Abang Johari: Project implementation in Kapit Division delayed due to logistic problems
KAPIT, Feb 1 — Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg today said that the government will conduct a study on the implementation of projects in Kapit Division under the mid-term review of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
He said one of the main challenges faced in completing government projects in the division, especially in Balleh and the newly created Mabong district, is the logistics problem.
“We face this problem where the contractors have difficulty bringing their construction materials to the development sites, like the airstrip in Sungai Tunoh area in Mabong district,” he told reporters after chairing the State Development Coordination Committee (SDCC) meeting here.
“We have to find solutions to the logistic problem. If the sites are not accessible by roads, then the contractors will have to use the river to bring the construction materials.”
He said it is cheaper to transport the construction materials using barges in large volumes.
“The contractors have forgotten that they can use the river to the development sites, instead of just relying on the roads,” he said.
Abang Johari said there is also an urgent need to sort out land matters with the owners who can cause delay in implementing projects.
He said the owners initially agreed for the government to use their lands, but some of them changed their minds later.
“We will implement the projects, like basic amenities like treated water and electricity supplies, after sorting out the land issues with the owners,” he said,.
Meanwhile, he said development in Kapit town and areas outside the town, in general, is moving at a fast pace, adding that the government will develop the Kapit town extension plan, covering the commercial centres and housing schemes.
He said the regional agency, Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA), has so far spent RM400 million out of an allocation of RM1.5 billion for various projects in Kapit Division.
