SEBUYAU: Development shortcomings should not be exploited to discredit the government for political purposes ahead of the coming state general election.
Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, urged the public to assess infrastructure improvements fairly rather than focus solely on shortcomings while overlooking progress made over the years.
“Do not take the opportunity to paint a negative picture. In the past, we did not even have telecommunications towers here, let alone the level of electricity supply we enjoy today,” he said.
He said this when officiating the Vandalism Prevention Programme for Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Facilities and Sebuyau District Electrical Safety Briefing at Dewan Pembangunan Sebuyau today.
Julaihi acknowledged that infrastructure services were not yet perfect but maintained that Sarawak had made considerable progress, particularly in rural areas.
“We may not have achieved 100 per cent, but comparatively, facilities such as water, electricity, internet, telecommunications and gas supply are much better than they were years ago.
“The same goes for our roads and embankments. If you have not returned to your village for a long time, ask around. Do not make up stories,” he said.
He cited the state government’s RM2.3-billion allocation for telecommunications expansion and RM6.46 billion for water supply infrastructure as examples of efforts to improve essential services.
He also highlighted the RM150-million allocation to upgrade electricity infrastructure in Samarahan Division, covering Asajaya, Sadong Jaya, Sebuyau and Gedong.
Julaihi further pointed to the Batang Lupar Bridge as an example of a major infrastructure project pursued by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government.
He claimed the project had previously been cancelled under the Pakatan Harapan administration before being pursued by the GPS government.
“It was cancelled by the Pakatan Harapan government and implemented by the GPS government. I know because I was directly involved when I was entrusted with overseeing coastal roads,” he said.
Julaihi stressed that improvements achieved over the years should be acknowledged and assessed fairly.
