KUCHING: An alternative fund amounting to RM3 billion has been approved by the Premier to finance projects that could not be included under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
He said the approval reflects the state leadership’s full confidence in the capability of the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) to continue delivering projects effectively for the benefit of people across the state.
According to Uggah, the support is crucial as Sarawak intensifies efforts to strengthen its connectivity network and basic infrastructure, including a major initiative to take over abandoned and existing logging roads, which he described as a game changer, particularly for rural areas.
“Recently, the Premier approved RM3 billion in alternative funding to finance projects that could not be included under the 13th Malaysia Plan, as he is very confident in our ability to implement them,” he said when speaking at the JKR Sarawak Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri held at the UNIFOR Hall on Monday (Apr 6).
He said JKR Sarawak carries a significant responsibility as the frontline agency in implementing the state’s development, although its contributions are sometimes underappreciated despite bringing major transformation to Sarawak’s infrastructure landscape.
“JKR plays a very important role as you are at the forefront. Sometimes, we do not receive much recognition. Therefore, on behalf of the people, I would like to express my appreciation to you for the significant changes you have brought to Sarawak’s infrastructure,” he said.
Uggah, who is also Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, said among the next key priorities is to realise the takeover of abandoned and existing logging roads, which he said would significantly transform the state’s road network, especially in Miri and Kapit.
He noted that the initiative requires strong commitment from all JKR personnel given its wide scope and the logistical challenges in rural areas, but stressed that it is vital to improve access for rural communities and support local economic growth.
He also said that JKR Sarawak’s ability to carry out this mandate is one of the key reasons the state government continues to channel substantial financial support to the agency, including for projects beyond the scope of federal allocations.
Meanwhile, he urged all JKR Sarawak personnel to continue working as a team to ensure the state’s development goals, including the aspiration to make Sarawak a high-income region by 2030, can be achieved.
