KUCHING – Betong is set to receive another major healthcare boost with the announcement of a new RM16 million health clinic in Simpang Layar, unveiled by Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, during a Gawai Dayak celebration organised by the Saribas Social and Recreational Club.
This new facility joins two other key health projects in Spaoh — a RM36 million clinic and a RM5 million haemodialysis centre — funded under the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) initiative, which was formed to accelerate socioeconomic development in the region.
“We have seen many high-impact projects taking shape, and our people are starting to benefit,” said Uggah, who also thanked Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg for allocating RM15 billion under BDDA.
Highlighting other development strides, Uggah mentioned the soon-to-be-completed Sri Aman–Betong link via the Second Trunk Road, expected to cut travel time to just 30 minutes.
Economically, a 1,000-acre agropark is being developed to generate income for rural communities, with collaborations between anchor companies and local landowners. On education, preparations are underway for Sarawak’s free tertiary education initiative in 2026, with a strong focus on STEM subjects to produce future professionals.
Uggah also called on the Saribas Club — now in its 34th year — to rejuvenate its membership with younger volunteers. A total of RM180,000 in grants was announced for the club and its cooperative. Twenty-six outstanding students were also honoured during the event.
Also present were Betong MP Datuk Dr. Richard Rapu, Selangau MP Edwin Banta, Lupar Assemblyman Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, former Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, and former MP Datuk Robert Lawson Chuat.
