KUCHING, August 31: Rural infrastructure development remains a critical sector that needs to be addressed by Putrajaya.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, in his National Day message, said the Federal government must prioritise infrastructure development in the rural areas and find solutions to the dilapidated schools across the state.
“We hope that the Federal government shows more attention to the development of the state, then Sarawakians will be more loyal to the Federation of Malaysia,” said Abang Johari.
He pointed out that the state government had also been playing its part to improve infrastructure development in Sarawak.
Since becoming chief minister in January last year, Abang Johari had approved a sum of RM2 billion to solve water supply problems throughout the state, and RM5 billion for roads, bridges and other infrastructure projects, especially for the benefit of the rural community.
He said the state will continue to pursue its rights that had been eroded over the years in accordance to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“We have recently amended the Oil and Mining Ordinance (1958) to strengthen the administration of the state government on its oil and gas industry for both downstream and upstream.
“This is part of our effort to ensure the preservation of the rights of Sarawak,” Abang Johari continued.
He assured Putrajaya that the state government would continue to work closely and collaborate with the Federal government under the leadership of Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad for the interest of Sarawak, while adhering to the Federal Constitution. — DayakDaily
