SARIKEI: The federal government has through the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development allocated RM1.5 billion for the development of Sarawak in the 12th Malaysia Plan.
According to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Patinggi Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the funds will facilitate the planning and implementation of various efforts to create a competitive society and improve the quality of life in Sarawak.
“As the Minister in the Ministry, I undoubtedly play a crucial role in the development of Sarawak, particularly in ensuring adequate infrastructure for the region.
“This includes basic infrastructure such as rural roads, bridges, electricity supply, clean water, and more,” he said at the Pre-Gawai celebration at Sarikei Central Hall here Sunday (May 19).
He reassured that the proposal by Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii will be taken into consideration.
“Come and meet me in Kuala Lumpur. We can discuss further on this matter. As for the good news, you (Huang) will announce it once we have the outcome,” he added.
Earlier, Huang, who is also Sarikei MP, said that Sarikei is a small town but has a strategic location as it is situated by the Rajang River, Nyelong River and Sarikei River.
“Life in Sarikei is also synonymous with well-preserved village life. However, basic amenities such as inter-village roads, farm roads, and connecting bridges still need to be improved and upgraded,” he said.
He added that inclusive community development is a crucial element in forming a resilient and competitive nation; hence, with good infrastructure and basic amenities, the local community can access facilities and perform their tasks easily and quickly.
“The issue of treated water supply and electricity in the interior areas has also disrupted the lives of the affected residents for a long time. I have received numerous complaints from village chiefs and heads regarding the issues I mentioned earlier.
“With the spirit of Malaysia Madani, the villagers hope that the village and farm roads can be upgraded and maintained properly, and that the issue of treated water and electricity supply in these areas can be taken into consideration in the ministry’s planning and addressed with more effective actions for the common well-being,” he said.
