JULAU: A laterite dirt road in the Nanga Lasi area will be upgraded into a paved road under a RM92 million project, aimed at improving rural connectivity and boosting local economic activities.
TVS reported that Meluan assemblyman Datuk Rolland Duat Jubin said the project formed part of the Sarawak government’s ongoing efforts to bring development to interior areas under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the project was expected to be tendered this year, with construction scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026.
“The implementation of this new project will bring significant benefits to residents, particularly in easing the transportation of agricultural produce such as oil palm, which is the main source of income for the community in Lasi.
“With a paved road in place, I am confident that residents’ income will increase and the local economy will become more active,” he said during the Gawai Antu celebration at Rumah Inting, Nanga Lasi, on Monday (Dec 29).
Rolland expressed his appreciation to the state government and the Premier for continuously seeking funding to implement development projects across the state, particularly in rural constituencies.
He said the ongoing and planned development in Nanga Lasi reflected the state government’s commitment to improving living standards in areas previously considered difficult to access.
Rolland noted that the Premier had visited Nanga Lasi in September to officiate at a new bridge linking nine longhouses, a clinic and a school, ending more than 60 years of waiting by local residents.
“As a result of the Sarawak government’s efforts, mobility in and out of the area has improved significantly, making daily activities, including access to healthcare and education, much easier,” he said.
He added that Nanga Lasi, once regarded as a remote area, could now be categorised as rural due to improved road connectivity.
“Previously, travelling from Nanga Julau to Nanga Lasi could take several hours or even a full day, depending on the season. Today, the journey takes only about 30 to 40 minutes,” he said.
