AN assemblyman has proposed the setting up of Sri Aman Development Authority (Sada) to speed up development in the division.
Datuk Mong Dagang (GPS-Bukit Begunan) (pic) commended the concerted efforts taken by the state government to develop not only the urban or city centres but also rural and interior parts of the state.
“Because of the state’s sheer size, it is indeed a daunting and challenging task. Nevertheless, the government had adopted pragmatic approach by creating and establishing regional development agencies to effectively develop vast areas in the state,” he said yesterday.
He was speaking in support of the State 2020 Budget tabled by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg in the August House on Monday.
Mong noted the four regional development agencies — Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (IRSDA), Upper Rajang Development Agency (Urda), Highland Development Agency (HDA) and Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA).
“In the State 2020 Budget, a substantial amount of funds is set aside to these development agencies. Unfortunately, Sri Aman is not under any of the four development agencies.
“Thus, I render my full support to a suggestion by Youth and Sports Assistant Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan (GPS-Balai Ringin) during the launching of GPS Zone 11 at Pekan Lachau on Aug 24, 2019, when he suggested for the setting of a development agency covering Sri Aman Division.
“To be managed by a team of professionals, I am confident the agency could propel the division into a more dynamic region in the state,” he said.
Mong also requested the government to construct and improve the road from Pekan Pantu to Kerangas/Engkeranju and Semulong, Lingga; construct a new road from Menuang to Langgir, Lingga; and from Menangkin to Simpang Kerangas/Engkeranji, Lingga.
He said the longhouses mentioned above are situated within the periphery of Gunung Lesong National Park, Lingga and once the area is connected by good road network, the national park could be another tourist attraction in Sri Aman Division.
