Upgrading Former Logging Roads To Accelerate Development In Rural Ulu Baram
MIRI: The Sarawak Government remains committed to strengthening development in rural areas through efforts to take over and upgrade former logging roads throughout the state, including in the Ulu Baram region.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala, said the initiative would enable more funding to be channelled towards improving rural connectivity in stages for the benefit of the people.
According to him, the effort is in line with the aspirations of the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, to drive comprehensive rural development.
“This development not only involves the provision of infrastructure, but also encompasses basic amenities, education, healthcare and economic opportunities aimed at improving the well-being of the people,” he said.
He said this while speaking at the opening ceremony of the new block of the Uma Pawe Longhouse in Long Apu, Baram, on Saturday.
Long Apu, located approximately 240 kilometres from Miri and requiring a six- to seven-hour journey by four-wheel-drive vehicle, is among the rural areas that still rely on former logging roads as their primary means of access.
Meanwhile, Datuk Gerawat, who is also the Mulu Assemblyman, expressed his appreciation to the organising committee led by Anthony Lawai Lutang and community leader Peter Kebing Tingang for successfully realising the construction of the new longhouse block.
He said the opening of the new block marked a historic milestone that reflects the progress, unity and determination of the Kenyah Uma Pawe community in developing their settlement.
“With the addition of 123 new doors, Uma Pawe now comprises 193 longhouse doors housing approximately 1,000 residents, making it one of the largest longhouses in the Baram area.
“This achievement demonstrates the strength of leadership and the close cooperation of the entire community in building a better future for the next generation,” he said.
As a sign of support for local community development, he also announced a Minor Rural Project (MRP) allocation of RM20,000 for the Long Apu Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK).
Also present were Baram Member of Parliament Dato Anyi Ngau, Telang Usan Assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau, and Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Dominic Nyurang Ajang. -UKASnews
