BINTULU – Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas initiated the XPDC 2.0 programme on Wednesday with a focus on enhancing rural connectivity in the Kakus, Belaga, and Murum regions.
The Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development conducted field visits to assess road conditions, including Jalan Samarakan leading to Ulu Kakus and the collapsed Sengaya Bridge, underscoring the state’s commitment to upgrading both active and abandoned logging routes for improved safety and community welfare.
This initiative aligns with the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategic Plan (PCDS) 2030, prioritizing accessibility and socio-economic growth in remote areas.
Uggah also evaluated logging roads in the Kakus area and the Jiwa Murni route from Punan Ba to Belaga. The day concluded with a community meeting in Belaga.
The programme will continue with inspections in the Lusong Laku area. In the Bintulu Division alone, 302.60 kilometres of logging roads and 295.59 kilometres of former logging roads have been identified for potential upgrades to support inland development.
Accompanying the Deputy Premier were Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Permanent Secretary Datu Chiew Chee Yau, Sarawak Public Works Director Dr. Cassidy Morris, and local district officers.
