1Malaysia A Good Governance Ideology, Says Sibu Association

SIBU (Malaysia), Feb 27 (Bernama) -- The 1Malaysia concept initiated by Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is a people-oriented ideology of good governance, according to the United Chinese Association (UCA) of Sibu. Its president, Lau Nai Hoh, said the concept had brought about unprecedented changes for the good of the whole country. "We can feel also that the channels of communication between the people and the government are now more smoother and wider," he said at the opening of the 1Malaysia Cultural Village near the Sungai Aup Jubilee Park, about 15 km from here, Sunday night. Sarawak Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud officiated at the function on behalf of the prime minister. Lau said that under the concept, the federal government has been sincere in helping the Chinese community in solving major issues affecting them. At the event, UCA, which has 107 affiliated member associations, adopted the "1Malaysia, 1 UCA" theme. "This is our recognition of this good governance ideology. It is also to signify the efforts of UCA in consolidating the unity of the community in nation building," Lau said. He said it was hoped that a special body could be set up for the association and the government to reflect on federal issues affecting the Chinese in order for them to be resolved swiftly and effectively. Meanwhile, the Sarawak Hua Zong (Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations or SFCA) adopted the "1Malaysia, 1 Hua Zong" theme. In his speech at the same event, SFCA president Wong Aik Loung also called on the federal government to upgrade the 1,800-km Pan Borneo Highway as well as increase air connectivity with a view to allowing more domestic and international flights at Sarawak airports. Later, Sarawak Minister of Local Government and Community Development Wong Soon Koh presented grants from Najib, totalling RM500,000 (US$1=RM3.01), to the Sarawak Hua Zong. -- BERNAMA