BETONG: Members of Rukun Tetangga (Neighbourhood Watch) committee and the local community are given the opportunity to contribute ideas and voice issues. This pertains to unity in the formation of the National Unity Action Plan (PTPN) which will be implemented next year.
Betong MP Datuk Robert Lawson Chuat said the government through the Ministry of National Unity was drafting PTPN 2021-2025.
According to him, PTPN is a comprehensive plan with emphasis on the element of national unity based on the five principles of Rukun Negara.
“Strengthening unity requires the involvement of the people. Therefore, the ministry is taking the initiative to involve all people at the grassroots level in the production of PTPN documents.
“Thus, the people’s feedback session on drafting PTPN is conducted simultaneously throughout Sarawak by the Department of National Unity and Integration. This gives full opportunity to Rukun Tetangga committee members and the local community to present ideas that will help improve the plan for the common good and wellbeing,” he said.
Chuat’s speech text was read by Betong Resident Friday Belik during the PTPN launching ceremony here on Saturday (Sept 5).
Chuat explained that the people’s feedback session themed “Thinking Unity with the People” was implemented in all districts throughout the months of August and September with the cooperation of the Sarawak government so that it would truly represent the voices of the people at the grassroots level.
He hoped that the existence of PTPN would bring a positive impact in response to the government’s call to create a plural society and a Malaysian nation which is united and harmonious.
Meanwhile, he acknowledged the important role of Rukun Tetangga Areas (KRTs) which have succeeded in shaping harmony, wellbeing, and peace in the local community.
“A while ago, namely in 2009, there were only nine KRT in Betong division. Now, there are 98 KRTs, 65 Voluntary Patrol Schemes, six unity kindergarten classes, as well as a unity genius nursery.
“This increase is very significant in ten years and the demand to set up KRT is increasing. It shows that the community is more aware of the function of KRT,” said Chuat.
The session was attended by 168 KRT representatives as well as government agencies and non-governmental organisations.
