SRI AMAN: The state government supports the activities of Chinese associations here – be they religious or educational.

Rural Development Assistant Minister Datuk Francis Harden Hollis said people’s representatives often channel allocations to Chinese schools and temples.

He said the Chinese community, the major players in business and with a solid economy, must work with the government to ensure political stability and economic development for all.

Harden, who is also Housing assistnat minister and Simanggang assemblyman, was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for the 2014-1015 term of Simanggang Soon Heng Association’s committee.

The event which took place at a hotel here doubles as their 120th anniversary celebration.

“The Chinese community which excels in the business sector are in a position to help the less fortunate, regardless of race and religion,” Harden said.

The role of a non-governmental association is important in socio-economic movement.

“There are associations set up for economic consensus, and for social and cultural development. The welfare of members should be given serious attention so the association will remain stable and respected by its members.”

Harden added that not many associations reach age 120.

“Any association with a leadership crisis it cannot solve, or members with divided loyalty will cause it to be shut it down quickly. Kesatuan Soon Heng Simanggang showed they were capable of retaining their integrity. They should be a role model to other associations in this state,” he said.

Present were Sri Aman MP Masir Kujat, Sri Aman Resident Jonathan Lugoh and community leaders Datuk Tan Chong Meng, Temenggong Sii Toh Peng and Penghulu Lee Siang Hua.

Also present were the new committee for the 2014-2015 term, including its chairman Tay Ah Tee.

In the same event, Harden announced an allocation of RM20,000 to fund the association’s activities for the new term.