Sarawak takeover of logging roads will benefit rural communities, says Batu Danau rep

LIMBANG (Dec 18): The Sarawak government’s plan to take over and convert active and inactive logging roads, including village roads within logging areas, into state roads has been lauded for its potential benefits to rural and interior communities.

Batu Danau assemblyman Dato Paulus Palu Gumbang said many logging roads in Sarawak, including those in Limbang, have fallen into disrepair and are no longer maintained.

“These roads serve as vital routes for residents, improving connectivity between settlements and urban centres,” he said.

Paulus added that the state’s initiative to take over the existing logging roads and maintain them is a welcome move, particularly in areas where logging companies have ceased operations.

“In Limbang, for example, many roads have deteriorated to the extent that some routes are only accessible by motorcycles,” he noted.

He expressed his gratitude to the state government for the plan, which is expected to commence next year.

The move is anticipated to strengthen the road network, improve safety, and accelerate socio-economic development in Sarawak’s rural and interior areas.

Paulus also commended Lee Ling Timber Sdn Bhd for its ongoing corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, particularly programmes benefiting Kelabit, Penan and Iban communities.

Paulus said the move is expected to strengthen the road network, enhance safety and accelerate socio-economic development in rural and interior areas of Sarawak.

He also commended Lee Ling Timber for its continuous and proactive efforts in implementing CSR programmes for rural communities, particularly involving the Penan, Kelabit and Iban communities.

“The Christmas CSR programme brought cheer to communities while helping to ease their burdens during the festive season,” he said.

Paulus expressed hope that other major companies, including those involved in the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road (SSLR) and the Northern Coastal Highway (NCH) projects, would implement similar CSR programmes to benefit rural communities.

Also present was Lee Ling Timber Sdn Bhd manager Kenneth Chieng Siong Woo.

development logging roads Paulus Palu Gumbang rural communities state roads