MARUDI: Cardiovascular health and internet connectivity are the two priorities of a targeted Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) initiative here.
Held at Rumah Tanjong, Stapang, the Targeted SDG 2026 Satellite Programme, organised by the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA) through the Highland Development Agency (HDA), raises awareness of health issues and digital safety.
The programme brought together government agencies, community leaders and local residents as part of the Targeted SDG 2026 initiative, coordinated by RECODA under the mandate of the National SDG Centre, Ministry of Economy.
It was attended by Special Administrative Officer (PTK) at the Office of the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Sylvester Ogang, who represented Deputy Minister Datuk Gerawat Gala.
On cardiovascular health, RECODA cited Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) data showing that Marudi recorded a premature cardiovascular mortality rate of 180.7 per 100,000 residents aged between 30 and 69 in 2024.
During the programme, the Ministry of Health Malaysia conducted knowledge-sharing sessions on cardiovascular diseases, healthy nutrition and the dangers of smoking and vaping.
Meanwhile, internet connectivity was identified as another development priority, with RECODA citing DOSM data showing that connectivity in the district stood at 67.3 per cent in 2024.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission provided guidance on safe internet practices, while the Royal Malaysia Police shared information on commercial crime in the digital era and drug abuse prevention.
The Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) also provided information on social security protection.
RECODA said the findings on cardiovascular health and internet connectivity highlighted the need for targeted interventions to strengthen community health awareness, bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life of local residents.
On Marudi’s broader socioeconomic development, RECODA reported that the district’s absolute poverty rate had declined from 12.9 per cent in 2022 to 4.4 per cent in 2024, placing it below the state average.
The district’s unemployment rate stood at 2.1 per cent.
RECODA said these developments reflected Marudi’s socioeconomic progress and its potential to sustain economic growth while improving the living standards of local communities.
The authority also stressed that sustainable development required collective commitment and continued collaboration among government agencies, development partners and local communities.
It reaffirmed its commitment to addressing grassroots needs through targeted initiatives and supporting inclusive development to improve the well-being of communities across Sarawak.
Gerawat, who is also HDA deputy chairman, stressed the importance of ensuring that development delivered meaningful benefits to the people.
“Development must go beyond infrastructure and physical progress.
“It must also reach the people through better access to knowledge, essential services and opportunities that can improve their everyday lives,” he said.
