SIBU – Nine families from Kampung Hilir and Kampung Datu Lama officially received the keys to their new homes under the Rumah Spektra Permata (RSP) Kemuyang project during a handover ceremony on Wednesday.
The initiative forms part of Phase 1 of the settlement programme, which includes 110 houses built by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and another 70 units developed by the Land Development and Conservation Authority (LCDA).
According to Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, Sarawak’s Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, only 17 houses remain unallocated – 10 from HDC and seven from LCDA.
He explained that the latest recipients were identified through a screening process carried out over the past six months, following instructions from the Premier of Sarawak to prioritise families living in unsafe areas. Many of the beneficiaries had previously resided along riverbanks, where their homes were exposed to risks.
“The group that received the keys today are among those who are eligible and have been identified,” Dr Annuar said, adding that the programme reflects the government’s commitment to improving living conditions for vulnerable communities.
The Deputy Minister further noted that the remaining vacant units will be considered for families affected by the reconstruction plan for Kampung Datu Lama.
He highlighted that some households currently share accommodation and may not be able to return to the redeveloped area, while others who lack compensation or inheritance rights could also be eligible for relocation to Kemuyang.
Dr Annuar also pointed out that several families have already settled in Kemuyang for more than a year, demonstrating the project’s role in building a new community.
He added that the local mosque is nearing completion and is expected to be ready for use by Ramadan next year, providing a central place of worship and gathering for residents.
The RSP Kemuyang project is part of Sarawak’s wider housing agenda aimed at offering affordable, safe, and sustainable homes to those in need.
By relocating families from high-risk zones and supporting community infrastructure, the initiative underscores the state’s long-term vision of enhancing quality of life and strengthening social resilience.
The ceremony marked another milestone in Sarawak’s housing development efforts, with the distribution of homes not only addressing immediate safety concerns but also laying the foundation for a more stable and inclusive settlement in Sibu.
