BAU: Once known as a “Dead Town” for almost 30 years, Siniawan is now fast becoming a lively and competitive hub, thanks to strong efforts by the government and the local community.
Serembu Assemblyman, Miro Simuh, said Siniawan’s turnaround began in 2009 when the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) introduced a night market. Over the past 15 years, the market has grown into the town’s most iconic attraction, drawing both locals and tourists.
He explained that the government has since strengthened these efforts with major infrastructure projects, such as the Siniawan Waterfront and annual events like the Siniawan Country Music Festival (SCMF).
Through the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA), the Sarawak Government has also provided large allocations to support further growth in Siniawan.
“Among these initiatives is the construction of a multi-storey car park and Hakka Centre, funded with RM28 million under the GKCDA. The car park will have four levels and a rooftop stage capable of hosting 3,000 to 5,000 people. Future SCMF concerts and other events will be held there,” Miro said.
He delivered his speech during the official launch of the Siniawan Waterfront Project, which was officiated by Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, on Saturday.
Miro further announced that RM40 million has been allocated to develop the Serembu Food Processing Industrial Park in Paku. The park aims to produce food for both human consumption and animal feed, easing the burden on livestock farmers who currently face high costs and shortages of feed.
“The livestock industry is important, but rising costs have increased the prices of chicken, beef, and pork. By producing animal feed locally, we hope to stabilise prices and support farmers,” he added.
Other projects include a pig slaughterhouse (RM30 million), an Integrated Cattle Farm Project in Kampung Seromah and Kandis (RM15 million), a tourism development project (RM10 million), and upgrading works along the Old Bau-Kuching Road.
Also present at the event were Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak Deputy Transport Minister (Riverine and Maritime), Dato Henry Harry Jinep, Bukit Semuja Assemblyman, John Ilus, President of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), Datu Ik Pahon Joyik, Kuching Division Resident, Dayang Juanita Azizah Abang Morshidi, and several other guests. – UKAS EDITION