Proactive maintenance key to public well-being, says Bukit Kota rep

LIMBANG (Feb 20): A proactive approach to maintaining public infrastructure must be prioritised to ensure the well-being of the people, said Bukit Kota assemblyman Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail.

He stressed that repair works on damaged roads and clogged drainage systems should be carried out promptly, without waiting for public complaints or official instructions.

Abdul Rahman, who is also Sarawak Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, said such an approach aligns with the Sarawak government’s aspiration to place the needs and welfare of the people at the forefront.

In this regard, he called on relevant agencies, including the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID), Public Works Department (JKR) and Limbang District Council (LDC), to continuously monitor the condition of basic infrastructure under their jurisdiction.

“If there are damages or potholes, repair them immediately. Do not wait until the public lodges complaints. It is our responsibility to provide proper facilities for the people,” he said during a working visit to Sungai Kaban and the Rangau Riverfront Project here yesterday.

He also encouraged the public to channel their feedback and complaints directly to the relevant departments rather than venting frustrations on social media.

“Social media postings may only create anger and dissatisfaction. It is better to convey complaints directly to the departments concerned so that prompt action can be taken,” he said.

Commenting on clogged drainage at Sungai Kaban which has caused flash floods, Abdul Rahman said DID Limbang has agreed to clear the drainage system up to Sungai Limbang.

He added that the works have been incorporated into the department’s three-year maintenance schedule.

Abdul Rahman also highlighted several programmes planned for Limbang this year, including the district’s selection as one of the venues for the ‘Sarawakku Sayang’ programme in April.

On the Rangau Riverfront Project, he said the 250-metre development, with a total cost of RM20 million, is now 90 per cent complete and is slated for full completion in April.

The project will continue into phase two, involving a further 250-metre extension with an additional allocation of RM35 million.

He noted that Limbang now boasts three major riverfront developments, the 1.8-kilometre Limbang Riverfront, the Medamit Riverfront, and the Rangau Riverfront, reflecting the district’s steady progress in infrastructure and urban enhancement.

Present were LDC chairman Councillor Sufian Mohat and secretary Michelle Hildalyne Jering Anthony Luta.