With nearly 200,000 residents, the Premier wants to develop four balanced MPKS zones.

KUCHING, 12 Nov: With the population of Samarahan approaching 200,000 people, development in four zones of Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) must be balanced so that rural communities also benefit.

Sarawak Prime Minister, Datuk Tinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the planning in Muara Tuang, Stakan, Asajaya and Sadong should take into account infrastructure needs, public facilities and economic potential of each zone.

"I want development in these four zones to be fully planned so that the benefits of progress can be enjoyed by all residents, including rural communities", he said in a speech text for the 10th Anniversary Dinner Meeting of MPKS here last night.

The text of his speech was read by the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Brother Johari said the growth of residential areas, educational institutions and economic activities in Muara Tuang require better infrastructure as well as municipal services.

In Stakan, he said, the development of settlements should be planned in an orderly manner taking into account road networks, drainage systems and public facilities.

He said Asajaya has potential in the rural agriculture and economy sector, while Sadong needs attention in terms of basic facilities, access to connectivity and expanding economic opportunities for the population.

According to him, MPKS should prioritize improvement of roads, paring systems, lighting, recreation areas and community facilities in order to meet the growing needs of the population.

He also wanted MPKS to use digital technology to accelerate action against population complaints, as well as improve solid waste management and landscape maintenance.

He said cooperation between MPKS, Samarahan Region Integrated Development Agency (IRSDA) and related agencies should be strengthened so that projects such as roads, drains and flood estimates can be implemented according to local priorities.

"We need to make sure Samarahan growth does not create too big a development gap between urban areas and more remote settlements", he said. - TVS