMPG) under the new term “Native Territorial Domain”. He advised those who were still in the dark to seek clarifications from the proper authority to avoid being taken advantage of by individuals or groups with self-interest.
He pointed out that the amendment was a long and difficult task undertaken by a committee headed by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who was entrusted by Abang Johari to address this long-term land issue plaguing the natives.
“He (Uggah) assured that all necessary views from all groups and ethnic leaders in the state were taken into account before the Bill was tabled in the last Dewan Undangan Negeri sitting.
“Therefore, I am confident that all the interests of the natives have been taken into account. Let us move on and try to make sure that what belongs to us are properly documented and, most importantly, continue to give us long term benefits,” he said.
In the case of Long Tebangan, which in an isolated settlement deep in the interior, he advised the residents to have their native customary rights (NCR) land surveyed and then turn them into something useful.
“Do not indulge in anti-government campaigns because all development plans are approved after detailed studies were made for the long term benefits of the people,” he said.
Meanwhile, Long Tebangan headman Jok Emang thanked Dennis for having done much for his people over the years.
“Dennis is a committed and hardworking leader. He mixes well with us and as a result, he understands our needs, even when we headmen and village committee did not put in request for help. That is what is unique about Dennis,” he said, and called on his people to keep supporting Dennis for more development.
