KAPIT: PETRONAS reaffirmed its commitment to uplifting rural communities by reaching 250 beneficiaries through the ‘Yayasan PETRONAS Memacu Kehidupan Gawai 2026’ programme in Kapit.
The community outreach initiative, organised in collaboration with the Kapit District Office, distributed food baskets to families, bringing festive cheer while easing living costs during the Gawai celebration.
Works Minister, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, said the programme reflected a shared commitment to improving community wellbeing and strengthening social inclusivity across Sarawak.
“Initiatives such as this are meaningful because they demonstrate a continuous commitment towards strengthening community wellbeing, particularly in rural areas,” he said at the programme on Thursday (June 25).
He described Gawai Dayak as more than a harvest festival, saying it symbolises unity, cultural heritage and the rich identity shared by Sarawak’s diverse communities.
He also praised Kapit for preserving its traditions, highlighting the Rajang River, longhouses, and the vibrant Iban culture as defining features of the division’s unique heritage.
“Safeguarding these cultural values is essential to ensure future generations continue appreciating and preserving Sarawak’s traditions and community spirit,” he stressed.
“Social inclusivity remains a key pillar under the Sarawak Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, ensuring economic progress benefits all communities, particularly the B40 group and rural residents.”
He noted the Gawai programme aligns with the state’s development aspirations by supporting vulnerable families while fostering stronger cooperation between government agencies, corporate organisations, and local communities.
Nanta also commended PETRONAS for extending its contributions beyond economic development through investments in human capital and initiatives that improve the quality of life for Malaysians.
He expressed appreciation to PETRONAS, the Kapit District Office and the Rumah Bundong Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) for ensuring the programme’s successful implementation.
