SIBU: Funds totalling RM2.15 million were distributed to 152 recipients here today.
The funds comprise of RM1.55 million under the Special Project Allocation (PPK) and RM600,000 through the Minister’s Special Allocation (PKM), as a result of the initiative of the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
The distribution of funds encompassed various community entities including associations, clubs, Village Development and Security Committees (JKKKs) and schools.
The handover of the fund cheques was officiated by Tiong’s representative, the ministry’s Special Duties Officer Agatha Ting, together with the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Dudong chairman, Datuk Teo Boon Siew, at a ceremony held at the Sibu United Chinese Association (UCA) premises, Jalan Alan.
In addition to the financial allocation, five sets of computers and printers were also given to longhouse residents while 10 hampers were distributed to youth as a token of appreciation.
Through the speech text read by Ting, Tiong reminded all recipients to use the allocations given responsibly and make a direct impact on their respective communities.
“Use these funds for beneficial purposes. Do not misuse or waste it. And most importantly, submit a report on the use of your funds. Without a report, we cannot assess the need for further assistance,” he said.
The Bintulu Member of Parliament also stressed the need for accountability and transparency in the management of funds so that assistance could continue in the future.
In a related development, Tiong, who is also Dudong Assemblyman, also gave a stern warning to grassroots leaders including Kapitan, Penghulu and Pemanca not to mix community affairs with political agendas.
“I do not want to hear any more about sabotage, envy or power struggles among themselves. The people are watching and I am watching too. If necessary, I will not hesitate to remove anyone who abuses this/her position,” he asserted.
He stressed that every community leader must serve in an inclusive manner regardless of race, religion or political beliefs for the sake of common prosperity.
This distribution of funds, Tiong added, was one of the important steps in the effort to empower local communities, in line with the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting comprehensive grassroots development.
