Village extension scheme to transform Tanjung Manis into modern township, says deputy minister
by Michael Ubam · Borneo Post OnlineTANJUNG MANIS (Feb 28): The Sarawak government has reaffirmed its commitment to rural transformation with the implementation of the Village Extension Scheme (SPK) Tanjung Manis – a project aimed at providing modern infrastructure and stimulating socio-economic growth in the Rajang Delta region.
According to State Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development Datuk Len Talif Salleh, the initiative, which was introduced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, represents a new concept in rural development that goes beyond merely building houses.
“This project is not just about constructing housing units, but also about providing quality basic infrastructure such as roads, drainages, electrical substations, recreational areas and other essential facilities for the community,” said the Kuala Rajang assemblyman in officiating at the presentation of the letter of award (LoA) for the site preparation and earthworks package at the Tanjung Manis Community Hall yesterday.
Len Talif also said the project marked an important step in developing Tanjung Manis into a progressive and competitive new township, while ensuring a conducive living environment for the local residents and potential investors.
The SPK Tanjung Manis project involves 69 housing units, with 39 to be implemented under Phase 1.
The current package covers site preparation and earthworks, scheduled for completion within nine months.
The development also includes an electrical substation and a 1.65-acre public recreational area.
A total of RM3.88 million has been allocated for the site preparation and earthworks package, while the overall infrastructure development under the SPK Tanjung Manis project amounts to RM20 million.
The project is implemented by the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) as the executing agency, with the Rajang Delta Development Agency (RADDA) as the project owner.
Len Talif said the initiative was designed to ensure that villages would be systematically planned, modern and conducive to living, while offering affordable and flexible land ownership terms to enable locals to own homes more easily.
“The project would generate employment opportunities for local residents during the construction phase and create long-term economic prospects through agriculture, fisheries, small enterprises and related industries as the area develops.
“As a strategic investment, this project is aimed at transforming Tanjung Manis into a dynamic, competitive and sustainable growth centre in the Rajang Delta region,” he said.
Len Talif also called for strong collaboration among the state government, RADDA, the Department of Lands and Survey and other relevant agencies, as well as the contractors and the local community to ensure the project’s success.
“Without cooperation, coordination and commitment from all parties, the objectives of this project cannot be fully achieved,” he stressed.
Among those present were LCDA Real Estate Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Hardi Fadillah Hamzah representing the LCDA general manager; Mukah Resident Datu Kueh Lei Poh; RADDA special administrative officer Kelana Kipli; and Tanjung Manis District officer Ismail Kasa.