Latest news with #Ismawi
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak aims for full rural road connectivity by 2030, says Uggah
Uggah (centre) in a discussion with Ismawi (right) and others after officiating at the HDA laboratory today. KUCHING (June 18): The Sarawak government under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is committed to ensuring all rural settlements in the state are linked by road access by 2030, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah. In a statement today, Uggah emphasised that this ambitious goal can be achieved through the implementation of key infrastructure projects under the jurisdiction of the state's nine regional development agencies. He stressed the importance of these agencies being able to efficiently utilise their allocations – amounting to RM1.5 billion – for infrastructure and economic development initiatives intended to uplift rural communities. 'It becomes an issue if you (regional development agencies) are not able to do so. Our Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, expects the funds to be disbursed and used as soon as possible,' he said. 'People expect these allocations to be used to fulfill their expectations for better communication and better standard of living. 'If not, they will turn to social media to express their frustrations against the government and the elected representatives,' he added. Uggah, who is also State Infrastructure and Port Development Minister, made these remarks during the officiation of a Highland Development Agency (HDA) laboratory today, where proposed projects and programmes under the 13th Malaysia Plan were presented. According to him, the HDA has already channelled RM1 billion of its allocated funds towards various infrastructure and economic development projects. Uggah, also the HDA chairman, expressed hope that the remaining RM500 million would be fully utilised by the middle of next year. Highlighting challenges in the Baram region, Uggah pointed out that the area has numerous roads, especially old logging tracks that are in urgent need of maintenance, upgrades, or replacement bridges. 'The situation (there) is complicated. We must find long-term solutions,' he said, adding that he would lead a team from the Public Works Department (JKR) for a two-day site visit to Bario this July. Touching on the HAD's economic development efforts, Uggah noted that Bario holds strong potentials for agriculture, particularly coffee and passionfruit planting, as well as handicraft production and buffalo rearing. 'I understand there is a large wild buffalo population, though they belong to locals. I suggest the owners consider domesticating them,' he said. He also mentioned the Meragang buffalo breeding station in Limbang, where cheese production from buffalo milk is being explored as part of agro-based industry initiatives. Uggah added that Bario's unique local customs and culture could also be harnessed to develop the tourism sector. Accompanying Uggah were Baram MP Datuk Anyie Ngau, Mulu assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala, Marudi assemblyman Datu Dr Penguang Manggil, Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau, and the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) chief executive officer Datu Ismawi Ismuni. douglas uggah Highland Development Agency road access
Borneo Post
26-04-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Bakti Madani programme returns to Miri next month
Ismawi (second left) shares some points during the press conference. MIRI (April 26): The Bakti Madani (PBM) programme themed 'SCORE Towards People's Empowerment' is set to run this May 9-11 at the Miri City Stadium here, along with this May 10 in Sepupok, Niah. Initially slated for February, this event was postponed following the flood disaster that hit several areas in Sarawak, particularly in Miri, out of concern for the affected communities. The programme is jointly organised by the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) and Performance Improvement Coordination Unit (Pacu), under the Prime Minister's Office. It aims to bridge the gap between the government and people through direct service delivery, strengthen comprehensive economic opportunities, and showcase Sarawak's achievements through the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Recoda chief executive officer and the event's organising chairman Datuk Haji Ismawi bin Haji Ismuni said the programme reflects Recoda and Pacu's commitment in ensuring that it has a significant and comprehensive impact on the people. He added that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is expected to officiate the opening ceremony, scheduled for May 10 starting from 10.30 am. 'The programme will feature exhibitions by the federal and state government agencies, government-linked companies (GLCs), financial institutions, and the private sector, along with a Career Fair that will connect youths and job seekers with employers for job opportunities. 'Additionally, Pocket Talk sessions will feature discussions on various important topics including health, education, cybersecurity, and current issues closely related to public interest. 'At the pavilion, there will be booths by the Economic Planning Unit (EPU), Recoda, and other agencies, which will provide information on the Sarawak and Madani government's numerous programmes and initiatives that have been carried out for the benefit of the people,' he said. Moreover, there will be a Rahmah Sale by two major supermarkets in Miri offering daily necessities at affordable prices to the local community, as well as a Recoda Entrepreneur Carnival where entrepreneurs can market their businesses and products, he added. Other activities lined-up are the People's Concert to be held on May 10 outside the Miri Indoor Stadium, featuring performances from artistes like Baby Shima, Ricky Andrewson, and Alleycats; 'Battle of the Bands'; zumba sessions; children's colouring competition; and various family-friendly attractions. 'Visitors could also stand a chance to win attractive lucky draw prizes, including the grand prize of a Proton Saga 1.3 Premium, three SM Sport 110E (N2) motorcycles, and electronic goods such as iPads and Smart TVs. 'Meanwhile, the Satellite Programme will be held on May 10 at the Sepupok Open Stadium, Niah featuring a 'gotong-royong' (work party) and free health screening,' said Ismawi. He added that these initiatives demonstrate the government's continued commitment to realising the Madani Economic Agenda and supporting Sarawak's aspirations to become a developed and high-income state through PCDS 2030. 'We are delighted to finally welcome the public in Miri and surrounding areas to this long-awaited programme, and we look forward to encouraging participation from the local community.' Also present at the press conference were Recoda director Dr Hadysyam Junaidi, Highland Development Agency director Juan Ubit, and TV Sarawak (TVS) acting chief executive officer Sardon Zainal. Bakti Madani miri Pacu Recoda
