BETONG: The rapid development taking place across the Betong constituency is proof that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government delivers on its promises.
Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, said the area had seen unprecedented development over the past two to three years.
“This is proof that the Premier delivers what he promises. This is not political rhetoric. The development taking place here is clear for everyone to see,” he said.
He said this at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Betong Zone Convention at Dewan Sukan Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan here, which was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today.
Uggah, who is also PBB’s Deputy President, said eight major bridges had been planned or built across the constituency under Abang Johari’s leadership.
They comprise the Batang Lupar 1, Batang Lupar 2, Batang Saribas 1, Batang Saribas 2, Lingga, Sungai Paku, Krian and Batang Layar bridges.
He noted that the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, the longest river-crossing bridge in Malaysia, was also located within the zone.
Once the Batang Lupar 2 Bridge is completed, he said travelling between Sri Aman and Betong will be shortened from about an hour to only 20 minutes.
On the same note, he said the new Betong Short Take-Off and Landing Airport (STOLport) was expected to be completed this month.
The area also has the Bebuling and Lubok Tamang agroparks, supported by the Bebuling Collection, Processing and Packaging Centre.
Other developments included the Lubau Water Treatment Plant, coastal protection works in Sebuyau, and 198.7 kilometres of farm roads.
“We are fortunate because the Betong Zone has experienced development on a scale never seen before,” he said.
He nevertheless reminded party members that Sarawak’s development journey was far from complete.
“Much more development must be planned, along with new economic activities, revenue streams and roads. Do not let others determine Sarawak’s future,” he said.
