SERIAN (Jan 3): A blackout on New Year’s Day did not stop a strong turnout at two events officiated by Serian MP Dato Sri Richard Riot Jaem at Kampung Temong Mawang near Tebedu on Thursday.

Riot attended the nine-a-side football tournament and the subsequent ‘Leader with the People’ programme later on the same day.

The latter event, held at the Sri Sinangken multi-purpose hall, proceeded despite the venue being dimly lit due to the power outage.

In his speech, Riot thanked the organisers and residents for their commitment and enthusiasm, noting that the blackout did not dampen the spirit of togetherness among the community.

“The strong turnout reflected the community’s solidarity and enthusiasm even in challenging circumstances,” he said.

During the visit, Riot officially launched the village’s just-completed football field grandstand and fencing behind the goalposts, built using RM53,000 under the Serian MP’s special grant.

Earlier, the parliamentarian handed over prizes to the top teams of the football tournament, which recorded Uni City defeating Frenzo FC 5–1 in the final to claim the championship.

Uni City took home RM2,000, a trophy and medals, while runners-up Frenzo FC received RM1,000 with a trophy and medals.

The third place was shared by Belia Sadir and Lan United, each pocketing RM500, a trophy and medals.

Tournament chairman Sawet Osen said 32 teams took part in the championship, which kicked off on Dec 7.

He added that the tournament was organised by the Youth Movement and village development and security committee (JKKK) of Kampung Temong Mawang, and sponsored by Riot to promote unity and sportsmanship in the Tebedu and Serian areas.