SANDAKAN: The government has reassured that fishermen eligible for subsidised fuel, including those in Kampung Pulau Berhala, will not be affected by the current situation.
Sandakan MP, Vivian Wong Shir Yee, praised Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s efforts to stabilise the country’s fuel supply, stating that it’s a positive move to support the people.
Wong expressed confidence that the government is working hard to ensure the issue is addressed effectively, with a focus on curbing smuggling and other abuses to ensure fair distribution of subsidies.
She spoke to the media during the Kongsi Raya Celebration with Kampung Pulau Berhala residents on Sunday.
Wong also took the opportunity to visit 10 elderly, ill, and asnaf recipients, distributing food baskets and cash aid in conjunction with Hari Raya.
The annual celebration, which included lion dances and traditional performances, aims to foster unity and joy, especially for the children on the island.
On a separate note, Wong provided an update on the proposed tourism hotel project for Pulau Berhala, explaining that discussions are ongoing due to the area being within a forest reserve and marine zone.
She hoped that if the project moves forward, local youths would benefit from job opportunities, reducing the need to seek employment outside Sandakan.
Wong also called on Pulau Berhala residents to maintain cleanliness and stop dumping waste into the sea.
Despite previous cleanliness initiatives, she noted that further efforts are needed to achieve the desired results.
She expressed gratitude to the Malaysian Armed Forces for their continued presence on the island to ensure security.
The event was also attended by Sandakan Parliamentary Coordinating Officer Tang Szu Ching and Kampung Pulau Berhala village head Junior Jikirin, with the latter expressing thanks to Vivian for organising the celebration.
