SIBU: An ageing timber jetty at Rh. Stanley Jelian near SK Tanjung Penasu here, is set for a much-needed upgrade following the official handover of the improvement project to the appointed contractor on Friday (Sept 11).
The site handover ceremony was led by SUPP Bawang Assan Branch Chairman Councillor Kevin Lau Kor Jie, together with his branch team and engineers from the Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC), marking the start of upgrading works at the longhouse jetty.
The project followed concerns raised by Tuai Rumah Stanley and residents over the deteriorating condition of the existing timber structure, which had suffered considerable wear and tear after years of use.
Responding to the concerns, Councillor Johnny Ganing and the local team worked closely with SRDC to coordinate the necessary arrangements and secure funding under the allocation for small-scale public infrastructure and community projects, enabling the long-awaited upgrading works to proceed.
With the project now officially handed over to the contractor, construction is underway to improve the safety, accessibility and overall condition of the facility.
Lau, who is also SUPP Youth Chief, said small-scale rural infrastructure projects should not be underestimated, as even modest improvements could make a meaningful difference to the daily lives of communities.
He stressed that jetties remained important transportation and access facilities for many rural communities, particularly those where residents depended on them for their daily movement and activities.
“An infrastructure project does not have to be large to make a difference. For the residents who use the jetty regularly, having a safer and more reliable facility can significantly improve their daily lives,” he said.
He acknowledged that the concerns and feedback of rural residents would continue to be given attention, adding that practical improvements should be pursued whenever there was a genuine need within the community.
Lau also said his team would continue to monitor the progress of the upgrading works and maintain close communication with SRDC and the contractor to ensure the project proceeded smoothly and was completed according to schedule.
He expressed hope that the contractor would adhere to the project specifications, maintain good workmanship and complete the works as soon as possible.
Upon completion, the upgraded jetty is expected to provide the longhouse residents with a safer, more convenient and more dependable facility, while improving connectivity for the longhouse community in the Penasu area.
