Monthly Jiwa Madani Programme supported

16 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Enthusiastic support was voiced when it was proposed that the Jiwa Komuniti Madani Programme be held monthly, recognising its significant benefits to the local community.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Seri Christina Liew, made the suggestion during the official launch of the Kota Kinabalu Parliamentary-level Jiwa Komuniti Madani Programme at Restoran Dulu Kita on Gaya Street here, on Saturday.

She emphasised that programmes of this nature are instrumental in fostering friendships and strengthening people-to-people connections, thereby promoting multiracial peace and harmony in the pursuit of national unity.

"Community well-being is not solely the responsibility of the government; it requires active participation from every individual within society. A shared commitment will ensure our communities attain harmony and prosperity," she stated.

Liew further highlighted that such programmes, which focus on social and cultural activities, play a vital role in strengthening relationships and promoting tolerance among members of different races and cultures within the community.

The Api-Api Assemblywoman concurred that the Jiwa Komuniti Madani Programme exemplifies the crucial role of community involvement in building social cohesion and fostering national unity.

She also acknowledged the significant role played by the Madani Community (KM) Committee as key facilitators and disseminators of authentic information regarding the initiatives and incentives introduced by the Madani government for the collective well-being of the rakyat.

Organised by the Kota Kinabalu District Information Office, the programme involved the three Komuniti Madani within the Kota Kinabalu Parliamentary constituency: Deasoka, Jesselton, and Luyang.

This initiative is part of the Ministry of Communications’ outreach efforts through the Department of Information Malaysia (JAPEN), aimed at engaging local communities through the KM concept.

"This effort aligns with the government’s aspiration to foster an informed society by disseminating accurate, transparent, and beneficial information to all levels of the community," Liew explained.

The Minister also commended JAPEN for its initiative, "My City, My Responsibility 1.0", launched in conjunction with the recent 2025 Environment Day celebrations here.

"I understand that this campaign, which involves various activities, encourages all Kota Kinabalu residents to take greater responsibility in maintaining the city’s beauty and cleanliness.

"It not only supports environmental conservation but also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas such as health, education, and sustainable urban development. If we all care and act collectively, there is no doubt that our beloved city will become greener, cleaner, and more liveable for everyone," she said.

Through a range of educational and training activities, community members are empowered with knowledge and skills, enabling society to become more informed, civilised, competitive, innovative, and progressive—contributing positively to national development.

As part of the programme, Liew presented zakat (alms) to ten eligible recipients of charity aid from JAPEN Sabah. The recipients were Jamal Karim, Sim Kui Choi, Lim Nyuk Chin, Norpadila Smah, Benedict Chong Yun Kiong, Muhammad Faizelee Sabli, Zurainah Hassan Sani, Siti Analyn Musidin, Rubinah Guansing, and Lorna.

Earlier, in his briefing, Senior Assistant Director of the Communication & Community Development Services Division (JAPEN Sabah), Peter Tong, reported that there are 1,878 KM (Komuniti Madani) units nationwide. Of these, 219 are located in Sabah, with the Kota Kinabalu District hosting 18 KM units. Three of these are situated in the Api-Api N20 State Constituency, namely Api-Api KM, Jesselton KM, and Deasoka KM, he added. Tong was representing the Sabah State Information Director, Puan Jainisah Md Noor.

Also present at the event were Liew’s Political Secretary, Datuk Vivien Lee; Kota Kinabalu District Information Officer, Nur Azean Makbul; Api-Api Community Development Leader, Theresa Chong Mui Lan; and Api-Api Community Development Officer, Yoong Yik Tin.