No more politicking as election is over – minister
BINTULU: Minister in the Chief Minister's Office (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Talib Zulpilip says Sarawakians are now united once again after the bruising general election.
Talib, who is also Jepak assemblyman said this when officiating at the 'Iftar' event with the community at Peryatim Complex in Jepak on Thursday.
The breaking of fast event was jointly organised by Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and Petronas Carigali Sarawak Gas.
Talib said the two federal agencies have shown maturity by continue working closely with the state agencies in the Sarawak spirit.
"Politics are not meant to divide us. Even though we argued during the election campaign, we are still united as one after the election.”
Meanwhile, 93 orphans from Peryatim Complex Bintulu were among those treated to the breaking of fast, after which Petronas distributed food baskets to them.
Speaking at the event, Talib expressed his gratitude to both Petronas and MMEA for hosting the iftar for the less fortunate during the holy month of Ramadan.
"We need more corporate organisations to contribute to the wellbeing of the local community, particularly in easing the burden of the needy group," he said.
Meanwhile, senior general manager of Petronas Carigali SK Gas Morris Mail said the safety of local fishermen in Bintulu has always been Petronas' utmost concern and priority, especially when they have to go out fishing within the vicinity of Petronas offshore platforms.
"Last February, Petronas Carigali SK Gas in collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia initiated the Fish-4-Life programme for some 126 fishermen registered under the Bintulu Area Fishermen Association from Kuala Nyalau, Kuala Tatau, Sebauh and Jepak.
"The participants were taught on fish breeding techniques, an alternative for fishermen to breed more fish other than having to go out to the sea, especially during monsoon season," he added.
Morris also emphasised the iftar event was not only to foster closer ties with the local community but also to strengthen cooperation between Petronas and the local authority.
Also present at the event were Talib's wife Datin Dr Zaleha Abdullah, Bintulu Maritime Zone assistant director Timothy Alexander and Bintulu Resident Jack Aman Luat.
Talib also presented certificate of appreciation from MMEA to Kampung Jepak as its adopted village.
Bintulu Maritime assistant director Timothy Alexander, Petronas Carigali senior general manager Morris Mail and Bintulu Resident Jack Aman Luat were also present at the event.