Grassroots leaders must understand govt initiatives to better serve rural communities, says Telang Usan rep

Borneo Post

25-07-2025

Dennis (seated centre) with other guests and participants commemorate the event with a group photo.
MIRI (July 25): Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau has called on grassroots leaders to develop a clear understanding of government initiatives implemented in their areas.
He said by doing so, they will be better positioned to support and explain these efforts to the people, thus reinforcing public trust and encouraging active participation in the state's development agenda ― particularly rural and remote communities.
'I urge the leaders ― including community leaders, village chiefs, and members of the Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK) ― to fully understand what government initiatives are. These refer to any plans or programmes intended to bring benefits to the people,' he said.
Dennis was speaking to reporters after officiating at the closing ceremony of the MyDesa Leadership Course for the Orang Ulu community from Telang Usan district and the Long Bedian sub-district, held today.
According to him, one of the key initiatives currently being championed by the Sarawak government is the carbon trading programme ― which aims to tap into the state's vast forest resources as a new source of economic value.
'In addition to conserving forests, the initiative will also provide economic returns and job opportunities for the people,' he said.
However, Dennis also cautioned that there are certain quarters attempting to stir unrest by urging locals to reject these government-backed efforts.
'That is why it is important for our grassroots leaders to truly understand these programmes. If they don't understand, they should reach out to us for clarification,' he added.
Dennis further urged community leaders to strengthen grassroots support for the Sarawak leadership under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He noted that through Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), numerous development projects have been delivered to Baram under mechanisms such as the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), Highland Development Agency (HDA), Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda), and others.
In addition, he advised grassroots leaders to carry out their responsibilities with diligence and integrity, emphasising that they will play a crucial role in shaping the future of their communities.
'They face significant challenges, but I urge them to take a long-term approach in all that they do,' he said.
Dennis also reminded village chiefs to update their village profiles with the District Office and the Telang Usan constituency service centre to streamline applications and requests.
'They should familiarize themselves with the procedures to apply for project funding from both state and federal agencies,' he stressed.
The MyDesa Leadership Course, organized by the Sarawak branch of the Institute for Rural Advancement (INFRA), ran for three days beginning July 23 at Dynasty Hotel.
A total of 103 participants took part, comprising JKKK chairpersons, secretaries, and two bureau representatives, nominated by the District Office.
The course aimed to strengthen participants' leadership capacity, improve governance in village-level administration, and equip them with practical knowledge to plan, implement, and report initiatives more effectively.
Also present were Sarawak INFRA head Annie Liaw, Senior Assistant Director (Administration Unit) of Sarawak Premier's Department Azmi Usup, Long Bedian sub-district administrative officer Nancy Abau, and Pemanca Nawan Luhat. Dennis Ngau government initiatives grassroot leaders understanding