SIBU: Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek has set aside a Rural Transformation Project (RTP) fund totalling RM175,000 for upgrading the facilities and amenities at Rejang Esplanade.
According to Chieng, the park has become a focal point for organising activities and programmes, especially those involving youth, such as The Stage 5.0 programme.
“So, I hope that after upgrading this park, we can have more stalls set up during the programme and, with better facilities, we can create a greater park here and organise more youth activities,” he said when met by reporters during the opening ceremony of 25 stalls in conjunction with The Stage 5.0 at Rejang Esplanade yesterday (June 7).
“By doing this, we can transform the almost forgotten Rejang Esplanade into a very popular youth gathering place or venue for youth programmes,” he added.
When asked to comment further on the facilities to be upgraded in the area, he said his party would discuss with the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) as the park is under their jurisdiction.
“Of course, we will come up with our own proposal, but we will discuss further with SMC. However, if the allocation we set aside is not enough, we will proceed with phase 2 of the upgrading work and set aside funds for next year,” he added.
Touching on the creative sales stalls in conjunction with The Stage 5.0, he said the stalls were managed by the younger generation and featured a variety of interesting foods.
The Stage 5.0 programme is organised to uncover local youth talents in Sibu, especially in performing arts. After being held five times, the programme has successfully attracted more youth participants, even drawing participants from Miri and Kuching.
The Stage 5.0 will be held for three days starting 7 June until 9 June, featuring two international artists: world-class violinist from Sibu, Imran Azim Iskandar, and famous Malaysian YouTube singer, Dior Da Ying.
The public is urged not to miss the opportunity to attend and enliven the programme as entry is free.
