BY SITI NURAIN RATANI
KUCHING: Kapit must continue to see stronger infrastructure development as it cements its role as one of Sarawak’s key renewable energy hubs, says Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
The Works Minister said the division is home to two of Sarawak’s major hydroelectric dams – Bakun and Murum – while the Baleh Hydroelectric Dam, currently under development, will further strengthen the state’s ambition of becoming the ‘Battery of ASEAN’.
“Sarawak is often described as the ‘Battery of ASEAN’. If Sarawak is the battery for the region, then Kapit can be regarded as the most important component of that battery,” he said in a special interview with Suara Sarawak on Thursday (June 18).
Nanta said Kapit’s growing role as a clean energy powerhouse has been reinforced by development initiatives undertaken by the Sarawak government through the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA) since 2017.
He stated that the implementation of various infrastructure projects has transformed the development landscape in the interior, particularly through the construction of roads and other essential public facilities.
“Many roads have already been completed, while several others are still under construction to improve connectivity between rural settlements and economic growth centres,” he added.
The Kapit Member of Parliament pointed out that the division’s significant contribution to Sarawak’s energy sector must be matched by more comprehensive infrastructure development to improve the quality of life of its people.
“Although there have been significant improvements, there are still areas that require better road access, clean water supply and telecommunications coverage,” he said.
“We hope infrastructure development, especially road projects, can continue to be accelerated.”
He expressed hope that most of Kapit’s key infrastructure needs could be fulfilled within the next three years, based on the current progress of ongoing projects.
He also stressed that development should not be measured solely by the provision of basic amenities.
“Roads, electricity, clean water and internet connectivity are merely enablers. What matters most is how these facilities help improve the people’s quality of life and increase their income,” he said.
