MADANI Adopted Village Initiative In Kaiduan Benefits Over 1,000 Rural Residents

PAPAR, July 12 (Bernama) -- A total of 16 infrastructure projects under the MADANI Adopted Village (KAM) programme in Kaiduan have been completed, benefiting over 1,000 residents in this rural Sabah sub-district.

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the projects, launched in May last year with an allocation of RM2.5 million, have now been officially handed over to residents of Kampung Kaiduan, Kampung Bisuang and Kampung Bolotikon, each home to about 350 people, mainly from the B40 income group.

“Many villagers rely on agriculture, with some, especially women, leaving as early as 1 am to sell produce at markets like Tamu Kinarut, despite poor roads and flood-prone low-level crossings (LLCs).

“One key project was the construction of a new LLC bridge in Kampung Ulu Kaiduan, ensuring safer access even during floods,” he told reporters after officiating the handover at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Kaiduan today.

The KAM initiative aims to bridge urban-rural development gaps by improving access to basic infrastructure such as water, electricity, roads, street lighting, internet connectivity and community facilities.

This year, 43 villages have been selected under the programme with RM107 million in total funding. Each participating ministry or agency receives up to RM2.5 million, in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s vision.

Among completed projects in Kaiduan are culvert upgrades, new bridges, road works in Kampung Kaiduan and Kampung Bisuang, a suspension bridge to SK Kaiduan, as well as the construction of a surau and multipurpose hall at the school.

In Kampung Bolotikon, a sepak takraw court was built, alongside upgrades to the church and community hall. Hill walkways, gravel paths and solar-powered street lights were also installed across all three villages.

Armizan said Kaiduan was selected based on criteria including limited access to basic amenities, with coverage below 50 per cent.

“These projects are expected to greatly enhance quality of life, improve mobility and support religious and socio-economic activities,” he said.

For 2024, the government has allocated RM200 million to expand KAM. Armizan said his ministry has selected a village in Kedah, with details to be announced soon.

“Completion of these projects doesn’t mean our work ends. We’ll continue supporting Kaiduan, including socio-economic development beyond physical upgrades,” he added.

He also noted Kaiduan’s potential for eco-tourism, citing its scenic rivers and rich biodiversity as valuable natural assets.

-- BERNAMA