Latest news with #MinorRuralProject


Borneo Post
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Tiang: Keep politics out of NGOs, focus on serving all Sarawakians
Tiang (fourth left) presents an MRP cheque to a representative from the Sibu Division Chinese Community Leaders Association, Penghulu Yong King Sung, while others look on. – Photo by Peter Boon SIBU (June 21): Sarawak Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang, has urged political leaders to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of associations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). He said their autonomy must be respected, and that politicians should not encourage dissatisfied members to leave their associations. 'I think that is irresponsible. And I urge the politicians never use all these NGOs to leverage their political mileage,' he said. Speaking during the distribution of Minor Rural Project (MRP) funds here today, Tiang stressed that service delivery should remain above political interests. 'They don't care which party actually appoints which community leaders,' he added. Tiang also urged councillors and community leaders to resolve disputes through proper internal channels, instead of airing grievances publicly. 'Do not openly fire against each other or exchange comments in newspapers. Because that is not Sarawak culture. Sarawak culture is all about unity, peace, harmony and respect for each other. 'So, I urge them to seek a proper channel to resolve (any dispute),' he said. The Pelawan assemblyman also presented RM1.28 million in MRP grants to 131 associations and NGOs. He emphasised that the allocations are for the benefit of all Sarawakians, regardless of race, background, or political affiliation. 'People means those who support ruling parties and also those who support opposition parties. It doesn't matter; no matter what background, what race you're from. 'So long as you're part of Sibu, you're from Sibu, you're a Sarawakian, we go out to serve. 'We all provide our services. We don't look at your political background. And we believe that political inclinations do not stop us from providing services for the general public. 'Our duty is to listen and to react and to find solutions for the people,' he said. Tiang noted that although his elected role is for Pelawan, his team strives to assist anyone in need across Sibu and beyond, if resources allow. He also reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling promises made to the public. 'I always keep my word. Today's RM1.28 million in MRP grants is part of that promise,' he said. associations Michael Tiang ngos politics


Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Health
- Borneo Post
42 beneficiaries receive welfare aid from Lanang MP
Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee, chairman of Malaysia Red Crescent Sibu Chapter, receives his organisation's aid from Lau. SIBU (June 19): A total 42 individuals received welfare assistance from Deputy Dewan Rakyat Speaker and Lanang MP Alice Lau, during a community aid presentation ceremony here recently. The event also saw the distribution of Minor Rural Project (MRP) funds to 49 organisations across the constituency. The welfare aid covered a range of support categories including dialysis treatment, educational assistance, medical aid, death benefits, and newborn support under the Lanang constituency. Lau expressed her hope that the aid would benefit the targeted recipients and encouraged collective efforts to build a caring and inclusive society. 'Individuals requiring long-term treatment such as dialysis or cancer care may apply for assistance from my service centre,' said Lau. She also highlighted the continuation of the 'Welcome, Lanang New Born' programme, which was first introduced in September last year. Under the initiative, babies born on or after September 16, 2024, are eligible for newborn benefits – provided that at least one biological parent is a registered voter in Lanang. To apply, parents must submit copies of their identity cards and the newborn's birth certificate to Pusat Khidmat P211 Lanang within 90 days of the child's birth. Lau reminded all grant recipients – particularly organisations – that transparency is essential when using public funds. She urged all beneficiaries to submit proper reports after utilising the grants or hosting funded activities. 'If the organisations receive the grants but fail to submit reports, they will be blacklisted by the relevant authorities. This may result in future applications being rejected,' she noted. Constituents seeking assistance for medical aid, disaster relief, education, or other services may visit Pusat Khidmat P211 Lanang located at No. 2, Lorong Lanang 82, during office hours. Alice Lau Lanang lead Sibu welfare assistance


