SERIAN – A groundbreaking ceremony was held on 16 July for the construction of a new alternative road linking Sungai Riset, Kampung Skuduk, Kampung Plaman Payang, and Kampung Chupak in Serian.
The project, part of the Sarawak Government’s infrastructure development agenda, was officiated by Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who also serves as Assemblyman for N.20 Tarat and Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA).
The project is being implemented by the Public Works Department (JKR) Serian Division, with a briefing delivered by Civil Engineer Puan Martina anak Aisan.
Located approximately 24 kilometres from Bandar Serian, the development involves the construction of a 3.94-kilometre paved road built to JKR R1 standards. Once completed, the road will provide a safer and more reliable route for residents of the four villages.
Currently, villagers rely on unpaved dirt roads and narrow paths, which pose difficulties during adverse weather conditions and festive seasons when traffic increases.
The new road is expected to ease congestion, improve accessibility to agricultural areas such as paddy fields, and support sustainable economic growth in the region.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Sarawak, Datuk Martin Ben, Assemblyman for N.22 Kedup; YB John anak Ilus, Assemblyman for N.23 Bukit Semuja; and YB Dr Simon Sinang anak Bada, Assemblyman for N.21 Tebedu.
Also present were Datuk Ik Pahon anak Joyik, GKCDA Special Administrative Officer; Mr Machos anak Sibong, Serian Division Resident; and Ir. Ts. Adriana anak Peter Chee, Assistant Divisional Engineer (Development), representing the Divisional Engineer.
Officers from JKR Sarawak Headquarters, Serian Divisional Public Works, GKCDA, Serian District Office, Siburan District Office, and community leaders also joined the event.
Dato Sri Roland Sagah highlighted the importance of the project in improving connectivity and supporting the government’s broader rural transformation agenda.
He noted that better road infrastructure is essential for enhancing mobility, reducing travel time, and ensuring that rural communities benefit from economic opportunities.
The alternative road project is part of the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) 2026, which aims to bridge infrastructure gaps between urban and rural areas.
By providing improved access, the initiative seeks to empower communities, strengthen local economies, and create a more balanced development landscape across Sarawak.
Community representatives expressed optimism that the new road would significantly improve daily life, particularly for farmers transporting produce and families travelling during festive seasons.
The project is also expected to encourage greater social interaction between villages, fostering stronger community ties.
Infrastructure development remains a priority for the Sarawak Government, with projects such as this seen as vital to supporting long-term growth.
The new road in Serian is anticipated to serve as a model for future initiatives, demonstrating how targeted investments can deliver tangible benefits to rural populations.
