MIRI – Local councils in all 40 districts in Sarawak will be aiding small-scale business operators whose incomes have been badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Chief Minister Datuk Abang Johari Openg said local councils must come up with practical plans to help these groups, especially petty traders and food stall operators.
“Local councils must devise plans for smaller-scale businesspeople badly hit by this pandemic.
“Look into their specific needs and come up with plans that can help uplift their businesses,” he said when presiding over the online swearing-in of councillors in the state today.
The terms of all 756 councillors in Sarawak’s 40 districts have been extended until June 30 next year.
Johari said the extension is needed as the councillors are required to help during this difficult period.
He also called on the councils to boost their usage of online technology.
“In the new norm of doing things, we will have to rely on the internet and online services to provide council services to the community.
“I know that Kuching and Miri have good internet centres in their local councils.
“Every other council must also improve such facilities,” he said.
Miri Mayor Adam Yii said his council is facilitating Covid-19 vaccination efforts in the district.
He said the council has also beefed up its online services to provide easier avenues for customers to make payments and other transactions.
Kuching and Miri are the two largest districts in Sarawak. – The Vibes, July 23, 2021
