CONSISTENT access to roads, clean water and digital connectivity is essential for elevating the socio-economic status of residents, particularly in remote areas that still rely heavily on river transport.
Machan assemblyman, Allan Siden Gramong, raised the proposed construction of a new road connecting Rumah Dian, Nanga Menalun, to Rumah Uchau in Nanga Penanggoh, Ulu Poi.
He said residents currently rely entirely on river transport, which is highly dependent on weather conditions and water levels.
“I understand that the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) is the implementing agency, but current phase-by-phase funding is insufficient.
“This road would benefit approximately 1,440 residents and a primary school, opening up vast opportunities for the agricultural and plantation sectors,” he said.
He said this in his debate speech on the motion of appreciation to the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar’s address at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting today.
Allan also called for the construction of a 12-kilometre road and a 50-metre concrete bridge linking Sg. Machan (Rumah Henry Ajol) to Geremai (Rumah Boniface Giri), and a 4-kilometre road linking Jalan Nanga Jerangku to Rumah Panjang Lajang Ulu Machan.
He noted that the lack of access has left large tracts of land idle, and the project would serve as a “lifeline” to boost household incomes.
On utilities, the assemblyman sought updates on the Kanowit Regional Water Supply Project under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), valued at approximately RM205 million.
The project involves the construction of six high-level tanks at locations including Kanowit Baharu, Batu Luking, Nanga Dap, Nanga Ngungun, Simpang Kanowit and Ulu Bawan, alongside two booster pump stations.
“The project is currently at the tender evaluation stage. I urge for the process to be accelerated and for experienced contractors to be selected to avoid the delays often associated with large-scale projects,” he added.
The assemblyman also proposed the construction of a new bridge across Batang Rajang in Kanowit to replace the current ferry service.
He stated that a bridge would provide a permanent, efficient link between Kanowit and Ngemah, improving emergency response times and reducing travel disruptions caused by weather conditions.
In addition to new projects, he highlighted the deteriorating state of existing roads, such as those in Kampung Muhibah, Bukong Jagoi Lesih, and Jalan Mam Batu Luking, which are frequently affected by flash floods.
“We must address these issues promptly. During flash floods, residents are often stranded and forced to wait for welfare assistance.
“The government needs to re-evaluate these requests to ensure the safety and mobility of people in the interior,” he added.
