BETONG: The tourism potential of Betong Division will get a shot-in-the-arm with the Bukit Sadok Development Programme.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said this includes the construction of a replica of Rentap Fort, on its original site in Bukit Sadok, Betong, at a cost of RM16 million.
“The Betong area has many interesting historical sites. We have heritage houses and Bukit Sadok, which is famous as the last station of the Dayak people in their fight against British colonisers to defend their homeland.
“It also includes the fort of warrior Rentap, which has collapsed, and we will rebuild a replica of it as a tourist attraction in Sarawak,” he said.
Uggah, who is also Bukit Saban assemblyman said this during the 100th year celebration of Nanga Samu Longhouse at Rh Entri Anak Lengkoi, Samu Ulu Paku, Spaoh here on today (Sept 21).
He added that Betong also has several longhouses that still maintain traditional and beautiful features, in addition to the rich variety of flora and fauna.
On another note, he said the establishment of the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) will further accelerate the development of the area.
“The Premier has allocated RM1.5 billion to BDDA to finance development plans and programmes.
“We are also constructing the Bebuling Spaoh Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) Airport, which is expected to be completed next year and will serve as a boost for tourist arrivals.
“We also have a good road network, including the Pan Borneo Highway, which facilitates travel to this area,” he said.
He added that the influx of tourists would indirectly stimulate the local economy, especially in the production of traditional clothing like ‘Pua Kumbu’.
Additionally, he urged the local community to engage in modern agriculture and other economic activities by taking advantage of various opportunities provided by the government.
He mentioned that the government is also building a Collection, Processing, and Packaging Center (CPPC) worth RM17 million near this STOLport, as well as establishing two agro-parks in Bebulling and Lubok Tamang, and developing the Spaoh Food Basket project.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was the guest of honour at the event.
Among those present were former Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang, and Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu.
