MIRI: In a push for more focused regional development, Bekenu assemblywoman Datuk Rosey Yunus has advocated for the establishment of a dedicated agency for the Lambir, Bekenu, and Sibuti, similar to the Highland Development Agency (HDA).
Speaking at the Subis District ‘Majlis Melanggar Meja’ event yesterday (May 29), Rosey emphasised the need for an agency to manage and streamline development within these areas (Lambir, Bekenu and Sibuti).
“We ask the Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) to consider to establish an agency like HDA (the Highland Development Agency), covering Lambir, Bekenu, and Sibuti,” Rosey said while highlighting the potential benefits of a centralised body to oversee and coordinate development efforts.
Rosey also called for the elevation of Niah to full district status to ensure more focused development.
“There are 151 kampungs and longhouses within the Niah’s jurisdiction. We want our development to be more focused. Niah is also close to Samalaju (Bintulu),” she said, underlining the strategic importance of Niah’s proximity to the industrial hub of Samalaju.
Additionally, Rosey supported the application for Niah Caves to become a World Heritage site to UNESCO and suggested infrastructural enhancements to bolster the area’s appeal and functionality.
“We have suggested next to the river in the Sepupok Niah area to create special buildings, similar to the Belgium National Stadium. We have a local concept building that accommodates seminar rooms and cultural heritage houses,” she said.
Rosey pointed out the increasing issue of riverbank erosion affecting houses in Niah (along the riverbank), calling for the construction of erosion prevention barriers.
“The erosion is getting more and more obvious. An erosion barrier with a length of 2,400 meters on both sides is necessary” she urged, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention.
Rosey also proposed the development of a 170-metre-long waterfront link and improvements to the main entrance road to Bungai beach as part of phase two of the beach’s development.
She advocated for a waterfront jetty in Kuala Sibuti to enhance access to the Miri Sibuti Coral Reef National Park, which would benefit both tourism and local communities.
In her speech, Rosey called for the conservation of river lobster farming and the establishment of a breeding center to sustain this local industry.
