By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 18: The Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) has designated RM82 million for various activities, with RM15.5 million earmarked for this year to boost people’s income, announced Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Uggah, who also chairs the BDDA, emphasised the need for swift action due to time constraints, urging collaboration with industry players to identify potential programmes and projects and streamline implementation.
“We aim to execute our programmes and projects as planned without bureaucratic delays. Betong residents are eager to see the impacts and benefits soon. BDDA and the seven elected representatives in the area will give our best effort, and we urge everyone to cooperate fully,” he stated.
Uggah made these remarks after leading a meeting with BDDA’s agro-food committee, representatives from the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Veterinary Services Department Sarawak, Sarawak Economic Development Corporation, Farmers’ Organisation, and others at his office today.
Uggah outlined two main areas of focus: modern agriculture and tourism.
“In agriculture, we will emphasise modern farming methods such as fertigation and hydroponics for vegetables and fruits. We will also venture into livestock farming, including organic chicken, pig, and cattle breeding,” he explained.
He noted that completion of the Bebuling Stolport next year would facilitate immediate transportation of food products to market destinations.
In tourism, Uggah highlighted events like the Kabong International Kite Festival, the Puffer Fish (Buntal) Festival of Spaoh, and the Layar Cycling Carnival.
“In addition to these, we have eco-tourism potential through traditional Iban longhouses, pristine jungles for trekking, ‘Tagang’ conservation practices, homestay programs, cultural richness, and handicrafts,” he elaborated.
Uggah also revealed plans for Beladin to become a sea fishing destination and disclosed government approval for RM16 million to construct a replica of Rentap’s fortress on Bukit Sadok.
“These tourism activities can further enhance local income and attract more tourists to Betong,” he added.
Attendees at the meeting included Krian assemblyman Friday Belik, Beting Maro assemblyman Razaili Gapur, Kalaka assemblyman Mohamad Duri, Political Secretary to Sarawak Premier Department Roseline Mapong, Betong Resident Richard Micheal Abunawas, and BDDA special task officer Abang Mohamad Abang Turkey. — DayakDaily
