KUCHING: The upgrading of Jalan Sapit and Jalan Kiding in Upper Padawan is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy once completed.
The road improvement projects, implemented under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) allocation, will involve works including resurfacing, better drainage system and the installation of proper road shoulders to enhance safety and traffic flow.
The initiative forms part of the Sarawak Government’s broader effort to strengthen infrastructure connectivity in rural and semi-rural zones.
According to GKCDA special administrative officer, Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik, the two projects were among the major projects identified by Mambong state assemblyman, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, in his constituency.
He said the upgrading of Jalan Sapit and Jalan Kiding would cost RM20 million and RM9 million respectively.
“The consultants had been appointed to do the survey works and land acquisition because they have to pay the ex-gratia to the landowners.
“The project would be tendered out once the land acquisition and the ex-gratia payment have been settled,” he said.
Ik explained that the Jalan Sapit and Jalan Kiding projects are not merely as roadworks, but as strategic investments aimed at stimulating sustainable economic activity and enhancing the overall quality of life for local communities, especially those from Kampung Sapit and Kampung Kiding, which have strong agricultural and tourism potential.
Both Jalan Sapit and Jalan Kiding were constructed under the Sarawak Government’s rural transformation project (RTP) sometimes in 2016.
With smoother and safer roads, local farmers are expected to benefit from the upgrading projects, where they can transport crops such as vegetables, fruits and pepper more efficiently to markets in Kuching and neighbouring districts.
This is also anticipated to reduce logistical expenses while improving product freshness and competitiveness, ultimately raising household incomes.
Small traders and homestay operators are also poised to benefit from increased visitor movement as better road conditions make the area more attractive for ecotourism and weekend travel.
Improved connectivity is further expected to encourage new micro-enterprises and services to emerge along the upgraded routes.
Ik noted both Kampung Sapit and Kampung Kiding are already among the popular tourism destinations in Padawan.
He said aside from that, the two villages were also known for producing agriculture goods like lemon grass and ‘bunga kantan’ and organic vegetables, adding that the farmers there are quite successful.
“With better road and more safety measures, hopefully more villagers who had been staying in towns will go back to develop their land for farming. That is our idea,” he added.
