KUCHING: Infrastructural facilities are the first things that need to be provided in order to create a Greater Bau.
As Sarawak is moving towards becoming a developed state, infrastructural facilities and amenities must be put in place before moving on to other matters, said Tasik Biru incumbent assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep.
“Bau is part of Kuching City, and Kuching itself aspires to be a Greater Kuching. Hence, we would like to leverage on that aspiration and be an essential part it.
“The aspiration to make Sarawak a developed state in 2030 has already been endorsed by the chief minister; so, we have about nine years left to achieve it,” he said at the end of an online seminar on the Human-Geographical Imagination: Foundations of Greater Bau on Sunday night.
He explained that to make a Greater Bau, basic infrastructures in the area need to come in, in terms of connectivity and networking.
“We want infrastructures such as roads that connect Bau to Kuching and the surrounding areas and these must come in accordingly.
“Currently, we are slowly building network from the Pan Borneo Highway to Bau Town itself with an allocation of RM125 million approved by the state government under the infrastructure development plan,” said Henry.
Besides that, he also pointed out the development of Serikin as an international gateway between Malaysia and Indonesia under the 12th Malaysia Plan.
With connectivity at the border, Henry said it would definitely improve the infrastructure for people to commute between two countries.
“When talking about Greater Bau, we must be inclusive for other areas, meaning that areas like Serumbu, Jagoi, Bratak, Krokong, Singai, plus the Chinese and Malay areas will also be part of the development.
“All areas must be included and should be fairly developed in order to allow all communities to enjoy the benefits of Greater Bau,” added the incumbent assemblyman.
In addition, the establishment of basic infrastructures allows people to have the convenience of doing socioeconomic activities such as trade and commerce, as well as giving opportunities to create jobs and businesses, said Henry.
