SIBU: Public Health, Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian said he fully supported the aspiration of Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) chairman Sempurai Petrus Ngelai to turn SRDC into a municipal council within 10 years.

“Heartiest congratulations to SRDC on its 70th anniversary! In conjunction with the 70th anniversary, there will be the ground breaking ceremony of the SRDC building in Sibu Jaya, rightfully within SRDC’s own jurisdiction,” he said on his Facebook page on Sunday (Jan 9).

Dr Sim also lauded all the previous chairmen of the council, past and present councilors and the council staff for their dedication, services and contributions to Sibu Jaya.

He pointed out that it was now an area with the fastest population growth in Sibu.

On the  new SRDC building, Dr Sim added, “It is not just to collect money (assessments, licence fees and fines) but a place where the rate payers can make use of the public amenities available (libraries, galleries, public lectures theatres, space for recreational and formal events).