Julau: The Sarawak government has approved a proposal to construct a new road, approximately six kilometers long, to connect the Ulu Entabai and Ulu Entaih areas in Meluan, Julau, with the Ulu Penebak, Layar area in Betong. This decision was announced by Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the inauguration of the Nanga Lasi Bridge in Julau.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Premier stated that the completion of the road would allow residents in the area to travel to Betong and then to Kuching in about two and a half hours. This infrastructure development aims to integrate the Meluan area more closely with Kuching city, transforming it from a remote region into a more accessible part of the city. The new road will also facilitate the marketing of agricultural produce in Kuching, enhancing economic opportunities for the local communities.
Abang Johari estimated that the construction cost of the road could reach tens of millions of ringgit. The proposal was initially put forward by Meluan Assemblyman Rolland Duat Jubin, who highlighted the benefits for approximately 2,500 longhouse residents, three primary schools, and a clinic. Jubin also noted that the road would expedite the surveying of indigenous customary land rights in the area. The proposal received support from Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who attended the event.
In addition to the road project, the Premier announced the approval of several other development initiatives, including the Nanga Lasi/Balut/Suchong road upgrading project valued at RM92 million, the Jalan Lijan project worth RM80 million, the Jalan Nanga Entaih/Rh Sang Lasa, Kemalih project with 13 connecting roads totaling RM150 million, and the construction of a plantation road estimated at RM5 million. Altogether, these projects amount to an allocation of RM327 million.
The recently completed 96-meter Nanga Lasi steel bridge, which replaces an old suspension bridge, offers residents a safer and more efficient route. Completed on January 16, the bridge benefits around 2,250 residents by connecting the Nanga Lasi-Balut area and facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services to major towns such as Sarikei and Sibu.