DUN Sarawak: Fair Baringian upgraded as a full district

KUCHING, Oct 14: Proposals to upgrade Balingian from a small district to a full district should be considered in order to strengthen the administration, expand government services and accelerate development in the Mukh coastal area.

Dr Abdul Yakub Arbi, Member of the National Assembly (ADUN) Balingian said it was appropriate to pay attention based on area size, population development, economic growth and increasing demand for government services.

"Full district status will allow for enhanced administrative affairs, in addition to expanding the presence of government agencies to facilitate people's access to services without having to rely on administrative centers further.

He said this while discussing Sarawak Budget 2027 at the 19th Sarawak State Assembly (DUN) Conference, today.

Yakub believes the move has the potential to accelerate infrastructure development and public facilities, thereby strengthening Balingian's role as a new growth hub in the Mukah coastal area.

Meanwhile, he also hoped that the Government of Sarawak will continue to strengthen provision of clean water supply, electricity and telecommunications facilities in rural areas.

"Fundamental facilities should continue to be given special attention in areas that are still facing infrastructure shortages", he said.

At the same time, he said, local agriculture and entrepreneurship sectors need to be empowered through road facilitation, training, increased productivity and market access so that development not only provides infrastructure but improves incomes and people's living standards.