Miri's POKUFM hailed as model of empowerment, unity for disabled community
Ting (fifth right) joins POKUFM president Mazlan Daraman (second right) and other committee members in the symbolic rolling up of the rattan mat – a traditional gesture marking the official close of the Gawai Dayak festival.
MIRI (June 14): The success of Persatuan Orang Kurang Upaya Fizikal Miri (POKUFM) in fostering unity, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance among its members has been hailed as a model for community-driven empowerment.
State Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting made the remarks during the 'Majlis Ngiling Bidai Gawai Dayak 2025', hosted by POKUFM in marking the end of this year's Gawai Dayak celebration.
Ting, who is also the Piasau assemblyman, praised POKUFM's consistent efforts in building teamwork, self-help and entrepreneurship among persons with physical disabilities.
'They plant and sell their own vegetables, creating a source of income for themselves. Their hard work and community spirit are what help them to do so well,' he said.
Having supported the group since its inception, Ting expressed pride in witnessing the steady progress POKUFM has made since its establishment in 2018.
'POKUFM has come a long way over the past seven years. There have been many improvements, and there is still more to achieve – but I believe in your potential,' he said.
Ting announced that a yearly government grant will continue to be allocated to support POKUFM's programmes and initiatives, reaffirming the ministry's commitment to grassroots development and inclusion.
He also expressed appreciation to the organisers for the invitation to the event and reiterated his support for community groups like POKUFM.
The 'ngiling bidai' ceremony, held here today, marked not only the end of the Gawai Dayak celebration but also served as a symbol of resilience, pride, and unity for the community. Disabled Persatuan Orang Kurang Upaya Fizikal Miri POKUFM Sebastian Ting
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