KEDA EMPOWERS COMMUNITIES THROUGH SANTUNI MADANI INITIATIVE

ALOR SETAR, Oct 27 (Bernama) -- The Kedah Regional Development Authority (KEDA) will assist in enhancing community capabilities by coordinating with relevant agencies to address unemployment, economic, and social issues, through the Santuni MADANI: One Leader One Village initiative.

KEDA's general manager, Ismasuhaimi Shariff, said that this initiative aligns with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s vision of empowering villages and enhancing community capacities, through ongoing engagement and monitoring by leaders.

“Kampung Seberang Perak is one of the earliest villages involved in KEDA’s Santuni MADANI programme. The main purpose of the activities under this initiative is to strengthen governance and leadership management within each community.

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“We also aim to coordinate efforts to address the needs of both rural and urban populations, focusing on critical issues such as poverty, educational disparities, health, unemployment, safety, infrastructure, and drug abuse,” he told reporters after the launch of Santuni MADANI, in Kampung Seberang Perak, today.

He added that many Kedahans are still lagging in education, and KEDA, which has KEDA College, can provide Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to village youths, thereby enhancing their skills and knowledge.

“There are those who struggle academically, but have a passion for (vocational) skills, so we can help train them so that upon completing the course, they can work within their chosen fields. We will also involve relevant officials and agencies, to help enhance the community's capabilities,” he said.

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Ismasuhaimi added that 1,000 residents from Kampung Seberang Perak attended the Santuni MADANI event, organised by KEDA, at the grounds of Masjid Al-Ihsan, which ran from 9 am to 10 pm and featured various engaging activities.

“Today's programme is divided into two main segments: Community Leadership and Community Engagement sessions, where residents have the opportunity to interact with 18 government agencies and private entities, through mobile service counters and exhibitions, including the Kedah Health Department, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Social Welfare Department (JKM).

“Additionally, various activities, including traditional games such as congkak, carom and circular sepak takraw, as well as a colouring competition involving participants of all ages, were also lined up. KEDA College also provided free oil change services,” he added.

-- BERNAMA