THE process for renewing gun licences and obtaining cartridge purchase permits is unduly burdensome, especially when in rural constituency like Ba’Kelalan, hunting remains a vital source of sustenance, necessistating firearms and ammunition.
Ba’Kelalan Assemblyman Baru Bian said the sole authority to approve application rests with the district officer in Lawas, whose frequently unavailability due to official commitments has caused significant delays.
Baru stated that residents face substantial costs, with travel expenses from Ba’ Kelalan, Long Semadoh, and Long Sukang to Lawas amounting to RM160, RM100, and RM40 to and fro, respectively, with multiple trips are often required, with some applicants waiting up to a month for approvals.
“Just last month, I myself had experienced delays when attempting to obtain a license to purchase new cartridges.
“It took almost a month for me to have my application signed by the District Officer who was unavailable due to his busy schedules.
“To alleviate this hardship, I propose that the authority to approve these applications be delegated to Sarawak Administrative Officers (SAOs), of which there are three in Lawas.
“This would enhance efficiency and reduce the financial and logistical burden on rural communities.
“I urge the Government to implement this change expeditiously,” he said.
He said this when debating in support of the motion of appreciation to the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar’s speech in the August house today.
Baru said the prolonged delay in completing SK Long Sukang remains a matter of grave concern.
He stated that the project, approved in 2009 under the 9th Malaysia Plan with a budget of RM25 million, was listed as a top priority under Rolling Plan 1 of the 11th Malaysia Plan.
In 2017, an additional RM19 million was approved to complete the remaining 30 percent of the project, yet no progress has been made.
In January 2025, the Public Works Department (JKR) declared the school unsafe for occupation, leaving the future of its pupils, teachers, and staff uncertain.
“This situation jeopardizes the education and safety of our children.
“Of course, I am aware that this matter is under the Federal Education Ministry, nevertheless I respectfully urge the Minister Fadhlina Sidek to take a personal interest in resolving this matter with the Ministry and to clarify the Government’s plans to either re-tender or complete the project, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment,” he added.
He then also stated that a reform on the education system must be done to prioritize technology, digital skills, critical thinking, and innovation, while expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
“A high-skill, high-wage economy is essential to retain talent and address wage stagnation.
“I commend the Sarawak Government’s efforts to chart its own course in governance and urge continued leadership in these areas, particularly where federal action may be lacking,” he said.
