SARIKEI: A site has already been identified for the development of government quarters here, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the site has been approved by the State Planning Authority (SPA), and prefers the area to be located near government offices and recreational facilities.
Noting that many stadiums built across the state are not being fully utilised, Abang Johari suggested placing government quarters near stadium areas so that residents can make use of the facilities for recreation and other activities.
“If not, many of our stadiums remain unused. I visited Bintangor and saw that the stadium there seemed under-utilised, and this is the case with many other stadiums we’ve built.
“So why not open them to the public so they can use the facilities? The government can handle the maintenance, and I also want our officers to take care of their health,” he said at a press conference after officiating at the Sarawak Government Administrative Centre for the Sarikei Division today (May 14).
He added that the allocation under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for the construction of government quarters throughout Sarawak has been approved, as part of the government’s efforts to safeguard the welfare of officers serving in rural areas.
He explained that once completed, the modern quarters can be utilised by both state and federal officers.
Citing his constituency, Gedong as an example, he noted the absence of proper housing for medical officers, which inspired him to propose the development of modern quarters managed by a dedicated agency to ensure efficient building maintenance.
“We will also include recreational areas. I’ve also mentioned the inclusion of a gym, so that our officers can maintain their health and have space for leisure activities,” he added.
The proposed quarters, he said, will also function as a one-stop centre within a gated community, ensuring residents’ safety and security.
“This is a new approach to supporting our officers, enabling them to deliver excellent services to the people,” Abang Johari said.
