BAU: The new Bau District Office complex stands as a remarkable landmark, serving not only as an administrative centre but also symbolising the district’s distinctiveness and identity.
During the soft opening ceremony of the Bau District Office Complex building on Wednesday night (Aug 30), Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Henry Harry Jinep expressed his pride in this iconic structure. Inspired by the ‘Baruk’ roof and adorned with Bidayuh motif carvings, the building has become a source of pride for the local community.
Datuk Henry stated, “This is a long-awaited landmark, given the district’s population increase to 72,000, which the old building could no longer accommodate. Tonight, we witness the majestic presence of this building on Bau hill, a cause for celebration after 60 years. With strong support from the government, led by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Open, we were allocated RM7.5 million to fund the construction.”
He emphasized that the construction cost of RM4.59 million was a worthwhile investment, yielding extraordinary results. This building signifies the progress experienced by all segments of society, particularly in Bau, which encompasses two parliamentary constituencies and four state constituencies.
Henry, who also serves as the Tasik Biru assemblyman, revealed that the complex had been fully operational since July of this year, equipped with functional facilities. Additionally, a budget of RM2.9 million has been assigned for the second phase of the project, which includes planned improvements such as the installation of a lift and external works to enhance staff comfort.
“When we received tenders, the bidder proposed RM4.59 million, resulting in a surplus of RM2.9 million. I pleaded with the Premier not to reclaim the excess, and he agreed that we could utilize it for the second phase of the project. This phase will encompass the installation of a lift and various other enhancements, ensuring the office operates more efficiently and maintains a tidy appearance,” he explained.
The official opening ceremony where Abang Johari will officiate will be on a later date.
Distinguished attendees at the event included Puncak Borneo MP Datuk Willie Mongin, Deputy Resident of Kuching Division Dr. Cheong Yaw Liang, Bau District Officer Constantine Gerald David Jonas, Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) Chairman Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Anielia Siam, District Officer Lundu Gustian Durani, Selangau District Officer Enting@Inting Nyami, Bidayuh Community Leader for Kuching Division Datuk Temenggong Austin Dimin, Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang, Serembu assemblyman representative Prem Notes, and Batu Kitang assemblyman representative Gerald Goh.
