SIBU: The Sarawak government will redevelop Kampung Datu Lama, a traditional Malay village in Sibu, with modern infrastructure while maintaining the village’s original characteristics and culture.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the move to redevelop the traditional village was decided after his discussion with Sibu leaders earlier.
“We (the government) want to redevelop Kampung Datu Lama and maintain what is there but there must be reforms. We must modernise the village area and maintain the existing characteristics and culture in Kampung Datu Lama and its surroundings. These characteristics reflect the culture inherited in Kampung Datu.
“If the development of Darul Hana in Kuching can be done, I am confident that the redevelopment of Kampung Datu in Sibu can also be done,” he said when speaking at the Sibu Division’s Aidilfitri Ramah Tamah last night.
Abang Johari said the redevelopment of the village, which includes the area from the An-Nur Mosque to the Sungai Igan riverbanks, will also see the construction of houses with modern designs which are safer and more comfortable.
“We will beautify Sungai Igan riverbanks, we will create attractive features and a convention centre will be developed on the site,“ he said.
Meanwhile, he said the Sarawak government has completed planning the master plan for the redevelopment of Bukit Assek, Sibu and all details will be completed in the first quarter of 2025 while the implementation will be divided into four phases and will commence in 2026.
According to him, the redevelopment of Bukit Assek will take 15 years and is expected to be completed in 2040 and will witness major changes to Sibu City as a whole.
