Rolland (on the floor, centre), Rengayan (on Rolland’s right) and Sylvester (on Roland’s far left), taking part in the symbolic ‘Ngiling Bidai’ ceremony to mark the closing of Gawai Dayak celebrations.
JULAU: It is not possible for any government to grant every wish and demand of the people all at once.
However, they can always place their trust in the Barisan Nasional government, given its excellent track record.
In this regard, Meluan assemblyman Rolland Duat said as an elected representative, he was duty-bound to address issues affecting the local communities especially regarding public amenities.
“As a local, I know what is lacking here, and as the elected representative, I am duty-bound to look into ways and means to overcome any problem.
“To me, there is no problem — whether it is regarding basic infrastructure, facilities or amenities — that is impossible to address,” he said after officiating at the ‘Ngiling Bidai’ ceremony to mark the closing of Gawai Dayak celebrations at Rumah Rengayan in Nanga Ruyak near here on Sunday night.
However, Rolland pointed out that as far as implementation of projects for the rural communities in this district was concerned, it would be priority-based — beginning with the provision of roads, treated water and electricity.
“I need to do a lot of homework — studying the data and keeping record of the number of longhouses in my constituency that have yet to be connected with treated water supply and the main (power) grid.
“It is only through this would I be able to prepare a list of priority projects slated for delivery in my area,” he said.
Rolland also believed that it was vital for him to meet every resident in Meluan to know more about their problems.
“I declare myself as the representative of all people in Julau, regardless of whom they voted for during the last state election.
“Having said this, I call upon all of you — members of local government offices and agencies, community leaders and all constituents — to uphold the spirit of unity. Unity is indeed the key to progress and prosperity.”
Later, the assemblyman announced an allocation of RM10,000 for Rumah Rengayan security and development committee (JKKK) to carry out activities slated for the benefit of residents of the 29-door longhouse.
The presentation was witnessed by longhouse chieftain Rengayan Ngumbang, Special Affairs Department (Jasa) liaison officer for Julau parliamentary Sylvester Embuas, local community leaders and representatives from various government departments.