KOTA SAMARAHAN: More than 1,000 acres near the proposed Samarahan Boulevard has been identified for development as a permanent green area, forming part of the planned Samarahan Park.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the plan is currently in the pipeline with the Land and Survey Department, with the designated green zone to be planted with trees and developed as a large recreational space for public use.
“This green area, covering more than 1,000 acres, has been identified near the boulevard. It will be fully planted with trees and designed as a green space where people can jog, exercise and enjoy nature,” he said when officiating the ground-breaking ceremony of Samarahan Boulevard here today (Jan 17).
Drawing comparisons with major global cities, Abang Johari said large urban green spaces are essential to quality of life, citing Hyde Park in London, England, and recreational areas around landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
“When you go to cities like London, you have Hyde Park, which is about 5,000 acres of green land that cannot be developed. Other major cities also have large recreational areas.
“These spaces are important because human life does not depend solely on commercial development and people need fresh oxygen and a healthy environment,” he said.
He added that the Samarahan green area will be planted with native tree species to enhance environmental sustainability and public wellness.
“We have seen how planting trees improves public activity. For example, after trees were planted near Masjid Jamek, the State Library and Reservoir Park in Kuching, more people come out in the evenings and mornings to exercise. Trees produce oxygen, and breathing fresh air improves health and wellbeing,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that once the area is officially declared as a public green space, it cannot be converted for commercial or residential development unless approval is obtained from the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
“Once we declare this more than 1,000-acre area as a public green zone, it cannot be used for commercial development. Its status cannot be changed unless it is brought to the DUN, in accordance with existing laws,” he said.
He said Samarahan Boulevard will form part of the larger Samarahan Park concept, envisioned as a landmark green and recreational destination for the region.
Touching on broader development plans, Abang Johari said the rapid growth of southern Kuching and Samarahan has effectively narrowed the distinction between the two areas, necessitating world-class infrastructure.
“If we want to be a developed and globally competitive state, our infrastructure must also be first class,” he said.
He reiterated that Tanjung Embang is planned as a new service hub for investors, tourists and Sarawakians, including the development of a new international airport.
“Some people ask why we need a new airport when the existing one is still operating. But we want to plan for the future. We aim to build an airport that is among the best in Asia, with seamless, integrated and efficient services,” he said.
Citing global examples such as Doha’s airport, Abang Johari said Sarawak must adopt advanced, technology-driven systems to position Kuching and Samarahan as a regional aviation and service hub.
“We want Kuching and Samarahan to become an ASEAN hub not just for Malaysia, but for the entire ASEAN region,” he added.
