S’wak approves RM160 mln to upgrade Kpg Bakam-Sepupok junction coastal road

MIRI (July 12): The Sarawak government has approved RM160 million to upgrade the coastal road between Kampung Bakam and Sepupok junction in Niah, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah.

“This state funded project is in the planning stage, but we hope we can call for the tender within a month,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after officiating at the opening of the new RM850,000 Borneo Evangelical Missionary (BEM) Church in Saeh, Bekenu today.

He also highlighted a federal funded project to upgrade the road from Rambai to Kampung Bulau in Bekenu.

“This RM60 million project is now in the process of tender documentation, but we hope to call for the tender as soon as possible,” he said.

Uggah, who is also state Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, said the Sarawak government had also approved the construction of a RM10 million bridge at Kampung Balau in Bekenu.

“We hope to call for its construction tender in September this year,” he said.

Earlier in his speech at the opening ceremony, Uggah said the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government is committed to connecting over 5,000 rural longhouses, villages and other settlements statewide with road links by the year 2030.

Toward this end, he stressed that it would greatly facilitate all development efforts if the people, irrespective of their race or religion remained strongly united and supportive.

“Reject those who come instigating or manipulating them against the government.

“If you allow them a foothold in your area, they can be cancerous to your unity and your harmony.

“They can cause once closely knit communities, including longhouses to split up,” he said.

On the new BEM church, Uggah, who is the minister in charge of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), gave assurance it would continue to assist in the physical development of all non-Islamic houses of worship.

“Do approach our GPS leaders in your area for assistance in applying for the grant,” he said.

He also announced a grant of RM72,000 for the 24-door Rumah Ayai Sawing in Saeh.

Also present were Women, Childhood and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk Rosey Yunus and Unifor director Datuk Georgina Apphia Ngau.