SPAOH: A range of economic and rural development initiatives are being intensified to improve livelihoods, particularly among longhouse communities in the area.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said efforts are focused on strengthening the agricultural value chain while creating new economic opportunities through high-impact projects.
“In the past two years, more than 50,000 chicks have been distributed to longhouse residents as part of efforts to generate income, with discussions ongoing with Cold Storage on marketing the livestock products.
“Additionally, an agropark spanning over 700 acres will be developed using modern agricultural technology, while the construction of an airport, as well as collection and processing centres, is expected to support the processing and marketing of local products to markets within and outside the state,” he said.
He said this at the Mantar Gawai Dayak 2026 dinner organised by Gerempung Tuai Rumah (GTR) Spaoh Sub-District, held at Dewan Masyarakat Spaoh here yesterday (May 3).
Uggah, who is the Bukit Saban assemblyman, said that beyond economic development, tourism potential is also being explored.
He said this includes plans to build a replica of a warrior fort at Bukit Sadok, which is expected to become a new attraction and create income opportunities through handicrafts and tourism-related activities.
“Youth participation in traditional Iban arts is also being strengthened through the establishment of the Kelab Main Asal to preserve cultural heritage,” he added.
He also stressed the important role of tuai rumah as a bridge between the government and the people, ensuring that assistance reaches those eligible.
He reiterated that the Sarawak government remains committed to providing allocations for house repair programmes, rural infrastructure upgrades, and agricultural subsidies to improve well-being by 2030.
