Drainage & Irrigation Projects In Spaoh Need To Be Accelerated
SPAOH: The Sarawak Government wants the benefits of the drainage and irrigation projects currently being implemented in Spaoh to be enjoyed by the people as soon as possible to support the development of the agricultural sector and improve the socioeconomic status of the local residents.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said that the implementation of these projects needs to be expedited given their significant impact on the well-being of the rural community, particularly smallholders in the area.
He said this while attending a discussion session on the implementation and planning of drainage and irrigation infrastructure development projects at the Spaoh Rest House on Friday.
During the session, the Betong Division Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), led by Divisional Engineer Mazolizam Mohamad along with Assistant Divisional Engineer Nash Hafizi Awg Sarbini, presented the implementation status of several major projects in the Spaoh and Betong areas.
Among the projects discussed was the New Drainage and Irrigation (D&I) Infrastructure Project for the Tanjung Tisak Drainage Scheme, along with riverbank protection works at Pamutang, Spaoh, which was approved on January 5, 2026, with a contract cost of RM8.8 million and an implementation period of 18 months.
The project, which is currently in its construction phase, is expected to enhance the efficiency of the drainage system and support the agricultural activities of the local residents.
Also presented was the New D&I Infrastructure Project for the Batang Layar Drainage Scheme Block D in the Betong Division, which was approved on March 10, 2025, with a contract cost of RM29 million and an implementation period of 18 months.
Regarding the project, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, who is also the Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, suggested that DID consider implementing the handover of project compartments in phases without waiting for the entire project to be fully completed.
According to him, this approach will allow the benefits of the project to be delivered earlier to users, thereby helping to stimulate the local economic activities.
At the same time, he also held a discussion with the Officer in Charge of the Spaoh Sub-District, Denny Lim, and the Secretary of the Betong District Council, Lister Clement, regarding several proposed development projects planned for the Spaoh area in the future. -UKASnews
