KUCHING: Jiwa Murni road should be the answer to establish land connectivity to rural areas in the state.
However, its implementation must be strict where no heavy vehicles such as timber trucks are allowed to drive on these roads.
“We will stop them by using gantry. If they bulldoze it, we’ll make another one, until they learn what it means to adhere to rules and regulations.
“These heavy trucks, particularly timber trucks are business-minded people, hence they do not care for the wellbeing of the rural people if they continue to use the said road.
“Hence, they will have to deal with gantry if they were to pass through these roads and also enforcement agencies such as the police and the Road Transport Department (JPJ).”
This was said by the Deputy Chief Minister, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr. James Jemut Masing in an interview after chairing a press conference held at Riverside Majestic Hotel, yesterday.
He then stated that timber trucks should create their own road if they want to gain access to their destination.
“It is convenient for them because they do not have to spend a dime for this road. Hence, this is a rather selfish act,” said Masing.
He also added that the reason why Jiwa Murni is a preferred choice over the standard R3 road built by the Works Department is because it is two to three times cheaper in cost.
“It depends on what we want, connectivity or quality connectivity. Surely we can implement the R3 road but it will take a longer time and a higher cost.
“So our main mission is to connect all rural areas. Furthermore, maintenance is cheaper for Jiwa Murni roads and they have also improved their quality over the years,” said Masing.
Addressing the Jiwa Murni road in Ba’kelalan that is significantly damaged by timber trucks, Masing told that the road is currently being repaired and enhanced.
