BETONG: Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has outlined a clear vision for Betong, aiming to transform the district into a cleaner, more progressive, and developed town over the next three years, with a strong emphasis on people-centric governance and grassroots leadership.

Speaking after witnessing the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed chairman and 30 councillors of the Betong District Council for the 2025–2028 term, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah highlighted several development goals that he hopes will shape the future of Betong.

"I want the Council to devise plans and strategies that will make Betong a more progressive, developed, and clean town within the next three years. In terms of cleanliness, I want Betong to become one of the cleanest, if not the cleanest, districts in the state," he said.

To achieve this, he revealed that the Council is exploring several sustainable waste management solutions, including waste segregation, recycling, composting, and the possible development of an incinerator.

He also noted that connectivity in the district is steadily improving, particularly with ongoing infrastructure upgrades.

“Our accessibility is getting better, especially with the Bebuling Airport project, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year,” he added.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah also announced that a new council building has been proposed and the matter has already been submitted to the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Openg, for consideration.

In the realm of tourism development, he disclosed that work on the RM16 million replica of the historic fortress of legendary Iban warrior Rentap at Bukit Sadok is expected to begin this year. The initiative aims to preserve local heritage while boosting tourism in the area.

He took the opportunity to remind the newly appointed councillors of their roles as community leaders and vital links between the government and the people.

"You are the bridge between the people and the government. We rely on you to communicate the various policies and programmes introduced for the wellbeing of the people, and also to gather feedback on their effectiveness and implementation. It is essential that you work together as a cohesive and united team," he said.

Among those present at the event were Deputy Minister for Youth, Sport & Entrepreneur Development and Layar Assemblyman, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, Saribas Assemblyman, Datuk Mohd Razi Sitam, Beting Maro Assemblyman, Razaili Gapor, Batang Lupar MP, Mohamad Shafizan Kipli, Betong Resident, Richard Micheal Abunawas and other dignitaries. -UKASnews