GEDONG: Leaders at the grassroots level must play a more active role in mobilising the community and translating government development policies into ground-level action to ensure residents can fully capitalize on economic changes and provided facilities.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg stated that local leadership must possess the capacity to inspire, instill renewed spirit in the community, and plan the future of villages alongside residents, particularly the youth.

“In a village, there must be a leader — a leader who can inspire, a leader who can inject new spirit, and a leader who can look into the future to collaborate with village youths to transform our existing villages,” he said.

He said this when speaking at the Officiating Ceremony of the Kick-Off for the Satu Pemimpin Satu Kampung Berambeh Programme in Gedong on Sunday.

According to Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari, rural development cannot rely solely on physical infrastructure construction; rather, it must be supported by enhancements in knowledge, education, and the community's capacity to adapt to changes.

Thus, local leaders need to comprehend Sarawak's development trajectory and assist residents in adapting to new advancements, including the adoption of technology and evolving management approaches.

At the same time, the Gedong Assemblyman underscored the importance of nurturing a younger generation equipped with modern knowledge to ensure continuity in village leadership and progress.

He added that knowledge mastery and community cooperation serve as the foundation enabling residents to face future challenges through self-reliance. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Jonnie Kiew
Photos: Natalie Cherinie Johnny
Translator: Ryan Lim