KUCHING: The Batu Kawa area is poised for further transformation with plans to connect the Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Rejuvenation project area with a recreational park, covering approximately 60 acres of land.
Deputy Premier and Batu Kawa assemblyman Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the proposed development of the recreational park is an expansion of the Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Rejuvenation project.
He added under phase one of this project, a multipurpose hall overlooking a 20-acre lake was completed last year and is now available for various community activities and events.
“This 20 acre of land is under the Sarawak government, however the surrounding areas are privately owned.
“There are 40 acres of land from the Ang Cheng Ho Quarry to Emart Batu Kawa and we can also build a water park with major features. As these land areas are privately-owned, we can build these facilities if the private individual agrees,” he said.
He said this to reporters when met at the Leaders with The People programme in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration at the newly-completed Ang Cheng Ho Multipurpose Hall here today (Feb 24).
Dr Sim added phase one of the project which involved a cost of RM15 million also involved the development of a Tegas Innovation Hub.
“There will be several phases altogether and we are still planning because we need to work closely with the privately-owned land,” he said.
He said among the proposed plans are the development of hotels and commercial buildings in the area to further enhance the offerings for visitors.
“Once all this is completed, the people, especially on weekends, can come to these areas during weekends to enjoy the facilities,” he said.
With all these developments in place, Dr Sim said that it cannot be denied that it will cause traffic jams following the influx of people to the area.
“Thus, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has approved for the construction of a new road and second bridge which will connect the Batu Kawa area up to Moyan, while there will also be another road from Jalan Stephen Yong to Kampung Segedup,” he said.
The Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Rejuvenation project’s earth-breaking ceremony was officiated by Abang Johari on Jan 5, 2021.
Once completed, the project, together with other projects in the Batu Kawa constituency, is set to not only be a catalyst for the local economy and tourism, but would also improve the quality of life for the locals.
