‘Long Lama will not be lama anymore’: Premier says Baram roads, logging routes to expand access

Abang Johari speaks during Majlis Makan Malam Bersama Komuniti Bahagian Miri on April 24, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (Japen)

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, April 25: Long Lama may no longer remain “lama” (old) once the Miri-Marudi, Marudi-Mulu and Long Panai-Long Lama (MMMLL) road project is fully completed by 2029, says Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Playing on the name of the settlement, Abang Johari said improved road access would change the landscape of the interior, turning once-remote areas into more connected and developed communities.

“Works are ongoing using tractors to build the road from Marudi all the way to Mulu. InsyaAllah by 2029, if nothing goes wrong, this road will be completed from Miri right up to Long Lama and Long Panai.

“There may even be nicknames for these places. Maybe Long Lama will not be ‘lama’ (old) anymore. Long Lama could become Long Baru (new).

“Once the road and infrastructure are completed, other things will follow, including consistent water supply and electricity,” he said when speaking at the Majlis Makan Malam Bersama Komuniti Bahagian Miri held at a local hotel in Miri, which was broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) last night (April 24).

Abang Johari further said the road project, totalling nearly RM3 billion, reflects the government’s long-term commitment to opening up Baram, despite limited direct economic returns.

“For the people in Baram, we still build the road because it opens up the area,” he said.

Separately, he said the Sarawak government has taken over former logging roads in the region and will upgrade them for public use, ensuring rural communities can now use them without any charges.

“A community leader from the Orang Ulu told me that if they use logging roads, they are not allowed to do so unless they obtain permission from the company, and in some cases they also have to pay.

“Thus, I made the decision that the Sarawak government will take over these logging roads. The alignment will be improved, and the public will be able to use them without any charges. No more tolls,” he said. — DayakDaily