By Ling Hui
KUCHING, Nov 28: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has verified that internet connection is now present at Sungai Asap today.
He said he managed to send photos through his phone back home without disruptions, unlike the prior experience of poor reception during his last visit in 2020.
“Just now, I checked the internet connection here by sending photos to my wife in case she was wondering where I’ve gone. Everything is running fine now,” he said.
He added that he wanted to check the internet coverage because he had vivid memories of the National Palace’s failed attempt to contact him while at Sungai Asap.
The King had wanted to learn Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)’s stance when Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad resigned as Prime Minister in February 2020, but Abang Johari could not be reached due to reception issues.
“They could not get in touch with me because there was no internet (coverage) back then. But now there is internet connectivity in Sungai Asap,” lauded Abang Johari.
He added that with basic infrastructures, such as internet connection, agricultural lands at Sungai Asap and Belaga can develop well.
That is also why the State government’s development plan for the Belaga district will prioritise infrastructure for now.
“We do have long-term plans for Belaga and Sungai Asap because Belaga is close to Bakun, which can be developed into a tourism spot with the artificial lake there.
“The Sarawak government has identified a few places to be developed into tourist attractions under RMK12 (12th Malaysia Plan) through URDA (Urban Rural Development Authority), which will then lead to spill over to Belaga and Sungai Asap.
“Of course, this will take some time to happen, but this is already part of the State government’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030,” said Aband Johari during a Leaders with the People event at Sungai Asap, Belaga here today.
Also present at the event were Belaga incumbent Datuk Liwan Lagang and Murum incumbent Kennedy Chukpai Ugon. — DayakDaily
