KUDAT, Nov 20 — The people of Sabah have been urged not to be influenced by the culture of street demonstrations as it would not bring any good to various parties, especially the traders, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak.
As such, he called the multiracial Sabahans to remain united to ensure the peace and harmony of the state, thus creating a conducive environment for development.
“There is no need to be influenced by street demonstrations as we have the most appropriate channel to voice out any objection or grouses of the people via democratic process, which is the upcoming general election,” he said when officiating the Malaysian Momogun Rungus Organisation (PMRM) annual general meeting here today.
On the event, Salleh said the organisation, which was set up two years ago, served not only to protect the arts and cultural heritage of the Rungus community but had also become the symbol of unity among the community.
“Such an effort is in line with the government’s aspiration to unite the multiracial society through ethnic-based organisations or associations.
“Therefore, the government will certainly continue to give support and cooperation in all aspects to ensure that all plans by PMRM can be implemented for the benefits of the Rungus tribe,” he added.
Salleh also hoped that PMRM continues to strive forward and succeed in protecting the arts and cultural heritage of the community, thus helping the government to maintain peace and harmony.
At the same time, he also fully supported the setting up of the Rungus Cultural Centre (RCC) in Matunggung near here next year, with an allocation of RM1 million from the federal government.
“In order to complete the cultural centre, I will help to get RM500,000 fund to build the Rungus Handicraft Centre and (an additional of) RM200,000 to erect fence for the cultural centre.
“I have also agreed to set up an information technology (IT) centre at the Rungus Cultural Centre through (budget from) the ministry to ensure that Rungus children can enjoy the facilities by the (federal) government, particularly in this technology age,” he said.
Meanwhile, PMRM president Datuk Wetrom Bahanda thanked the government, particularly Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak who approved the fund for the construction of the RCC.
“We’re also thanking the state government for allocating a 2.7-acre land to build the cultural centre which will become a catalyst for the Rungus people,” he said. — Bernama
