MIRI: Allocations of at least RM1bil for infrastructure projects have been approved for three state constituencies in northern Sarawak.

The money is earmarked for projects in Mulu, Telang Usan and Marudi state seats in the Baram parliamentary constituency.

Mulu state assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala and Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau confirmed that the money had already been approved and the projects were rolling out.

“Yes, at least RM1bil has already been allotted for Baram alone.

“The money is for infrastructure and public amenity projects that are being carried out now as part of the plans for highland development of northern Sarawak, ” Gala told StarMetro.

Among the major projects outlined are water-supply projects, old bridge repairs and construction of new bridges, repair of longhouses and rural electrification schemes.

The money from the State Treasury was being disbursed by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led state government via the recently-mooted Northern Sarawak Highland Development Authority (HDA).

In Telang Usan, the money is expected to finance the Long Bemang water supply treatment plant located in the middle of the constituency.

Ngau said urgent projects were being given top priority.

“What we are trying to do is to solve the pressing issues like electricity and water-supply woes of the rakyat, ” he said

The allocation for Long Bemang water plant is worth RM100mil. When completed, it will supply water for seven big settlements in Telang Usan.

Ngau visited Long Lama town and held a briefing with HDA officials last week.

Source: The Star