PADAWAN: The Sarawak government has set aside about RM6.5 million to upgrade infrastructure facilities in Kampung Annah Rais.
The fund was allocated through the Greater Kuching Development Coordination Agency (GKCDA) to upgrade the village’s public facilities, cultural and arts centres, soccer fields, mitigation on the banks of the river and public parking lots.
Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil said the facilities will increase the popularity of Kampung Annah Rais as a leading tourist destination in the state and benefit the surrounding residents.
He said this while speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Biannah Cup and Araf Cup football tournament here yesterday (Mar 3).
For the record, the tournament will be the last tournament for Padang Annah Rais because the field will be used as a cultural and artistic centre of the Padawan District.
According to Dr Jerip, the current Padang Annah Rais will make way for the construction of an amphitheatre or arts cultural centre that will further highlight the art and culture of the Bidayuh community, especially the Biannah group.
“This amphitheatre also plays a role in promoting the handicrafts of the Bidayuh community which will increase the economy of the local population,” he said.
Following this, Dr Jerip assured the residents of Kampung Annah Rais that they will soon have a new football field to replace the existing field.