Datuk Henry Sum Agong
MIRI (June 9): Deputy Minister of Rural Development Datuk Henry Sum Agong has accused former Minister of Works Baru Bian of ignoring Malaysia’s bi-lateral ties with Indonesia and ASEAN spirit of solidarity in pushing for a halt of the second shipment of food aid and building materials to Krayan District in Kalimantan.
Henry in a statement said Baru was engaging in political rhetoric while ignoring the fact that there was an agreement between the Indonesian and Malaysian government which would also benefit many Lun Bawang in Krayan who are related to those in Ba Kelalan.
“This is to conclude the delivery of the outstanding food and construction materials in the list that has been approved by the Malaysian and Indonesian governments. It should not be an issue,“ he said.
Henry was referring to a statement by Baru, who is Selangau MP and Ba Kelalan assemblyman, yesterday who called on the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) to cease the transfer of goods at the Ba Kelalan border on June 11 and 12.
Baru was questioning the rationale of continuing this arrangement when Covid-19 cases are increasing and causing distress among the local community in Ba Kelalan while the country is under Movement Control Order (MCO).
The arrangements were made between Wisma Putra and the Indonesian Consulate in Kuching after a request from the Krayan District requiring assistance on humanitarian ground and ASEAN’s spirit of solidarity.
The supply of food items and building materials to the Krayan District of Kalimantan involved two registered cooperatives that have been approved by both government, and is closely monitored by various government agencies and departments responsible for safety aspects and standard operating procedures (SOP) of Covid-19 prevention measures between Malaysia and Indonesia.
Baru had questioned the involvement of private businessmen as the goods should be delivered using government vehicles and handled by government staff and officer under G-to-G (Government to Government) initiatives.
In that respect, Henry said the presence of Rural Development Deputy Minister, Limbang Division Resident and Lawas District Officer at the handing over ceremony were as legal representative of the Malaysian government and ensured that all procedures are complied accordingly.
On concerns of the spread of Covid-19 in Ba Kelalan, he said each individual involved in the process must undergone and pass health screenings by the Health Ministry before being allowed at the handing over.
All the drivers and vehicles involved are from Ba Kelalan area and the Ba Kelalan Cooperative, he added.
“There are no outsiders from the Ba Kelalan area involved in the transportation,“ he said.
Henry assured that strict control and closure of border during MCO since last year remains in place, with the enforcement by the Malaysian Armed Forces, Immigration Department, the police, and the General Operations Force (GOF), together with other enforcement agencies.