By Alexandra Lorna & Sarah Hafizah Chandra
NEW areas for affordable housing in Satok constituency needs to be develop to accommodate the growing population, said Datuk Ibrahim Baki (GPS-Satok).
He said with that the cost of owning an existing home now is soaring.
“This also includes implementing the Village Expansion Scheme (SPK) and the Resettlement Scheme (SPS),” he said in his maiden speech during the motion of appreciation to the Head of State (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud today.
He also said that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has identified the Sungai Maong and Segedup areas to build affordable houses.
“I request that the implementation be expedited in the interest of the people in Satok,” he said.
Ibrahim, who is also the GPS DUN chief whip, also spoke about traffic congestion in Satok area especially during peak hours. He suggested that the government look into building underpasses or flyovers.
“To prevent traffic congestion from continuing due to rapid development and increase in number of vehicles, I suggest that the government build underpasss or flyovers in strategic areas and build bridges above congested streets in line with the development of upgrading plan for Satok and its surrounding area,” he pointed out.
Besides that, he also said that looking to the future, it is necessary for human capital in Satok constituency area to continue to be developed to contribute to the development of the local economy and the economy of Sarawak in general.
“With a focus on innovative entrepreneurship that is increasingly being pioneered by the younger generation now, it is necessary for us to provide an incubation centre for them to start their business or digital ‘start-up’.
“This is important for their business to grow to the next level and to help traders without business premises to register,” he said.
He said this is in line with the goals of the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy where Human Capital Development as one of the seven variables (enablers) to develop the manufacturing, commercial agriculture, tourism, forestry, mining and social services sectors.
“I am confident that the development projects that have been planned as well as future projects can be implemented successfully amid the harmony and stability enjoyed by the people of Satok.
“I believe the Satok area, with its residents of various races, religions and cultures, is one example of unity and harmony in Sarawak. I pray and hope that values such as tolerance, respect can be maintained,” he said.
