SIMUNJAN Assemblyman Awla Idris has called on the Sarawak Government to extend the ongoing Second Trunk Road (STR) project to include a direct connection to Simunjan town, ensuring the area does not miss out on the benefits of this major infrastructure development.
He said this while debating in support of the motion of appreciation for the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar’s speech in the august House today.
Awla commended the government for its continued commitment to enhancing Sarawak’s road infrastructure through the STR, describing it as a strategic initiative that will strengthen transportation networks along the coast and spur rural economic growth.
However, he raised concerns that the STR route, which runs from Batang Sadong to Sebuyau, then Betong, and finally Sibu, bypasses Simunjan, which lies slightly inland.
“As a result, Simunjan has been sidelined from the main road development corridor,” he said.
The assemblyman pointed out that this exclusion means the people of Simunjan are missing out on the benefits of reduced travel time, improved logistics, and the economic opportunities generated by increased traffic and development.
Furthermore, entrepreneurs and smallholders in Simunjan face difficulties accessing the economic opportunities presented by the STR due to narrow, flood-prone roads and the lack of a direct road connection.
To address this, Awla proposed that the government construct a new connecting road from Ladong to Simunjan town, providing residents with direct access to the STR and easier travel to urban centres such as Sebuyau, Betong, and Sibu.
It would also open the door to investment opportunities and encourage the growth of small industries and eco-tourism, particularly around Sedilu National Park.
Awla also emphasised that although the STR project demonstrates the government’s commitment to developing Sarawak’s coastal regions, equitable access must be ensured so that the people of Simunjan can also benefit from the state’s progress.
“As their elected representative, I will continue to raise their concerns and support policies that benefit the entire state,” he said.
“Together, regardless of our backgrounds, we can build a better future.”
