MIRI: The spirit of cooperation and mutual assistance among the community needs to be further strengthened to face current economic challenges, particularly the increase in prices of goods and fuel that put pressure on the daily lives of the people.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said this situation not only impacts the economy of families, but also influences the emotional wellbeing of the community.

According to him, in these challenging conditions, the rakyat must continue to practice the values of helping one another as well as strengthening unity as a shield in facing global pressures.

"We are grateful that Sarawak under the leadership of the Premier, YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, remains stable, peaceful, and harmonious," he said.

He said this while speaking at the Aidilfitri Ramah-tamah ceremony organised by the Persatuan Anak Jati Lawas Di Miri (PAJLDM) at a leading hotel here, on Saturday.

Commenting further, he gave an assurance that the government is always committed to ensuring the welfare of the people remains protected through the implementation of various initiatives including the Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS) to reduce the burden of the cost of living.

He added, strong unity and cooperation are the main strengths of Sarawak in ensuring continuous development as well as the guaranteed wellbeing of the people.

In the meantime, he also emphasised the important role of PAJLDM as a platform that not only strengthens ties of kinship, but also helps look after the welfare of members, especially Lawas natives residing in Miri.

"This association becomes a medium to help those who come here for the purpose of education, health treatment, and family matters.

"Through the association, we can extend help to those in need as well as ensure the welfare of members is always protected," he said.

In relation to that, he encouraged the association to continue cooperating with government agencies in implementing various community development programs encompassing the fields of education, health, and entrepreneurship.

Earlier, PAJLDM Chairman Dr Narawi Abu Bakar informed that the association is active in implementing various welfare activities including engaging with patients referred to Miri Hospital.

"Throughout this year, the association has managed more than 16 cases of funeral management to be brought back to Lawas as a trust implemented with full responsibility and sincerity," he said.

The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of excellence awards to Lawas citizens in Miri as recognition of their achievements.

Also present were Datuk Amar Awang Tengah's wife Dato Dayang Morliah Awang Daud, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Women and Childhood Development Datuk Rosey Yunus, as well as Miri Deputy Mayor Ariffin Mohamad. — UKASnews

Translator: Ryan Lim