KUCHING: The existing infrastructure, facilities and amenities in Lundu need to be upgraded before focusing on attracting tourism investors, said Tanjung Datu assemblyman Azizul Annuar Adenan.
He said various issues, including beach erosion in Sampadi, should be addressed before private investors can come in to invest.
He was speaking during the Tanjung Datu Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) Mini Lab at BCCK today.
“In my view, the Lundu region, spanning from Sampadi to Teluk Melano, particularly in the coastal zone and more specifically in the Sampadi area, requires a significant undertaking to manage the erosion of its beaches.
“The ocean is gradually becoming deeper with the passage of time, and as a result, a project of this nature requires a significant amount of funding.
“If my memory serves me right, the Sebuyau project, which was authorised by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, required RM300,000,000 alone,” he said.
Azizul reckoned that carrying out a similar initiative in Sampadi would cost around the same amount.
He noted that considering the prospects of tourism development, and the intention to construct hotels and resorts, it would be wise to create a conducive environment for the private sector to invest in this part of the world.
He explained that it is worth noting that the government hardly owns hotels or resorts and there’s a need for private investors to step in.
“In order to encourage private sector investment in Lundu, it is important to provide them with top-notch facilities. This will give potential investors confidence to invest in the area without fear of inadequate infrastructure,” he said.
He opined that the stretch of land from Lundu to Sematan, including Sampadi, is a prime tourist destination in Sarawak, and it has the potential to be even more attractive with the right development.
Today’s mini lab, he added, is just the beginning of the efforts to brainstorm and generate ideas for the future of Tanjung Datu as they will reconvene on Feb27, 28, and Mar 1 to continue the discussion with other ADUN’s under GKCDA.
He hoped that GKCDA would include social projects development into their plannings such as creating a youth activity centre and improvement of sports facilities for the people.
“I would also like to emphasise the importance of improving the agricultural facilities in Lundu. With the funding provided by GKCDA, we can work towards creating a win-win situation where the villagers can benefit from the development as well as it is crucial that we do not sacrifice the welfare of the village in the pursuit of progress.”
Also present during the mini lab was GKCDA special administrative officer Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik.
