Over RM1 bln in proposed Mukah road projects among requests for further discussion

Abang Johari poses with recipients of the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance Contribution (SKAS) aid scheme during the presentation ceremony at the Sarawakku Sayang Programme in Mukah on Oct 3, 2026. Photo credit: TVS

By Amanda L

MUKAH, Oct 3: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has pledged to bring more than RM1 billion worth of proposed infrastructure projects for Mukah to higher-level discussions for formal consideration and implementation.

Speaking at the Sarawakku Sayang Programme in Mukah today, he assured residents that the State Government has taken careful note of the division’s pressing development requests submitted by local community representatives.

“I have taken note of what was raised yesterday and this morning. We will discuss these matters at a higher level to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Mukah and continue elevating living standards across the division,” he said.

The development wishlist was presented earlier by Minister for Women, Children and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, outlining critical requirements spanning road connectivity, basic utilities, and environmental infrastructure.

Fatimah speaking at the Sarawakku Sayang Programme in Mukah on Oct 3, 2026. Photo credit: TVS

Chief among the proposals are the RM68 million Rassau-Bungan Besar Road project and the comprehensive upgrading of five strategic road stretches, estimated at RM591.3 million.

Beyond road networks, Fatimah highlighted the urgent need for enhanced water and electricity supply systems across the division, alongside the construction of a proposed Integrated Mukah Division Waste Disposal Site valued at RM38 million.

Acknowledging the submission, Abang Johari reflected on how dramatically Mukah’s accessibility has evolved over the past four decades, underpinned by continuous State investment in major roads and bridges that have transformed regional mobility.

Illustrating the division’s historical isolation, the Premier shared a personal anecdote from his early career.

“Previously, travelling to some villages here was extremely difficult. I first came here aboard a cargo ship — a stark contrast to the modern connectivity we witness in Mukah today,” he recalled.

He emphasised that the ongoing transformation of Mukah forms an integral part of Sarawak’s overarching development strategy, which focuses on systematically expanding infrastructure to bridge the rural-urban divide and boost household incomes.

Reaffirming the State government’s commitment to the division, Abang Johari assured that continuous efforts will be made to address local infrastructure gaps and deliver on the community’s priorities. — DayakDaily