SIBU: The MADANI Adopted Village Programme is set to strengthen unity, enhance basic infrastructure, and empower rural communities through various development projects nationwide.
National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang said the initiative is aligned with the Malaysia MADANI principles, which emphasise well-being, sustainability, and inclusivity.
“This approach goes beyond infrastructure development as it also focuses on empowering communities to become agents of unity while improving the socioeconomic status of residents,” he said when officiating the programme at Kampung Sungai Balingiau, Kanowit yesterday (Sept 6) as reported by TVS.
Aaron revealed that 43 villages benefited from the programme last year, and for 2025, the government aims to expand the initiative to 200 villages with a total allocation of RM200 million, allowing each village to receive up to RM1 million.
Kampung Sungai Balingiau was selected for its potential to serve as a model for comprehensive and integrated rural community development.
Planned projects include installing the MADANI Adopted Village signboard, upgrading the road leading to Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Nanga Balingiau, and repairing the school’s pedestrian walkway.
Other works involve maintaining the main road to Rumah Sandai and Rumah Awin, building public toilets at both longhouses, upgrading the iron bridge and access roads to Rumah Awin, improving the futsal court near Rumah Panjang Lika, and organising community-based activities with local residents.
Aaron said the government wants procurement and project implementation to be expedited so that residents can enjoy the benefits by the end of 2025.
He also reminded residents to take care of public facilities after project completion, participate actively in community activities aligned with government efforts, and play their role in driving unity at the grassroots level.
