10-07-2025
RM10.5 mln Kapit Waterfront extension completed in time for Baleh-Kapit Raft Safari
Nanta (sixth left) and Andy (seventh left) witnessing the handover of project documents between JKR Kapit engineer Jawa Gara (left) and KDC secretary Opang Melay.
KAPIT (July 10): Works Minister, Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, today officiated the completion of the Kapit Waterfront riverbank extension and slope protection project — a timely upgrade ahead of the Baleh-Kapit Raft Safari, which kicks off today and runs until July 13.
The RM10.5 million project, implemented by the Kapit Public Works Department (JKR), began on December 27, 2022, and was completed on June 26 this year.
Despite facing delays due to extreme weather and additional scope of work, the project was delivered successfully.
'As Kapit's MP since 1999, I am very concerned about every development that takes place here,' said Nanta, during the officiation ceremony.
He noted that the riverbank extension and slope protection works had been long awaited by the local community, and expressed appreciation to all parties involved in bringing the project to fruition.
Nanta stressed that both federal and state governments remain committed to building modern, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure for the people.
'The Kapit Waterfront project is part of the state government's initiative. It not only beautifies the town but also serves as a venue for social, recreational, and economic activities,' he said.
Phase 1 of the extension focused on enhancing safety, structural integrity, and visual appeal, particularly to improve access for rural residents who rely on river transport.
He added that the upgraded waterfront is expected to boost tourism and support local economic activity, especially for small traders and hawkers.
'It can become a healthy gathering space that unites the community and positions Kapit as a more progressive, competitive township aligned with Sarawak's development agenda.'
New features include pedestrian walkways, street lighting, cultural landscaping, design motifs reflecting local identity, as well as dedicated spaces for events and commerce.
At the same event, Nanta also launched the 'Tugu Bujang Berani', a monument overlooking the Rajang River.
According to Veterans Association of Malaysia (PVATM) Kapit chairman Martin Bilun, the monument honours the brave men of Kapit Division who served in the armed forces since the colonial era, including Iban trackers, British Army veterans, Sarawak Rangers, and members of the Malaysian Armed Forces.
'It is a tribute to the courage and struggles of the Dayak people in defending Sarawak and Malaysia,' said Martin.
Present at the event were federal Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong; Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Native Customs and Laws) Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat; Pelagus assemblyman Wilson Nyabong; Baleh assemblyman Nicholas Kudi Jantai; KDC chairman Andy Lawrence; Political Secretary to Sarawak Premier Watson Awan Jalai; and Political Secretary to Nanta, Ambrose Abong Bugek.
