KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is committed to developing Kampung Sejijak and its surrounding areas into a tourism hub and new community-based settlement through the implementation of strategic projects, including the construction of a riverfront and affordable housing.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the project is part of an initiative to further invigorate river-based economic and tourism activities in suburban areas.

He emphasised the importance of establishing a river tourism network linking Sejijak, Satok, and Siniawan as a fresh attraction for both local and international visitors.

“Just imagine being able to hop on a boat from Kuching, stop by Sejijak for a meal, and then continue on to Siniawan.
“This not only revives our river culture but also opens up economic opportunities for the local population,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Sejijak Regatta 2025 on Sunday.

In conjunction with the event, he also announced an allocation of RM20 million for the development of a riverfront in Kampung Sejijak.

In addition, he said the Sarawak Government plans to build 100 units of affordable housing on a 30-hectare site between Kampung Sejijak and Kampung Paroh.

“The housing project will be equipped with basic infrastructure such as roads, water supply, electricity, and drainage, all fully funded by the state government.

“The people will only need to pay a minimal land premium of RM2,500 and make affordable loan repayments for the house itself. The infrastructure will be borne by the government,” he added.

He also noted that this development is seen as a continuation of existing projects in Kampung Segedup and the surrounding areas.

To improve connectivity between the villages, the government is also proposing the construction of a new road linking Jalan Tan Sri Dr. Sulaiman Daud to Kampung Segedup, Sejijak, and Paroh.

This is expected to reduce both travel distance and time.

“This move is believed to help balance development between urban and rural areas, in line with the aspirations of the Sarawak Government,” he added.

Also present at the closing ceremony were Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak and Tupong Assemblyman, who also chairs the Sejijak Regatta 2025, Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, Director of Sarawak’s Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Datu Ahmad Denney Ahmad Fauzi, Director of the Sarawak Public Communications Unit, Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan, Deputy Mayor of Kuching South City Council, Dato Dr. Zaiedi Suhaili, Kuching Division Resident, Dayang Joanita Azizah Abang Morshidi Padawan Municipal Council Chairman, Councillor Tan Kai, as well as other invited guests. -UKASnews