The Malaysian human rights commission, Suhakam, welcomes the Sarawak government’s recent initiatives to enhance connectivity in the northern region, as well as its commitment to close the rural-urban development gap by 2030.
Suhakam notes the launch of the Miri–Marudi, Marudi–Mulu (Kuala Melinau) and Long Panai–Long Lama (MMMLL Road) Project on 15 November, which aims to upgrade former logging roads into fully accessible public roads by 2030.
This initiative, announced by the Sarawak premier, is expected to enhance accessibility, spur economic opportunities, and strengthen social and commercial activities in the interior.
Suhakam commends this positive development, recognising it as a significant step toward ensuring that communities living in remote parts of Sarawak are not left behind due to longstanding infrastructural gaps.
Many marginalised and deep-rural communities continue to face challenges in accessing essential services, economic participation and basic infrastructure. Improved and sustainable connectivity is therefore crucial to advancing their inclusion in the state’s long-term development plans.
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Suhakam hopes that the implementation of the MMMLL road project will be undertaken in a sustainable, equitable and inclusive manner, ensuring that the benefits reach all communities, especially those that have historically experienced limited accessibility.
Suhakam also welcomes the premier’s pledge to close the rural–urban gap by 2030, as reported on 23 November. The premier stated that there should be no disparity between rural and urban areas in terms of facilities and infrastructure, including access to electricity and clean water supply.
While acknowledging the progress achieved over the years, Suhakam notes that many communities in rural Sarawak are still left behind in quality of life due to inadequate infrastructure.
Suhakam further urges the Sarawak government to prioritise these longstanding challenges to ensure that rural residents enjoy a standard of living comparable to that of urban communities.
Suhakam commends the premier for these forward-looking commitments and reaffirms its readiness, through the office of Sarawak Suhakam to support efforts that uphold the rights and dignity of all the people in Sarawak, particularly those residing in underserved and remote areas. – Suhakam
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