KUCHING (Feb 9): The Sarawak government has allocated RM1.05 billion to the Ministry of Utilities and Telecommunications (MUT) under Alternative Funding and the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13) for this year.

Its minister, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, said the substantial allocation is meant to implement various approved utilities and telecommunications projects and programmes.

“I urge all agencies to implement the approved projects and programmes immediately and according to the allocations that have been set,” said Julaihi in his ministerial address speech at a hotel here on Monday.

He further stressed the importance of continuous on-site monitoring to ensure smooth project implementation and to identify any issues at an early stage.

“I also call on agencies to frequently conduct site visits and carry out close monitoring so that corrective action can be taken immediately if projects encounter problems,” he said.

He added that firm action must be taken if contractors’ performance is found to be unsatisfactory, to ensure that every project is implemented as planned and achieves its intended objectives.

On fibre infrastructure improvement initiatives, Julaihi said SACOFA is carrying out enhancement works on the existing network, including upgrading fibre optic infrastructure, increasing network capacity and strengthening supporting facilities.

“The initiative aims to support service provision by telecommunication companies such as CelcomDigi, Maxis, U-Mobile and others.

“Therefore, I hope SACOFA will implement this initiative as planned to reduce network congestion and provide more stable internet connectivity, ultimately benefiting the people,” he said.