LIMBANG: Limbang town will be upgraded through a more structured development plan based on low-carbon city principles, positioning it as an attractive destination for visitors from outside the region.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative aims to replicate successful urban models in the state, noting that such an approach is in line with current development trends, as seen in nearby Lawas, which is also being developed based on low-carbon principles.
“If Darul Hana Bridge can be developed in Kuching city, why can’t Limbang be developed as a low-carbon city in the northern part of Sarawak?
“With fewer emissions and reduced pollution, public health can be better safeguarded. Limbang will be upgraded through a well-planned low-carbon framework, making it more appealing to outsiders,” he said when officiating the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme at the Limbang Sports Complex on Saturday.
Abang Johari added that connectivity between Limbang and Lawas will be strengthened through the development of a dual carriageway linking the two towns.
He also said development in Limbang is expected to gain further momentum with the completion of the Sungai Limbang Bridge, scheduled between September and October this year, which will enhance connectivity with neighbouring Brunei Darussalam.
“To facilitate this, we will hold bilateral discussions between Malaysia and Brunei to create a more convenient system for cross-border movement, especially for people in Limbang.
“This will strengthen not only economic ties but also familial relationships between us and our neighbour, Brunei,” he added.
On broader regional development, he said progress in northern Sarawak is being reinforced through agencies such as the Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA) and the Highland Development Agency (HDA), which serve as a bridge between grassroots communities and government leadership.
He explained that grassroots issues are analysed collectively, with solutions identified through these agencies, which also provide a platform for communication between the people and policymakers.
Sarawak currently has nine development agencies, each allocated RM1.5 billion to implement identified projects that benefit the people.
“Each agency includes elected representatives who listen to the concerns of the people and bring them forward for implementation based on priority. Once the RM1.5 billion allocation is utilised, the government will provide an additional RM1.5 billion,” he said.
He stressed that NRDA plays a key role in improving infrastructure, electricity and water supply in the northern region, serving as a catalyst for growth in the Limbang-Lawas area.
Meanwhile, HDA complements NRDA’s efforts, with both agencies working in synergy to boost economic and social activities between Limbang and Lawas, ultimately benefiting communities in both areas.
