DUN Sarawak: Improve infrastructure, public facilities in Bintulu

KUCHING, 15 Oct: Tanjong Batu State Legislative Assembly (ADUN) member Johnny Pang Leong Ming proposed several infrastructure and public facilities improvements to be implemented in Bintulu to meet the growing population needs, in line with economic and industrial development of the area.

He welcomed the Government of Sarawak's allocation in education, infrastructure and industrial development sectors including proposals for construction of twin roads from Kemena Bridge to Bintulu Airport as well as extension of Samalaju Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Cluster.

"Industrial development success should not be measured solely by the number of factories or value of investment, but also how many local businesses are growing and how many workers are getting better-paying jobs", he said.

He said this while discussing Sarawak Budget 2027 at the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Conference today.

In terms of infrastructure, Johnny suggested that Tanjong Batu Road be considered for upgrades to a six-lane road in order to cope with increased traffic flow following residential and commercial development.

He also called for improvement of roads and paring systems in old residential areas, as well as studies to address the problems of low water pressure and water quality in some residential areas.

At the same time, he also asked the government to consider extending flood mitigation projects to high-risk residential areas, including Orang Hills Park, Sibiew RPR, Jason Park, Jade Garden and Pearl Garden.

In addition, Johnny hopes that the construction of a second public hospital, provision of more affordable properties and the relocation of Bintulu Regional Police Headquarters (IPD) from Grade B to Grade A can be given attention.

Meanwhile in the field of education, he welcomed RM38 million allocation for the establishment of Sarawak Foundation International Secondary Schools campuses in Bintulu and Miri, as well as suggesting extension of educational assistance to Sixth Grade students from low-income families.

He stressed that every provision should be translated to the real benefit of the people.

"A truly prosperous Sarawak is not just a Sarawak with stronger economies, but a Sarawak that gives every family a fair opportunity to build a better future", he explained.