By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, Nov 24: With RM6.1 billion or 66 per cent—out of the RM9.3 billion proposed for development expenditure under the Sarawak Budget 2026—dedicated to rural development initiatives, it shows the State government’s efforts in narrowing the urban-rural development gap.
According to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, would ensure that no one in the State would be left behind in its journey towards shared prosperity.
“In this regard, we will continue to provide allocation to fund the following initiatives: RM350 million for Rural Transformation Projects (RTPs), RM315 million for regional development agencies, RM267 million for Program Projek Khas, and RM100 million for the implementation of Projek Rakyat,” he said during the tabling of the budget at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting here today.
In terms of improving land connectivity, the Premier said that RM1.05 billion will be set aside for the construction of roads and bridges throughout the State, which include, among others, the following projects:
- Upgrading of Jalan Musi-Buso, Bau
- Upgrading of Jalan Teku/ Jalan Teku Pasai Siong/ Jalan Kemuyang, Sibu
- Serian-Gedong-Samarahan dual carriageway highway
- Jalan Bawang Assan / Tanjung Manis / Sg Illas / Kpg Sebena, Daerah Meradong, Sarikei
- Road heading towards Rumah Panjang Nicholas Sandom, Sg Sigu Pandan, Sebauh, Bintulu
- Road at Kampung Medong Seberang / Kampung Kekan Seberang, Mukah
- Sg Limbang Bridge, Sg Bunut No. 2 Bridge and connecting roads, Limbang
- Rural Bridges Transformation Programme
- Construction and completion of proposed Jalan Sungai Passin / Matu, Mukah
Under the alternative funding, he said, RM3.22 billion will be provided next year to fund the ongoing major road infrastructure projects such as the Sarawak Coastal Road, Sarawak Second Trunk Road, Northern Coastal Highway, Sultan Tengah Road and New Santubong Bridge, and various infrastructure projects under the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda).
As for air connectivity, funds will be allocated next year for the following projects:
- RM51 million for Bebuling Airport
- RM6 million for site verification, feasibility study and integrated masterplan for the proposed development of New Kuching International Airport
- RM1 million for a study on international air connectivity into Sarawak
“To support Sarawak’s expanding trade, logistics, and regional integration, this budget will prioritise the development of a resilient and future-ready port sector. Our investments will focus on ensuring that every part of Sarawak benefits from improved connectivity and economic access.
“Key components under this initiative include port infrastructure, navigational safety enhancements, riverine infrastructure development and digital port operations,” he said.
Therefore, said Abang Johari, RM118.1 million will be allocated to implement various initiatives, such as the following:
- Vessel tracking management system and aids to navigation for Sungai Miri and Kuala Baram
- Relocation of Tanjung Kidurong Lighthouse to Tanjung Likau, Bintulu
- Vehicle yard and associated facilities at Senari Port
- Port development and maintenance dredging grants to State Port Authorities
- Masterplan study for ports
- Construction of wharves, jetties, river wall, and waterfront
— DayakDaily
