SARIKEI: RM1.5bil has been allocated for rural development in Sarawak under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
The Rural and Regional Development Minister said this substantial allocation was to facilitate planning and implementation of various initiatives to create competitive rural communities and enhance their quality of life.
"I will continue to play a key role in the development of rural areas in Sarawak, assisting the state government to ensure that infrastructure in rural areas receives due consideration," he said.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, said this at the Pre-Gawai Sarikei 2024 celebration on Wednesday (May 15).
He added that the focus areas include bridge construction, provision of electricity and clean water as well as telecommunication services.
He said that telecommunications in this country have been upgraded to 5G, and will not only be available in densely populated areas.
"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is deeply concerned and wants the interior in Sarawak and Sabah to have 5G coverage.
"This is especially important for students, whether they are in primary or secondary school or in higher education. This should be implemented as soon as possible," he said, adding that the Digital Ministry would expedite the process.
For this year's Gawai celebration, he prayed for more development in Sarawak. However, he emphasised that for this to happen, political stability, unity and racial harmony must be maintained. – Bernama
