GEDONG: The Sarawak Government is set to maintain its focus on enhancing the food security sector through the development of various basic infrastructure projects in rural areas, directly benefiting local communities.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said 70 per cent of the Sarawak Budget 2025 has been allocated to rural areas, with particular emphasis on food security and tourism.
"The food security sector is one where we have prioritised infrastructure development, including roads, electricity supply, water supply, and digital connectivity for rural areas.
"This will not only enhance the agriculture sector but also boost food production, which we will continue to process locally," he said in a press conference after the closing ceremony of the ‘Program Digital Desa Bank Rakyat 2025 Gedong’ at the Datuk Patinggi Ali Hall on Tuesday.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari added that the tourism sector is also a key focus in rural areas to further stimulate the local economy.
He highlighted that with the development of roads such as the Pan Borneo Highway and coastal roads, tourists will be able to access attractions like Mulu Caves and Niah Caves, while in Kuching, areas like Padawan will offer greater access to visitors exploring Sarawak.
"Additionally, with the acquisition of our own airline, we will undoubtedly improve services for rural communities.
"For instance, in Spaoh, we are constructing our own airport (the Bebuling Stolport), which will transform Betong.
“With accessible locations like these, international tourists may be drawn to explore the unique attractions of our rural areas," he explained.
During the event, a total of RM1,950,325.90 in land compensation was disbursed to 110 recipients for two major infrastructure projects.
The first project is the Spur Road Project from Kampung Batu Pengasah to Gedong-Samalatong, Samarahan, spanning approximately 6 kilometres, with RM1,046,189.40 in compensation distributed to 74 recipients.
Meanwhile, the second project is the road from Kampung Benat to Kampung Gumpey, Gedong, Samarahan, covering approximately 2.8 kilometres, where RM904,136.50 was allocated as compensation to 36 recipients. -UKASnews
