CM: LRT will bring people, families closer

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Abang Johari (second left) presents a certificate to a RT member, as Dirwana (left) and others look on. — Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING: The construction of Light Rail Transit (LRT) to connect Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Serian will bring people and families closer despite the distance.

In pointing this out, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said once completed, the LRT would connect these three areas within 30 minutes.

“There will be no traffic jam, and people and families will be easier to reach. Also, transit-oriented development would be built along the LRT line to spur new development.

“These transit-based developments will also help to create small and medium-scale business opportunities for the people, which is good for our economy,” he spoke at the ‘Neighbourhood Watch (RT) Appreciation Night’ in Penview Convention Centre here on Monday.

He also said public transport was another option for tourists to move around. It is thus imperative that attractions along the LRT line are improved and developed further.

On unity, Abang Johari urged RT members to continue their core strength.

“The people of Sarawak are very much united. Even Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has said a good example of unity is to look at the people of Sarawak.

“We do not want people with extreme views to come here and infiltrate the minds of the locals. I, as the chief minister, will use my power to block anyone with extreme views from entering this state,” he added.

Volunteerism as what is being practised in RT is a good system to bring the people in villages and neighbourhoods together, said Abang Johari, thus he urged RTs to continue playing their roles in unifying the people.

More than 2,000 members from 977 RTs in Kuching, Samarahan and Serian attended the dinner.

National Integration and Unity Department state director Dirwana Azool was also present.