BINTULU: Bintulu continues to emerge as a key economic hub under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), driven by strong industrial growth, infrastructure expansion and long-term energy transition planning.
Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the division’s development direction is designed to ensure growth translates into real benefits for the people.
“Development must not be measured only by physical progress, but by how far it improves the lives of the people,” he said at the Bintulu ‘Sarawakku Sayang’ programme today (May 23) held at the Old Bintulu Airport.
He said rural infrastructure projects in Sebauh, Tatau and surrounding areas include water supply systems, electricity upgrades, drainage works and flood mitigation projects.
“Basic infrastructure is still the foundation of rural development, and that is where we continue to focus our efforts,” he added.
Community development efforts also include a sports complex, a mini stadium in Tatau, places of worship in Sebauh such as a mosque and church, and the Kampung Melayu Tubau Extension project.
He said these initiatives are part of a broader effort to ensure balanced development across all communities.
Eight new school proposals have also been identified, particularly in Jepak Jaya and surrounding areas, to expand access to education.
“Education remains the most important investment for the future generation,” he said.
Dr Rundi said Bintulu’s industrial strength continues to grow through Samalaju Industrial Park, which recorded significant economic performance in 2025.
He noted that the industrial zone has become a major employment engine for the state.
“Samalaju has become a key driver of job creation and economic spillover for Sarawak,” he said.
He said nearly 9,200 job opportunities were created, with about 82 per cent filled by Sarawakians, alongside RM700 million in annual wages, RM6.2 billion in contributions to the local economy, and RM16.58 billion in exports of basic metal products.
“These figures represent real income for families, not just economic data on paper,” he said.
Dr Rundi also highlighted progress in housing development, noting that SPK Jelutong Phase I has been completed with 97 units ready for occupation, while Phase II involving 768 lots is ongoing.
He said 26 projects in Tatau and 49 projects in Sebauh have also been completed as of May 2026.
“We are committed to ensuring that development reaches every level of society, including housing, education and basic amenities,” he said.
Dr Rundi added that Bintulu’s long-term positioning under PCDS 2030 is focused on becoming a leading hub for low-carbon industry and hydrogen development, supporting Sarawak’s transition into a green economy.
