BETONG: The 'Betong to the World' vision is now being translated into strategic development that strengthens connectivity, modernises the agriculture sector and opens up more economic opportunities for the local community.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the vision conceptualised by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg is increasingly showing real results, opening a new chapter in the development of Betong Division.

He said among the key developments was the first aircraft landing at Bebuling STOLport, a significant step towards improving air connectivity to the area.

"On 18 September 2026, history was made when the first aircraft, a Kingair operated by Hornbill Skyways, landed safely at Bebuling STOLport.

"This is an important step opening a new chapter in air connectivity to Betong," he said.

He said this while speaking at the Sarawakku Sayang (SKS) Betong 2026 Programme, officiated by Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari, here on Saturday.

Datuk Amar Douglas, who is also Sarawak Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, said efforts to modernise the agriculture sector are also being strengthened through the development of the Bebuling Agropark and Lubok Tamang Agropark, which focus on commercial-scale, high-technology farming.

"We want to diversify agriculture from traditional crops to new crops that have better markets and higher value," he said.

He said both projects are also supported by the development of Collection, Processing and Packaging Centres (CPPC) in Spaoh and Layar, to strengthen the agrofood supply chain and improve market access, particularly for local operators.

Meanwhile, he, who is also Bukit Saban Assemblyman, emphasised human capital development as among the key drivers of Betong's long-term success, particularly in producing a skilled and competitive younger generation.

He explained that various education initiatives implemented by the Sarawak Government, including free education at state-owned institutions, provide wider opportunities for Sarawakians to pursue higher studies without being burdened by tuition fees.

"This is important to ensure we have a skilled workforce capable of supporting the development of new industries, including in the modern agriculture sector and digital economy," he said.

He also called on the people of Betong to continue supporting the development agenda by taking advantage of every opportunity provided, so that the benefits of development can be enjoyed by all.

Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Sarawak Cabinet Ministers, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Sarawak Deputy Ministers, Betong Division Resident Datu Richard Michael Abunawas, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Members, and other guests of honour. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Eisner Nala
Photos: Rais Sanusi
Translator: Uilson Ng