SIBURAN – Two rural access roads in the Mambong state constituency have been fully upgraded under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA), significantly improving daily travel for residents in surrounding villages.
The projects involved the RM2 million upgrading of Jalan Kampung Beradau and the RM779,000 enhancement of Jalan Batu Gong, located within a local Chinese residential settlement. Both roads are now open for use and are expected to ease movement for villagers, schoolchildren, and small-scale agricultural operators who rely on these routes for their livelihoods.
A site inspection was carried out on Thursday by Political Secretary to the Deputy Minister for Transport Sarawak (Air and Road), Terence Tikok, representing Datuk Dr Jerip Susil. He was joined by officials from GKCDA, the Serian Division Public Works Department (PWD), which served as the implementing agency, and officers from the Siburan District Office. The visit was aimed at assessing the quality and effectiveness of the completed works.
The road improvements are part of the state government’s broader strategy to strengthen rural infrastructure and ensure balanced development across Greater Kuching. According to GKCDA, more than 60 per cent of its projects focus on infrastructure, reflecting the agency’s commitment to improving connectivity and accessibility for rural communities.
Jalan Kampung Beradau, in particular, plays a vital role in Siburan’s agricultural development, as the area is home to a multiracial community engaged in farming activities. Improved road conditions are expected to facilitate the transport of produce to nearby markets, boosting local economic activity.
Meanwhile, the upgrading of Jalan Batu Gong is anticipated to benefit residents by providing safer and smoother access to schools, healthcare facilities, and businesses. The improved road surface and drainage system are also expected to reduce travel disruptions during heavy rain.
The Sarawak government has consistently highlighted rural mobility as a priority under its Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to achieve high-income status by enhancing infrastructure, digital connectivity, and socio-economic opportunities. Road projects such as these are seen as essential in bridging the urban-rural divide.
Speaking during the visit, Terence Tikok stressed that the upgrades would not only improve safety but also contribute to long-term socio-economic growth. “Better roads mean easier access to education, healthcare, and markets, which directly improves the quality of life for rural communities,” he said.
The initiative reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to ensure that rural areas are not left behind in Sarawak’s development agenda. With improved connectivity, residents of Mambong can look forward to greater opportunities and enhanced living standards.
