Uggah: 13MP border road connectivity plans align with Sarawak's efforts to improve links with Kalimantan
KUCHING (Aug 1): The federal government's plan to enhance road connectivity along the border under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) yesterday aligns with Sarawak's ongoing efforts, said Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
The Deputy Premier said the state is working to improve border roads, particularly those linking to neighbouring Kalimantan, Indonesia.
'This was proposed earlier to ensure proper planning for border roads. The Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) has also announced several projects, including Phase 2 of the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road (SSLR) and other highway developments.
'So, we thank the federal government. JKR (Public Works Department) is ready to implement all projects approved by the federal government for Sarawak,' he told reporters after officiating at the 37th Kuching City Day celebration on behalf of the Premier at Pangkalan Sapi, Petra Jaya today.
On the proposed locations for the border roads, Uggah said several areas have been identified considering Sarawak's existing and expanding road networks.
'There are a number of locations being considered because we already have a wide road network — SSLR 1, SSLR 2, the Pan Borneo Highway — and this year, we also have several projects planned along the border areas.
'So, we will look into how these can be connected,' he said.
When tabling the 13MP yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government will proceed with several infrastructure projects to strengthen cross-border connectivity and boost the economy.
These include enhancing border road networks connecting Sabah and Sarawak with Kalimantan, Indonesia.
Separately, Uggah, who is State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, said the state's air quality remained within safe levels despite current dry weather conditions.
He said SDMC has instructed all divisional disaster management committees to activate their machinery and resources to monitor and respond quickly to any fire outbreaks.
'So far, all areas in Sarawak, including Kuching, are reporting healthy air quality,' he added. 13th Malaysia Plan border road Douglas Uggah Embas lead
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