BETONG – Forty-one landowners in Betong have received compensation totalling RM1,668,346.66 for the upgrading of Jalan Mara to Jalan Selangking, Nanga Sela and Tanjung Paoh. The presentation ceremony took place at Rumah Mubok Julie, Tanjung Paoh, on Friday.
The cheques were handed over by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who also serves as Bukit Saban State Assemblyman. A total of 68 compensation cheques were distributed to the affected landowners.
In his address, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah emphasised that the payments demonstrated the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government’s commitment to ensuring development projects are carried out in a fair and orderly manner.
He stressed that land acquisition for public infrastructure would always be accompanied by appropriate compensation.
“When the government needs land to build a road, compensation will be paid to the landowners. Today proves that clearly,” he said.
The Deputy Premier also provided updates on the progress of the road project, which is scheduled for completion in October 2026. He revealed that construction had already reached 42.3 percent progress, placing it ahead of schedule.
The upgraded road is expected to deliver significant benefits to local communities, including improved connectivity, enhanced road safety and greater opportunities for rural economic growth. Better access is anticipated to support agriculture, small businesses and tourism in the surrounding areas.
In addition to the road project, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah announced further development initiatives in the region.
The tender process for a project in Bukit Sadok has been finalised, while a RM14 million mini-hotel will be built in Bukit Saban to accommodate visitors and strengthen the tourism sector.
The Deputy Premier highlighted that these projects form part of Sarawak’s wider rural transformation strategy, aimed at uplifting communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Betong Member of Parliament Dato Dr Richard Rapu and Roseline Mapong Sabai, Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak.
Their presence underscored the government’s united approach in driving development across Betong and surrounding divisions.
Local residents expressed optimism that the projects would not only improve infrastructure but also attract investment and tourism, contributing to long-term prosperity for the area.
