by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 28: The Lun Bawang Sarawak Association (PLBS) fully supports the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road (SSLR) projects, commending the government’s commitment to rural development.
With these projects, the association emphasised the need for safety compliance, local employment, and economic empowerment.
“We understand that SSLR1 and SSLR2 are awarded on a ‘design and build’ concept, allowing for greater control and efficiency.
“However, this also calls for increased transparency and oversight to ensure that all changes are implemented responsibly.
“As this is Sarawak’s first major highlands highway, we expect contractors to adhere to the highest standards, particularly in Lawas and Limbang’s challenging terrain.
“Strict safety measures are crucial to avoid risks such as road collapses,” said PLBS president Dolphina Alau in a press statement.
Dolphina also urged contractors of the projects to prioritise hiring locals from Lawas, Limbang, and Ba Kelalan to ensure that the economic benefits of this project directly reach our communities.
The association also advocates for local SMEs and start-ups to be given subcontracting opportunities, fostering sustainable growth and skills development.
“This project holds significant meaning for our community. It fulfills (Ba’ Kelalan assemblyman) Baru Bian’s vision of connecting highland villages and addresses the long-standing needs of the Lun Bawang, Kelabit, and Penan communities who previously had to endure days of walking to school.
“The RM7.4 billion commitment for SSLR2, alongside the RM1.1 billion allocated for SSLR1 (which is 45 per cent complete), demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to rural development.
“For decades, our highland communities in Lawas and Limbang have been isolated. With these new roads, we look forward to improved access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. The SSLR project will transform our region, creating new prospects for trade, tourism, and economic growth,” Dolphina said.
PLBS urged the Lun Bawang community to fully embrace this golden opportunity and work together to harness the benefits of this game-changing infrastructure project. – DayakDaily
