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THE Sarawak government has revealed plans to take over former logging roads and timber bridges across the state, aiming to improve access to essential services in remote communities.
"To date, Sarawak has 5,297 kilometres of logging roads, with 3,293 kilometres still in active use and 2,004 kilometres no longer operational," said Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, during a question session in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
He stated that many of these disused routes continue to serve as vital links for longhouse residents seeking access to clinics, schools and other public amenities.
"For logging roads or timber bridges that require urgent repairs or are of strategic importance, the government is considering their inclusion in the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13)," he added.
Aidel was responding to a question from Nicholas Kudi Jantai, assemblyman for Baleh, who asked whether the state intended to assume responsibility for disused routes that remain essential for rural populations.
The state Deputy Minister also confirmed that Sarawak is taking proactive steps to register these roads under the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS), a move that would unlock federal funding for maintenance.
"By registering these roads with MARRIS, we can secure financial allocations for necessary upkeep," he said. - May 23, 2025
