Phase 1 of Rumah Seri Kenangan Sibu project completed

A representative from JKR handing over the mock key to Noriah (fifth left) as Fatimah (centre) looks on.

By William Isau

SIBU, Aug 1: Construction work on Phase 1 of the much-awaited Rumah Seri Kenangan (RSK) Sibu is finally complete, much to the relief of Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony of the mock key of RSK Sibu today, she described the ceremony as meaningful for senior citizens in the area.

She said with the completion of Phase 1 of the project, which involved a cost of RM15,800,000, the 28 residents who had been temporarily placed at RSK Sri Aman since 2016 during the construction process would be able to move in soon.

“It has been very challenging for the Welfare Department and us. I want to thank JKR (Public Works Department) for completing Phase 1 of the project,” she said.

Phase 1 includes the construction of a new hall, living quarters, and an administrative section.

“For Phase 2, we want to add more facilities like a consultative room where doctors can come voluntarily, a surau and chapel, and a place for physiotherapy and counselling,” she said.

When fully completed, the home could accommodate up to 50 residents at a time, said Fatimah.

Meanwhile, she called on youth groups and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to organise activities for RSK residents to make the place livelier.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Mohammad Razi Sitam, Sarawak Welfare Department director Noriah Ahmad, and Sibu Resident Wong Hee Sieng. — DayakDaily