Beyond service: Sibu MP hails social workers as key catalysts for change
by Conny Banji · Borneo Post OnlineSIBU (March 31): Social workers are not merely service providers, as they are also ‘bridge-builders, advocates and catalysts for change’.
In highlighting the immense contributions of this group to society, Sibu MP Oscar Ling said the work undertaken by them ‘matters, especially in today’s complicated and divided society’.
“People are living in a world where divisions, whether social, economic, cultural or political, have become increasingly visible.
“Inequality persists, communities are fragmented, and many individuals feel left behind. In such times, the role of social workers becomes even more critical.
“Their commitment and compassion will bring the people closer and build stronger communities,” he said at the opening of World Social Work Day 2026 Seminar in Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI) here last weekend.
Themed ‘Co-building Hope and Harmony: Harambee Call to Unite the Divided Society’, the programme was carried out by MPI’s Department of Social Work in conjunction with its 35th anniversary celebration.
It gathered 35 participants.
Adding on, Oscar commended MPI’s initiative in conducting the seminar, which he believed would help raise the awareness of social work and also dispel the misconception of social work being solely about charity or volunteering work.
“Here in Sibu, we are witnessing a growing need for social workers.
“As our community continues to develop, so too do the social changes that we face.
“The challenges include rising mental health concerns and family-related issue, as well as the needs of vulnerable groups such as the elderly people, children and low-income families.”
Meanwhile, MPI chief executive officer and principal Dr Lu Huong Ying highlighted the institution’s strong belief in policy education and community engagement.
“We always believe that for us to do well in producing alumni who can really contribute to the community, we need the community and also the corporates to be involved in designing the curricula that are relevant and will meet the future needs of society.
“This seminar aligns closely with MPI’s mission,” she said.
Also present were MPI’s Diploma in Social Work programme leader Francisca Numpang, social work experts Dr Ling How Kee and Gill Raja, and Sibu Hospital medical social worker Florida Mathew Masir.