LIMBANG: The Sarawak State Government, through the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, continues to prioritise environmental sustainability.

This aims to maintain a clean and healthy environment for current and future use as the state works towards becoming an advanced society by 2030.

According to Deputy Minister for Transport, Dato Henry Harry Jinep, the Sarawak State Government remains committed to ensuring and providing a safe and comfortable river transport system for all users, including the shipping community.

“River transport is still one of the primary means of getting around for the residents of Rumah Panjang Kampung Ensungai, as well as being a source of clean water for their daily needs.

“In terms of river cleanliness, it is crucial not only for navigation, drinking water, and recreation but also for the survival of flora and fauna species, which are vital for the livelihoods of river fishermen,” he said.

He said this through a speech read by Batu Danau Assemblyman, Dato' Paulus Palu Gumbang, at the River Safety and Cleanliness Education Programme, which took place at Rumah Panjang Kampung Ensungai Medamit on Saturday.

During the event, a cheque was presented for RM17,000 to the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), the Women’s Bureau, and the Parti Bumiputera Bersatu Sarawak (PBB) Youth Branch of Kuala Mendalam. The JKKK received RM10,000, the Women’s Bureau received RM5,000, and the PBB Youth Branch of Kuala Mendalam received RM2,000.

In addition, 35 life jackets were handed out to 35 participants, including the headmen from seven villages involved in the programme.

Also present were the Daro Assemblyman and Chairman of the Sarawak Rivers Board, Safiee Ahmad, Controller of the Sarawak Rivers Board, Lt. Col. Ding Tiew Wong (Retired), Limbang District Council Representative, Mohammad Syamil Jumain, Headman of Ensungai, Mual Bau, Limbang District Officer, Sulaiman Engal, and others. -UKASnews