Dept gets pat on the back for important role in SCORE

KUCHING : Not many are aware of the fact that the state Minerals And Geoscience Department is among those playing an important role in the industrialisation process at the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).

Assistant Minister for Investment and Promotion Julaihi Narawi on Saturday said the department's contribution was significant in convincing foreign investor to come to SCORE to provide consultation and in-depth information on the earth condition and minerals in the corridor.

He added that the department was also influential in the consultations with foreign companies operating at the Samalaju industrial area, one of the key components in SCORE.

"The role of our Minerals and Geoscience Department is key in our industrialisation process. They provide consultation to the foreign investors in regards to the types of minerals available, especially in the Samalaju industrial area. This information is also important for these investors to plan the building of their facilities," said Julaihi, who is also Assistant Minister for Rural Development, when officiating at the state Minerals and Geoscience Club's annual dinner at Hilton Hotel here.

He was representing Industrial Development Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan. Also present were club president Alex Unya Ambun, organising chairman Zamzuri Ghazalee and some 350 guests.

As contributions from every sector were important to help the government achieve its objective of turning the state into a higher income society, Julaihi hoped that the department would continue to make a significant contribution towards that goal. On another note, he commended the club for holding many activities last year, which included a blood donation drive and gatherings to celebrate Gawai Dayak and Hari Raya Aidilfitri and others.

Later, Julaihi announced an allocation of RM5,000 from his minor rural project (MRP) grant to fund the club's annual activities.

The dinner also saw children of club members who achieved straight As in their 2012 UPSR, PMR, SPM and STPM examinations presented with monetary incentives.

Unya, who spoke earlier, mentioned that the club was established in 1980 as Sarawak Geological Club. Following the merger between the Geological and Mineral departments, he said the club changed its name in 2002 to Minerals and Geoscience Club, with three sub-units for welfare, social and sports and recreations.

He said its main objective was to build rapport amongst the staff and provide a platform for members to participate in sports and other activities - The Borneo Post, 14 January 2013