By Joey Leclere
THE implementation of rural transformation projects (RTP) by the Sarawak government is a vital initiative in accelerating rural development through the provision of basic infrastructure, utilities and social amenities.
In line with Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming an advanced and high-income economy by 2030, RTP is among the key agenda of the state government to ensure that every citizen, especially the rural population can enjoy the benefits of development.
The State Implementation Monitoring Unit (SIMU) under the Premier’s Department is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the ‘rural-based, people-centric’ projects.
SIMU also utilises a specially developed system called the Rural Transformation Project Monitoring System (RTPMS) which enables the implementing agencies to enter project information for approval.
Besides, the system also allows the relevant agencies to update implementation status as well as other information for monitoring activities, which in turn enhances the effectiveness of RTP execution and monitoring.
According to SIMU, the project components of RTP include basic infrastructure; buildings; public amenities; utilities and beautification of the environment.
Among the ministries, department and agencies involved in carrying out RTP are the State Financial Secretary’s Office, Economic Planning Unit Sarawak; SIMU; Resident Offices and District Offices.
The implementing agencies include Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, Public Works Department Sarawak, Land and Survey Department, Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Rural Water Supply Department, local authorities, state statutory bodies, among others.
The state government provides an annual allocation of RM5 million for RTP, RM1 million for minor rural projects (MRP) and RM250,000 for the running of service centre to each Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) elected representative.
Both RTP and MRP grants are allocated for community halls, bridges, houses of worship, cement roads to houses and villages and community welfare projects requested by the people through their elected representative.
The elected representatives do not receive the funds in cash but are required to submit a list of projects to be implemented under RTP to the Resident’s Office and implementing agencies and funds would be channeled directly to relevant parties.
