ALOR GAJAH: The “Wakil Rakyat Untuk Rakyat” (WRUR) programme in the Asahan contituency has drawn strong grassroots response, with over 600 applications for various types of government assistance and 154 complaints recorded since its rollout on April 3, says Datuk Fairul Nizam Roslan.
The Asahan assemblyman said the initiative was designed to address real community needs, encompassing economic concerns, education opportunities, healthcare access and social cohesion.
“All the complaints have been channelled to the Chief Minister’s Office for further action,” he said, adding that follow-up action would be carried out within one to three weeks.
Fairul Nizam said the applications were submitted through 18 Village Development and Security Committees (JPKK) across the constituency.
Among the key outcomes of the programme, he noted, is the completion of the RM11mil second Jus Water Treatment Plant, which is expected to begin operations in May and benefit nearly 25,000 users.
Fairul Nizam said the programme has also reached more than 500 Orang Asli through 10 targeted initiatives aimed at ensuring inclusive development.
“In the past three years, more than 200 initiatives have been implemented, including nearly RM23.9mil in welfare aid disbursed to residents in Asahan,” he said in an interview on Tuesday (April 11).
On social protection, he urged rubber tappers and smallholders in the constituency to contribute to the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) under the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO).
He said the move was crucial as many rubber tappers are self-employed and exposed to occupational risks in their daily work.
“This effort is further strengthened through collaboration with the Malaysian Rubber Board and PERKESO to raise awareness and encourage participation among small-scale rubber industry players,” he said.
Fairul Nizam, who is also the Melaka science, technology, innovation and digital communications committee chairman, said the state government has approved RM59,000 to repair 18 Orang Asli homes.
He added that 113 needy families will be reached through the WRUR Asahan “ziarah kasih” initiative from April 3 to April 11.
"The visits focus on those in need, including single mothers, chronic patients and individuals facing hardship,” he said.
Separately, Fairul Nizam said 40 participants took part in the Empowerment Programme for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for the community at Selandar Community College.
He said the short courses offered include artificial intelligence, basic air-conditioning servicing and landscape maintenance, aimed at equipping youths with practical skills for future employment.
“These programmes provide early exposure to technical skills that can become viable career pathways,” he said.
