Kuching: “We don’t need to force those who are unwilling to do things; we support those who are willing to get things done well,” said Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, commenting on the long-delayed Kampung Bumbok football field upgrading project.
Chong explained that the project was applied for through his parliamentary constituency service centre in 2024, and in early 2025, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Malaysia approved a grant of RM114,448.
However, the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), originally tasked with carrying out the work, refused to take on the project, leading to its shelving and a prolonged delay.
“Unfortunately, the funding had been approved, but some units were unwilling to carry out the project, resulting in it being forced to be abandoned,” Chong said.
The situation changed when the Sarawak Youth and Sports Department (JBS) took over as the implementing agency, allowing the project to finally commence – a development Chong welcomed.
He emphasised that supporting willing parties in executing projects efficiently is more productive than trying to compel unwilling parties.
Chong stated that the football field is not only a venue for school students’ sports activities but also an important space for the daily exercise and community activities of the village residents.
“Therefore, the upgrading project is of great significance to both students and the community.
“I will continue to monitor and follow up to ensure the project is implemented as soon as possible,” he said during a site visit by the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Mordi Bimol, yesterday.
The project to upgrade the football field shared by Kampung Bumbok and St. David Bumbok Primary School was originally to be carried out by the MPP after funding was approved, but the MPP refused to proceed.
Chong, who is also DAP Sarawak Chairman, thanked the ministry for its assistance in implementing the project, which will enable students and village residents to share a better sports space in the future.
