Govt sets aside RM500 mln for paddy field drainage system statewide 

KUCHING: The Sarawak government has approved an allocation of RM500 million for the development of drainage system for paddy fields next year.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the funding will be directed towards paddy cultivation areas in Sri Aman, Samarahan, and Kuching.

“We had a meeting this afternoon (July 2), and approved RM500 million allocation for next year to develop drainage schemes in Sri Aman, Samarahan, and Kuching.

“This allocation does not cover other significant potential areas like Limbang and Lawas, as well as traditional small farms managed by local communities,” he said.

He was speaking at the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI)-Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Gawai Kaamatan dinner held at a leading hotel here last night (July 2).

Abang Johari, who is the Gedong assemblyman, said he had initially sought the funding from the federal government and is still awaiting their response.

“When I indicated that these areas require RM1 billion, the minister said it was too much. So, I proposed that we divide the cost, with Sarawak providing RM500 million and the federal government contributing the other RM500 million.

“To date, we are still waiting, but Sarawak has already committed RM500 million to this project,” he said.

Among those present were Premier’s wife Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, Minister of National Unity Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang, Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, DCCI president Datuk Allan Keripin Nangkai, and KCCI president Datuk Ladislaus Maluda.

CAPTIONS:

KCH-premier paddy-0307-nj-1: Abang Johari (5th left) joining other dignitaries by proposing a toast during the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI)-Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Gawai Kaamatan dinner. Photo: UKAS

KCH-premier paddy-0307-nj-2: Abang Johari delivers his speech at the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI)-Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Gawai Kaamatan dinner. Photo: UKAS