BINTULU: The legacy of the late former assemblyman for Jepak, Datuk Talip Zulpilip, continues to serve as an inspiration in driving the development agenda of the constituency towards a more modern and inclusive future.
Jepak assemblyman and head of the Jepak Branch of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Iskandar Turkee, said the rapid development in Jepak today is rooted in the strong foundation laid by the late Talip, who championed education, the rights to native customary (Vaie) land, rural development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
According to Iskandar, the late Talip’s significant contributions to Jepak will never be forgotten and remain a major source of inspiration in the mission to modernise the area, without compromising the values and identity of the local community.
He added that he never saw himself as a replacement for the late Talip, but rather as someone continuing the legacy and struggle that had been initiated by a true man of the people.
“I am not replacing him, but continuing his legacy.
Jepak is now at a pivotal stage—we are stepping into a new era, an era of modernisation that demands unity and commitment from the entire community.”
Iskandar made these remarks during the Riang Ria Raya celebration hosted by PBB N.67 Jepak with local community and grassroots leaders at a restaurant here last night.
Iskandar also recalled the major contributions of the late Talip, who successfully brought significant infrastructure changes to Jepak.
These included the construction of the Jepak Bridge, schools, community centres, and his advocacy for native (Vaie) land rights, which have become an integral part of Jepak’s identity.
Iskandar also reaffirmed his commitment to continuing key development agendas such as road connectivity to all villages and longhouses, comprehensive internet coverage, housing programmes for youths and the B40 group, vocational and technical education, as well as the installation of solar streetlights in interior areas.
“These are not empty promises; this is my commitment to ensuring Jepak becomes a model of modern, prosperous, and competitive rural development.”
Additionally, he called upon all PBB members and Jepak residents to remain united and steadfast under the party’s banner, in honour of the legacy and spirit left behind by the late Talip, so that it may continue to grow and benefit future generations.
“We (PBB Jepak) are not just a community—we are one big family, one entity, one voice, one heart.
Together, we will ensure Jepak continues to progress with pride.”
At the event, Iskandar, on behalf of PBB N.67 Jepak, also presented a token of appreciation to the family of the late Talip, represented by his sister, Fatimah Zulpilip, and her husband, Sahari Man, as a tribute to his lifelong dedication and sacrifices in developing Jepak.
