By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 23: Prime Minister Dato Sri Ismail Sabri has pledged to support and provide assistance to the Sarawak government in terms of rural development.
Following a briefing on the State development by the Sarawak Economic Planning Unit earlier today, he said that many issues and requests have been raised concerning the development in rural areas.
“The Sarawak government has made several requests to the Federal government to facilitate the development of the State including funding, especially in the rural areas.
“What was raised just now (during briefing) included the need for water utilities and roads to be upgraded.
“I was also informed of the urgent needs to upgrade dilapidated schools throughout Sarawak including new quarters for teachers,” he told a press conference after inspecting Petra Jaya Hospital project site today.
On his inaugural visit to Sarawak after being appointed the Prime Minister, he was accompanied by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Federal Work Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof and Minister of Local Government and Housing Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Ismail Sabri pointed out he has directed Implementation Coordination Unit director-general Datuk Ruji Ubi to hold discussions with State Secretary Datuk Amar Jaul Samion to identify matters arising under the 12th Malaysia Plan involving the State.
“I have been briefed on the development plans for Sarawak until 2030.
“By the end of 12MP, I hope these matters can be resolved. The Federal government will help the Sarawak government especially in terms of rural development,” he assured.
Ismail Sabri arrived in Kuching at about 11.20am today and was welcomed by Abang Johari together with the State’s top leaders.
He is scheduled to launch the “Keluarga Malaysia” programme at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) tonight.— DayakDaily
