MARUDI: The new Miri to Marudi road construction project scheduled to commence this June is described as a major catalyst for economic development and progress in the Baram hinterland.

Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government and Marudi Assemblyman, Datuk Dr. Penguang Manggil said the modern infrastructure would not only facilitate communication, but also open up wider economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

"Marudi has great potential in the field of entrepreneurship. With a better road network, we expect more economic activities to be driven by the local population, especially Bumiputera entrepreneurs," he said.

He said this when officiating the Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri and Entrepreneurs Forum organised by the Marudi Branch of the Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs' Association (DUBS) at the Marudi Civic Centre on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Datuk Dr. Penguang also praised the active role of the Marudi Branch of the DUBS as one of the most progressive branches in Sarawak.

He stressed the need for entrepreneurs, including the young, to seize the opportunities provided by the government through various programmes and assistance.

In another development, Datuk Dr. Penguang also announced that the Baram Regatta is expected to be organised again at the end of this year.

He said it is expected to further boost tourism and economic activities in the interior areas.

The event, which was also held in conjunction with the 3rd Annual General Meeting of the Marudi DUBS, brought together more than 60 participants including DUBS members and the local community.

Also present were the Chairman of the Marudi Branch of DUBS, Mujan Lah, the representative of the Marudi District Officer, Fazzwan Yunus, DUBS Sarawak Secretary-General, Jezamine Dior, DUBS Sarawak Executive Secretary, Sabini Abang and the Marudi District Police Chief, DSP Nor Aizan Mohamad Jamil. -UKASnews