BETONG: The Spaoh sub-district will witness the initiation of major development projects next year, facilitated by the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA).
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the projects include 10 new shop lots, a futsal field, a food court area, and the construction or enhancement of farm roads.
“For the new shop lots, the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) will undertake the project. These will be constructed near the RM30 million Spaoh Bridge, currently under active construction.
“We aim to enhance commercial facilities in Spaoh town to attract more visitors and boost the local economy,” he said when officiating at the Spaoh mini-festival at the community hall today (Dec 9).
Uggah further disclosed that a location has been identified for the Futsal Field project, budgeted at RM450,000. Additionally, a RM5 million food court area is planned near the new Spaoh market to accommodate more visitors.
Moreover, he added that RM30 million is allocated for the construction and upgrading of farm roads.
“The farmers need access to their farms to motivate them to develop their land and increase production. Our goal is for them to become agropreneurs,” he said.
He also said that the Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA) will undertake a cattle breeding project in Spaoh.
“There’s potential for large-scale paddy planting. We envision Spaoh as a food hub in the Betong Division, supported by the RM 286 million Bebuling STOLport, expected to be completed next year. This facility will aid in marketing to external markets.
“We aim to capitalise on and develop its numerous tourism potentials, including traditional longhouses and the Bukit Sadok historical site associated with the legendary Iban nationalist, Rentap.
“Our efforts are geared towards providing rural communities with regular income sources, in line with the state government’s objectives to enhance development and progress in rural areas,” he said.
Earlier, Betong MP Dr. Richard Rapu highlighted that the mini festival aimed to strengthen the strong existing relationship and unity among the people through various social activities.
He added that the mini development exhibition by government departments and agencies offered an opportunity for the public to learn about their functions and services.
Also present were Uggah’s wife, Datuk Doreen Mayang, political secretary to Sarawak Premier Roseline Mapong, Betong Resident Richard M. Abunawas, Betong District Officer Alfred Galing, and mini festival organising chairman Lister Clement Guwie.
