By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, Feb 9: Miri needs more infrastructure to catapult its economy, and the state government knows exactly how to go about doing it, said Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“I got the formulas, but I cannot reveal it tonight. As we all know, Miri has all the attractions and facilities and that is why we want to invest in its infrastructure to ramp up its economy,” he said Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Miri-Sibuti Chinese New Year gathering here last night.
But while the exact details of the government’s plan are kept under wraps, it is understood that it involves, among others, tackling air connectivity issues, deepening the Kuala Baram channel, building more affordable houses for the lower-income group, resolving resettlement matters, urban bus transportation and the setting up of a museum and cultural centre.
On development in the state, he told the 800-odd guests that lots of projects that were approved by the previous federal government had been slashed, forcing the state government to use its own funds to implement them.
“For example, to build a city hall for Miri will cost RM70 million. The building will be an iconic one, and I believe such an investment will propel the economy here.”
Abang Johari reiterated that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) state government would always fulfil its promises to the people.
“Enough with the `tengok sahaja’ approach. From now onwards, Sarawak will continue what the late Tok Nan (Pehin Sri Adenan Satem) had done. GPS is the symbol of a united Sarawak and Sarawak belongs to Sarawakians.”
He added that the formation of GPS had ushered in a new era for Sarawakians to determine their own destiny.
“After the formation of GPS, we became more matured and able to manage our own state without having to bow to the federal government for every decision we make.
“In 1963, we (Sarawak) were a ‘baby’. We were crawling along the way, and we faced challenges, but we learned.” — DayakDaily
