Outspoken opposition member, Ba’ Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian, is a familiar figure to many.

Yet, amidst the responsibilities of representing the people and carrying out his formal duties, certain aspects of him might remain unfamiliar to some people.

Below is an excerpt of New Sarawak Tribune’s interview with him on the sideline of the current State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting.

NEW SARAWAK TRIBUNE: Any heartfelt events that you’ve experienced throughout serving as an assemblyman?

BARU: It is related to the responsibility of representing the people by raising issues in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN). This is the primary focus and responsibility that needs to be embraced. Therefore, no one can prevent us from addressing the concerns of the people. Hence, any issues that are raised remain unresolved in my constituency, and I will continue to bring them up.

What keeps you motivated?

The unwavering support of the people is my motivation. Although we are occasionally hindered by various challenges such as time constraints or frequent field visits, we have a service centre where people can seek assistance. The people in the area comprehend this, and their support is essential in continuing to inspire me to amplify their voices in the DUN. I am also a lawyer, but my business responsibilities do not impede me from fulfilling my duties as an elected representative.

Satisfying achievements throughout the years of being an elected representative?

I am not only the Ba’ Kelalan assemblyman, but I have also served as the Selangau MP. During my tenure as the Minister of Works, several projects were implemented in my constituency, specifically the Sabah and Sarawak Link Road (SSLR) project. This project holds great significance, not only for Ba’ Kelalan but for the entire state.

I am grateful to the Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Barisan Nasional (BN) governments, which took over from the Pakatan Harapan (PH) administration, for agreeing to implement our proposal. Notably, both the first and second phases of the project have been approved, which is a significant milestone.

Furthermore, another notable project underway is the construction of a hospital in Lawas. These three initiatives, namely infrastructure, education, and health, are topics I frequently raise in the DUN (State Legislative Assembly) or Parliament. They hold immense importance for the development of the rural areas.

What do you do in you leisure time?

I always believe that we must reconnect with our roots. I come from a village and am the son of a farmer, so I have a preference for farming activities. All of my retired siblings also engage in cultivating their fields.

I focus on planting Arabica coffee, and I believe I am the only one in Sarawak who cultivates coffee on a large scale. I have around 15,000 to 17,000 coffee trees planted in the Long Luping area of Lawas.

Additionally, a few years ago, I started planting pineapples in Long Semadoh, and I have successfully grown approximately 6,000 pineapples. This endeavour is not primarily for commercial purposes but rather to serve as an example to the community. I don’t just talk about it; I take action.

Does YB encourage people to farm or become farmers?

Certainly, that’s why I engage in extensive crop cultivation and also raise sheep in the area. I strongly encourage the residents of the area, particularly in their agricultural and livestock endeavours.