Borneo Post
14-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Skills-based programmes key to tackling youth drug issues, says Opar rep
Billy (second right) presents the mock cheque for the MRP grant to Sim, as Albert (left) and Tan look on. MIRI (June 15): Constructive and skills-based programmes are crucial intervention tools in the rising youth involvement in drug-related issues. This was highlighted by Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang when met after a visit to the Domino Academy here recently, where he praised the academy for offering impactful initiatives in financial literacy, community service, entrepreneurship, and soft skills training. 'All these would further position the academy as a crucial force in building socially-conscious future leaders. 'Have faith in what you do, remain humble, and always serve with sincerity. Leadership begins with values and a sense of responsibility to the community. 'Real development is not just about running programmes, but about shaping a generation that leads with integrity, compassion and conviction,' he said in a brief remark. The visit underscored the state's commitment to youth development and showcased how collaboration between community leaders and local organisations such as Domino Academy could create impactful change at the grassroots level. During his visit, Billy handed over a Minor Rural Project (MRP) allocation of RM31,311 to the Miri Domino Charity Association. The grant was meant to support the 'Experiential Leadership and Entrepreneurship Bootcamp' slated for this Aug 23-24 in Kuching. The programme would focus on practical learning and values-based leadership, and targets youths from the Opar constituency. Also present were the association's vice president Sim Poh Giap, secretary Zoel Tan, committee member Albert Lawrence as well as the academy's trainees and interns. Billy Sujang Domino Academy drugs lead youth


Borneo Post
07-06-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Rep distributes RM147,000 in MRP grants to Bawang Assan NGOs
Wong (seated front, centre) poses with the guests and the MRP grant recipients. SIBU (June 7): Bawang Assan assemblyman Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh has distributed RM147,000 in Minor Rural Project (MRP) grants to 14 recipients, comprising non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and associations within the Bawang Assan state constituency. This marks the first group of recipients to receive allocations for the year through the Bawang Assan Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Service Centre. 'We have over 100 recipients in total, with an overall allocation of RM2 million. The remaining grants will be distributed next week,' said Wong. He noted that the allocation is part of his ongoing effort to support community-based initiatives and welfare programmes, and that recipients who did not receive funds in this round may reapply in subsequent phases. Wong, who also serves as PDP senior vice president, stated that he receives an annual allocation of RM8 million from the Sarawak government for development and welfare initiatives in his constituency. This includes RM2 million under the Minor Rural Project (MRP), RM5 million for the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), and RM1 million for the Sarawak Poor Housing Improvement Programme (PPRMS). He added that Bawang Assan is home to approximately 30,000 voters, with a demographic breakdown of 54 per cent Chinese and 46 per cent Bumiputera, of which around 45 per cent are Iban. 'We will do our best to be fair. Every year, we ensure these allocations reach those in need,' he emphasised. Also present at the presentation ceremony were Joshua Ting, a political secretary to the Sarawak Premier, and Councillor Wong Hua, chairman of Bawang Assan PDP. bawang assan MRP grants ngos wong soon koh


Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
RM1.16 mln MRP grants empower 108 community groups in Miri
Lee (fourth right) joins the representatives of the receiving bodies for a group photo. MIRI (May 18): An allocation totalling RM1.16 million from the Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant has been channelled to 108 community organisations here. This funding is part of a continued effort to support grassroots initiatives that promote unity, wellbeing, and public service. Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin presented the allocations yesterday morning, highlighting that the annual grants are intended to empower local groups in meaningful public service and activities that strengthen social cohesion. 'These organisations play an essential role in promoting unity and inclusivity among our multiracial and multireligious communities. 'This funding recognises their contributions and encourages them to continue serving the local community,' he said. The grants were awarded to community development and safety committees (JKKKs), mosques, suraus, parent-teacher associations (PTAs), and school management boards. Also receiving the support were cultural and ethnic societies, welfare and social service groups, sports and hobby clubs, professional and trade associations, and youth organisations. These organisations, Lee emphasised, are key to advancing Sarawak's vision of inclusive growth. 'We are all children of Sarawak. Regardless of our race or background, we can enjoy harmony and move Sarawak forward together,' he said. The minister also encouraged the public to uphold the state's values of tolerance and shared celebration, especially during cultural and religious festivities. Reiterating the state government's people-focused approach, Lee highlighted complementary initiatives such as education subsidies, housing support, and healthcare programmes aimed at uplifting communities across the board. 'These community-level grants are another way of ensuring development reaches everyone, no matter how remote,' he said. lead Lee Kim Shin miri MRP