Oleh Normimie Diun

TAWAU: The relationship between local communities and the gold mining industry in the Balung and Andrassy areas continues to strengthen through the implementation of various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, while opening up broader opportunities for collaboration with local community.

The latest initiative was an iftar event held under the Program Kasih Ramadan 2026, organised by AuMas Resources Berhad at Masjid Sri Ranggu in Kampung Andrassy on March 14, attended by community leaders and company representatives.

Among those present were Village Head of Andrassy, Wellin @ Wilson; Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) representatives Dahu Tass and Napasit Bunidu; Village Head of Ranggu, Zaini Abidin; Chairman of Masjid Ranggu, Abd Rahman Kadir; and President of the Sabah Cocos Association, Haji Alipa Jackery.

AuMas Resources Berhad was represented by its Executive Director, Dr Frederick Chong; General Manager, Adji Prihananto (Pak Adji); Human Resources Manager, Dayang Huzairah Raja @ Dt Ladz; senior geologists Mislan and Aziz; and administrative officer Aicha Salinri.

Haji Alipa said his involvement in CSR programmes implemented by Wullersdorf Resources Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of AuMas Resources Berhad, began about three years ago after being introduced to the company’s management.

He noted that prior to that, the village community, particularly in Balung, had limited understanding of the actual developments in mining activities, despite being located near the entrance to the operational site.

“In the early stages, the local community did not clearly know what was happening within the mining area. However, after being given the opportunity to visit the site and engage directly with management, that perception began to change,” he said when met by Sabah Media.

He added that the relationship began to strengthen when the company supported the organisation of a Ramadan iftar programme by the Sabah Cocos Ethnic Association.

According to him, the annual programme benefits asnaf (zakat recipients), the elderly and persons with disabilities in Balung, most of whom come from long-established communities dating back to around 1948.

“The collaboration was later expanded through the organisation of a Medical Camp programme, which provided health screenings for residents with the involvement of medical personnel from within and outside the district.

“This programme also includes basic necessities assistance as well as specific screenings such as eye health, helping the underprivileged gain access to treatment,” he said.

At the same time, he said the company’s approach of providing open explanations on mining operations to community leaders has significantly improved public understanding.

“When explanations are delivered directly by management and experts, it helps reduce misunderstandings and negative perceptions towards the industry,” he added.

During the Program Kasih Ramadan 2026, the company, represented by Dr Frederick Chong, also presented a cash contribution of RM5,000 to support the construction of a musafir (travellers’) room at Masjid Sri Ranggu.

“The contribution is expected to enhance facilities for travellers and congregants who stop at the mosque to perform their prayers,” said Dr Frederick.

Elaborating further, Haji Alipa, who is also a Balung native, said he sees strong potential for local economic development, particularly in entrepreneurship and modern agriculture.

He added that the gold mining operation, which employs about 450 workers, also creates opportunities for local residents in employment as well as support businesses such as food supply and retail.

Meanwhile, Pak Adji said the company remains committed to strengthening ties with the local community in line with the ongoing development of mining operations in Bukit Mantri.

He said that after seven years of operating near Kampung Balung, the management is now actively expanding community participation, particularly in human resources, supply chain development and support services.

“These efforts also create opportunities for local contractors to manage facilities such as canteens, retail outlets and mini markets to cater to the needs of approximately 450 workers in the operational area,” he said.