KUCHING: The state government has approved allocations totalling RM353mil to develop the Kapit division, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

       The Sarawak Premier said the proposed development included upgrading roads in Kapit town and road connectivity in Ulu Sungai Katibas.

       "Kapit is growing rapidly after the completion of the road from Sibu and will become a major town in line with the state government's development plans.

       "To resolve the traffic congestion in Kapit, we will upgrade the roads at a cost of RM190mil that we are approving today," he said at a high tea ceremony in conjunction with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's official birthday celebration in Kapit on Monday (June 6).

       Located on Rajang River, Kapit town is the administrative centre of Kapit division in central Sarawak, the largest of the state's 12 administrative divisions.

       The town was previously accessible only by river but is now linked to Sibu by a 110km road which was completed in 2020.

       Abang Johari also said a road connecting Ulu Sungai Katibas and Sungai Bangkit in Kapit's Song district would be developed at a cost of RM105mil.

       In addition, he said the state would develop an electricity grid from Kapit to Tunoh, covering a distance of 35km, to support its growth plans for the Sungai Tunoh area.

       "So today in conjunction with the King’s birthday, the state government is approving RM353mil to develop Kapit division," he said.

       Abang Johari also said the state government was targeting annual economic growth of 6-8% under its post-Covid development strategy (PCDS) towards 2030.

       He said this was meant to ensure that the state's economy would continue to grow towards high-income status in the ongoing recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

       "We want Sarawak to remain peaceful and prosperous and to continue progressing after the challenges of the pandemic.

       "As one of the regions which formed Malaysia, we will remain a part of Malaysia and develop as enshrined in the Federal Constitution and Malaysia Agreement 1963.

       "We will implement initiatives under PCDS so that the people can enjoy economic benefits," he said.

       Abang Johari also extended birthday greetings to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on behalf of Sarawakians.

       He expressed appreciation to the King and Queen for making several visits to the state this year.

       "This shows that their Majesties care about the people of Sarawak," he said.