THE Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government consistently champions rural development and transformation initiatives, says Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman (GPS-Tupong).
He criticised Chong Chieng Jen (DAP-Padungan) for what he described as an apparent belittling of the state government’s efforts in rural development during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) session.
Fazzrudin, the chief political secretary to the Premier, voiced his disappointment, remarking that Chong’s mentality seemed restrictive, akin to a ‘knife in the fold,’ indicating a lack of sensitivity to the needs and aspirations of rural communities in Sarawak.
He urged Chong to visit other regions in Sarawak beyond his already well-developed constituency, emphasising the critical need for infrastructure, especially good roads that connect people across the state.
“I want to stress that development, including roads constructed in rural areas to connect different regions, is essential, and the benefits to the community should not be underestimated.
“We listen to the heartbeat of the people, understanding their yearning for rural development, wanting access to the same facilities, progress, and infrastructure that urban residents enjoy.
“It makes me wonder—is this the struggle of the DAP? Why is he seemingly envious and dismissive of the government’s efforts to uplift the dignity and quality of life for rural communities?
“If the DAP rejects development, then we should reject the DAP,” he said.
Fazzrudin made these comments during his debate in support of the Supply Bill (2025) at the August House today (Nov 14).
During Wednesday’s DUN session, Chong had proposed that the Sarawak government provide a 10 per cent salary top-up for civil servants, despite the state’s substantial investment in road construction.
He added that not only state civil servants but also federal employees, including teachers, nurses, and doctors serving in Sarawak, should receive a 10 per cent salary increment.
“The state government has the capacity to top up civil servants’ salaries by 10 per cent, amounting to roughly RM1 billion.
“Instead of spending around RM21 billion through alternative funding for road construction, I would suggest reallocating RM1 billion annually to support civil servants working in Sarawak,” he said.
