Nyurak (front, fourth left) and other officers join participants and trainers of the off-road driving enhancement course for a photo call.

The usually quiet settlement of Data Kakus came alive recently as the Bintulu Division Administration held a two-day Driver Enhancement Course, which included rugged off-road training, in conjunction with the Randau Community Engagement Programme.

Bintulu Resident Datu Nyurak Keti, who officiated the event, emphasized that the training surpassed basic driving lessons, describing it as a crucial step in preparing new government drivers for the challenging terrains commonly found across rural Sarawak.

Importance of Training

Safety, discipline, and technical competence are critical for smooth government operations, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas,” he stated.

“The terrain in Bintulu demands drivers who are well-trained and confident. This training ensures they can perform their duties professionally and safely, ” he added.

Meanwhile, the Randau Community Engagement Programme brought together 16 government agencies, each presenting their roles, services, and the latest policies directly to local residents.

Building Community Trust

Nyurak mentioned that such sessions help cultivate trust and strengthen communication between the government and interior communities.

“Community leaders play an important role as the bridge between the government and the people. Their voice is vital in channelling information and addressing concerns on the ground,” he remarked.

Reflecting on his first visit to Data Kakus in 1991, Nyurak recalled that access was limited to narrow walking trails.

“Today, we see improved road networks that have transformed connectivity, reflecting the government’s consistent commitment to rural development,” he stated.

He also noted that several road upgrades are ongoing, including improved links between Data Kakus and Long Beyak, which are expected to boost economic growth, particularly in agriculture, such as oil palm and other crops.

Future Developments

Nyurak revealed a proposal to establish a new sub-district in Tubau, which includes plans for a township and an agricultural training centre — an initiative aimed at bringing government services closer to rural communities while supporting local economic activities.

The Randau programme drew about 400 residents from Kampung Data Kakus.

Also present were Tatau district officer Calvin Ligong, Sebauh district officer Thadeus Ling Bartholomew Allu, Public Works Department (JKR) Bintulu divisional engineer Lau Sie Hung, and Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) Bintulu divisional water engineer Lai Kien Hong.

The post Data Kakus comes alive with driver training, Randau community programme appeared first on Borneo Post Online.

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