MIRI: The Miri Melanau Association continues to serve as an important platform for unity and social development within the community, in line with the government’s efforts to strengthen grassroots well-being.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said community-based organisations play a vital role in safeguarding members’ welfare and strengthening social cohesion.
“The role of associations is very important to ensure that the welfare of members is taken care of and that the voice of the community continues to be brought to higher levels,” he said in a news report by TVS at the Christmas and New Year celebration at Dewan Balau, Wisma Melanau Miri, yesterday (Jan 3).
He said the active involvement of associations also helps the government to deliver policies, initiatives and assistance more effectively to the people, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare and community development.
Lukanisman added that the government remains committed to improving basic amenities and infrastructure for the comfort and well-being of the people, including those in rural areas.
“Development should not be focused only on major cities, but must be felt by all levels of society so that no one is left behind.
“Community leaders must listen to the voices of the people and convey their views sincerely so that planned development truly meets their needs,” he said.
The Christmas and New Year celebration, he said, was not only a religious observance but also a platform to strengthen ties among association members and to foster a stronger spirit of cooperation within the Melanau community in Miri.
He also expressed hope that community associations would continue to be proactive in organising beneficial programmes and act as strategic partners of the government in building a united, resilient and prosperous society.
