By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 7: The Sarawak government’s move to place Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd, the implementing agency for the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project, under the State Financial Secretary (Incorporated) as a State-owned enterprise (SOE) marks an important step towards stronger governance, clearer accountability and enhanced financial discipline in managing a major public infrastructure project.
In a statement today, Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap welcomed the decision, describing it as a reflection of the Sarawak government’s commitment to ensuring that large-scale developments are delivered prudently, transparently and in the long-term interest of the people.
Yap said the restructuring of Sarawak Metro’s oversight framework would help strengthen governance mechanisms and financial controls for the KUTS project, which is one of the State’s most ambitious public transport initiatives.
He added that while he was cautiously optimistic about the development, ambitious transport projects must be matched by realistic planning, sound financial management and effective governance.
“Self-sustainability should protect public funds, ensure cost control and secure long-term viability without passing unnecessary burdens to future generations,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of Kuching residents, Yap stressed the importance of proper and effective monitoring throughout the project’s implementation, particularly to minimise inconvenience to the public during construction.
“The people of Kuching will live with the daily realities of this project. Construction works, traffic management and related activities must be carefully managed so that the public is not excessively inconvenienced,” he said.
He also emphasised that the concerns of residents, commuters and small businesses must be heard and addressed through clear coordination, timely communication and responsive mitigation measures.
“This will ensure that progress does not come at the expense of everyday livelihoods,” he added.
Looking ahead, Yap said he would continue to advocate for transparent reporting, strict procurement standards, independent audits and continuous public engagement to ensure the KUTS project delivers real and lasting benefits to the people of Kuching. — DayakDaily
