KUCHING: Expanding road networks and broader utility coverage continue to serve as key catalysts in accelerating rural development in Sarawak, while simultaneously narrowing the gap in amenities between urban centres and the interior.

Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, said that a range of high-impact initiatives has been implemented, including the construction and upgrading of more than 5,000 kilometres of rural roads to strengthen access and connectivity for the people.

According to him, these ongoing efforts are further reinforced by the expansion of basic amenities, encompassing electricity supply and clean water, which are becoming increasingly widespread across the state.

“For rural areas, development has never been neglected. More than 5,000 kilometres of rural roads have been built and upgraded.

“As for electricity supply, about 70 per cent in Sarawak is generated from renewable energy.

“In terms of water supply, coverage now exceeds 85 per cent across Sarawak and is nearly 100 per cent in urban areas,” he said.

He made these remarks while delivering his welcoming address at the opening ceremony of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Convention at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.

The event was officiated by the Sarawak Premier and Chairman of GPS, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, who also serves as the Sarawak Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, said that the implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects, including the construction of bridges, has had a significant impact in facilitating the movement of residents, while reducing reliance on ferry services.

He added that Sarawak is currently undertaking the construction of 20 mega bridges, with a total cost of RM6.5 billion.

He emphasised that the state government’s development approach is comprehensive and inclusive, not solely focused on urban areas but also placing serious emphasis on rural regions to ensure that the people enjoy more balanced access to facilities.

At the same time, he noted that the success of these initiatives is driven by close cooperation and a strong spirit of unity among Sarawak’s multi-ethnic communities.

Touching on the convention, he said that the second edition, themed “Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030: Vision Becomes Reality,” brought together 5,100 delegates from across the state.

He added that the organisation of the convention reflects cohesion and a sustained commitment towards inclusive development and a sustainable future for Sarawak.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Deputy Premier and President of the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP), Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, President of the Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, President of Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, as well as other distinguished guests. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Nur Nabilla
Photo: Ameerul Syafiq Khir
Translator: Uilson Ng