SIBU: Development in Bawang Assan and Sibu as a whole must continue to focus on an inclusive and practical approach so that the benefits are truly felt by the people at the grassroots level.
Bawang Assan State Assemblyman, Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh said the focus of development must include better road connectivity, strong support for farmers and small traders, improved public facilities and wider opportunities for the youth.
“The development implemented must be meaningful and have an impact on the people’s daily lives, in addition to strengthening community resilience,” he said in his 2026 New Year Message to the residents of N53 Bawang Assan and the people of Sarawak, today (Dec 29).
In his message, Wong also extended New Year greetings to all residents of Bawang Assan including those in longhouses, villages and urban areas in Sibu, as well as the people of Sarawak as a whole.
He stressed that the New Year is not just a change of calendar, but rather a renewed commitment to hope, unity and purposeful progress.
“At the state level, Sarawak continues to move forward with confidence under the visionary leadership of Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“His leadership has transformed old aspirations into bold and concrete policies that place the people of Sarawak at the core of development,” he said.
He also described the implementation of free higher education in state-owned universities as a historic step that ensures that no Sarawakian is left out simply because of financial constraints, in addition to empowering the youth as future professionals and leaders.
Wong said the state’s development vision also encompasses aspects of economic autonomy, energy security, infrastructure expansion, digital transformation, improvement of the health system and sustainable management of natural resources.
“As we step into this New Year, let us move forward together guided by wisdom, strengthened by unity and inspired by a shared determination to build a prosperous, inclusive and forward-looking Sarawak.
“May the New Year bring peace, good health and renewed strength to every household in Bawang Assan and the whole of Sarawak,” he added.
