
RM50,000 grant slated for new longhouse in Mujong-Baleh
Ugak performs the ribbon-cutting ceremony, prior to the 'Mangkong Tiang'. Seen on his right is the longhouse chieftain TR Gawan Bujai.
KAPIT (May 30): An allocation of RM50,000 has been announced for Rumah Gawan Bujai, a newly-completed 30-door longhouse at Nanga Aman in Mujong-Baleh, near here.
According to Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, the grant would be channelled to the village security and development committee (JKKK).
'It is to cover the cost of constructing the concrete walkway at the longhouse, and also for tiling works on the 'ruai' (common veranda),' said the Hulu Rajang MP in his speech for the 'Mangkong Tiang' (a ritual where an ironwood bat is used to strike the main pillar of the longhouse, to symbolise house-warming) at Rumah Gawan on Wednesday evening.
Adding on, Ugak also conveyed good wishes to the villagers for moving into the new longhouse in time for the Gawai Dayak celebration.
He also advised: 'Always cooperate with the elected people's representatives – for this area, work closely with Baleh assemblyman Nicholas Kudi Jantai and myself.
'To the JKKK, become the bridge between the villagers and the government.
'Also, in connection with the festive season, be prudent in your spending.
'Buy only the necessary things, and be very mindful of other necessities such as your children's education.'
Also present at the event were Kapit Resident's Office administrative officer Rolyn Terrance Janting, Councillor Laban Jaoh, and local community leaders Penghulu Linggi Maseng, Penghulu Anyi Kumbong, Penghulu Sallang Batang, and Tuai Rumah Sengiang Usat. allocation Kapit lead longhouse Rumah Gawan Bujai Wilson Ugak Kumbong
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