BARIO: Efforts to strengthen rural development continue to be intensified through a work visit to Long Balau to review the basic needs and well-being of local residents.

The visit provided the government with an opportunity to assess the current state of facilities such as roads, water supply, electricity, telecommunications, education and health in the interior areas.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) and Mulu Assemblyman, Datuk Gerawat Gala, who led the visit, said that the needs of rural people are always a priority so that they are not marginalized from the state's development.

He stressed that the Sarawak government is committed to strengthening rural development through close cooperation between implementing agencies, local leadership and grassroots communities to ensure that each area enjoys the benefits of comprehensive development.

Datuk Gerawat also appreciated the role of community leaders, tribal leaders and the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) which are important links between the government and the people.

This working visit reflects the state government's continued concern in strengthening ties with rural communities and ensuring balanced development throughout Sarawak. –UKASnews