THE Prime Minister has approved on-the-spot requests from the people to upgrade vital public infrastructure projects in northern and central Sarawak.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has given the green light to upgrade Miri Airport to an international standard airport requiring federal funds of at least RM 150 million. He also provided funds for the upgrading of at least eight big clinics for the districts of Baram, Mulu, Marudi, Beleru and Kapit at costs that are being calculated. Anwar, who is also the finance minister, approved the upgrading of crucial bridges in remote Kapit and funds for the upgrade of numerous community halls throughout northern and central Sarawak.
"Transport Minister Anthony Loke has told me that Miri Airport needs urgent upgrading.
"The number of passengers using the Miri Airport has surged a lot yearly. Miri is also the oil and gas hub of Sarawak.
"I have said OK to Anthony Loke, so Miri Airport will get the needed upgrading very soon.
"I have also received requests directly from community leaders in northern and central Sarawak on the urgent needs of the clinics and community halls in their areas and bridge links that needed expansion and repairs.
"I have approved these requests too," he said at a state banquet in Miri last night.
Anwar is in Kapit town today after concluding his visit to Miri yesterday.
He said government leaders at national and state levels must go to the ground more often to meet the people
He said only through these ground visits can they see the actual situation of the grassroots.
He promised to visit more rural regions in Sarawak and Sabah soon. - September 29, 2024
