TEBEDU: A series of infrastructure projects in Tebedu is being planned and rolled out to position the border district as a key gateway for investment and tourism.
Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada said among the major projects is the development of the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) complex, which has been tendered at an estimated cost of RM100 million and is awaiting contractor appointment.
The move forms part of a broader strategy to enhance connectivity, improve facilities and attract more economic activity to the area.
“We want to see Tebedu move forward. We need more people coming here because every business needs customers.”
He said the dual carriageway project linking Serian to Tebedu is also a key component, with RM31 million allocated for preliminary works, while the total cost is estimated at RM1.3 billion under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13).
Another major project includes a road network connecting Tebedu, Temong and Tepoi to Annah Rais, which will also link surrounding areas such as Sibakar, Sibuang, Semuti and Sadir, with an estimated cost of RM130 million.
He noted that despite steady cross-border traffic, many travellers do not stop in Tebedu due to a lack of attractions.
“We see many vehicles from West Kalimantan passing through Tebedu to Serian and Kuching, but they do not stop because there is nothing to attract them.”
He said the planned infrastructure upgrades are expected to support long-term efforts to establish Tebedu as an economic and cultural hub, while creating opportunities for local communities to benefit from increased visitor arrivals.
The district currently has more than 100 acres of industrial land that remains underutilised, particularly for large-scale industries requiring a stable water and electricity supply.
To address this, he said the matter has been raised with Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi and that plans are in place for a new substation near Kampung Tangga along the Tebedu–Serian road to meet electricity needs.
He added that a treated water plant has also been proposed to ensure an adequate supply for future industrial development.
Dr Sinang said these infrastructure initiatives are crucial in unlocking Tebedu’s potential as a growth centre, particularly given its strategic location along the Sarawak–Kalimantan border.
