By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Sept 14: The Sarawak government has approved an allocation of over RM55 million for infrastructure development in Pulau Bruit, Daro, as part of a ‘reinvestment’ of the State’s revenue into regional growth initiatives.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the allocation will support several major projects, including RM5.6 million to revitalise the Semop Fishermen’s Resettlement Housing Project, a RM45 million affordable housing scheme, and the construction of an agricultural centre and food court valued at RM5 million.
Abang Johari also pointed out the long-standing issue of the Semop Fishermen’s Resettlement Housing Project, which remains in need of repair after being left vacant for years.
He acknowledged that the project had stalled since its inception during his tenure as Housing Minister.
“The housing project for our fishermen was initiated when I was the Housing Minister, but it has faced setbacks.
“Some of the houses were left in disrepair, and due to Kuala Lumpur’s audit process, there were further delays.
“However, we are now moving forward with a RM5.6 million allocation to repair the houses block by block,” he said during his speech at the Pulau Bruit Festival 2024 opening ceremony held today at the Rural Growth Centre (RGC) commercial site in Semop, Daro.
The event was broadcast live via the Sarawak Public Communication Unit’s (Ukas) Facebook page.
He further stated that the Sarawak Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) will oversee the restoration efforts.
“I have directed LCDA to carry out the repair work block by block, with one block being completed every six months until all 307 housing units are fully restored.”
On the approval of a 56-lot housing project, he highlighted that it is part of the State government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the living standards of Pulau Bruit residents.
“We are aiming to provide residents with a comfortable living environment,” he said, adding that the cost of land and construction will be borne by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government.
He continued: “The house we will build is like in Kampung Dato or Kemuyang in Sibu, if it is in Kuching, it will be like housing in Sungai Bedaun. GPS will bear the RM10,000 deposit, and you pay the rest.
“We will add more if it is still needed, because I believe Sarawak’s future is very bright.” — DayakDaily
