Masidi making traditional batik as RCKKPearl’s 9th President Rosie Chong (right) and 8th President Datuk Aminah Ambrose (2nd left) look on.
KOTA KINABALU: Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun has called for more non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to work together with the State Government in community development projects, especially in rural areas.
He said that projects such as those undertaken by the Rotary Club of Kota Kinabalu Pearl (RCKKPearl) in Ranau, Pitas and other rural areas are commendable efforts and are greatly welcomed by the State Government.
“NGOs such as RCKKPearl have a strong track record of efficiently and successfully undertaking community development projects and I commend them not only for their commitment but also their ability to stretch the Ringgit but still maximizing impact for the people.
“I find that the Government-NGO collaboration approach would be most effective for these types of projects as we are able to spend less money but benefit more people, in line with adage less is more,” he said at the RCKKPearl’s 9th Installation Dinner at the Magellan Sutera here last night.
Masidi also announced an RM100,000 grant to complement the club’s efforts, after already raising almost RM400,000 through donations and other fundraising means.
“This is not a blanket grant where the club is free to spend as they wish, however, it is the Government’s gesture of acknowledgment and support for their future water supply projects for villages in Pitas, Kota Marudu and Ulu Sugut in Ranau,” he said.
While speaking to reporters during the dinner, Masidi added that the State Government is open to considering applications from other organisations with specific and well-defined community projects.
“Sometimes it is not just about having the funding to undertake projects, but also the ability to stretch resources effectively, and RCKKPearl have excelled in this aspect as they are diligent in managing funds raised through hard work and dedication,” he said.
