PADAWAN: The Information Department (JAPEN) Sarawak is strengthening its role as a two-way communication bridge between the government and rural communities by delivering accurate information while listening to concerns at the grassroots level.
Its Director, Sabri Said, said the department’s community programmes were not solely intended to explain government policies and initiatives but also to understand the needs and challenges faced by residents.
“We also want to hear the community’s voice, including their needs, the challenges they face, and how government information can be delivered more easily and effectively,” he said when speaking at the Jiwa@Komuniti National Day and Malaysia Day 2026 programme held at Kampung Segu Benuk here today.
Sabri added that village leaders could approach JAPEN whenever residents require information or briefings on government initiatives, including ‘Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah’, PeKA B40 and Budi MADANI Diesel.
The department, he said, could provide relevant publications and informational materials physically or online, as well as arrange briefings and information-sharing sessions for local communities.
“We hope the cooperation established today can continue, particularly with the village chief, so that information on government policies, initiatives and nation-building programmes can continue to reach the community,” he said.
The programme also promoted the department’s ongoing ‘1 Rumah 1 Jalur Gemilang’ campaign, which encourages every household to fly the national flag.
Sabri said the practice should not be limited to official visits or celebrations, as residents could take their own initiative to fly the Jalur Gemilang, particularly throughout the National Month.
“The way we display the flag reflects our loyalty, love and devotion to the country,” he said, adding that the flag should be replaced once it became faded or torn.
Meanwhile, Kampung Segu Benuk’s chief, Cassidy Teka, said the programme carried an important message of unity, patriotism and love for the country despite Malaysians coming from diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds.
“With mutual respect, tolerance and cooperation, we can build a more peaceful Malaysia and a harmonious and progressive Sarawak,” he said.
