SIBU: A total of 43 infrastructure projects including amenities, master plans and buildings amounting to RM1.5bil are being implemented by the Upper Rajang Development Agency (Urda).

       These projects, said to be high-impact in nature, cover 41,463sq km – an area larger than the state of Pahang.

       Urda chairman Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said these projects, apart from aiming to uplift quality of life, will bridge the divide between the rural and urban residents by improving connectivity to enable efficient transport of goods and services, hence lowering the cost of doing business in the Urda area.

       Speaking at the closing of the Urda Socio-economic Lab on Wednesday (March 30), Nanta, who is also Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister, said the lab will further assist in identifying potential investors in sustainable and viable projects.

       "Through more private investments, economic sectors such as agriculture, tourism, aquaculture, manufacturing and small and medium industries can be strengthened and expanded to provide more business and job opportunities to the local communities," he added.

       He noted that as outlined in the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, the state is continuing its modernisation of agriculture and strengthening of infrastructure, tourism and human capital development.

       In fact, the Regional Corridor Development Authority has created specific master plans to develop Kapit, Bakun and Belaga under Urda to spur growth and attract more investments, he added.

       "The government remains committed to ensuring that all communities have an equal chance to enjoy the fruits of development.

       "This can be done by creating and improving an ideal climate for investments through business-friendly policies and initiatives to shore up the confidence of both local and foreign investors," said Nanta.