KAPIT: The Sarawak Government has approved RM1.96 billion to upgrade the water supply system in the division.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the funding is part of the state’s ongoing effort to enhance basic infrastructure in rural and semi-rural areas.
“We have approved RM1.96 billion to upgrade the water supply in Kapit while the federal government is contributing RM300 million, but most of the funding is from the state. This will increase water accessibility throughout Kapit,” he said.
He said this at a press conference after chairing the Sarawak Development Coordination Committee Meeting at Kapit Division Administrative Complex here today.
The meeting also discussed current progress in development projects and future planning under various implementing agencies, including Public Works Department (PWD), Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA), and Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA).
He said road connectivity in Kapit has significantly improved, especially with links to Baleh Dam and several longhouses along the Baleh River.
“We have also approved RM122 million for the settlement project in Marirai, which will begin construction sometime next year.
“There are also other spur roads being built through PWD and other agencies under URDA,” he added.
Abang Johari noted that most projects are progressing satisfactorily, and that the next development phase, under the 13th Malaysia Plan, will shift focus to socio-economic activities aimed at raising household income.
“Sarawak is already a high-income state but we must continue to promote economic activities that will bring income to families.
“With improved connectivity, our products can reach markets beyond this region even internationally. What is important is the production volume,” he said.
He cited proposals such as tree-planting initiatives to support fish feed production for river or dam-based aquaculture as an example of efforts to create sustainable income-generating activities.
Abang Johari added that additional funding injection of around RM1.5 billion is expected for URDA and RECODA to continue future infrastructure and socio-economic programmes.
“By then, the new generation of people is well-trained. Or at least, if there is free education. By the third year, they have to leave the university,” he said.
“They have new creative ideas to increase their income or to have economic activities that will determine their future,” he said.
