Rep proposes ‘Nelayan Park', O&G hub to boost Balingian's economy
Abdul Yakub suggests developing the coastal area at the estuary of Sungai Badengan into a new tourism attraction, with facilities such as access roads to the beach, and amenities supporting fishing and recreational sports. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (May 21): Abdul Yakub Arbi (GPS-Balingian) has proposed the development of a 'Nelayan Park' project aimed at benefiting the fishing communities in the Seberang Mukah area, particularly in Kampung Litong, Kampung Tanjung, Kampung Bunut, and Kampung Sungai Alo.
He presented the proposal during the Motion of Appreciation on the Speech by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today, emphasising efforts to strengthen the local economy through an inclusive and sustainable development approach.
Abdul Yakub explained that the 'Nelayan Park' would incorporate elements of traditional village life, fishing activities, and the coastal ecosystem, leveraging these natural assets for sustainable development.
'This project will not only empower the fishing community through improved infrastructure, but can also serve as an interactive and educational centre focused on fisheries, recreation, and the preservation of local maritime culture,' he said.
He suggested developing the coastal area at the estuary of Sungai Badengan into a new tourism attraction, with facilities such as access roads to the beach, and amenities supporting fishing and recreational sports.
'With this development, I believe Seberang Mukah and Mateding will not only become attractive tourism destinations, but also serve as catalysts for local economic growth.
'It is also expected to help preserve the heritage of the fishing communities, which form an important part of Sarawak's coastal identity,' he said.
In addition, Abdul Yakub proposed establishing a landing facility for oil and gas resources in the Balingian constituency, following Petronas' announcement on March 30, 2021, regarding a major new oil and gas discovery at the Sirung-1 wildcat exploration well in Block SK405B under the Production Sharing Contract.
He noted that the discovery, located in the shallow waters off Balingian, holds significant potential to boost economic development in the area.
'Mateding has been identified as the most strategic location for this activity.
'If realised, the project will create many new job opportunities, especially for youths and local residents of Balingian, and will help reduce the migration of the workforce to urban areas,' he said.
To support the industry's growth, Abdul Yakub also called for the establishment of a technical training institute in the area.
He stressed that such an institute is vital to develop skilled and competent human capital aligned with the needs of the oil and gas sector and related industries.
'I believe that with this dual approach – industry landing and skills development – Balingian can rise to become a sustainable and competitive new industrial development hub in central Sarawak,' he said. Abdul Yakub Arbi Balingian DUN Nelayan Park oil and gas
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