KUCHING: The construction of the Baleh Hydroelectric Power (HEP) Dam is a game changer for Ulu Baram because of the road connectivity.
According to Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Masing, the construction of the Baleh Dam would attract more infrastructure development as well as boosting the local economy.
“Apart from the people in longhouses using it (electricity), there must be a bigger project up there. That is why I am very keen to make sure that the Baleh Dam is built because without the dam, there will be no road,” Masing said after the presentation of Minor Rural Project (MRP) grants totaling RM245,200 to 21 NGOs in his office at Baitulmakmur Building, Petra Jaya here, yesterday.
He added that it was very difficult to build an expensive road to cater to residents of a few longhouses. There must be a bigger project that benefit from it, too.
Masing also noted that the construction of the Baleh Dam will finance (the road construction) and at the same time provide electricity for the industries including domestic consumers.
“Not only the people of Baleh will benefit from the dam but the whole of Sarawak will also benefit from it too,” said Masing.
He also disclosed that the dam’s construction packages have been awarded as construction is in progress and the road connecting Ulu Baleh to Kapit is expected to be ready in three years’ time.
