Works Minister says 10 regional infrastructure projects in Sarawak are advancing well after RM240 million federal disbursement late last year.
KAPIT: Federal Government-funded projects under Sarawak’s regional development corridors are progressing well, following the disbursement of RM240 million to the state at the end of last year, says Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
He said the allocation covers 10 regional infrastructure projects, with the Northern Sarawak Coastal Highway linking Limbang and Lawas near the Sabah border being the largest undertaking.
“The progress of these 10 regional infrastructure projects is being closely monitored and, so far, they are progressing well.
“However, several Jiwa Murni rural roads in Kapit urgently require repairs.
“There have been several fatal accidents along badly damaged Jiwa Murni roads, and these need to be repaired quickly,” he said after attending a regional development corridor meeting at the Sarawak Premier’s Office in Kuching.
The Jiwa Murni roads, which were built by the federal government around 20 years ago, are located mainly in central and northern Sarawak. Kapit Division is among the areas served by the network.
Nanta, who is also the Member of Parliament for Kapit, said regular progress reviews are essential to ensure that infrastructure projects are completed without delays.
Previously, on May 31, Nanta said the Madani Government had allocated substantial funds to improve living standards and infrastructure in rural Sarawak.
He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration had placed high priority on the development needs of rural communities in the state.
“I can personally attest to this as Works Minister and Member of Parliament for Kapit.
“For example, the Federal Government has allocated RM2.1 billion for Kapit to implement much-needed development projects for the people.
“These federal allocations received by the Sarawak government will be channelled to benefit communities on the ground,” he said during a Hari Raya Aidiladha meat distribution programme in Kampung Gelam, Song.
Nanta expressed confidence that both federal and state leaders would continue prioritising rural development, particularly in areas still lacking basic amenities.
