By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 12: Rural infrastructure development across Sarawak is set to be completed by 2030.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the initiative is part of the government’s commitment to enhance rural amenities and improve accessibility to remote areas.
“Rural infrastructure development is our priority. We will ensure that key roads connecting longhouses and villages to main roads are completed.
“The Budget Sarawak 2025 allocates RM10.8 billion for development, with RM6 billion specifically earmarked for rural areas, including the agricultural sector and road infrastructure,” he shared these insights during a Special Interview on Post Budget Sarawak aired on TVS last night (Dec 11), which was hosted by economist and National Professors Council member Dr Muhammad Asri Mohd Ali.
Abang Johari highlighted that the primary focus is on establishing road networks and ensuring basic utilities like electricity and water reach rural communities.
“We have already started infrastructure development, but our aim is to ensure connecting roads link longhouses and villages to main roads. I am confident that by 2030, these networks, along with electricity and water supply, will be fully operational,” he said.
He stated that the Sarawak government has consistently allocate substantial funding for rural development between RM6 billion and RM8 billion annually.
“With a total budget exceeding RM15 billion, approximately RM4 billion is set aside for operations. Our formula dedicates 70 per cent to development and 30 per cent to operations, with a significant portion focused on rural areas. Enhancing basic infrastructure remains a top priority,” he explained.
During the Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting in November, Abang Johari tabled Sarawak’s 2025 Budget amounting to RM15.8 billion, comprising RM10.9 billion for development and RM4.9 billion for operational expenses. — DayakDaily
