By Nancy Nais and Chris Bishop
KAPIT, Oct 5: The Sarawak government’s sound financial and resources management has enabled Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg to implement various development programmes for the benefit of Sarawakians.
“That is why I can create additional development agencies such as the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA) Highland Development Agency (HDA) and Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA) with a total of RM12 billion in initial funds to accelerate the development tempo in the three areas,” Abang Johari highlighted during a dinner reception with representatives and leaders of the local community here last night.
He asserted that the sum of RM1.5 billion allocated for URDA was testimony that the Sarawak government had funds for the welfare of the people, in contrast with certain quarters who claim that Sarawak would go bankrupt within a certain number of years.
On the new 110km road connecting Sibu to Kapit, he said he was grateful that the road was finally completed.
“With the completion of this Sibu-Kapit road, Kapit is no longer isolated from the rest of Sarawak. Now more people will visit Kapit because it less than two hours (by road) from Sibu,” Abang Johari said, adding that this will also make Kapit more vibrant in terms of business.
Meanwhile, he disclosed that overall, more than RM3 billion has been allocated to Kapit division for various infrastructure development projects carried out in areas such as Mujung, Tunoh and Baleh.
“I have no problem when it comes to topping up the development funds when necessary as long as the people here solidly stay behind me and my colleagues to ensure continuity in development.
“I have many plans in store for Sarawak to generate more income as long as I am still the Chief Minister,” he revealed. — DayakDaily
