KUCHING: Iskandar Turkee (GPS-Jepak) has brought up the critical infrastructure and social development needs in his constituency during his debate in support of the Supply Bill 2025 on Thursday.
One of the key points he raised was the need for targetted housing initiatives. The budget allocates RM50 million in subsidies for low-income families, yet Iskandar highlighted a pressing demand for affordable housing in Jepak.
“There’s a need to prioritise affordable housing projects, especially with the new Bintulu-Jepak Bridge set to accelerate development in the area.
“There is also a need for improvements in public service housing, high rental rates and increased living costs in Bintulu, which have affected civil servants,” he said.
He advocated for a new RM200 million statewide initiative to construct additional housing facilities for civil servants, particularly in high-cost areas like Bintulu, to enhance their welfare and work productivity.
He added telecommunications and utility access remained urgent issues for rural communities.
With RM1.72 billion allocated to improve water, electricity, and telecommunications, Iskandar urged the acceleration of treated water supply projects for regions such as Serupai, Annau, and Samarakan, as well as the enhancement of communication infrastructure to bridge digital divides.
The assemblyman also proposed a convention centre for Jepak to accommodate the anticipated growth of oil, gas, and new energy industries in Bintulu.
“This would foster international collaboration and showcase Sarawak as a dynamic investment hub,” he remarked.
Other initiatives included a fishing jetty for Kampung Kuala Segan, known for its tourism potential, and a recreational beach park at Pantai Jepak, envisioned to become a major local attraction, complete with a food court offering local delicacies.
