SIBU, Dec 27: The coming year promises brighter roads in Sibu as the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) plans to install more LED lights.
However, SMC chairman Clarence Ting emphasised the need for additional funding to expand coverage beyond the current areas.
The council, armed with a budget of RM1.3 million, recognises the insufficiency of funds to extend the project’s reach.
Ting expressed optimism about securing more funding in 2024, particularly from the Federal government, aligning with their commitment to promoting green energy.
“We hope for more funding in 2024 from the Federal government as they are also pushing for green energy,” Ting stated during today’s council full board meeting.
Ting highlighted the importance of applying for funds, citing an existing arrangement with Sarawak Energy Berhad.
“We will try to cover more areas to brighten Sibu,” he stressed.
However, due to financial constraints, the council clarified that LED lights would be limited to commercial areas and main roads within the council’s jurisdiction.
Residential areas, Ting explained, are currently excluded from the project due to the budgetary limitations.
“Our project is strictly for commercial areas and main roads in the council’s area. We cannot venture into residential areas yet, as we have only RM1.3 million, which is insufficient,” he added.
Notable commercial areas earmarked for LED light installations include Sungai Merah, Farley, Delta, and Rejang Park. Main roads set for illumination encompass Jalan Bandong, Brooke Drive, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, and Jalan Merdeka.
Ting clarified that the council lacks the authority to address roads managed by the Public Work Department (JKR), such as Jalan Deshon, Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adduce, Jalan Brother Albinus, and Jalan Oya.
For these areas, Ting highlighted the need for JKR’s involvement in LED light installations.
“This is up to JKR to put up LED lights as there is nothing that we can do unless JKR hands over these roads to us,” he concluded. — DayakDaily
