BETONG: Development projects under the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) have now entered Phase Two, which focuses on socio-economic development.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said this follows the completion of Phase One, which previously concentrated on the implementation of basic infrastructure projects.
He said physical projects such as the construction and upgrading of roads were prioritised in Phase One as they form a crucial foundation for the social and economic development of rural communities.
However, he said that each project must go through a structured process, including the appointment of consultants, preparation of technical drawings, site studies and the tender process, which can sometimes take months before physical works can begin.
“Some projects have been planned since 2020 and are now at various stages of implementation.
“We are also facing constraints in terms of the number of engineers and technical officers in implementing agencies such as the Public Works Department (PWD), especially when multiple projects are being carried out simultaneously,” he said when speaking at the Gerempung Tuai Rumah (GTR) N.36 Layar Merarau programme held at St Augustine Church here recently.
In this regard, Rentap urged community leaders such as pemanca, penghulu and tuai rumah to play an active role in channelling accurate information to the people to avoid misunderstandings.
Rentap, who is also Layar assemblyman, explained that dialogue and consultation sessions are key to ensuring that the people understand the processes involved as they move forward as one team, while urgent matters will continue to be given priority.
He also pledged an allocation of RM35,000 to GTR N.36 Layar to empower the association’s activities.
Betong MP Datuk Dr Richard Rapu also pledged a grant of RM15,000 to support the implementation of the association’s activities throughout the year.
For the record, the GTR N.36 Layar programme was held in conjunction with its 2026/2027 Annual General Meeting to elect new committee members for the term.
