Betong most developed division, says Uggah

SPAOH: The Betong Division has achieved over 90 per cent progress in electricity, roads, and clean water infrastructure, making it the most developed division in the Sarawak region, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

He also said that the Spaoh district has already achieved 100 per cent progress in basic infrastructure.

“This is the result of the independence we have enjoyed together after joining with the peninsula (and Sabah) to form Malaysia, and now Sarawak is advancing within Malaysia.

“This achievement is due to our willingness to live in unity, cooperate, and maintain harmony without religious issues. We sit together at coffee shops, sailing the ship of independence,” Uggah added.

He said this at the 2024 Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang (KMJG) convoy at the Spaoh Multipurpose Hall on Saturday (Sept 14).

Uggah, who is also Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, noted that Sarawak is a vast region, and expressed his gratitude for the efforts and sacrifices of the Malaysian Information Department (JaPen) in successfully organising the KMJG convoy, even though it had to be conducted in phases, spanning almost three weeks.

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Betong Dr Richard Rapu @ Aman Begari, emphasised that the culture of unity, prosperity, peace, and acceptance of diversity in backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions should continue to reflect the high values of unity, forming the foundation of the nation’s strength.

“The National Month is certainly aimed at fostering patriotism and conveying government policies to the community, especially those in rural areas, to keep them informed of the latest developments.

“Members of the Madani community are also advised not to blindly accept all information from social media without verifying its authenticity. Technology should be used wisely.

“In this digital era, we have devices and facilities such as Wi-Fi and broadcasting systems, giving us easy access. Use them wisely and disseminate correct information to avoid problems later on,” he said.

Also present were Sarawak Information Director Helmy Hamid, Betong Division Resident Richard Michael Abunawas, Betong District Officer Alfred Geling Ason, and Spaoh Sub-District Administrative Officer who is also the Co-Chair of the KMJG Celebration Committee Denny Lim.