BELAGA: Early community engagement is key to ensuring smooth implementation and public acceptance of development projects, says Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication (Telecommunications) Datuk Liwan Lagang.
He said local communities should be involved from the initial stages, including being guided through processes and supported to participate in development activities.
“This approach not only facilitates smoother implementation for project developers, but also creates a win-win situation for both the developers and the local community.
“If there are local companies that are not yet registered, assist them. If they are already registered, give them opportunities and guidance so they can be directly involved,” he said this when met by reporters after the Majlis Pela Daleh at the Murum Junction substation in Simpang Urun here today (Apr 29) as reported by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
Liwan, who is also the Belaga assemblyman, commended Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) for its inclusive engagement approach, which involves local leaders, district officers and community heads to better understand the needs of the people.
On corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, he described the proposed construction of a clinic in the Murum area as one of the most impactful efforts undertaken.
He said the facility is crucial, as residents previously had to travel long distances to Bintulu to seek further medical treatment.
“The construction of this clinic is very significant as it addresses essential healthcare needs for residents in Murum and surrounding areas.
“Previously, residents had to travel far to Bintulu for referral treatment. This facility will greatly ease that burden,” he said.
Liwan said if such initiatives had been implemented earlier, many of the challenges faced by the local community could have been mitigated.
“I hope that inclusive approaches and high-impact CSR initiatives would continue to be implemented to ensure more sustainable and balanced development in rural areas,” he added.
