KUCHING: The Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) has set aside an allocation of RM82 million for activities and projects aimed at increasing the people's income.
Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said a sum of RM15.5 million would be used this year for such purposes.
He said this after chairing a meeting with its agro-food committee and representatives from the Sarawak Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, the Sarawak Veterinary Services Department, the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), the Farmers' Organisation and others at his office here, on Thursday.
Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah stated that the meeting was to discuss with the industry players in identifying the potential programmes and projects besides fine tuning the implementation process.
"Time is not on our side. So, we hope to implement our programmes and projects as scheduled. We too, have decided not to allow bureaucratic procedures to delay us," he said.
Addressing the aspirations of Betong residents, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah who is also the BDDA Chairman acknowledged their anticipation of tangible benefits from BDDA and its allocated RM1.5 billion for development.
As such, he pledged the concerted efforts of the seven elected representatives, of areas under the jurisdiction of BDDA, in collaboration with the community.
“At the same time, we want everyone to give us their fullest collaboration and cooperation,” he stressed.
Highlighting the division's focus areas, he outlined plans for modern agriculture and tourism.
In agriculture, the emphasis will be on adopting modern farming techniques such as fertigation and hydroponics, alongside ventures into organic livestock farming.
He stressed the significance of the Pan Borneo Highway and Bebuling STOLport completion in facilitating swift transportation of agricultural produce to market destinations.
Expounding on tourism prospects, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah touted Betong's diverse offerings, including cultural festivals, eco-tourism opportunities, and historical attractions.
Notably, plans are underway to construct a replica of Rentap's fortress on Bukit Sadok, with RM16 million allocated for the project.
He also emphasised the economic potential of tourism activities, envisioning them as sources of income for locals.
Looking ahead, the Sarawak Deputy Premier outlined a vision for Betong residents to become high-income earners by 2030, aligning with Sarawak's aim to achieve high-income status and uplift the standard of living for its people.
Also present were Krian Assemblyman, Friday Belik, Beting Maro Assemblyman, Razaili Gapor, Kalaka Assemblyman, Mohamad Duri, Political secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Roseline Mapong, Betong Division Resident, Richard Michael Abunawas and BDDA Special Task Officer, Abang Mohamad Abang Turkey. -UKASnews
