Batang Rajang bridge could be built in 2019

THE Batang Rajang bridge, part of the proposed Sarikei-Tanjung Manis coastal road, could be built in 2019 after studies, including on a suitable site, are completed.

Assistant Minister of Coastal Road Datuk Julaihi Narawi said the Public Works Department (JKR) would submit the results of its study to the State Planning Authority for consideration.

He said the proposed bridge would span 1,280 metres.

“Results from a recent dialogue on the bridge have been acknowledged. As for now, studies are still ongoing,” Julaihi said when answering Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii ( BN-Repok) during the question- and- answer session at the State Legislative Assembly yesterday.

During the same session, Ripin Lamat ( BN- Lambir) asked Assistant Minister of Entrepreneur and Small, Medium Enterprise ( SME) Development Datuk Mohd Naroden Majais about the steps taken to improve the quality and marketing of products by Sarawakian SMEs, especially in terms of packaging and branding.

“We have things such as courses for product packaging, branding and even ongoing guidance for those who want to venture into the world of business and entrepreneurship. We also encourage those who want to do so to join related programmes provided by the government or even apply for grants as well,” Naroden said.

He cited entrepreneurship programmes such as the Bumiputera Enterprise Enhancement Programme and the Business Accelerator Programme.