By Amanda L
MUKAH, Oct 3: Enhanced road networks and air links are set to end Mukah’s geographic isolation within five years, while expanding energy and downstream industries open new economic horizons for the division, according to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking to reporters after officiating the Sarawakku Sayang Programme in Mukah today, he highlighted the division’s dramatic transformation over the past six years, pointing to major infrastructure projects connecting previously isolated communities.
Notably, bridges across Paloh, Batang Igan and Batang Rajang have helped form a contiguous road loop throughout Mukah, although a few key links are still being completed.
“God willing, five years from now, Mukah and its surrounding areas will no longer be isolated as they will be fully connected by road and air,” he said.
Alongside transport improvements, the State government is bolstering basic utilities across the division.
The RM240 million Basong water treatment plant, currently under construction, is scheduled to produce 60 million litres of treated water daily to reinforce local supply.
To modernise power infrastructure, the government plans to upgrade the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES), transitioning current diesel-based systems to solar energy.
Solar rooftop installations will also be introduced for affordable housing under the Spektra Permata scheme, ensuring sustainable electricity in remote communities.
Turning to Sarawak’s broader energy sector, the Premier revealed a partnership with an established Norwegian firm boasting more than 50 years of experience in floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) operations.
State-owned PETROS is targeting the launch of FLNG operations off Kuching by 2029 as part of a low-carbon complex at the deep-sea port being developed in Tanjung Embang.
Furthermore, Sarawak intends to build small-scale LNG plants using State-sourced feedstock to process gas locally for downstream activities.
Abang Johari emphasised the necessity of generating higher-value products rather than relying solely on raw gas exports.
“Although we have gas, market prices fluctuate and international competition is strong, so we must process it into high value-added products,” he explained.
Revenue from energy sales will be reinvested into downstream ventures, citing projects such as Hi-Cam, Indorama and Sakura as prime examples.
These industrial activities are expected to create high-paying skilled jobs for locals. Pointing out that many Mukah natives are already employed overseas or with national oil company Petronas, Abang Johari noted they are well-positioned to take up senior leadership roles at PETROS as Sarawak’s energy sector expands. — DayakDaily
