SIBU: A total of RM569,200 has been allocated for the implementation of marriage and newborn incentive programmes in the Pelawan constituency since 2022.

Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee said that during the period, 527 couples had tied the knot while 1,019 babies were born in the constituency.

“Today, we are presenting marriage and newborn incentives not merely to celebrate a wedding ceremony, nor simply to welcome the birth of a baby.

“We are celebrating the continuity of family values, the continuation of life, and at the same time investing in the future of Sarawak,” he said.

He said this while speaking at the Dinner Reception for Newlywed Couples and Newborns of the Pelawan constituency here on Friday.

A total of 123 newlywed couples and 211 newborn babies were honoured at the event, with incentives amounting to RM124,000 distributed.

The Pelawan Assemblyman added that Sarawak is moving towards becoming a high-income and developed region through advancements in the digital economy, green energy, artificial intelligence, aerospace industries and infrastructure development.

However, he stressed that Sarawak’s most valuable asset is not its natural resources, but its people.

“Every family is the most fundamental unit of society, and every child represents the hope of Sarawak’s future.

“Perhaps in 20 or 30 years’ time, among the babies receiving these incentives today will emerge doctors, teachers, engineers, entrepreneurs, scientists and even a new generation of leaders who will guide Sarawak into the future,” he said. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng