KUCHING: Coordination and information-sharing between the regional development agencies (RDAs) need to be strengthened through regular meetings to effectively address technical, logistical and implementation issues.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, said regular meetings could serve as a platform to identify challenges faced during project implementation, so that proposals for improvements and revisions can be brought to the attention of higher authorities for further action.
“Among the constraints identified include a shortage of technical staff in implementing agencies, site-related issues, financial limitations for project launch and handover ceremonies, the need for technical personnel in RDAs, and coordination meetings between RDAs,” he said during a recent site visit and briefing session by the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA).
The session was also attended by Transport (Road and Aviation) Deputy Minister, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, and GKCDA Special Administrative Officer, Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik.
The briefing session was held to obtain the latest updates on the status of development projects under the purview of GKCDA, which cover the Kuching and Serian Divisions.
Dr Abdul Rahman stated that the establishment of RDAs such as GKCDA, Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), Sri Aman Development Agency (SADA) and others is part of the Sarawak Government’s initiative to accelerate and standardise the implementation of development projects across the region.
He said this move is seen as crucial in ensuring that all areas in Sarawak have equitable access to infrastructure and development.
For the record, development projects under GKCDA have received an allocation of RM1.5 billion, scheduled to be implemented over a five-year period.
