Projects to transform longhouses get green light from state

Chieng being warmly welcomed by longhouse folk.

ALL Rural Transformation Projects (RTP) involving longhouses in the Bukit Assek constituency have been approved by the Sarawak Premier’s Office.

Speaking at a gathering at Rumah Monica Jelira Jugah, Nanga Salim near Sibu, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng said he was informed of the approval last month.

Without disclosing the cost, he said he hoped that the projects could be implemented as soon as possible, starting with nine longhouses first.

“This shows that the government is a responsible government that gives priority to the needs of the people.

“This project will definitely improve the lives of rural people and reduce the gap between rural and urban people,” he said.

Chieng also pledged to implement the RTP at all Bukit Assek longhouses every year to improve the inhabitants’ quality of life.

He said if the RTP was done every year, many longhouses would be improved.

“Your support is very important to enable me to bring more development to your area,” he told longhouse dwellers.

Separately, Chieng said the government had approved the Sarawak Craft Council (MKS) Bill 2023 at the state assembly sitting.

He explained that the purpose of the bill was to restructure MKS and drive concerted efforts to establish it as an entity of authority that regulates and develops crafts in Sarawak.

Following the approval of the Bill, he urged longhouse residents in his constituency to establish a craft club to preserve the crafts and arts of their respective cultural heritage.

“I ask you to take the opportunity from the approval of MKS.

“I will also support you with funds and help you get a grant from MKS.

“This club is important for us to inherit the wealth of our heritage so that it is not forgotten,” said Chieng.