‘LRT will be implemented if everyone wants it’
KUCHING: The state government will only reconsider implementing its proposed light rail transit (LRT) system if the people root for it.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said for now the proposal remains a proposal until the people ask for it and those against it cannot anymore make an issue out of it.
“We want to bring this modern mode of transportation to Kuching. In West Malaysia they have LRT, too, but if the people here don’t agree to it, susahlah (hard to implement),” explained Abang Johari.
The chief minister was responding to reporters asking on the state’s plan to tackle traffic jams on roads between Kuching and Kota Sentosa-Kota Samarahan areas, after he launched the Sarawak Pay application at KK Super Mart at Kota Sentosa yesterday.
Abang Johari said the LRT project was proposed after taking into consideration outlying areas like Kota Sentosa and Kota Samarahan were booming and traffic congestion occurred daily.
He said the proposed LTR project covered routes from Kota Sentosa to Serian Division.
“But it had gotten certain people to spin and tell a different story. The solution is already there to alleviate traffic jam problems, including in the Samarahan areas, but some people said it was a waste of money.
“I don’t want people to get confused and spin tales out of this issue. If the people really want the LRT, I will do it.
“It’s up to the people. I want to be convinced they really want it and there is no room for spinning tales and telling lies about the project.
“I will be convinced if I hear and see no more confusing the people and lying to them by any quarters.
“For now, the LRT will always be in our plan because we know it is for a better future and people will surely benefit from this initiative of the Sarawak government when one day it becomes a reality,” he stressed.
Earlier on, Abang Johari announced that RM6 million would be used to upgrade facilities in the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) areas.
“There will be more plans in place from Kota Sentosa right up to Serian because we want to boost the economy in these areas,” he said.
Among the proposed projects are a new urban park along Batu Kawa Road, a new hall at Kampung Haji Baki, a hawker’s centre at Kota Sentosa, the Mile 10 Recreational Park, and the upgrading of the Haji Baki Hawker’s Centre.
