Adenan (right), Zahid (centre) and Lukeman at an exhibition booth. — Photos by Muhammad Rais Sanusi
KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem yesterday pledged RM2 million to Volunteers Department (Rela) Sarawak for new uniforms as a token of appreciation for their contributions to the society.
“What is RM2 million compared to what you have done?” he asked at the 43rd national-level anniversary celebration of Rela at the MJC Square, Batu Kawa here.
At a post-opening news conference, Adenan said the state government was very pleased that the national-level celebration took place here.
“It is a signal honour. I was made to understand there are over three million Rela members and nearly a quarter million are from Sarawak. I think Rela has a programme also to expand that number.
“The state government will make contributions to the facilities Rela need, including uniforms, and I have pledged to give them RM2 million, while our MPs (members of parliament) are also making some (contributions).”
Rela members cheer upon hearing the pledge of RM2 million for new uniforms.
At the celebration, Home Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Rela director-general Lukeman Saaid conferred a three-star rank on Adenan, who is also Rela Sarawak advisor.
Similar rank was also bestowed on Minister of Human Resources Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem.
In his speech, Adenan noted that the Crisis Management Team (CMT) had been set up in the country to act as the first respondent in times of emergencies.
He hoped the CMT could be further enhanced to provide rapid responses during crisis.
He pointed out that the roles and responsibilities of Rela members had transformed over the years, particularly after they had been promoted to a full federal department.
Hence, he said, they should assist the police in combating crime, adding: “I understand that Rela is also involved in some operations, such as Ops Payung and Ops Satu Malaysia.”
On crimes, Adenan observed that some quarters had made noises about the inefficacy of enforcement squads.
He, however, felt complaints would do no good to fighting crime, while achieving zero crime was impossible.
“We are living on earth, so zero crime is not possible. Our police and Rela, as well as other security forces, are doing the best they can.”
He added everyone ought to uphold positive attitude and be a helping hand to the enforcement authorities, rather than merely complaining.
Zahid (left) and Lukeman clip the rank for Riot.
Meanwhile, Zahid has set a target for Sarawak – to achieve 500,000 members by the end of this year. As of yesterday, he said Sarawak registered some 226,000 Rela members.
He was glad to see 7,000 Rela members from throughout the state joining the anniversary celebration.
“Usually, we invite 5,000 members to our anniversary celebrations, but in Sarawak, the turnout is 7,000 today. Great job, Sarawak!”
At the function, Zahid also launched the Rela Strategic Plan Book for the year 2015 to 2020, while Adenan presented insurance cheques totalling
RM146,902 to four recipients and assistance to those Rela members who were affected by the recent floods.
An exhibition was also organised in conjunction with the celebration.