MIRI: The Sarawak Government continues to advance development in Telang Usan through RM3.8 billion in infrastructure investment aimed at improving connectivity and access to basic amenities while opening up more economic opportunities for rural communities.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said among the major projects currently being implemented is the 142-kilometre Miri-Marudi, Marudi-Mulu and Long Panai-Long Lama (3M2L) road project.

According to him, the government is also focusing on upgrading the existing road network, including 88 former logging roads spanning about 1,331 kilometres which have been identified by the Public Works Department (JKR) for upgrading.

He said this when speaking at the Telang Usan Delegates Dinner held in conjunction with the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Telang Usan Convention here on Saturday.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said infrastructure development also includes bridge improvements to enhance mobility and connectivity between rural areas.

He said attention is being given to 32 small bridges in Telang Usan at a total cost of RM56.86 million, comprising five completed bridges, five new bridges under construction, 16 undergoing repairs, five in the tender process and one still at the design stage.

“We are not merely building infrastructure. What we want is to improve the people’s income.

“Such development will improve access to education and healthcare while opening up more economic opportunities for the people,” he said.

The Sarawak Deputy Premier said the efforts are in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 to ensure rural development progresses in tandem with the aspirations of achieving economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability.

Also present were Works Minister and PBB Sarawak Secretary-General Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Baram Member of Parliament Dato Anyi Ngau and Telang Usan Assemblyman and PBB Telang Usan Branch Chairman Dato Dennis Ngau. -UKASnews