FOR YOU: Abang Johari (right) and wife Datin Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang (fourth left) distribute duit raya to children. Also seen is Khalid (second left).
KUCHING: Many Bumiputeras in the state have succeeded and even shone in the business sector which is a new field to them, said Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He cited the example of Malay Car Importers and Dealers Association (Pekema) Foundation, which created an avenue for youngsters in Sarawak to be involved in business, and in the nation’s economy.
“We have to be thankful for the New Economic Policy which enables Bumiputeras to succeed in the economic sector. The policy hastens and create awareness in Bumiputeras by urging the state to form SEDC to be a catalyst to help them,” Abang Johari said at Pekema’s silver jubilee celebration and Hari Raya gathering on Sunday.
The policy enables many youngsters to be involved in business.
Admittedly some failed as it is a relatively new sector for Bumiputeras, but some succeeded.
He said billions of ringgit would be spent in upgrading some villages in the state to incorporate the Malay culture.
For a start, the development known as Darul Hana will be from Kampung Boyan to Kampung Bintawa.
Starting from the mosque, tourist infrastructure will be created in riverine villages.
Next to be revamped is Kampung Sungai Bedil Besar to Kampung Tanjung, including areas around Masja to be transformed into an attraction as famous as St Antonio in America.
Another plan in the offing is to redevelop the area from Komplex Islam to Brooke Dockyard, based on Boulevard Islam.
“This means Kuching will be upgraded to be an interesting, clean and lively city, showcasing the uniqueness of the multi-racial and multi-religious community. At the same time, we will continue to develop strategic areas which have heritage values.”
At the event, Pekema distributed ‘duit raya’ to children and donations to the Ex-Policemen Association Sarawak and Masjid An-Nur Sibu.
Present were Pekema chairman Datuk Khalid Marzuki, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and Assistant Tourism Minister and SEDC chairman Datuk Talib Zulpilip.