Ulu Paku Undop road paving completed

SRI AMAN: The Ulu Paku Undop road, spanning 8km from Simpang Kenyungan to SK Paku, Undop, has been paved.

Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Francis Harden Hollis said the road is set to be fully completed by Feb 23, following the approval of a 219-day extension of time (EOT).

“In response to a public complaint received through the Malaysian Human Rights Commission (SUHAKAM), I personally conducted an inspection to assess the latest developments,” Harden said in a statement on Monday (Jan 29).

He elaborated that the road paving work, amounting to RM19.1mil, has been finalised, with the current focus shifting to constructing concrete ditches along the road.

Harden during the inspection

The Simanggang assemblyman disclosed that residents of Kampung Batu Lintang raised concerns about the road’s condition at the beginning of January, prompting the investigation.

“Despite ongoing construction, complaints persisted, alleging safety hazards due to delays in completion.
“Accordingly, a site visit will be proposed together with SUHAKAM and the implementing agency to see for themselves the condition of the road.

“The aim is to address the grievances of residents, particularly those who may not be residing in the immediate area but are economic migrants living in urban centres,” he explained.

The upgrade project, financed by the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development—now known as the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development—and executed by the Public Works Department Sarawak, faced delays primarily attributed to design alterations and adverse weather conditions.

Contractor Welfield Services Sdn Bhd had begun work on Jan 13, 2022, with completion initially set for July 12, 2023.