Assemblyman urges infrastructure development for Baleh

BALEH assemblyman Nicholas Kudi Jantai has stressed the need for infrastructure development, particularly in terms of connecting remote areas in the upriver region with road facilities.

He said the connecting roads to longhouses in Baleh primarily rely on logging roads, constituting approximately 90 per cent of the infrastructure. Another 5 per cent is covered by tarred roads along the Jalan Akses to Baleh HEP, and the remaining 5 per cent relies on the river.

“Therefore, these logging roads require serious attention because their maintenance falls outside the jurisdiction of the Public Works Department Kapit Division.

“I hope the government will find a solution to this matter so that the logging roads, which are still under the supervision of logging concession companies, can be maintained and repaired for safe use by the public.”

During the debate on the 2024 State Budget at the State Legislative Assembly sitting today (Nov 23), Nicholas proposed linking the 9km connecting road from the logging road junction to Tunoh, a designated ‘Growth Node Area,’ to the main road.

“This connection would eliminate the ‘missing link’ that has often hindered contractors working on projects in the region.”

With the devolution of power to the Sarawak government for development projects worth RM50 million and below, he suggested seizing the opportunity to request funds from the federal government to develop infrastructure facilities in areas not yet connected by roads.

Addressing issues with active logging concession roads, he highlighted the Road Maintenance Fee (RMF) imposed at RM3 per km per trip. He expressed concern about the burden this fee places on contractors and its impact on government projects.

He emphasised that the RMF increases the implementation cost of the Rural Transformation Project (RTP), with almost half of the allocation used to cover transportation costs.

Calling for a re-evaluation of the RMF policy, he stressed the need for a study and engagement session before its implementation to avoid difficulties, especially for villagers or longhouses still using logging roads.

Nicholas also urged the allocation for management to be considered for implementing agencies for RTP to expedite project implementation, despite budget constraints faced by these agencies.

“I hope the Sarawak government pays attention to this matter and re-evaluates a suitable mechanism to resolve this issue.”