NRES Allocates RM500,000 For MADANI Adopted Village Initiative In Kundasang

KUNDASANG, June 6 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), through the Department of Mineral and Geoscience (JMG), has allocated RM500,000 for the implementation of the JMG Kampung Angkat MADANI (MADANI adopted village) initiative in Kampung Dumpiring Bawah here today.

Its Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the allocation was more than just a figure in a development document, but reflected the government's commitment to engaging with the people and implementing interventions that directly benefit local communities.

“This is one of the federal government’s initiatives aimed at narrowing the gap between the government and local communities. The government remains committed to staying close to the people, particularly rural communities, to ensure that development initiatives are effectively delivered, provide direct benefits and improve the quality of life of local residents,” he said.

He said this after officiating the programme, which was also attended by Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I and State Works and Utilities Minister, as well as Kundasang assemblyman, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

The adopted village project involves the reconstruction of a new and more comfortable community hall, along with related infrastructure facilities.

Arthur said the hall would serve as a centre for community activities, social programmes, educational initiatives and social development efforts that would benefit villagers and residents in the surrounding areas.

He said the MADANI adopted village initiative is one of the government's approaches to strengthening ties between ministries, government departments, agencies and local communities.

Through the programme, he said, the government hopes to see Kampung Dumpiring Bawah become more than just an adopted village in name, but a model community that is more resilient, safer, more sustainable and better connected to government agencies.

Meanwhile, Dr Joachim expressed appreciation to NRES and JMG for implementing the initiative in Kampung Dumpiring Bawah, describing it as an important opportunity to build a more organised, safe, resilient and prosperous community.

He said the initiative should be driven through close collaboration among various stakeholders, including JMG, the Ranau District Office and local authorities, to ensure that development in risk-prone areas such as Kundasang is carried out in a well-planned manner with due consideration given to safety aspects.

“Our hope is that with Kampung Dumpiring Bawah being designated as an adopted village, JMG will have a more regular presence here and serve as a key reference point for residents, particularly in disaster risk prevention and mitigation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA