KOTA SAMARAHAN: Muara Tuang Assemblyman, Datuk Idris Buang, has proposed that the term “Miskin” (Poor) in the state’s housing aid programme be replaced with “Memerlukan” (In Need), to promote a more inclusive and dignified approach.
He said the initiative, officially known as ‘Program Penambahbaikan Rumah Rakyat Miskin Sarawak’ (PPRMS), aims to improve the safety, comfort, and functionality of homes for underprivileged residents.
However, Idris believes the current terminology may be outdated and insensitive.
“The term ‘poor’ carries a connotation that may not be suitable when referring to citizens who simply require assistance. What we want is for our people to live with dignity and comfort, without being permanently labelled as poor,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the 2025 PPRMS Minor Rural Projects (MRP) Grant Handover Ceremony at the DUN Muara Tuang Operations Centre in Taman Desa Ilmu, recently.
Idris added that under the leadership of the Sarawak Premier and the Gabungan Parti SARAWAK (GPS) government, the state continues to show deep concern for the wellbeing of its citizens.
He also announced that for the year 2025, RM500,000 has been allocated for Phase Four of the PPRMS initiative in the Muara Tuang constituency.
In total, the Sarawak state government has set aside RM1 million for each DUN constituency to assist eligible residents with the repair and upgrading of their homes.
“I would also like to remind all aid recipients to provide full and transparent reports to ease monitoring and follow-up actions.
“Village heads must also ensure that there are no delays in form submissions or project implementation, so that the people can truly benefit from these efforts,” he said.
Idris also said that that Muara Tuang is currently the only constituency with a First Response Team, specially set up to oversee and ensure the smooth running of all PPRMS projects in the area.
