BALEH: The cascading power dam project in the Gaat area is set to be a game-changer for local development and connectivity.
Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong said unlike large-scale projects such as the Murum Dam, the cascading dam will require less land and promises greater integration with the surrounding communities.
“The road will be built in the Gaat area along 44km which connects all the Gaat longhouses.
“This matter will be brought to the Sarawak Premier by myself later,” he said during the Muja Menua ceremony for the Sungai Gaat Baleh Cascading Power Source in Kapit, recently.
Wilson who is also Hulu Rejang MP said that he will also request Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) to appoint workers from among the residents of the Sungai Gaat house during the construction of the dam.
Touching on other matters, he also promised to request the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to maintain telecommunications at Rumah Kanyan.
“I also requested for SEB to provide a Starlink network service for the residents of the house while waiting for the construction of a new telecommunications mast,” he added.
Earlier, Baleh Assemblyman Nicholas Kudi Jantai expressed hope that the construction of the cascading dam would bring much-needed development to the interior of Gaat, including improved road access and electricity supply.
He also urged the local community to support the project and not be swayed by negative opinions from external parties.
“I call for the cooperation of all Gaat residents and urge them not to listen to incitement from outsiders about the disadvantages of a development,” he said.
At the event, Wilson announced a donation of RM20,000 to the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) of Rumah Kanyan Lawan.
In addition, he also contributed RM100,000 for the construction of a new kitchen house for the women’s bureau and another RM5,000 for the women’s bureau of Rumah Kanyan, Sungai Ramong.
