Strong cooperation key to Penampang's development - Ewon
PENAMPANG (June 2): The Member of Parliament here, Datuk Ewon Benedick, stressed that close cooperation between elected representatives and government leaders is vital to ensure successful development in their respective constituencies.
Ewon, who is also the Federal Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives MInister, said his continued collaboration with Kapayan assemblywoman Jannie Lasimbang has allowed for smoother implementation of various programmes and development plans in Penampang, particularly in the Kapayan area.
'Whenever there is a need, an issue, or a development matter in Penampang, my office together with the Kapayan ADUN Service Centre will sit down to discuss the best way to assist our community. We do not work in silos, but as a team,' he said.
He was speaking at the Kaamatan Festival celebration for the Kapayan constituency, held at Dewan Kibouvang here recently.
The event was officiated by Human Resources Minister Steven Shim.
Also present were Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Sandakan member of parliament Vivian Wong and Bandar Kuching member of parliament Dr Kelvin Yii.
Ewon said that this collaboration has also led to the creation of the Penampang Development Plan 2024–2035, which is now a key component of the proposed 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) for the development of the Penampang parliamentary constituency.
He added that thanks to joint efforts with other elected representatives and government leaders, several federal ministers have visited Penampang to see first-hand the needs of the local community, including flood mitigation projects and other development initiatives that are underway or in the pipeline.
'I am confident that with the strategic cooperation and development plans we have drawn up, together with the Federal Cabinet and state government, Penampang will benefit from greater development allocation under RMK13.
'With the presence of my Cabinet colleagues here in Penampang, I am confident that development in both Kapayan and Moyog will continue to progress,' he said.
Ewon highlighted several ongoing major projects in Penampang, including the flood mitigation project, upgrading of the Terian-Buayan road, construction of a bridge in Babagon, and the implementation of the PANTAS programme in Kampung Togudon.
He also said that under his ministry alone, several agency offices have already been established in Penampang, including the National Entrepreneurship Institute (INSKEN), TEKUN Nasional, an MSME Hub, and a Live Studio facility at the TEKUN Penampang Office.
In addition, the Tamu Desa project has been implemented in Penampang to support local market traders and small entrepreneurs.
On the Kaamatan celebration, Ewon said it is now celebrated by all Malaysians regardless of race, religion or culture.
'This is in line with the theme 'Kaamatan for All'. Kaamatan is not just for the Kadazandusun community in Sabah — it is also celebrated overseas by Sabahans, particularly the Kadazandusun diaspora,' he said.
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