MIRI: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg on Saturday approved two infrastructure projects totalling RM19 million for Telang Usan and Long Pillah in Baram.
These two projects are the construction of a RM1 million farming centre for Long Pillah and an RM18-million Sports Complex in Long Lama.
Abang Johari announced the projects yesterday at the handover of Sarawak Alternative Rural Elecrrification Scheme (Sares) projects worth RM35 million to 13 longhouses in the Telang Usan constituency at Long Pillah. Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau had requested for the projects.
“I have approved the request with immediate effect,” Abang Johari told the local media after the event.
He added Long Pillah would be developed according to the Long Pillah Master Plan.
Abang Johari was visiting Long Pillah for the first time since he became Chief Minister three years ago.
He reiterated that the state government led by Gabungan Parti Sarawak was committed to helping the people.
“Various initiatives and infrastructure projects that we implemented reflect our commitment to help the people, unlike the 22-month government (PH) which slashed many mega projects meant for Sarawak. GPS took over these projects and cares for the people’s wellbeing,” he said.
On the handing over of the Sares project at Long Pillah, the chief minister pointed out that those who lived in the village and surrounding areas did not have to live in the dark anymore.
They now had 24-hour electricity supply.
“Schoolchildren no longer have to use candles while studying hile longhouse folk can save more money because they don’t have to buy diesel for generator sets anymore.”
Abang Johari added the state government was committed to providing electricity to remote areas in Sarawak. It is targeting 100 percent electrification of the state by 2022.
“Seventy-one percent of Telang Usan constituency and 90 percent of Mulu constituency have electricity. We are committed to supplying electricity to the remaining areas as soon as possible,” he said.
Abang Johari revealed that the state government planned to provide better road networks in the Northern region to accelerate development in Baram.
“We are planning to build a highway linking Marudi to Kuala Melinau and Telang Usan to Mulu,” he disclosed.
The 112km road is a vital link to Mulu National Park for tourists.
