KAPIT: The Ulu Rajang Development Agency (URDA) under the Sarawak Government continues to strengthen its role as the main driver of strategic development in the Ulu Rajang area, covering the districts of Kapit, Song, Kanowit, Bukit Mabong and Belaga with a total area of 41,186.5 square kilometres.
Recently, a special briefing session was held by URDA to the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for the Regional Development Agency, Kuching North City Hall and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi which was delivered by URDA Acting Regional Director, Dr Nelson Brandah Seli which aimed to provide a comprehensive explanation on infrastructure development initiatives and socio-economic programmes in the area.
The Sarawak Government has previously allocated RM1.5 billion to each regional development agency (RDA) to implement various infrastructure projects, including those supervised by URDA under the supervision of Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA).
To date, RECODA has supervised 247 projects funded by the Sarawak Government and 28 projects funded by the Federal Government covering the construction of roads, bridges, water supply systems, river structures, recreational facilities, school improvements and the preparation of master plans.
Under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), URDA also received allocations to implement eight major infrastructure projects in its areas including high-impact developments that not only improve the standard of living of the population, but also harness the potential of the area such as hydroelectric power generation, commercial agriculture, aquaculture and ecotourism.
The briefing programme also demonstrated the state government's commitment to ensuring comprehensive and balanced development in rural areas.
The presence of key state government leaders and representatives from technical departments also provided strong support for this development initiative.
Through the session, strategic relationships between implementing agencies and stakeholders can be strengthened, opening up opportunities for stronger cooperation for the well-being of the community in the Upper Rajang Basin.
Earlier, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman also took the opportunity to tour the office space and meeting rooms at the URDA office where it is understood that the office building will be fully utilised after all the works have been completed in the near future.
Also present were Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Native Laws and Customs), Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, Kapit Division Resident, Elvis Didit, Kapit Division Deputy Resident, Robert Liman Deli, Political Secretary in the Sarawak Premier's Department, Watson Awan, and other dignitaries. -UKASnews
