State-Federal Collaboration Key To More Balanced Development In Sarawak -- Abang Johari

LIMBANG, Sept 11  (Bernama) -- Close cooperation between the state and federal governments is crucial to ensuring more balanced infrastructure development across Sarawak, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He emphasised that such collaboration is essential to ensure infrastructure projects in Sarawak are implemented fairly and inclusively, particularly in the interior and northern regions, which have long faced limitations in basic facilities.

“This (SSLR2 project) is the infrastructure that is currently being developed. As a state, we are committed to working closely with the federal government so that we can achieve seamless mobility in northern Sarawak,” he said at the launch of the Sarawak–Sabah Link Road Phase 2 (SSLR2) project in Nanga Medamit near here today.

The project was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Also present was Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

Abang Johari added that this collaborative approach not only drives local economic growth but also enhances the overall well-being of the people.

Abang Johari said the road project would bring significant benefits to the people of northern Sarawak by improving the transportation network, thereby driving economic growth and social development.

“This road will not only link Sarawak with Sabah but also connect to Brunei Darussalam, strengthening the integration of the three regions in Borneo and contributing to ASEAN’s overall development,” he said.

He said that in addition to the  SSLR2 project, Sarawak is actively developing other road networks, including a connection from Marudi to Mulu and a new route from Miri to Lawas that links directly to Sabah.

“With proper road infrastructure, coupled with electricity and water supply provided through state government initiatives, economic activities such as tourism and agriculture in northern Sarawak will thrive,” he said.

Abang Johari also expressed his appreciation to the Prime Minister for personally visiting the interior areas to understand the needs of Sarawakians.

“In conjunction with Malaysia Day, we reaffirm our commitment to working together towards building a successful and prosperous Malaysia for the future,” he said.

-- BERNAMA