SERIAN: A total of RM11.1 million has been allocated to support the expansion of the grain corn project in Kampung Labak Tungan here.
Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus said the funding was approved under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA).
He said RM3.5 million has been allocated for the expansion of the grain corn project, while RM7.6 million will go towards roads and related infrastructure.
“When the villagers of Kampung Labak Tungan started this project with such determination, it prompted us as elected representatives to come in and provide assistance.
“We have supported them through the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) with roads and other infrastructure. Under GKCDA, RM11.1 million has been approved for this project,” he said during a working visit to the grain corn farm in Kampung Labak Tungan today (July 14).
John congratulated the villagers on their perseverance, describing the project as a success that could inspire other communities to undertake similar initiatives.
He said neighbouring villages had also expressed interest in grain corn cultivation following the project’s success.
John stressed that the government’s approach is to support communities that first demonstrate a commitment to developing their own land, rather than imposing projects on villages.
“We want to see landowners take the initiative first. Once they show they are committed to developing their land, we will come in to assist through the relevant agencies or directly through our allocations.
“If projects are pushed from the top without the interest of the villagers, the effort will be in vain.
“That is our principle, so that villagers can also benefit from the government’s assistance and development programmes,” he added.
On the same note, John said a total of RM3 million had been allocated to support a padi cultivation project in Kampung Lebor.
He said more assistance could be considered if the initiative progresses well.
