BATU KAWA – Preparations for the Batu Kawa Riverbank Park are progressing as the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) works with implementing agencies to finalise documentation and procedures ahead of a public tender.
The project, with a ceiling allocation of RM900,000, is part of Sarawak’s broader commitment to enhancing recreational facilities for communities.
The Batu Kawa Riverbank Park has already gained strong support from residents since its completion, offering recreational facilities for all age groups – from children and teenagers to senior citizens.
Each section of the park is designed to cater to different needs, reflecting the government’s vision of inclusive community spaces.
Dr Sim Kui Hian, ADUN N14 Batu Kawah, emphasised the importance of developing neighbourhood parks closer to residential areas.
He noted that such facilities encourage healthier lifestyles and foster stronger community bonds by providing accessible spaces for recreation just steps away from homes.
The Batu Kawa Riverbank Park is part of a wider initiative involving the construction of 10 neighbourhood parks across Batu Kawa.
These parks are located at Taman Genesis, Taman Moyan, Taman Highfield, Taman Desa Wira, Jalan Carina Estate, Jalan Batu Kawa Lorong 3, Taman Phoenix Batu Kawa, Jalan RPR Batu Kawa, Taman San Chin and Taman Vision Land.
With a combined budget allocation of RM3.82 million from the Sarawak government, the parks are expected to be completed by April 2027.
In addition, MPP is preparing for Phase 2 of the rejuvenation of the abandoned Ang Cheng Ho Quarry in Batu Kawa.
This phase, with an allocation of RM8 million, will complement the RM15 million Ang Cheng Ho Multipurpose Hall completed under Phase 1.
The rejuvenation project will transform the quarry into a vibrant recreational hub, featuring extensive park facilities.
The long-term vision for Batu Kawa includes the development of a 70-acre integrated recreational and urban space.
This will consist of the Blue Park, offering more than 20 acres of water sports facilities, and the Green Park, covering over 40 acres of landscaped urban forest and recreational amenities.
Surrounding these parks will be a mixed-use development similar to “Viva City”, combining shopping centres and residential apartments around the junction of Jalan Stephen Young and Jalan Batu Kawa.
Dr Sim highlighted that these projects are part of a broader strategy to make Batu Kawa a place where people can live, work and enjoy recreation.
He stressed that the integration of parks, community facilities and urban development will not only improve quality of life but also attract investment and strengthen Batu Kawa’s role as a growing urban centre.
The initiatives reflect Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable urban planning, where recreational spaces are prioritised alongside infrastructure and housing.
By investing in parks and community facilities, the government aims to promote healthier lifestyles, enhance social cohesion and create vibrant neighbourhoods.
With the Batu Kawa Riverbank Park already well received by the community, the upcoming projects are expected to further transform the area into a model of urban development that balances modern living with environmental sustainability.
