BETONG: Plans to develop the Betong-Beladin Road from Kampung Buda to the Batang Saribas ferry base as well as the proposed expansion of the Betong Rural Products Market are among the two major projects intended for the future.
Layar assemblyman Gerald Rentap Jabu said the initiative was put forward to ensure that Betong becomes more accessible.
According to him, if the plan can be realised, then the division will be the focus between the Sri Aman, Sarikei and Sibu Divisions.
“We are grateful to the Sarawak Government led by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg who has approved the construction of the Betong-Sri Aman Second Trunk Road, also in planning is the construction of Jalan Betong towards Bebuling (airport).
“And another long-term goal of ours is to develop the Betong-Beladin Road which is estimated to be more than 30 kilometres. This has been voiced to the government.
“Due to the large cost required … we plan slowly. This is important to expand the potential of Betong and the surrounding areas as there are many areas suitable for agriculture such as pineapple, banana and coconut,” he said when met by New Sarawak Tribune sister daily Suara Sarawak on Sunday (Aug 9).
Meanwhile, for the Betong Rural Products Market, he acknowledged that the RM5 million project approved by the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem during his reign as the chief minister was of great benefit and had changed the Betong landscape.
“I am thankful that the modern design of the market is beautiful.
“When it opened last week, the 96 existing spaces were not enough so there were traders who set up tents outside of the building.
“Therefore, we intend to expand it because I see this as one of the main sources of income for the community here.
“Bandar Betong now has a population of about 40,000 people and imagine if the planned communication roads are completed, Betong will be the focus,” he said.
In line with this, Rentap also aims for the upgrading of the Betong District Council (MDB) to a Municipal Council by 2030 in accordance with the intention to increase the sustainability of the population and the services provided by the government.
He described the completion of the market as another proof of the government’s concern towards the peoples’ grievances, including those who sell various goods in Betong.
“I hope they use it well, including maintaining of the hygiene. This is a shared responsibility so that the facilities provided by the government could last a long time.
“Moreover, this market will be an attraction for the public,” he said.
