MP suggests local authorities take charge

SIBU: The state government is being urged to transfer town planning responsibilities to local authorities, particularly the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC).

Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew cited the example of Ulu Sg Merah and Rantau Panjang, where numerous housing projects were approved without sufficient road infrastructure, leading to severe traffic congestion.

“It’s time to reconsider whether town planning should be under the purview of SMC, as it’s currently managed by the Sarawak Planning Authority (SPA) and SMC lacks actual control,” said Ling at the Sports Toto Chinese New Year Angpow Donation event held at the Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s Toh Siong hall yesterday (Jan 20).

According to Ling, all development approvals are currently processed by SPA, meaning they are under state government control, leaving SMC with no real power over town planning.

He suggested that SMC is better equipped to address local issues and make informed decisions about infrastructure, like road placement to alleviate traffic problems at Jalan Ulu Sg Merah, Jalan Ling Kai Cheng, Brooke Drive, Jalan Deshon, and Jalan Wong King Huo

Ling also raised concerns about current projects, such as those on Jalan Ulu Sg Merah and Jalan Old Oya, which are under the purview of the Land and Survey Department (LSD).

“I don’t think the LSD can easily access more information. Hence, it is more appropriate for SMC to have this power,” Ling added.