Awang Tengah: Recoda implementing 243 infrastructure projects worth RM4.5 bln

KUCHING (April 2): The Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) has been entrusted with the implementation of 243 critical basic infrastructure projects to date, with a total allocation of RM4.5 billion under the Sarawak government, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

He said Recoda and its three Regional Development Agencies, namely Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA), Highland Development Agency (HDA), and Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA), continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring balanced and inclusive regional development across Sarawak.

“These projects focus on enhancing connectivity, accessibility, and essential services, particularly in rural and underserved areas,” he said at Recoda’s Rindok Raya Open House yesterday.

Recoda, in a statement issued for the event, said the projects implemented include road and bridge construction, clean water supply, repairs to dilapidated schools, and community facilities such as recreational amenities, jetties, and small-scale infrastructure.

Among the flagship undertakings is the Miri-Marudi, Marudi-Mulu (Kuala Melinau) and Long Panai-Long Lama (MMMLL) road project, spanning 142 kilometres with a cost of RM3.8 billion.

Scheduled for completion by 2030, the project will provide direct access to Mulu and connect with Phase 2 of the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road (SSLR), boosting tourism, trade, and community development.

Another significant project is the Northern Coastal Highway (NCH), an 88-kilometre four-lane expressway costing RM6.8 billion, which will link Limbang and Lawas.

Recoda said the highway is expected to be a catalyst for economic growth in northern Sarawak, enhancing connectivity to Brunei, Sabah, and Kalimantan while supporting investment, tourism, modern agriculture, and industry.

Other strategic projects include the new Lawas Airport, a 3C-class facility capable of handling over 100,000 passengers annually, and the Bandar Baru Lawas Bridge, both of which will strengthen connectivity with the Northern Coastal Highway and accelerate regional economic expansion.

On another matter, Awang Tengah said Recoda also serves as a key investment facilitator by creating a conducive and investor-friendly ecosystem for both domestic and international investors.

“This initiative not only stimulates economic activities but also enhances local capacity through high-impact investments across the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).

“As of today, total approved investments in SCORE have reached RM151.5 billion, encompassing 655 projects, with the potential to generate over 60,000 job opportunities for the people of Sarawak,” he said.

He stressed these achievements reflect a strong commitment towards sustainable growth, equitable development, and long-term economic resilience for Sarawak.

Among those present at the event were Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai and Recoda chief executive officer Datu Ismawi Ismuni.