Machan rep pushes for road, bridge project to boost rural access, development

Borneo Post

22-05-2025

KUCHING (May 22): Machan assemblyman Allan Siden Gramong has called for swift government approval of a proposed 12-km road project linking Rumah Joanis Giri Nanga Geremai to Rumah Henry Ajol in Sungai Machan, a project estimated to cost RM80 million.
Speaking during the Motion of Appreciation on the Yang di-Pertua Negeri's speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today; Allan highlighted that the proposed road would not only enhance basic connectivity for local communities but also support broader development initiatives.
'It is hoped that once the road and new bridge are completed, other essential services such as electricity, clean water supply, and telecommunications can be extended to these areas,' he said.
The proposed road is expected to benefit 19 longhouses, comprising 387 household doors.
He emphasised that better accessibility would facilitate the use of more land for agriculture, thus stimulating local economic activities and supporting Sarawak's rural transformation goals.
This initiative, he noted, aligns with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg's vision to increase household income by 2030.
He also pointed to other infrastructure issues affecting his constituency, including low water pressure issues and a lack of clean water supply in Majau, Mam, Batu Luking, Poi, and Menalun.
These water issues, he explained, could be addressed through a new project under the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), scheduled for implementation under Rolling Plan 5 of the 12th Malaysia Plan.
Once implemented, it would benefit 754 households across 43 longhouses and three schools.
Allan also raised concerns regarding delayed infrastructure projects, calling for updates on the Jalan Ulu Poi project, which is currently stalled due to funding constraints under the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID).
He also sought clarification on the status of the Jalan Ulu Machan project (Nanga Jerangku to Rumah Lajang Ulu Machan), which remains in the design phase under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development.
He further drew attention to the deteriorating condition of the road to Kampung Muhibah Kanowit – the main access route to Pekan Kanowit.
He urged immediate repairs, noting it had not been maintained for a significant period.
The assemblyman also cited several roads damaged during recent floods in Machan, including Jalan Ranan-Durin, Jalan Lipus, Jalan Menuju en route to Pekan Machan, and Jalan Batu Luking en route to Rumah Surat in Nanga Mitam.
He noted that large construction vehicles had worsened the situation, especially during drainage works near residential zones, raising serious safety concerns.
Allan also expressed particular concern over Jalan Batu Luking, which leads to SK Batu Luking and is used daily by schoolchildren.
He urged relevant authorities to prioritise repair works to prevent further deterioration and avoid disruption in connectivity.
On frequent road accidents at the Kanowit roundabout, he requested the authorities to conduct a thorough analysis and determine appropriate measures to prevent such incidents.
'I hope the relevant agencies will take immediate action to address these issues to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents,' he said.