PBTM S’wak striving to stand on its own feet

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Spencer Birai

KUCHING: The Sarawak branch of the Malaysian Ex Servicemen Association (PBTM) hopes its plan to own a commercial building will be realised soon.

Its newly re-elected chairman Spencer Birai said to do this, PBTM Sarawak would apply for a piece of land from the government and then build the building.

“In my plan, we will try to apply from the state government. Last year, we tried to purchase a building for the members but we failed to get the loan.

“This coming year, we will apply for state land, a small one, to construct a commercial building. Through rental, we can get some money for more funds.

“We cannot just rely on contributions alone,” he told reporters after the election of office-bearers for the term 2012 – 2015 which ended last Sunday.

Spencer, who retired in 1997 with the rank of staff sergeant after 21 years in the army, was re-elected for the second term.

The 58-year-old from Saratok successfully defended the post in a three-cornered contest which also featured former president Abang Yassin Datuk Abang Zainuddin and PBTM Tasik Biru chairman Jossem Daweg.

“After this election, I hope we can work together and have no hard feelings between us. After all, we are one family.”

To a question, he said it would be a challenge for PBTM Sarawak to get more funds this year due to the emergence of other associations representing ex-servicemen.

He, nonetheless, stressed that PBTM Sarawak had no problem with the newly set up Sarawak Rangers Veterans Association (SRVA) and he felt they could work together.

The meeting also saw Major (Rtd) Peter Runin remaining as PBTM Sarawak advisor.

The post of deputy president was not contested and as such Nalang Selingau was retained unopposed.

The others in the committee are permanent chairman Tiles Bansi, his deputy Tuah Mohd Nor, vice-presidents Abang Mos Ang Tunggal and Luang Baring, and 15 ordinary members.