SIBU: The Enhanced Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment (EVCA) Training Programme, the first of its kind in Sarawak, held at Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sibu Branch yesterday (June 3), marks an important milestone in the development to strengthen commitment to humanitarian service and community resilience.
Branch Chairman, Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee stated that EVCA is not simply a technical tool or a training programme but a way of understanding and serving the people.
“It teaches us to listen carefully to the voices of the community, identify those who may be at risk, recognise local strengths and resources, and work together to find practical solutions.
“As members of the Red Crescent, we are often among the first to respond when communities face difficulties. Whether it is floods, fires, accidents, health emergencies, or social challenges, our role goes beyond providing assistance during times of crisis. We must also help communities become stronger, safer, and better prepared before disasters occur,” he said in his address at the opening ceremony of the EVCA Training Programme.
Chua said Sibu and throughout Central Region are blessed with diverse communities, rich cultures, and a strong spirit of mutual assistance.
He explained that EVCA’s practical implementation will be carried out in three key communities Kampung Hilir, Kampung Pa’dris and Kampung Nangka.
“Through this training, we will gain knowledge and skills that will help transform data into action, concerns into solutions, and challenges into opportunities for community empowerment.
“The information gathered through EVCA can guide future humanitarian programmes, strengthen disaster preparedness, and ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most.
Highlighting that EVCA is a Training of Trainers (TOT) programme, the participants after completing the programme will be able to conduct EVCA sessions independently, guide other volunteers from remote branches, support implementation at community level and assist in strengthening capacity across the region.
He said their role is not only limited to their own MRCS branch but whenever needed, they may also be called upon to support other branches throughout Sarawak or even at the national level.
Pointing out that this is a great responsibility and also a great honour, Chua said it shows the trust placed in them as future leaders in disaster preparedness n humanitarian action.
“I encourage each of you to participate actively, ask questions, share experiences, and learn from one another. The knowledge you gain will become a valuable asset not only for yourselves but also for the many communities that will benefit from your service in the future.
“As Chairman of MRCS Sibu Branch, I am confident that this training will further strengthen our branch’s capacity and inspire a new generation of humanitarian leaders who are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
‘Let us continue to uphold the values of humanity, impartiality, voluntary service, and community solidarity. Together, we can build stronger, safer, and more resilient communities throughout Sibu and beyond,” Chua added.
Also present were MRCS Sibu Branch Advisor, Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming; MRCS Youth Council Chairperson, Norsyarmimi Che Lah; and MRCS Sarawak Chapter Assistant Director, Ng Pei Sze.
