SIBU: Sungai Sadit Kanan Village Security and Development Committee (JKKK) at the West Bank here has taken a practical step to address inadequate nighttime lighting in several areas by installing five solar-powered lights at its own expense.
The initiative, aimed at improving visibility and safety for residents and road users after dark, was witnessed by Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan Branch’s Chairman, Councillor Kevin Lau Kor Jie, today.
The five solar lights were installed at three locations – two along Jalan Nan Ping Chiong, one along Jalan Kwong Hua and two along Jalan Mawah.
The installation is expected to provide better illumination at night while enhancing a sense of safety and convenience for residents and motorists travelling through the affected areas.
Sungai Sadit Kanan’s JKKK Chairman, Kapitan Chew Hoo Kiong, said community leaders had a responsibility to maintain close contact with residents, listen to their concerns and understand the practical challenges they encountered in their daily lives.
He said the decision to install the lights was made after the committee took into account residents’ needs for improved nighttime lighting.
“Although there are only five lights, we hope they will provide practical assistance to residents who need them.
“This also reflects the spirit of community leaders who care about the people’s needs and are committed to taking action to address issues,” he said.
Lau commended the Sungai Sadit Kanan JKKK and Chew for being responsive to grassroots concerns and taking prompt action within their means.
He stressed that meaningful community development began with paying attention to and listening to the needs of residents.
“Many community issues do not necessarily require large-scale projects. Sometimes, what residents need is simply for community leaders to listen sincerely, understand their situation and find ways to assist them,” he said.
He noted that while the installation of a solar light might appear to be a small contribution, it could make a significant difference to residents who travel at night by improving visibility and providing greater peace of mind.
Lau also stressed that maintaining close contact with residents was essential for community leaders to accurately identify local needs and ensure that services and improvement efforts were effectively delivered.
He expressed hope that community leaders would continue to uphold the spirit of service, work closely with residents and contribute collectively towards creating safer, more comfortable and better communities.
“The initiative demonstrates how relatively modest, community-driven efforts can deliver tangible improvements to residents’ daily lives when grassroots concerns are identified and addressed promptly,” added Lau, who is also SUPP Youth chief.
