By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 2: Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak and the State Public Works Department (JKR) were called on to collaborate in addressing key challenges in the construction industry, particularly in rural areas.
In making the call, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said both institutions could work together in tackling the complex construction of roads in peat soil areas and hilly terrains.
“The other aspect was how to reduce cost in road construction,” he said during a welcoming session for 56 UiTM students participating in the “Future Engineers In The Making: JKR Sarawak Engineering Experience” programme at his longhouse, Rh Mendit Unsu in Penom, Spaoh today.
The three-day programme is designed to expose engineering, architecture, and quantity surveying students to real-world industry practices. It includes site visits to ongoing road construction projects and is joined by 26 new JKR engineers from across the State.
Uggah, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD), shared valuable advice with the students as they prepare to enter the industry.
“It is very important that you understand the local culture in your work areas.
“Before starting any construction, make sure the local communities are consulted. This will help you gain their support and ensure smoother project implementation,” he added.
He also emphasised the need for engineers to understand the conditions and situations on the ground to make informed decisions during construction works.
On Sarawak’s ongoing development, Uggah said the State, through JKR, is implementing about RM60 billion worth of infrastructure projects funded by both the federal and State governments. Of this, at least RM36 billion will be carried out by the State.
“These include the Second Trunk Road, the Coastal Road, and 16 major bridges. We also have road projects under our nine regional development agencies,” he pointed out.
He stressed that the State government under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) hopes all projects will be implemented according to schedule, without compromising on quality.
Also present were Betong MP Datuk Dr Richard Rapu, JKR Sarawak director Dr Cassidy Morris and UiTM Sarawak Rector Prof Dr Firdaus Abdullah. – DayakDaily
