LAWAS, Sept 6: The roadblock at Puneng Kelalan here which borders Long Midang in Kalimantan is still in force, says Federal Deputy Minister of Transport and Lawas MP Dato Henry Sum Agong.
According to a report by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Henry said allegations saying that the Sarawak government was unfair because it would not allow local folk or traders from Long Bawan district to enter Lawas to buy essential goods is not true.
“At that time, the situation was still in the period of Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, restrictions at the border gates are still in effect.
“On the contrary, business dealings between the two countries (Malaysia and Indonesia) are through government-to-government negotiations that have been previously agreed upon.
“The border has now reopened but travel is subject to the regulations set,” he said when officiating at the opening of the Irau Aco Lun Bawang (IALB) Sarawak 2022 festival at Dataran Lawas here on Saturday (Sept 3).
Henry who is also Sarawak Lun Bawang Association (PLBS) patron urged the local community in Lawas to assist in eradicating drug abuse and addiction issues.
The IALB Festival was held from Sept 2 to 4 which showcased the colorful art and culture of the Lun Bawang community through various activities such as food bazaar, exhibitions as well as traditional music and bamboo band performances.
Also present were Selangau MP-cum-Ba’ Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian, Limbang Resident Sebi Abang, Lawas district officer Laidin Atok, political secretary to Premier Awangku Zainal Abiden Dato Pengiran Jawa, Temenggong Kading Silo and PLBS president Dolfina Balang. — DayakDaily
