SIBURAN: Residents of Kampung Sentah here can now heave a sigh of relief with the completion of their main road which was opened on Saturday (Sept 24).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had allocated about RM5 million to upgrade the steep road.
Located at 220 meters above sea level, the road leading to the village is surrounded by gorges, making it rather unsafe for dwellers to travel through until now.
With its upgrading Mambong assemblyman Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil said his party would aid in the development there after seeing the potential of the village as a tourist attraction.
“This village can be said to be located on a mountain,” said Jerip, who is also Deputy Minister of Transport (Roads and Air).
“Many visitors come here every week for leisure activities such as cycling and hiking. From here we can also view the 7th Mile town and the airport.
“In the future, many infrastructure facilities will be added for the benefit of the people.
“At the village head’s request, we will pay attention to the proposal to construct a drainage system along the newly completed road.”
He said this when officiating at the launching ceremony of the main road of Kampung Sentah here on Saturday (Sept 24).
Village head Ranged Dar said the project has made things easier for the local folk as well as contributes to saving time and money.
“As the road was steep and slippery, residents often got stranded in the middle of the road and vehicles had to be pushed forward as they could not go up,” he recalled.
“The road was previously three-meters wide. This caused several incidents where vehicles almost plunged into the gorge.
“In the rainy season, landslides and fallen trees were commonplace. This caused residents to be unable to continue their work and turn back,” he said.
The Public Works Department (PWD) worked with SEDC Quarries Sdn Bhd and SEDC Premis Sdn Bhd to complete the road project.
Commencing in May 2021, it took more a year for the project to complete for the benefit of approximately 225 villagers.
It was supposed to be completed early this year but due to challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic, in addition to heavy rainfall, there were delays.
