KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas highlighted Betong’s area tourism potential and outlined plans for infrastructure development in a recent meeting with various stakeholders.
Uggah, who is also the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) chairman, mentioned on the programmes and projects, stressing they would be in two main areas of modern agriculture and tourism.
“In agriculture, we will focus on the modern farming methods of fertigation and hydroponic vegetables and fruits. We too will go into livestock farming like organic chicken, pigs and cattle breeding.
“These are the things we feel we can develop in Betong. The completion of the Bebuling Stolport next year will mean we can transport our food products immediately to market destinations,” he said when chairing a meeting at his office on Thursday (April 18).
Regarding tourism, he emphasised that the division boasts a wealth of attractions, including traditional Iban longhouses, pristine jungles ideal for jungle trekking, ‘Tagang’ systems promoting aquatic life conservation, homestay programmes in longhouses and villages, rich cultural experiences, and diverse handicrafts and plans for sea fishing trips in Beladin.
“We already have the Kabong International Kite Festival, the Buntal Festival of Spaoh and the Layar Cycling Carnival.”
One notable project discussed was the construction of a replica of Rentap’s fortress on Bukit Sadok, with RM16mil approved by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. “We have engaged consultants for this.”
Uggah noted the potential of these activities to generate income for local residents, expressing a desire to assist them in becoming high-income earners by 2030.
