LAWAS: Federal Minister of Rural Development (KPLB), Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad led his delegation for a work visit here since last Saturday (March 27).
On the first day, he visited the Bead Handicraft Centre in Long Tuma where he was briefed on the process of making ceramic beads and subsequently approved the allocation to build additional buildings and equipment amounting to RM200,000.
He also called for art products to be marketed online or digital malls. This coincides with the government’s efforts to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) increase sales volumes as well as improve the quality of products produced.
During his visit to the Meragang Dairy Buffalo Breeding Centre, Dr Abdul Latiff and his entourage were also briefed on the management of the premises as well as given a tour around the dairy buffalo farm.
He and his delegation also visited Kuala Lawas Jetty, Kampung Noor Islam to officiate at the handover ceremony of 20 units of ‘Enjin Sangkut’ (outboard engines), which is in its first phase.
The second phase of the programme would be held in April with a total of 30 units of ‘Engin Sangkut’ amounting to RM500,000 under the Income Enhancement Programme (PPP) through Giat Mara Sundar Sub-District here.
Dr Abdul Latiff also approved an allocation to repair the jetty in Kampung Noor Islam and Kampung Pemukat, with each village receiving RM500,000.
The tahai fish processing centre in Kampung Punang Lama was the last location that the minister and his entourage visited. They had the opportunity to witness the process of making smoked tahai fish and other products.
The federal ministry will also help to improve the production of tahai fish through several smoked house upgrading projects, equipment and training developed in phases.
Also present during the visits were Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan; Deputy Minister of Rural Development II Datuk Henry Sum Agong; Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development Assistant Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail and Limbang Division Resident Ahmad Denney.
