GEDONG: In the heart of this constituency, the aspirations of its diverse community leaders paint a vivid picture of hope and progress under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking to the New Sarawak Tribune, every leader echoes a common desire for comprehensive development, improved infrastructure, and enhanced socio-economic well-being.
As Gedong evolves, these voices converge, emphasising a shared dream for a harmonious, balanced, and advanced future for this thriving region.
ISMAWI HARMI, 50
Kampung Lot RCG Phase 2 village chief
Gedong aspires to thrive under the Premier’s leadership, reminiscent of Satok’s success. Over the years, Gedong has evolved from a traditional farming village to a flourishing place for the palm oil industry, boosting local income.
There’s a call for improved infrastructure and robust internet connectivity to support Premier’s vision of a digital economy. The Premier’s initiatives in development, agriculture, and digital sectors have generated employment, especially for university graduates, enabling them to stay with their families — a dream for Gedong’s parents.
AMAN AKUP, 63
Kampung Gumpey village chief
I wish for Gedong to progress rapidly, providing essential infrastructure to empower and preserve the local community. I sincerely hope for job opportunities to boost the economy.
Expanding high-speed broadband coverage is crucial for maximising productivity in marketing Gedong’s existing products. Lastly, I wish for this development to align with the growth of character and spirituality.
ABU BAKAR UDIN, 66
Kampung Tengah Hulu village chief
As one of the Gedong’s village chiefs, I aspire for comprehensive development, including key facilities like district offices, clinics, fire department, agricultural offices, and at least one vocational institute.
Prioritising socio-economic well-being, I advocate for affordable housing, encouraging those from Gedong living elsewhere or retirees to return. Additionally, consistent agricultural support and monitoring are vital for the village’s economic progress.
SALLEH OJEK, 51
Kampung Segera Jaya village chief
Honestly, I have faith in the leadership of our Premier. At this time, it is clear that he has transformed many developments and the thriving economy, especially for the people of Gedong.
I believe he is more passionate about planning the future of Gedong. As one who leads, I hope our Premier will steer the future direction of Gedong to always be harmonious and balanced.
SATA DEMPI, 69
Kampung Keniung Jaya village chief
Since our village joined the Gedong constituency, infrastructure development has been rapidly progressing. The central administration here, which involves the construction of various offices, is actively underway.
Roads connecting Ulu Gedong to Gedong are proper and a shortcut to Kota Samarahan is currently being built. I hope that the rapid planned development will provide significant opportunities for local residents to enhance their sources of income. My hope is that one day Gedong will become an advanced and developed area.
ABANG RONEE ABANG SA’ADILI, 63
Gedong acting community leader
Gedong is undergoing significant development, particularly with the mega project involving road construction to Samarahan and Semalatong along with the Isthmus Project.
I hope that these initiatives, including smaller projects like road upgrades and community facilities, will enhance the lives of residents. As leaders and citizens of Gedong, we also hope to see the development of Gedong in education, modern agriculture, sports, and tourism.
MOHD NAZRIN KAMIL, 33
Pineapple entrepreneur at Kampung Kanchong Baru Gedong
Following the transition of leadership to Premier, Gedong has transformed from obscurity to a recognised district, drawing visitors from beyond its borders.
The government’s initiatives, like the Mini Isthmus Gedong and Gedong-Samalatong Road Project, promise not only infrastructural development but also economic uplift.
With a focus on technology, we hope for a modernised agriculture and fishing industries through advanced factories and machinery to turn Gedong into a modern, thriving rural district.
ABANG IDERIS ABANG JEMALI, 64
Head of Information at Gedong
Premier’s announcement of Gedong becoming a district marked a significant transformation. Pulau Terusan is set to transform into the administrative centre within five years, following the model of Samarahan’s rapid development.
The district’s historical significance as a trade centre and recent initiatives, like commercial rice cultivation, fuel hopes for rapid development similar to Kota Samarahan Division.
MARASAN MUD, 69
Kpg Kanchong Jaya/Baru, Gedong village chief
The Gedong area has seen successful projects, including improvement in street lighting, drainage, along with the Gedong waterfront hosting events like boat racing festivals.
Ongoing plans for a district office complex, mosque, and sports facilities in Mini Ithmus Gedong will also improve residents’ quality of life. With improved infrastructure, Gedong has the potential to become an agricultural hub, boosting economic activities for its people.
AHMAD BUJANG, 53
Kpg Perintah Masjid Gedong village chief
The presence of media agencies organising programmes in Gedong can help to promote and introduce this area to a broader audience.
This serves as a significant step in showcasing Gedong as a region poised for progressive development in various aspects, much like other areas around major cities in our country.
We hope this can further introduce the public to Gedong as a region destined for advancement in various sectors.