Community Involvement Key To Smooth Project Delivery, Murum Clinic CSR Initiative Praised
BELAGA: A comprehensive approach involving local communities in the implementation of development projects has been described as a key factor in ensuring smooth execution and strong public acceptance in affected areas.
Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Liwan Lagang stressed that every project should involve local communities from the early stages, including providing guidance to those with limited knowledge and helping local companies participate in the development chain.
According to him, such efforts not only facilitate project implementation by developers, but also create a win-win situation between project implementers and the locals.
“If there are local companies that are not yet registered, help them to get registered. If they are already registered, give them opportunities and guidance so that they can be directly involved.
“When understanding exists among all parties, projects will run smoothly. Developers will be satisfied, and local communities will also be satisfied,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after the Pela Daleh ceremony at the Murum Junction Substation on Wednesday.
At the same time, he expressed appreciation to Sarawak Energy for its inclusive engagement approach by inviting local leaders, district officers and community heads to ensure the needs of the people are fully understood.
Commenting on corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, he described the clinic to be built in the Murum area as among the best efforts undertaken so far.
He said the facility is especially important as residents previously had to travel long distances to Bintulu for further treatment.
“The construction of this clinic is highly beneficial because it addresses the basic healthcare needs of residents in the Murum area and surrounding communities.
“Previously, residents had to travel far to Bintulu for referral treatment. So, this facility will be of great help,” he said.
He added that if similar initiatives had been introduced earlier, many issues previously faced by local communities might have been reduced.
Therefore, Datuk Liwan expressed hope that inclusive approaches and high-impact CSR implementation would continue in ensuring more sustainable and balanced development in rural areas. -UKASnews
