By DayakDaily Team
DALAT, Aug 22: The proposed direct road linking Dalat and Sibu could spur better connectivity, create economic opportunities, and make travel easier for residents.
Minister for Women, Children, and Community Well-being and Dalat assemblywoman Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said the proposal should be given attention and expedited, as connectivity between the two areas currently relies on longer routes.
She said there are currently two main routes from Sibu to Dalat via Selangau, and via Tanjung Manis, Daro, Matu, Igan and Oya.
“Therefore, we hope that the proposal for a direct road alignment from Sibu to Dalat will continue to receive attention and that its implementation can be expedited,” she said during a meet-the-people programme here today, as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian officiated the event, representing Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Fatimah said the proposed alignment would cover Kampung Kekan Seberang, Kut Muara, Sungai Pinang, Bungan Besar, and Rassau over 13.1 kilometres, with an R3 road standard and an estimated cost of RM140 million, funded by the Sarawak government.
She said another component covering about nine kilometres from Kut Muara through Sungai Pinang and Bungan Besar to Rassau would involve an estimated RM131 million under federal government funding.
“The project is currently undergoing detailed design and land-related works, with the tender targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to the prescribed processes and approvals,” she said.
Fatimah added that there was also a proposal to construct a 4.32-kilometre road alignment from Kampung Bungan Besar to Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Batang Igan, with an estimated cost of RM68.5 million.
The project application was submitted under the Rural Road Programme and Rural Bridge Programme through Rolling Plan Two of the 13th Malaysia Plan.
Meanwhile, Fatimah also raised several other development needs to strengthen public facilities and residents’ well-being, including the development of Dalat Waterfront Phase 4, a mini sports complex in Oya, and the construction of 30 housing units under the Housing Development Corporation.
She also called for attention to land ownership and land surveying issues involving smallholder sago farmers, as well as upgrading six Youth Kiosks and improving internet network coverage and quality, particularly in Klid, Kampung Kut, and Oya. — DayakDaily
