By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, Dec 8: The Sarawak government faces significant challenges in constructing roads in its interior regions, particularly due to the difficult terrains, said Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
He said these challenges stem from the mountainous landscapes of areas like Baram or the problematic peat soil conditions in other parts of the State.
“This year alone, we have allocated RM150 million for road repairs, including those in rural areas affected by landslides. Landslides are particularly frequent in the Baram region.
“As we approach the final stages of land road development, we are constantly seeking the most practical and advanced technologies to build roads that will last. Constructing roads is not the primary challenge—it’s about building roads that will endure for the benefit of the people,” he was quoted saying by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) at a function in Miri last night (Dec 7).
Uggah, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD), further said that the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) is set to organise an industrial building management seminar to identify suitable construction methods tailored to Sarawak’s unique needs.
In addition to roads, Uggah announced plans to upgrade 24 major bridges in Baram, along with smaller bridges critical for local connectivity.
He also highlighted progress under the Highland Development Agency (HDA), which oversees 43 projects, including 25 road projects, 17 water supply projects, and one power supply project.
Of these, 16 have been completed, eight are under construction, and 19 are in the pre-contract stage. — DayakDaily
