BY NURA V LORNA & JAMES WONG
KUCHING: Petra Jaya is envisioned as Kuching’s next ‘green lung,’ marking a step forward in creating a sustainable city while safeguarding Sarawak’s rich ecosystem.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the development would include habitats for animals, creating opportunities for urban residents to experience nature within the city.
“In Sibu, we have Bukit Lima, and in Miri, there is Piasau. Here in Kuching, we have Stutong. Soon, I plan to establish a similar feature in Petra Jaya.
“That is our mission—to transform our city into a smart and sustainable urban hub,” he said during the Sarawak Forestry Corporation’s (SFC) Outstanding Service Award ceremony last night (Nov 15).
On the same note, Abang Johari emphasised the importance of preserving Sarawak’s environment in line with the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), prioritising environmental sustainability alongside development initiatives.
He cited his recent visit to Abu Dhabi, where advanced technologies are employed to generate resources in a desert landscape.
In contrast,he said Sarawak’s abundant natural resources present unique opportunities for conservation and sustainable growth.
“What we do now is preserve what we have. I hope the collaboration between us (the state government) and relevant agencies will give us a new input in our approach to preserve our environment,” he said.
Highlighting Sarawak’s ongoing efforts, Abang Johari outlined plans to expand protected areas and enhance urban sustainability.
“We aim to develop one million hectares of national parks, establish the Sarawak Delta, and ensure our nature reserves within cities are well-managed,” he said.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh as well as SFC chief executive officer (CEO) Abang Arabi Abang Aimran.
