Family welfare given priority in Sarawak's development

SIBU, 12 Nov: The welfare of family institutions should be given priority in Sarawak's development agenda as it is closely linked to the progress of the state and the formation of a safe and prosperous society.

Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, said efforts to strengthen family institutions not only involve welfare aspects but also need to take into account the basic needs, protection and education of children to ensure they grow up in a safe environment.

"Family well-being is closely linked to Sarawak's progress. Children need a safe living environment, adequate basic needs and support to continue their education.

"When maintenance responsibilities are overlooked, the stresses that arise can affect the life of the whole family. Therefore, efforts to strengthen family institutions should be focused in the planning of development and delivery of services to the people", he said.

He said this while addressing the Family Support Section Seminar Suspension Meeting of Sarawak Muslim Council Mahabharata Pilgrimage 2026 Central Zone here today.

According to him, the aspiration of Sarawak to become a mature and high-income region by 2030 should be translated into improving the quality of life of its people.

"It includes ensuring that every community is able to access information, get help and enjoy opportunities for a better life", he added.

He said that in the context of family welfare, parental responsibilities towards children should not cease after divorce, instead their right to livelihood, affection, protection and education should be maintained.

In this regard, he stressed the importance of ensuring that provisions issued by the Shariah Court are implemented, as well as providing advice and consultation services to those facing maintenance-related issues.

He also emphasized that the efforts require cooperation and coordination between government agencies, welfare bodies and relevant parties to ensure that families in need receive adequate support.

Meanwhile, Awang Central said the executive agencies should take a cross-sectional approach to understand community needs and assess the effectiveness of programs and services provided.

"The aid delivery procedure should also be simplified so that those in need are not burdened by bureaucratic procedures which make it difficult for them to get help", he stressed.

He said that digital technology should be leveraged to accelerate the delivery of services, but a face-to-face approach still needs to be pursued, especially for rural communities who do not have full access to the internet.

At the same time, he encouraged community leaders, tribal chiefs, mosque managers, educators and community organizations to help spread information about Family Support Division services so that families facing problems can identify the right channels of assistance.

The seminar aims to raise public awareness of the rights and responsibilities in Islamic family institutions, as well as expand knowledge about services and support channels of Family Support Division Sharia Sarawak Department of Justice. - TVS