Adopt proactive, holistic steps to boost rural infrastructure devt, Murum rep tells S’wak govt
by Aileen Yap · Borneo Post OnlineKUCHING (Nov 15): Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon has urged the Sarawak government to adopt proactive and holistic measures to enhance infrastructure development in rural areas, particularly in his constituency.
He emphasised that projects, including upgrading works on roads and bridges, are vital ‘strategic trust’ and act as a catalyst for rural development in the state.
“Among the roads that require urgent attention are the former logging roads leading to Lusong Laku (55km) and Ulu Jelalong, Tubau (88km), where access to key areas is often disrupted by deteriorated timber bridges and landslides during rainy seasons,” he said when debating the Supply (2025) Bill, 2024 in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) here today.
Chukpai proposed that all logging roads and former logging roads in interior areas be taken over by the state government for comprehensive repairs, upgrades, and regular maintenance.
This is to ensure access to these interior areas remain in good and safe quality, he added.
Additionally, he welcomes the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of farmers and smallholders through various development programmes for food crops, aquaculture, livestock, and veterinary projects.
He also proposed the implementation of large-scale commercial paddy cultivation in Lusong Laku, Belaga, and Jelalong, Sebauh, utilising hybrid rice technology and modern farming methods.
“These areas have vast lands that are highly suitable for paddy cultivation.
“With the adoption of ‘Smart and Precision Farming’ methods, we could become a rice producer contributing significantly to food security in Sarawak,” he said.
For oil palm smallholders, he suggested the Agriculture Department or Ministry Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development (M-Ficord) allocate funds to upgrade farm roads throughout the state, particularly in Tubau and Sungai Asap areas.
“This will enhance palm oil production and subsequently increase the income of our people,” said Chukpai.