LONG BEDIAN: Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, Datuk Gerawat Gala, has called on communities affected by the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road Phase Two (SSLR2) to fully cooperate with the government and appointed contractors to ensure the smooth delivery of the vital infrastructure project.
Speaking at a dialogue session held at the Long Bedian Multipurpose Hall, Miri Division, on Monday (June 16), Gerawat, who also serves as the Mulu assemblyman, stressed the importance of public support in avoiding disruptions and delays to the ongoing works.
“Community cooperation is crucial. We must not allow misinformation or external influences to derail progress,” he said, urging residents to seek clarification directly from the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak and the Department of Land and Survey Sarawak (JTUS), rather than relying on hearsay.
Over 300 community leaders and residents whose lands fall within the project’s alignment attended the session, which was jointly organised by JKR Sarawak, the Miri Resident’s Office and JTUS.
Also present were Baram MP Dato Anyie Ngau and Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau.
The dialogue aimed to address concerns related to land claims and compensation, particularly for Native Customary Rights (NCR) land impacted by the SSLR2 development.
The road, a key component of Sarawak’s infrastructure agenda, is expected to improve connectivity and economic opportunities across rural regions in northern Sarawak.
To improve communication and support for local residents, Gerawat proposed the placement of a dedicated liaison officer at either the Telang Usan District Office or in Long Bedian.
The officer would be responsible for assisting affected landowners in obtaining accurate information and completing compensation-related documentation.
“This is a high-impact project. It will bring long-term benefits, especially to our rural communities. But for it to succeed, there must be mutual understanding and commitment between the government and the people,” he stressed.
The session also served as a platform to reaffirm the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusive engagement as the SSLR2 moves into more advanced stages of planning and construction.
