Kurup receiving a souvenir from organizing chairman Ramian Ayub.
KENINGAU: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Joseph Kurup has asked the Neighbourhood Watch (KRT) members to play a more effective role and help the government address the issue of illegal immigrants in their areas.
He said the issue of security had been given emphasis by the Barisan Nasional (BN) government to ensure that the country was not flooded by the illegal immigrants.
“I hope KRT in this state can act as the eyes and ears of the government by reporting to the police and other security enforcement agencies if there is an unknown person or someone with no document entering or staying legally in their area,” he said when opening the Harvest Carnival and leader with the people program at Kampung Penagatan Ulu Sook here on Saturday.
Kurup who is also the member of parliament for Pensiangan, also advised the people not to give shelter and protection to illegal immigrants because they could face action under the Immigration Act.
He also asked the people to give full support to the BN government’s efforts in implementing policies and development plans for the progress and welfare of the residents in Pensiangan, especially in Sook.
Kurup is confident that the BN government is committed to meeting the needs of the people at this area and the people should unite to ensure unity, security and prosperity of the country.
He said the Kaamatan festival also provided an opportunity to locals to get important information on cultures and customs as well as to highlight the cultural aspects and traditional food available in the village.
“I hope this festival can be a foundation to strengthen unity and harmony among the people of different races and religions in this country,” he said.
On development, Kurup said the government was always sensitive to the needs of the people, especially in the Interior.
He said the BN government, as a responsible government, had not ignored the needs of the people.