KUCHING: The Sarawak government will continue to play its part in safeguarding the rights of the indigenous people through various initiatives and programmes, both current and future.

According to the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, the government has taken numerous steps to duly recognise the rights of the indigenous people, as well as to enhance their socioeconomic well-being.

The government is consistently prioritising efforts to bring the indigenous people into the forefront of development.

“At present, my government is actively developing infrastructure in rural regions, such as roads, bridges, electricity, and treated water supply,” he said.

He said this through a speech delivered by the Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, at the Cultural Dinner for the “International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024”, located at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre in Kuching on Saturday.

Additionally, nine regional development agencies have been established to promote the well-being and prosperity of all sections of society, especially those living in rural areas from Lundu to Lawas.

According to him, each agency has been granted RM1.5 billion to focus on infrastructure development and socioeconomic initiatives designed to boost income.

“To date, RM350.205 million has been allocated for 2,013 projects that covers new builds, reconstructions, repairs, renovations and upgrades,” he added.

On a separate note, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah made a contribution of RM100,000 in support of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples programme.

The global theme for this year’s event is ‘Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Early Contact.’

For the record, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is celebrated annually on August 9.

Also present were Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah and State Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Gapari Kitingan and his wife, Datin Seri Cecilia, Member of Parliament for Stampin, Chong Chieng Jen, Tamin Assemblyman, Ir Christopher Gira, Member of Parliament for Mas Gading, Mordi Bimol, Head of the Dayak Customary Council of West Kalimantan, Cornelius Kimha, President of the Dayak National Congress, Richard Lias and others. -UKASnews