LAWAS: The Sarawak Government has allocated RM100,000 for the construction of a new surau in Kampung Sasa, scheduled to begin next year.
It is part of efforts to strengthen community development and improve the well-being of residents in Ulu Merapok here.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the project not only aims to provide a more comfortable place of worship but also reflects the state government’s broader commitment to modernising the rural economy.
“Under the leadership of the Premier of Sarawak, the state government is focusing on agricultural development across Merapok, Sundar, Trusan, Long Semadoh, and Ba’Kelalan,” he said during a visit to the site last Monday.
Awang Tengah also reminisced about Merapok’s rich history, once known for its paddy cultivation and bamboo suspension bridges that served as vital crossings for local communities.
He revealed that Limbang and Lawas are being developed as key centres for buffalo production, with a buffalo milk cheese processing plant already established in Meragang.
According to him, the Public Works Department and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage will continue to improve the road network and drainage systems in the Merapok area to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with community needs and agricultural expansion.
Awang Tengah also encouraged local residents to explore food processing enterprises based on agricultural produce such as tapioca, bananas, sambal tahai, and shrimp or fish crackers, as part of efforts to enhance the value of local products.
“The people of Ulu Merapok must preserve unity and cooperation to ensure that economic and agricultural development can be implemented sustainably for the benefit of the entire community,” he added.
