PADAWAN – Significant improvements to local transport infrastructure are set to commence next month, as authorities prepare to upgrade the road network in Kampung Bra’ang Payang. The project, valued at RM170,000, is scheduled to begin on 1 August 2026 under the state’s Rural Transformation Project (RTP) 2025 initiative.
The construction works will focus on enhancing the existing road and lane structures, aiming to provide safer and more comfortable travel conditions for residents. With a projected completion date of 31 October 2026, the three-month timeline ensures that the upgrades will be finalised before the end of the year, minimising long-term disruption to daily commutes.
To mark the official start of the implementation phase, a site handover ceremony was conducted recently. This procedural step involved transferring responsibility to the appointed contractor, ensuring that all logistical and technical preparations are in place for a smooth execution of the works. The event served as a formal commitment to adhering to the strict schedule set by the supervising bodies.
Overseeing the project is the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), which will monitor progress to ensure compliance with quality standards and safety regulations. The council’s involvement highlights the importance of local governance in maintaining rural infrastructure and ensuring that public funds are utilised effectively for community benefit.
The handover session was attended by several key figures, including Keron Mapus, the State Assemblyman for Mambong and Special Administrative Officer to the Deputy Minister of Transport of Sarawak. Also present were James Hook, the Tribal Chief of Kampung Bra’ang Payang, and Smith Apong, a committee member of the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Mambong Branch. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort between political representatives, traditional leaders, and administrative bodies in delivering development projects.
For the residents of Kampung Bra’ang Payang, the upgrade promises tangible improvements in their daily lives. Poor road conditions often pose risks to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, particularly during inclement weather. By reinforcing the road surface and improving lane markings, the project aims to reduce accident rates and enhance overall traffic flow within the village.
Keron Mapus emphasised that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to empower rural communities through high-impact infrastructure developments. He noted that accessible and safe roads are fundamental to socio-economic growth, enabling easier access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities. The project aligns with the development agenda of the Mambong constituency, which prioritises the well-being of its constituents.
The Rural Transformation Project has been instrumental in addressing longstanding infrastructure deficits in remote areas. By targeting specific locations with tailored solutions, the state government ensures that resources are directed where they are needed most. This approach not only improves physical connectivity but also fosters a sense of inclusion among rural populations.
Local leaders have expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, noting that the community has long awaited such improvements. The involvement of the Tribal Chief in the planning and monitoring stages ensures that the project respects local customs and addresses the specific needs of the villagers. This participatory model of development helps build trust and cooperation between the government and the people.
As the August start date approaches, residents are advised to remain cautious of construction activities and to follow any temporary traffic diversions that may be implemented. The municipal council has assured the public that efforts will be made to keep inconvenience to a minimum during the three-month construction period.
Once completed, the upgraded road will serve as a vital artery for the village, supporting both residential mobility and local commerce. The investment in basic infrastructure reflects a sustained commitment to raising living standards in rural Sarawak, ensuring that no community is left behind in the state’s progress towards modernisation.
