BETONG: A slope protection project aimed at safeguarding about 45 longhouse units in Kerapa, Spak, from erosion and potential landslides will be implemented soon, with works expected to be tendered on April.
Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said the project underscores the government’s commitment to prioritising rural safety through critical infrastructure development.
He noted that the construction of a slope protection structure is vital to address the risks posed by unstable terrain, which has long threatened the safety and well-being of residents in the area.
“The government remains committed to implementing essential infrastructure projects that directly improve the safety and quality of life of the people.
“This project is crucial to protect approximately 45 longhouse units here from the dangers of unstable slopes,” he said during a working visit with the Public Works Department (JKR) Betong Division at the Kerapa, Spak longhouse on Tuesday (March 24).
He added that emphasis is also being placed on improving the drainage system to better manage water flow and prevent further soil instability.
Beyond safety measures, Rentap noted ongoing efforts to strengthen the rural economy, particularly through agriculture, which remains the backbone of the local community.
“I am impressed with the continuous efforts of residents who are actively involved in planting rubber, pepper, paddy, and oil palm. These activities need to be further enhanced to ensure sustainable income.”
Meanwhile, Betong MP Datuk Dr Richard Rapu said the project had been approved under the Betong Division Disaster Management Committee fund at the end of 2025.
“Today’s site visit allows us to refine the scope of work to ensure it meets the actual needs of residents before finalising the project design.”
According to a briefing by Betong JKR, the project will involve the construction of a 150m retaining wall, a 150m concrete drain measuring 800mm in width, as well as a 3m-wide concrete platform at the rear of the longhouse.
During the visit, the delegation also received a briefing from the Betong Land and Survey Department on the Native Customary Rights (NCR) land initiative, which involves upgrading land status from Section 6 (Perimeter Survey) to Section 18 to enable individual ownership.
The delegation later proceeded to the Gerugu longhouse to inspect progress on a new site levelling project under the Rural Transformation Project (RTP), where various issues and proposals were discussed with stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation.
