THE Sarawak Government has reaffirmed its commitment to narrowing the urban-rural development gap through a bottom-up, community-based approach facilitated by its regional development agencies (RDAs).
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also the Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, stated that the government is committed to empowering local communities by ensuring infrastructure development is tailored to meet their needs.
“These regional development agencies (RDAs) were created to bring meaningful development to rural Sarawak.
“The planning process starts from the ground up, ensuring that projects are relevant, targeted, and effective,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
Since its formation in 2018, the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA) has played a transformative role in the Upper Rajang region.
It undertook a total of 39 infrastructure and four non-physical projects, of which 13 infrastructure projects and all four non-physical projects, including master plans for Kapit, Bakun, and Belaga, have been completed, while 14 projects are under construction and 12 are at the pre-contract stage.
“These are not just numbers, and behind every completed project is a community that benefits from better access, better planning, and greater opportunities,” Uggah said.
The Highland Development Agency (HDA) is currently overseeing 43 projects worth RM1.5 billion, encompassing roads, bridges, water supply and electricity infrastructure.
Of these, 16 projects have been completed, 15 are under construction, and 12 are in the pre-contract stage.
Uggah highlighted a major infrastructure milestone under HDA, the Miri–Marudi, Marudi–Mulu (Kuala Melinau) and Long Panai–Long Lama road project, which is scheduled to begin construction in the fourth quarter of 2025.
“The 142-kilometre road will feature nine major bridges, 14 minor bridges, and nine spur roads totalling 33 kilometres in length,” he said.
Additionally, he said the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) is driving progress in the region through 419 projects valued at RM1.41 billion, spanning six key sectors.
“These include 99 infrastructure projects worth RM664.89 million, and 49 social and women’s affairs development projects valued at RM248.72 million.
“In addition, 215 projects under agriculture and food industry development are being undertaken with an allocation of RM208.07 million.
“For business, industrial and entrepreneurship development, 29 projects worth RM133.14 million have been planned.
“The tourism and environmental development sectors comprise 11 projects valued at RM116.40 million, while 16 projects under utility and telecommunication development are being implemented at RM42.25 million.
“The progress of the projects is as follows: 73 projects under BDDA have been completed, 25 are under construction, and 321 are at the pre-contract stage,” he said.
