PANTU: The Pantu Benevolent Society building is set to undergo infrastructure upgrades worth about RM200,000 under the Simanggang constituency’s 2027 Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), aimed at improving convenience and safety for the local community.
Education, Innovation and Talent Development Deputy Minister, Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, said the proposed project includes upgrading the parking area and installing solar-powered street lights from the main junction in Pantu to the society building.
The Simanggang assemblyman said the project is awaiting approval under the Simanggang RTP 2027, but could be implemented earlier if there are remaining funds under the 2026 RTP allocation.
“The project is still awaiting approval under RTP 2027. However, if there are remaining funds under RTP 2026, we will try to implement it as early as the end of this year,” he said during a visit to the society building recently, as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
Harden said a more systematic parking area and the installation of solar-powered street lights would benefit residents using the society’s facilities while improving safety, particularly at night.
He added that it was the responsibility of Sarawak Government representatives to listen to and assess development needs raised by the people, provided they benefit the community.
“The proposed project is in line with the objectives of the RTP, which emphasises the provision of quality basic infrastructure in rural areas to ensure balanced development,” he said.
He expressed hope that the project could be implemented as soon as possible to address the shortage of parking spaces, improve safety, and strengthen the role of the Pantu Benevolent Society as a centre for community and welfare activities.
