KUCHING: The provision of piped natural gas supply to Medan Saberkas Miri will now provide the traders there with affordable, reliable, clean energy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the success of this smart partnership between Miri City Council (MCC) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) has benefited 67 traders at the market.
The pilot project, he said, was a reflection of PETROS’ commitment to maximise positive impacts within the community in Miri and highlighted the significant progress of the Sarawak Gas Roadmap (SGR).
“With the completion of this pilot project for piped gas supply, we have further upgraded the existing facilities in Medan Saberkas Miri, which already include permanent roofing, clean water, and reliable power supply, as well as a comprehensive package of council services,” he said.
Abang Johari, represented by his deputy Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, was speaking at the official launch of piped gas supply at Medan Saberkas Miri today.
As an energy source, he said, natural gas is reliable, cost-effective, and safe; it is a less carbon-intensive option compared to other fossil fuels, resulting in immediate and long-term benefits for its users, whether residential, commercial, or industrial.
“The spirit of cooperation and collaboration by all parties over the implementation of this pilot project demonstrates how we tackle the energy trilemma, ensuring energy security, sustainability, and affordability for the Miri community,” he said.
Apart from that, MCC has also undertaken the installation of digital signage as part of the implementation of the Miri Smart City Programme, where the city council will leverage on incorporating digital technology and digitisation with the aim to provide better and safer services.
Abang Johari said Tamu Saberkas was just an open-air demarcated area utilising the parking places here at Saberkas Commercial Centre, allowing hawkers and petty traders to market their agricultural and jungle produce in the 1990s.
The area has since evolved into a conducive trading area for these traders, providing convenience to the surrounding residents as well as Mirians, while also becoming one of the must-visit places for visitors and tourists.
“Thus, I would like to suggest that MCC explore the possibility of linking Medan Saberkas Miri to the equally popular Taman Bulatan opposite the road — turning the whole area into an all-in-one, well-developed residential, commercial, and recreational attractions area.
“I would be happy to look into such a proposal in order to benefit the surrounding community and local economy,” he added.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting, PETROS chief executive officer Janin Girie, and Miri Mayor Adam Yii were among those who were present at the official launch.
