By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Nov 21: RM26.9 million will be allocated to developing proper drainage and irrigation systems for the divisions of Kuching, Serian, and Samarahan in 2023.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stated that developing proper drainage and irrigation systems is critical in the Sarawak government’s efforts to increase food production and will continue to be implemented.
“In 2023, an allocation of RM900,000 will be allocated for the rehabilitation and upgrading works of the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Schemes in Tanjung Purun and Pueh in Kuching Division and RM1 million for the development of controlled drainage scheme project in Kg Mujat in the Serian Division.
“Another RM25 million will also be provided in 2023 under Projek Rakyat for the rehabilitation of eight DID schemes in Samarahan Division and the Food Basket regions of Betong and Mukah,” Abang Johari said when tabling the Supply (2023) Bill 2022 or Sarawak Budget 2023 in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
He went on to say that the State government has also approved projects under Alternative Funding.
“RM229 million will be allocated under Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (IRSDA) for irrigation and drainage projects which include rehabilitation and construction of coastal bunds and drainage systems; RM130 million for the development of drainage and irrigation infrastructure at Selepong Panggil, Sri Aman, an area with huge potential to be the new rice bowl of Sarawak; and RM52 million for the development and upgrading of infrastructure and facilities at Loba Stoh Aquaculture Park, Rambungan to boost the production of fisheries,” he added. — DayakDaily
