Awang Tengah (second right), assisted by Morliah (on his right) and Sum (on his left) presenting Raya goodies to the poor and needy at Perkim Lawas annual Ramadan charity programme in Ulu Merapok.

LAWAS: The state government has approved RM3 million for the initial phase of Merapok mini service centre which will house lockup shops, government departments and agencies, cottage industries and other activities.

Second Resource Planning and Environment Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan who is also Bukit Sari assemblyman said this at the presentation ceremony of Raya goodies to the poor and needy people in Merapok hosted by Perkim Lawas at Datul Ma’mur mosque here yesterday.

“The promotion of cottage industries, particularly food processing, is most appropriate for lands in Merapok as they are among the most fertile in the state,” he added.

He said government agencies related to food processing would be roped in to help the local community and assist them in marketing their products.

Ulu Merapok is near the border with Sabah, and with the basic infrastructure and amenities in place it is set to be a hub for economic activities apart from the traditional agriculture activities.

On land, he said the Land and Survey Department had been instructed to ascertain the actual boundary between the communities for new NCR land development initiatives for crops which would be identified accordingly.

“These would include oil palm, orchards, rubber, paddy and other plantations and I personally believe it should be diversified and the huge agricultural potential of Merapok should be realised,” he added.

At the same time, he reminded the people of the importance of education in determining one’s success.
“The right mindset, determination and right attitude are important to succeed, casting aside any inferiority complex,” he added.

On another matter, he called on the local community to keep their mosques and house compounds clean and beautiful to reflect a culture of discipline and way of life as good Muslims.

Other religious activities carried out by Perkim Lawas include Khatamal Al Quran last week, which drew a big crowd of 1,000 at Darul Ma’mur district mosque.

Others present at the function included Lawas MP Datuk Henry Sum Agong, Perkim Lawas branch chairperson Datuk Dayang Morliah Awang Daud, Limbang Resident Maria Hasman, Lawas district officer Hussaini Hakim and local community leaders.