Highlighting where NGOs can cooperate with policy makers
SIBU: A dialogue conducted by the Civil Society Organisation (CSO) Platform for Reform Sarawak Chapter here on Monday meant to highlight the initiative where nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) can work together with policymakers.
The session involved 23 individuals representing six local NGOs, namely Raban Pemansang Indu (RAPI) Sibu, Single Mothers Association Central Region, Sibu Autistic Association, Independent Council of Natives (ICON), Dayak Rights Action Force (DRAF), and Pila Dayak Sibu Club.
Additionally, CSO Platform for Reform national coordinator Beverly Joeman said the dialogue also hosted Sibu MP Oscar Ling and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Dudong branch chairman Councillor Teo Boon Siew who represented Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who is both Bintulu MP and Dudong assemblyman.
“The NGO representatives have voiced various issues during the session, which is not meant to find faults or to go against the government; it merely serves as a platform for the NGOs to raise key issues and also to form a network amongst them,” said Beverly.
She said her team was encouraged by the positive feedback from the participants.
She also pointed out that it was the first time for Ling, who is from the Democratic Action Party (DAP), and Teo to have attended such a session together.
“We think that it’s a good thing because for CSO Platform for Reform, any change that must be done should go through a dialogue, and for NGOs to be able to work together with the policymakers,” she said.