A small Malaysian village has once again proven its excellence on the national stage, with Juru Village securing third place in the prestigious 2024 National New Village Competition. This recognition from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government comes with a RM500,000 development grant, marking another milestone for the community that has consistently demonstrated outstanding achievements in various competitions over the years.
The village’s success story spans decades, tracing back to its establishment in 1952 during the Malayan Emergency. What began as a resettlement area has transformed into a thriving community of over 2,000 residents, with strong leadership under the current Village Community Management Council chairman, Cheh Kim Weng. Previous accolades include top placements in cleanliness and landscape competitions, showcasing Juru’s commitment to sustainable development and community pride.
Government officials have highlighted the broader significance of the competition, which evaluates over 600 new villages across Malaysia. K.C. Ng, the Village Development Officer for Seberang Perai Tengah, explained that the initiative aims to foster socio-economic progress while preserving the cultural heritage of these historical settlements. Federal and state support remains strong, with RM84 million allocated nationwide for new village development in 2024, including infrastructure upgrades in Juru and neighboring areas.
Looking ahead, Juru plans to use part of its grant for a symbolic entrance archway, reinforcing its identity as a “living heritage” site. Bukit Tengah State Assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung praised the village’s enduring spirit, emphasizing how its achievements reflect the collective effort of residents and leaders alike. As development projects continue, Juru stands as a model for how tradition and progress can coexist harmoniously.