Sarawak: A total of 39 Neighbourhood Watch Areas (KRT) have been selected as Progressive KRTs in Sarawak this year, stated National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang. Each of these Progressive KRTs is eligible to apply for an annual allocation of up to RM100,000 to implement programmes across eight focus areas, as outlined by the Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Aaron encouraged all KRTs in Sarawak to stay active and expressed his hope for every KRT in the state to eventually attain Progressive KRT status. With a RM20 million grant allocated to the Ministry of National Unity (KPN) for Progressive KRTs, there is optimism that more KRTs will be able to participate in a wider range of activities.

The announcement was made during the Aidilfitri celebration, organised by the Sarawak JPNIN at the Penview Convention Centre. The event was attended by members of KRTs, the Voluntary Patrol Scheme, Community Mediators, Taska and Tabika Perpaduan staff, Uniti Squad members, and representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Minister Aaron highlighted that the Progressive KRTs would focus on eight key areas: the livelihood economy, community resilience and security, leadership, community well-being, lifelong learning, the environment, cultural heritage, and creativity. Currently, there are 8,554 KRTs nationwide, with 1,092 located in Sarawak. Previously, media reports indicated JPNIN’s goal to modernise and upgrade 300 KRTs to Progressive KRTs.

In a related development, the National Unity Ministry announced an allocation of RM302,775 for five Tabika Perpaduan in Sarawak to carry out improvement works benefiting students. The kindergartens involved are Tabika Perpaduan RPR Permyjaya Miri, Tabika Perpaduan Ong Tiang Swee in Kuching, Tabika Perpaduan Sungai Plan in Bintulu, Tabika Perpaduan Siol Kandis in Kuching, and Tabika Perpaduan Kampung Pahlawan in Limbang.