SIBU: Preparations for the Sibu Division Sarawakku Sayang Programme have entered the final stage, with all facilities and arrangements expected to be ready ahead of the three-day event from July 10 to 12.
Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee said the programme, to be held at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang, marks the fifth stop of the statewide initiative after Limbang, Miri, Bintulu and Kapit.
“This is the fifth location for the Sarawakku Sayang Programme since it was launched in April. After Sibu, the programme will continue to Mukah, Sarikei, Betong and finally Kuching Division in November,” he told a press conference here today (July 6).
Hii said all preparations in Sibu were progressing smoothly.
“If you visit Tun Tuanku Bujang Square or Sibu Town Square today, you will see that all the facilities have been put in place. We are now in the final stage of preparations before the programme officially begins on July 10,” he said.
He said the Sarawak Pavilion and Sibu Kitchen and Sales would open at 9 am on the first day, offering exhibitions, government service counters and a showcase of local products and delicacies.
According to Hii, the programme aims to bring government services closer to the people through a one-stop centre concept.
Members of the public will be able to access various government initiatives, including applications for the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SCAS), the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), welfare assistance and Sarawak Jobs.
“About 10 private companies will also participate, allowing job seekers to submit applications and attend interviews on the spot,” he said.
The Sarawak Pavilion will also feature exhibitions on state government initiatives as well as ongoing and planned development projects in Sibu under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13 MP).
The Sarawak Pavilion will feature 47 government agencies offering a total of 158 services and benefits.
Visitors can obtain information and assistance on welfare aid, financial assistance, employment opportunities, the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), healthcare services and many other government initiatives.
There will also be a dedicated public service counter where members of the public can submit complaints, provide feedback or raise issues relating to government services and assistance.
Hii said the opening day would feature a Cultural Night organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts .
The main highlight of the programme, he added, will be the official opening by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at 10.30 am on July 11.
“We are expecting more than 5,000 people to attend the opening ceremony at the main pavilion. The Premier is expected to announce several important initiatives before visiting the Sarawak Pavilion and the Sibu Kitchen and Sales area,” he said.
Before the opening ceremony, the Premier is scheduled to visit the Bukit Lima Nature Reserve to inspect the newly completed 600-metre boardwalk before having breakfast at the Sibu Central Market.
Other activities include a dinner with the people on July 10, a People’s Concert on the evening of July 11, and a Fun Walk and Fun Run on July 12 covering distances of 2.5km and 3.5km respectively.
Hii also called on the public to participate in the programme and take advantage of the wide range of services, exhibitions and activities available throughout the three-day event.
He said there are 11 motorcycles to be won, but to be eligible, one must first register by scanning the QR codes that will be available at designated locations for registration.
“The motorcycle lucky draw will be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the 12-day programme. For the grand draw, 11 motorcycles will be given away on the final day of the programme, with the draw taking place at around 3 pm or 4 pm.
“However, there is one condition. Those who wish to be eligible for the grand draw must be present during the draw on the final day. If your name is called and you are not present, the prize will be awarded to another eligible participant who is there,” he explained.
Among those present at the press conference were Sibu Division Resident Saferi Awang Said and Sibu Municipal Council secretary Henry Jalin.
