THE Murum Assemblyman, Kennedy Chukpai Ugon, has urged for the immediate upgrading of former logging roads in his constituency.
Speaking during the debate on the Motion of Appreciation on the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak’s address, Kennedy highlighted the critical state of these roads, which serve as the main access to remote areas in N.66 Murum.
“These roads are in a critical, damaged, and unsafe condition.
“With no alternative routes, residents and civil servants, such as teachers and healthcare staff, are forced to brave these treacherous paths daily, putting their lives on the line,” he said.
He listed several urgent road segments requiring upgrades, including the 55km route to Lusong Laku and others stretching up to 60km across Tubau and surrounding areas.
Recounting a recent working visit from April 28 to 30, with Kapit Division officials to Lusong Laku, Kennedy described an eight-hour journey over just 60km of road, averaging a speed of 7.5km/h due to extreme damage, mud, and slippery conditions.
“Only skilled drivers can handle these roads.
“A single mistake could lead to a fatal plunge into ravines,” he said, describing it as a harrowing experience.
Lusong Laku, he added, has high tourism potential with its lush landscapes and a waterfall dubbed the “Mini Niagara Falls of Sarawak”
Its volcanic soil also supports agriculture, with crops like Sarawak eggplant and watermelon thriving in the area.
Furthermore, he called on the state government to prioritise the upgrading of these roads into safe and comfortable highways, emphasising that road development is not just about physical infrastructure but also reflects the government’s commitment to the rural people’s well-being.
“Good roads will unlock new opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and commerce, improve household incomes, gain education access, and healthcare delivery,” he added.
Kennedy also urged the government to expedite full rehabilitation works on the 70km Murum Dam access road, which he described as “beyond repair” and no longer suitable for routine maintenance.
“We must ensure these projects proceed without delay to deliver tangible benefits to the people,” he said.
