Construction Of Jalan Nanga Serau–Nanga Seranau Brings Relief To Longhouse Families - Nanta

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 1 (Bernama) -- The announcement of a new road connecting Nanga Serau in Song to Nanga Seranau in Kapit, Sarawak, has brought much relief to hundreds of longhouse families who have long relied solely on river transport to reach Kapit town.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, in a Facebook post today, expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for including the project in the tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), describing it as a long-awaited and significant development for the people of Kapit.

"Currently, hundreds of longhouse families residing on the left bank of Sungai Batang Rajang depend entirely on the river route to travel to and from Kapit town.

"A long-awaited project is about to become a reality. This initiative is part of the government’s plan to construct and upgrade 2,800 kilometres of rural roads nationwide during the 13MP, which spans from 2026 to 2030,” he said. 

Nanta, who is Kapit Member of Parliament, added that the project will include the construction of a bridge across the Batang Rajang near Nanga Yong, which will directly connect the left side of the river to Kapit town.

“As the elected representative for the constituency, I understand the hardships faced by residents. This announcement brings renewed hope and motivation to continue advocating for development and equal access in Sarawak’s interior.

“This is evidence that the voices of rural communities remain a priority in the national development agenda,” he said.

Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir emphasised the need to reshape thinking, strengthen strategic leadership, and foster shared consensus in transforming Malaysia’s higher education sector in line with the direction of the 13MP.

“We need institutions that are not only functional but capable of driving change through bold decisions, a willingness to innovate, and visionary leadership,” he said in a Facebook post today.

He called on all stakeholders to move forward together in shaping a more vibrant future for the country’s higher education.

“This is not about any one individual -- it is for the future of our children and our nation. We work as one team,” he added.

-- BERNAMA