KUCHING: The state government must focus on upgrading roads and public utilities such as supplies of water and electricity, internet access in the Krian constituency.
Krian assemblyman Friday Belik said these are badly needed by the constituency’s 18,000 people in 245 longhouses.
“In need of upgrading are 10 kilometres of Jalan Ulu Awik that have not been tarred. This is important for the residents of 10 longhouses and two primary schools,” he said in his maiden speech during a motion of appreciation to the Head of State (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud’s address at the DUN Sitting on Friday (May 20) evening.
Apart from that, he said that there are several roads to longhouses that still need to be improved or upgraded.
Also, the areas such as Ulu Gerenjang, Ulu Sebetan, Brayang, Mudong and Kop Ibus need treated water.
“Therefore, it is hoped that all the areas can be supplied with clean and treated water by the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) shortly.
“We have included this for approval in the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP). So far no update has been received,” he said.
He, therefore, hoped that the water supply problem that often occurs in Krian will be resolved immediately.
“We are worried that if it continues, it can cause anger and dissatisfaction among the people who will be a liability to us in the 15th General Election (GE 15),” he said.
Touching on electricity supply, he said there were still many residents who needed it and their names fall under the private housing category.
“We have received many applications and we have submitted them to the relevant authorities. It is hoped that the applications can be given due consideration soon,” he said.
On internet coverage, he said the relevant agencies have been requested to build or install the facilities as soon as possible.
He also requested for financial allocation to be channelled under the Agriculture Facilitation Fund (AFF) to help ease the burden of farmers as Krian is in the Gunung Sadok Agropolitan Agricultural Development area.
“Besides that, I request that the health facilities and equipment at the Nanga Budu and Nanga Atoi Health Clinics be provided to meet current needs,” he said.
On education, he said that he has requested the authorities to take appropriate action to improve the dilapidated schools.
“I also called on the relevant ministry to explore the tourism potential in Saratok and Krian and also open up business opportunities for the locals.
“Sungai Krian is the largest and longest river in Saratok, The water upriver is still clean and clear. We have Wong Klansau at Lempa in Kabo which is a very popular recreational place.
“So far, no agency has come forward to develop the place. With this, I request the state Ministry of Tourism to provide facilities for these places.
“The same goes for other places that have potential to attract many visitors,” said Friday.
