BELAGA: Long-standing housing concerns for civil servants in Belaga are set to be addressed, with a new government quarters park among several approved projects aimed at easing accommodation challenges in the district.
State Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, said many officers serving in Belaga had struggled with housing issues for years, but these are expected to be resolved within the next two to three years.
He noted that improving living conditions remains a priority as the state continues to strengthen support for those stationed in rural areas.
While acknowledging these challenges, Abu Bakar said Belaga itself has undergone a remarkable transformation, no longer fitting the image of a remote or hard-to-reach destination.
During his recent trip to the district for a ‘Casual Event with the Sarawak State Secretary’ programme, he described the journey as smooth and accessible, highlighting significant upgrades in road connectivity and rest stops.
“There was a time when people said being posted to Belaga meant going somewhere far. But based on our trip today, it is not far at all, as it is in fact very interesting,” he said.
He added that the well-equipped rest points have helped refresh Belaga’s image, contributing to its emergence as a vibrant and steadily developing district by offering amenities not easily found in places such as Samarahan, Serian or Sri Aman.
Abu Bakar said improved accessibility has also eased daily challenges for government officers and local communities who once faced long and difficult travel routes.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to addressing development concerns in Belaga and surrounding areas, including ongoing needs in Sungai Asap.
Physical site visits, he stressed, remain crucial to understanding real on-the-ground conditions that written reports may fail to capture.
Expressing appreciation to officers and staff serving in rural areas, he acknowledged their dedication despite limited facilities compared to urban centres.
“I truly value those working in Belaga and Sungai Asap. Even though the facilities are not the same as in urban centres, they continue to give their best,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of strong collaboration between political leaders, the civil service, and community heads to ensure rural development efforts remain united and effective.
“We must move as one team so that no one walks alone, and we remain united,” he added.
