By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 3: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has pointed out that the RM1 billion allocation provided by the federal government for developing facilities along the Malaysia-Indonesia border has yet to be fully utilised by the relevant ministries and agencies.
According to Fadillah, the allocation was intended for upgrading the border crossing complexes between the two countries and enhancing security along the Sarawak and Sabah borders with Kalimantan.
“We have decided on the allocation of RM1 billion to develop the border facilities, ensuring seamless entry and exit between Malaysia and Indonesia,” he told reporters when met after launching the ‘Majlis Pelancaran Bulan Kebangsaan dan Kibar Jalur Gemilang Peringkat Sarawak 2024’ held today at CIDB Convention Centre Sarawak in Petra Jaya here.
He further emphasised the importance of fully utilising this allocation to prepare for the anticipated increase in cross-border activities, especially with the development of Nusantara as Indonesia’s new administrative capital.
“Once Nusantara is fully developed, it will become a major city, significantly increasing the population in the region.
“There are many opportunities we can capitalise on from Nusantara’s development; even now, many neighbouring citizens come to Sarawak for healthcare and education services,” he added.
Fadillah, who is also the federal Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, mentioned the potential business opportunities that could arise from closer ties with Indonesia.
“There are numerous business opportunities that we can explore together. By fostering strong bilateral relations, we can create a prosperous environment for both nations,” he said.
Yesterday, there was a discussion related to border development in the National Security Council (MKN) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, as per the Deputy Prime Minister.
“I was instructed by the Prime Minister to be with the governments of Sarawak and Sabah and all the implementing agencies to get a detailed update on the implementation of the work to upgrade the border facilities because not all of the RM1 billion allocation has been applied for by the relevant ministries,” he explained.
During his speech at the ceremony, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasised the importance of Malaysians proudly flying the Jalur Gemilang all year round, regardless of the season.
He also emphasised that patriotic spirit should not be limited to specific times.
“If we look at other countries, particularly the United States, their citizens do not wait for National Day to fly their flag at home. The flag is always present at every house.
“Do not wait for National Day or Malaysia Day (to fly the Jalur Gemilang). Fly it all year round to show that we are proud Malaysians,” he noted.
Fadillah also called on the Madani Community to play a role in bringing the spirit of flying the Jalur Gemilang to their villages, parks, and residential areas. — DayakDaily
