Kota Kinabalu: The Ministry of National Unity (KPN) will increase the number of Rukun Tetangga Areas (KRT) and open up opportunities for economic project implementation through the RT Progressive initiative in Sabah.
KPN Secretary-General, Datuk Ruji Ubi , said the Ministry is working to expand the establishment of active KRTs so that they can enjoy various benefits, including an annual grant of RM6,000 and special allocations of up to RM100,000 under the RT Progressive.
“As of now, Sabah has 1,121 KRTs, and within the past month or two, five more new KRTs have been established.
“Active KRTs not only play a role as drivers of unity but also have the potential to generate community income through RT Progressive,” he told the media after paying a courtesy call on the Sabah Head of State Tun Musa Aman, recently.
The visit aimed at informing about the increase in the number of KRTs and unity kindergartens in Sabah, as well as the preparations for Unity Week celebrations.
Commenting further on the RT Progressive programme, he said KRTs with Voluntary Patrol Schemes (SRS) may propose economic projects such as agriculture, food processing, and small enterprises.
“They can apply for allocations ranging from RM50,000 to RM100,000. This open up opportunities for KRTs to play a more comprehensive role, not only in fostering unity but also in promoting local economic development,” he said.
According to him, the government has allocated RM20 million to implement the RT Progressive programme nationwide, including support for two to three KRTs in Sabah that are actively running agriculture-based projects.
Meanwhile, Ruji also announced that the Unity Week celebration will take place on June 28 and 29, this year.
“One of the key highlights is the Jejak Harmoni programme, aimed at strengthening ties between followers of different religions through joint visits to houses of worship such as mosques, temples, churches, and shrines,” he added.
He also noted that there are currently 142 Unity Kindergartens operating in Sabah, serving as vital agents of unity from as early as five to six years old.
