By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 1: Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap has called out the opposition for their frequent criticism of Sarawak’s rural development agenda, which he described as misleading, irresponsible, and an insult to those who are already benefiting from Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led projects.
In a statement, he said that for the last decade, the Sarawak government has consistently allocated between 60 and 67 per cent of its development expenditure to rural development.
“This is one of the highest proportions in Malaysia, and it clearly demonstrates GPS’ strong commitment to uplifting rural communities and narrowing the urban-rural gap,” he said.
Despite rural development being highly prioritised, he said that urban areas have not been sidelined, with Kuching and Kota Sentosa having seen investments in upgraded drainage systems to tackle flash floods, expansion of community halls for social and cultural events, better street lighting, upgraded sports facilities, and improved public amenities—reflecting the GPS government’s development agenda as holistic and inclusive.
Yap also pointed out that GPS’ rural agenda is not just rhetoric but visible on the ground, which includes:
- Roads and connectivity: Thousands of kilometres of rural roads built and upgraded, connecting villages to towns and markets.
- Water and electricity coverage: Rural households now enjoy much higher coverage, with the goal of universal access in sight.
- Digital inclusion: More telecommunication towers and wider internet access to support education and businesses.
- Community facilities: Schools, clinics, cultural halls, and places of worship have been upgraded through RTP (Rural Transformation Programme) projects.
“In the suburban parts of Kota Sentosa and surrounding areas, RTP funding has translated into better drainage, school facilities, road repairs, water and electricity extensions, and cultural facilities that bring communities together. These are not promises—they are projects already delivered,” he said.
He further described the opposition’s constant habit of criticising without acknowledging results as ‘political games that do not help the people’.
“The people can see for themselves—better roads, reliable utilities, and improved facilities in both rural and urban areas. The opposition should refrain from politicising development. Their words cannot erase the facts on the ground: GPS has delivered and will continue to deliver.”
He reaffirmed that under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Sarawak’s development path under the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 is clear and people-centred.
“The GPS government is committed to bridging the urban-rural gap through balanced, inclusive development. I urge all loyal Anak Sarawak to remain united and not be misled by irresponsible rhetoric. The truth is written in every completed project and every improved livelihood—GPS’ record speaks louder than empty promises.” — DayakDaily
