BETONG: The Sarawak government ensures fair compensation for landowners affected by development projects.

Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas emphasised that landowners will be compensated if the government requires land for development projects, reaffirming the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government's policy of avoiding land seizure.

Speaking during a Land Compensation Handover Ceremony in Betong Bazaar on Monday, he revealed that the compensations were given for landowners affected by two new road construction projects.

“Firstly, there is a road from Saka, Betong to Spaoh and Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Paku Central costing RM136 million. This road will upgrade the existing road network around Bebuling Spaoh Airport area for smoother travel.

“Starting from Saka, Betong, it also marks the junction point with the ongoing construction project of the Second Trunk Road towards Sri Aman, making the distance shorter.

“The second project is the Ulu Paku / Ulu Kota / Pakan Road spanning 33.2 kilometres, with a cost of RM250 million. This is another segment of the Second Trunk Road package,” he said/

The Bukit Sabang Assemblyman added that the road would soon offer a shorter alternative route from Betong through Ulu Paku, Spaoh to Sibu, bypassing the Saratok and Roban areas.

Also present during the ceremony were Sarawak Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu, Krian Assemblyman, Friday Belik, Resident of Betong Division, Richard Michael Abunawas, and other guests. -UKASnews