Baram, Miri set for infrastructure overhaul: Efficient mechanism for repairing bridges, roads announced

Uggah (seated, centre) and others during the press conference in Miri on Aug 5, 2024.

By Tedong Rantayy

MIRI, August 5: An efficient mechanism to ensure the smooth implementation of repairing dilapidated bridges and logging roads in Baram and Miri has been set in motion, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas,

According to the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Sarawak, the new initiative focuses on regular improvements and enhancements to the current system.

Three packages, each worth RM5 million, have been allocated for Baram, highlighting the urgency and significance of the project.

Other regions, including Kapit and Murum, are also slated for future inclusion after evaluating the effectiveness of the mechanism.

“Bridges in the hinterland are in dire need of repair, especially during the dry season,” Uggah said.

“For instance, the Tutoh bridge has been cut off, posing significant challenges. This is why we are developing a robust programme for these repairs,” Uggah said during a press conference after attending a meeting on project monitoring for the Miri Division with elected representatives in the division today.

The pilot project in Baram aims to address four identified damaged bridges, with two considered critical.

However, Uggah pointed out the current challenges, stating, “In Sarawak, service providers can immediately commence repairs, but our situation requires a service order, delaying the process. We need improvements to speed up these essential repairs.”

Uggah, during the meeting, gathered firsthand feedback on project implementations and the challenges faced.

This visit aligns with Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s directive that approved projects should be completed as scheduled.

“The Premier wants to ensure that all approved projects are executed timely. Sometimes, there are delays, and this is why we are on the ground to understand the issues directly,” Uggah said.

Additionally, the Sarawak government and Public Works Department (JKR) are assessing how many villages or longhouses remain unconnected by roads within their respective jurisdictions.

This data collection is crucial for long-term planning under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which prioritises infrastructure development.

“Some logging roads are still active and require maintenance. The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government has approved a maintenance mechanism for these areas, but we are constantly assessing and improving its effectiveness,” he said.

The pilot project in Baram, supported by RM5 million per package, is a critical step towards improving the region’s infrastructure.

However, Uggah acknowledged that this allocation is insufficient, stressing the need for better mechanisms and immediate repair capabilities.

“We are committed to collecting accurate information and strategising effectively to solve these issues.

“Our goal is to refine the standard operating procedure (SOP) to ensure all projects are completed on schedule,” he said.

As the pilot project progresses, the mechanism’s effectiveness will be evaluated and expanded to other areas in Sarawak facing similar problems, marking a significant step towards improving the region’s infrastructure.

Also present were the Minister for Transport Sarawak and Senadin assemblyman, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Sarawak and Marudi assemblyman, Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil; Deputy Minister of Women, Family, Welfare, Community Wellbeing, and Childhood Development Sarawak and Bekenu assemblywoman, Datuk Rosey Yunus; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring) and Mulu assemblyman, Dato Gerawat Gala; Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau; and Baram MP Datuk Anyi Ngau. — DayakDaily