MIRI: People here are hoping the State Budget for next year which will be tabled in the upcoming State Legislative Assembly sitting will address pressing issues and support both urban and rural communities.
They are counting on budget allocations that will foster growth, improve quality of life, and bridge the gap between urban and rural areas.
Miri Indian Association (MIA) president Karambir Singh expressed his hope for a budget that prioritises Sarawak’s development and well-being.
In particular he emphasised healthcare, advocating for specialised healthcare hubs in central and northern Sarawak to prevent patients from incurring high travel costs to Kuching.
“Healthcare, although a federal responsibility, needs to be prioritised,” he stated.
Karambir also pointed to social welfare programmes, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, disabled, and low-income families.
To enhance these programmes, he called for streamlined processes to minimise bureaucratic delays.
He also proposed setting up a funding unit for race-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that could support community-based initiatives and help smaller ethnic communities thrive.
Lastly, Karambir encouraged the inclusion of environmental sustainability initiatives, asserting that such measures would protect Sarawak’s natural beauty for future generations.
For rural community leaders, such as Penghulu Robin Udau from Long Banga, the focus should be on addressing rural poverty and improving connectivity.
“My hope is that the Premier will uplift the rural poor from hardcore poverty to a better position in society,” he said.
He called for enhanced road networks, including upgrading existing logging roads to ensure rural villagers have reliable access to essential services and markets.
Moreover, he highlighted the importance of establishing collection centres in rural areas for local products, which would boost the economic standing of rural communities.
He also proposed funding for community leaders to enable them to conduct regular visits and better support the villages under their jurisdiction.
Penghulu Wilfred Mac, President of the Dayak Association Miri (DAM), hopes to see greater allocations for rural development, with a focus on roads, clean water and electricity.
He stressed that reliable internet connectivity is essential for economic growth and modern living standards, yet it remains limited in rural Sarawak.
Wilfred also highlighted the need for consistent maintenance of government facilities in these areas, ensuring that resources provided are sustained for long-term impact.
Similarly, Penghulu Desmond Yap from Long Lama underscored the importance of improving roads and telecommunications in the interior regions.
“The condition of many interior roads, although under federal jurisdiction, affects the livelihoods of our people,” he stated, urging the state government to allocate more funds to improve these roads.
Yap explained that road connectivity is a cornerstone of economic development for rural areas.
He also stated that telecommunication services need a significant boost, as currently reception is often poor, limiting access to opportunities and resources.
For him, these areas should be a top priority over the next five years.
