SARIKEI: The state government has approved an allocation of RM2 million to provide a new cemetery for Muslims here in this division.
Assistant Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the new 10-hectare site is located at the end of Jalan Rentap which is about four kilometres from Sarikei city centre.
According to him, the preparation of the site is one of the state government’s efforts to meet the needs of Sarikei Muslims in the long run.
“Previously, I applied for the allocation and thankfully the application has been approved by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“This site is located at the end of Jalan Rentap. However, before it can be used, this area first needs to be walled up,” he told reporters after attending a gotong rotong (commucal work) programme in conjunction with the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (Jais) Jubilee celebration at the Sarikei Islamic Cemetery held yesterday.
He said the initiative was proof that the state government unfailingly listens to the voice of the people and has taken various approaches by striving to provide facilities while ensuring that the welfare of its people are well taken care of.
The programme, attended by some 200 residents, aims to clean and brighten up the cemetery as well as instil awareness among the residents on cleanliness.
“Activities like this need to be held continuously and not just at certain times. It not only fosters cooperation and the spirit of consensus, but is able to instil good values, especially in the younger generation,” he said.
Also present were Tanjong Manis MP Yusuf Abd Wahab, Repok assemblyman Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii, and Sarikei Division Islamic religious officer Syed Harold Salleh Wan Mohammad.
