Upper Rajang Development Agency completes 13 infrastructure projects worth RM1.5 bln, says Nanta

KUCHING (11 Oct): The Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA) has completed 13 out of 43 projects, utilising the RM1.5 billion allocated by the Sarawak government.

ItscChairman, Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, stated that the majority of the completed projects were related to road infrastructure.

“There are also water supply infrastructure projects and socio-economic initiatives where assistance is given to beneficiaries to help increase their income.

“However, most of the RM1.5 billion allocation has been focused on infrastructure, particularly road projects in URDA areas such as Kapit, Song, Bukit Mabong, Belaga, and Katibas,” said Nanta, who is also Works Minister, during a press conference at the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) building here today.

Looking ahead, Nanta expressed hopes for additional funding from the state government, to support Urda’s socio-economic activities.

“For the future, we are hoping to secure another allocation of RM1.5 billion or more from the government to continue Urda’s efforts.

“We have conducted assessments in all URDA districts, identifying key infrastructure and socio-economic projects,” he added.

Nanta, who is also the Kapit MP, said that in addition to the RM1.5 billion from the Sarawak government, the agency has also received financial support from the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda).

He further stated that the agency has established high-level committees to focus on specific areas such as youth development, socio-economic programmes, and improving telecommunications coverage.

“This is why we are optimistic that in the upcoming Malaysian Development Plan, following the conclusion of 12th Malaysia Plan, URDA will receive a similar or increased allocation,” Nanta said.