BELAGA: The Sarawak Development Office has launched a Community Wellbeing Programme, allocating RM1 billion to enhance income and living standards in rural areas and longhouses, the Sarawak Public Communications Unit reported.
The initiative was highlighted in a briefing led by Sarawak Development Office senior assistant director Ashari Johari at the Belaga Community Hall on Monday.
The programme, introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the 2024 Budget on Oct 13, last year, is dedicated solely to socioeconomic development, excluding infrastructure projects.
Each community or Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) can apply for up to RM100,000 to fund projects across five sectors: agriculture and food, sewing and handicrafts, herbs and health, tourism and hospitality, and green activities and recycling.
The implementation of these projects is confined to a one-year period with a total funding cap of RM100,000. Application processes require online submissions, necessitating computer literacy among JKKK leaders and secretaries, who will receive necessary training.
During the briefing, which is part of a series with previous sessions held in Long Urun and upcoming in Uma Bakah, Sungai Asap area, the importance of registered and certified committee members engaging with the programme was emphasised.
Belaga Acting District Officer Bidah Lujah said the district office's role is to facilitate the smooth execution of this initiative.
Over 90 JKKK members from Belaga, Linau, and Murum participated in the session which concluded with a vibrant question and answer segment, indicating strong community engagement and interest in the programme.