Pujut rep proposes Sarawak pre-finance key federal projects to end delays, cites stalled Pujut 3 upgrade

File photo for illustration purposes only.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, May 15: Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang has proposed that the Sarawak government explore a mechanism to first implement or finance strategically important federal-approved projects in the State, with reimbursement to be claimed later from the federal government, in order to avoid prolonged delays affecting the rakyat.

Debating the Motion of Thanks on the Yang di-Pertua Negeri’s (TYT) Address during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting today, Yii said many projects announced and approved by the federal government still fail to materialise years later, causing frustration among the people.

Citing one example in Miri, he pointed to the long-delayed upgrading project at the roundabout in front of GK Supermarket at Pujut 3, which involves converting the existing roundabout into a six-lane traffic light intersection.

“The project had already received approval several years ago due to worsening traffic congestion, but work has yet to commence.

“In many instances, projects are announced and allocations approved, yet years later, the rakyat still do not see any visible progress,” he said.

Yii noted that a similar approach had already been successfully implemented in Sarawak for the repair and upgrading of schools and clinics, where the State government took the initiative to fund the projects first to avoid unnecessary delays.

“I believe such an approach would greatly improve project delivery efficiency, accelerate implementation timelines, and most importantly ensure that development projects promised to the people can be delivered without prolonged delays,” he said.

Ultimately, he added, the rakyat judge leaders not merely by announcements, but by their ability to deliver tangible and effective results.

“Today, the rakyat no longer want to hear promises alone. They want to see tangible improvements that directly improve their daily lives, including better roads, efficient drainage systems, upgraded public amenities, reliable public transport, cleaner surroundings and safer neighbourhoods,” he said.

He stressed that delays, poor coordination and slow implementation could undermine public confidence even when good policies were introduced. — DayakDaily