KUCHING: The Sarawak government is considering upgrading Sungai Asap Sub-District to Apau Koyan District, a move aimed at strengthening local administration and accelerating development in the area.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the proposal is part of the state’s broader efforts to ensure rural and remote communities are not left behind in Sarawak’s development agenda.
“This proposal is not merely an administrative status change but a strategic step to strengthen government service delivery, accelerate the development process, and provide more focused attention to the needs of the people in the area.
“With this upgrade, we can plan development in a more organised manner, enhance local administrative capacity, and open up more economic opportunities for the local population,” he said in his Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2026 message.
He said the proposed upgrade comes amid ongoing initiatives by the Sarawak government to boost infrastructure, green energy, and housing across the state.
He also said roads connecting Miri–Marudi, Marudi–Mulu (Kuala Melinau), and Long Lama–Long Panai, spanning 142 kilometers, are under construction to improve connectivity and stimulate socio-economic growth in Baram and Marudi.
“The construction of these roads will improve connectivity, strengthen accessibility, and stimulate socio-economic development in the remote areas of Baram and Marudi.
“It is expected to benefit approximately 75,000 residents in the Marudi, Telang Usan, and Mulu state constituency areas, particularly by improving travel safety and providing easier access to essential services such as healthcare and education.
“At the same time, these projects also improve access to Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thereby supporting tourism growth and strengthening regional integration through connection with the Sabah–Sarawak Link Road,” he said.
On the housing front, he said the Sarawak government has completed 924 units of affordable homes from 2021 to 2025, under programmes such as Rumah Spektra Permata and Projek Rakyat.
These developments span urban, suburban, and rural areas in Kuching, Betong, Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Miri, and Limbang, ensuring that low- and middle-income families have access to safe and comfortable housing.
Abang Johari emphasised that these efforts go beyond physical construction.
“The government fully understands that a house is not just a shelter. It is the foundation for building stable families, harmonious communities, and a more secure future for the next generation.
“God willing, more housing projects of this nature are being planned and will be implemented progressively throughout Sarawak. The Sarawak government will continue to ensure that the people’s housing agenda remains a priority, in line with our goal of improving the quality of life and wellbeing of the population comprehensively,” he said.
