Yap defends major infrastructure projects amid opposition

SARAWAK must pursue forward-looking development through vision, courage and responsible investment, says Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

He was alluding to opposition to three major infrastructure projects — the proposed New Kuching International Airport, Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system and new deep-sea port — arguing that Sarawak must look beyond present limitations and prepare for future economic demands.

He said fiscal responsibility is important but should not become an excuse for abandoning strategic development, stressing that the state must weigh not only the cost of investment but also the opportunities lost by failing to invest.

“With Sarawak’s 2027 revenue projected at a record RM15.091 billion, our responsibility is to manage these resources prudently while investing wisely in the state’s future,” he said when debating the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting today (Oct 15).

On the proposed new Kuching International Airport, Yap said Sarawak needs to consider future aviation connectivity, tourism, trade and investment demands rather than focus solely on upgrading existing facilities.

He also cautioned that rejecting the ART project in favour of expanding roads could deepen dependence on private vehicles, saying Kuching needed sustainable mobility solutions to address its future transportation needs.

On the proposed deep-sea port, he said the existence of Bintulu Port should not prevent the state from assessing the need for additional capacity to support future industrial growth, maritime activities and exports.

However, Yap stressed that major infrastructure projects must be supported by proper feasibility studies, transparent financing and rigorous cost controls to ensure public funds were spent responsibly.

He said there was a fundamental difference between demanding accountability and opposing development altogether.

“The opposition is entitled to criticise, but it must also explain how Sarawak can achieve its economic ambitions without the infrastructure needed to support them.

“We must be financially disciplined, but never economically backward. Sarawak needs vision, courage and responsible investment—not “GOSTAN” Politics or politics of going backwards, ” he said.