KUCHING: Kampung Rantau Panjang residents have been urged to exercise caution over information circulating on social media as political activity builds ahead of the coming Sarawak State Election.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Batu Kawa branch chairman Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim said the circulation of various stories through WhatsApp, Facebook and other social media platforms required the public to exercise greater care and judgement.
“There will be all kinds of stories going around. We must therefore use our judgement carefully. Check first whether something is true or not before believing it or sharing it.
“If a story is false or merely a rumour, do not add to it and do not spread it further. We should also advise our families and friends to make their assessments based on facts,” he said at the Kampung Rantau Panjang Prawn Fishing Competition in Kampung Rantau Panjang, Batu Kawa, today (Sept 27).
He said political differences should not be allowed to affect family ties, friendships or relationships among neighbours.
“We may have different views, but we must continue to protect our bonds, friendships and the harmony of our community,” he said.
Ahmad said community programmes such as the prawn fishing competition played an important role in strengthening neighbourly ties while preserving the spirit of gotong-royong, togetherness and community solidarity.
He said the value of the event went beyond winning or the size of the catch, as it provided an opportunity for residents to meet, communicate and strengthen their relationships.
“What matters most is that we have the opportunity to meet, talk, share a meal and strengthen our relationships with one another.
“In today’s world, everyone is busy with work and family. Programmes like this give us an opportunity to come together again as a community, to know one another, help one another and look out for one another,” he said.
A total of 58 participants took part in the competition, which began at 8 am and ended at 1 pm.
Dol Sapuan emerged as champion, followed by Awang Ismail in second place and Sapuan Amit in third.
Ahmad also encouraged greater participation by young people and families in community activities, saying this would help the younger generation develop stronger connections with their neighbours and appreciate the values of community life.
Touching on the haze situation, he said conditions appeared to have improved in recent days and expressed hope for more rain to further reduce the haze.
He stressed that public health remained a priority, particularly for children, senior citizens and those with existing health conditions.
The programme was attended by Sarawak Deputy Premier and Batu Kawa assemblyman Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian as guest of honour.
Also present were Padawan Municipal Council deputy chairman Mahmud Ibrahim, political secretary Kho Teck Wan, the headmaster of SK Kampung Rantau Panjang, community chiefs, local leaders and community representatives.
