Dr Sim winding up DUN speech 15 Nov 2017

suppadmin | November 15, 2017

Datuk Amar Speaker,

1. First and foremost, I would like to take this opportunity together with the other Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat in this august House to congratulate Yang Amat Berhormat Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abang Haji Openg being conferred the Darjah Utama Yang Amat Mulia Bintang Kenyalang Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Bintang Kenyalang (D.P) which carry the title Datuk Patinggi in conjunction with the 81^st Birthday of Tuan Yang Terutama Yang Dipertua Negeri on the 9^th of September 2017. We would also like to congratulate Yang Amat Berhormat Chief Minister for tabling the forward looking 2018 Budget in preparing the State to quantum leap into digital economy. The 2018 State budget continues to be development biased with greater emphasis on developing the necessary infrastructure and amenities such as roads, drainage, telecommunications, electricity and water supplies to bridge the gap between the urban centres and the rural areas and to improve the quality of life of the people in Sarawak through economic transformation.

2. I wish to thank all Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat who during the course of their debates had either commented or raised matters relating to my Ministry and departments under my purview or my watching brief. I will attempt to respond to the issues raised by the Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat.

MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND HOUSING

Datuk Amar Speaker,

3. My Ministry and all the agencies and departments under my charge, namely the 24 local authorities including Majlis Bandaraya Kuching Selatan (MBKS), Department of Irrigation and Drainage Sarawak (DID), Sewerage Services Department Sarawak (SSD), Sarawak Health Department (JKNS), Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA), Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and Borneo Development Corporation (BDC) as service oriented organizations are fully aware of the dynamic global changes due to digital transformation. We are committed to ensure that our service delivery systems are continuously improved to enhance the quality of life of the Rakyat.

Local Authorities Service Delivery

Local Authority Serve (LA SERVE)

4. As mentioned in my winding up speech at the last sitting, my Ministry has set up a pilot 24/7 Local Help Service now known as LA SERVE involving 6 local authorities namely, Miri City Council, Padawan Municipal Council, Sibu Municipal Council, Kota Samarahan Municipal Council, Sri Aman District Council and Bintulu Development Authority. LA SERVE has commenced in September 2017 starting with 2 motorcycles each being allocated to the participating local authorities except BDA. BDA was provided with a one-off financial assistance of RM50,000 to help them to procure the necessary equipment needed by its LA SERVE team. In addition to the motorcycles, 6 units of Toyota Hilux complete with the necessary accessories and equipment will be distributed to these local authorities by December 2017. My Ministry hopes that the setting up of LA SERVE will help to enhance service delivery of the six (6) participating local authorities as well as their effectiveness in addressing public complaints 24/7.

Drain Cleaning Services

Datuk Amar Speaker,

5. In June this year, My Ministry has issued new guidelines on drain cleaning for the local authorities to adopt. The new guidelines are primarily directed to make sure drain cleaning service is efficient and effective. The implementation of new guidelines will involve major changes in drain cleaning service and system. These guidelines will be adopted by local authorities in phases beginning of 2018 incorporating into the new tender contract.

Effective Monitoring of Local Services

6. Since, last year all the local authorities’ councillors names and handphone numbers has been available on their respective local authorities website. To further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of local authorities’ service, my Ministry will be producing guidelines requiring all local authorities to publish the names and telephone contacts of their contractors providing local services in their area. This aims to encourage the public to become “the eyes and ears” of the local authorities in ensuring quality service rendered by the appointed contractors. In addition to this, the Ministry will be developing special Apps on local authorities’ services keeping in-line with YAB Chief Minister’s digital era.

Law Revision Committee

Datuk Amar Speaker,

7. I have also mentioned in my winding up speech during the last DUN sitting that my Ministry has set up the Local Authorities Law Revision Committee with the objective of reviewing and updating local authorities’ laws and regulations. I wish to update Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat that to-date, Earthworks By-laws and amendment of Protection of Public Health (Hotels and Lodging Houses) Regulations 2003 are at the final stage of drafting while the draft for Local Authorities Licensing of Food Establishments and Miscellaneous Trades By-laws to replace the current Licensing of Miscellaneous Occupations By-laws has been completed and is now in the process of final vetting by the State Attorney General’s Chambers.

8. My Ministry has also worked closely with the Malaysian Institute of Architects (Sarawak Chapter) in addressing some of the inconsistencies arising from the various interpretation of the Building Ordinance 1994 by the pratitioners and the local authorities. In order to promote uniformity and professionalism, there is a need for clear policy guideline on applying the requirements of the laws. To-date, the Ministry has produced nine (9) policy guidelines to enable the professionals and the local authorities to have a commom understanding of the building requirements.

9. Due to the recent rabies outbreak affecting the State there is urgency for my Ministry to also consolidate and improve the provisions of the various Dog Licence By-laws of the local authorities. My Ministry has recently completed the draft for the new Local Authorities (Dog Licence) By-laws to be discussed and deliberated at the Workshop jointly organized by Sarawak Health Department and World Health Organization started yesterday. The new by-laws will consolidate and repeal the old by-laws with improved provisions that require dog owners to vaccinate their dogs with anti-rabies vaccination before any licence can be issued. In addition to this, my Ministry will continue to review and update the other laws of the local authorities.

Local Authorities Finance

Datuk Amar Speaker,

10. My Ministry is aware that Local Authorities are under tremendous pressure to deliver the best services to the Rakyat and currently, almost all of them are operating on deficit budget due to reduction of assessment rates RM31.49 million announced by late Tok Nan which has benefited 447,235 holdings. My Ministry is continuously looking into ways to improve the financial resources of the local authorities and to beef up their effectiveness and efficiencies. As mentioned in my last winding up speech, my Ministry has set up a Community of Practice (COP) for Valuation comprising of valuers from my Ministry and the major local authorities in the State. The main objective of this COP is to establish a standard method of valuation for special purpose holdings such as hotels, shopping malls, medical centres, cinemas, etc. This COP also serves as a platform for these valuers to discuss on new types of property that could be legally charged with assessment rates by the local authorities but was previously not been charged such as dam, quarry, oil and gas pipelines, telecommunication towers and water main so as to generate more revenue for the local authorities. The levy on oil plam plantation is also due for revision.

Development Projects and Programmes under Local Authorities

Datuk Amar Speaker,

11. Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat for Balingian, Telian, Bukit Semuja, Simunjan, Engkilili, Lambir, Tupong, Kabong, Dudong, Kedup, Tamin, Repok, Padungan, Pujut and Bukit Goram have highlighted various issues and concerns relating to the provision of infrastructures, municipal services and the occurrences of flood in their respective constituencies. These issues and concerns raised by Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat will be looked into by the respective agencies under my charge. In this regard, my Ministry will continue to seek more State and Federal fundings.

12. For the information of Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat, the State Government has approved an allocation of RM53.97 million in 2017 for the 23 Local Authorities to implement 562 infrastructure projects such as upgrading of street lightings, traffic lights, footpaths, public toilets, libraries, jetties and recreational parks. Out of these 562 projects, 518 are at various stages of implementation and the majority will be completed within this year.

13. For 2017, under the Cabinet Committee Rural Transformation Initiatives, an allocation of RM45.78 million has been approved for 97 flood mitigation projects to be implemented by the local authorities, DID and JKR. 63 of these projects will be completed by the end of this year whilst the remaining 34 projects will be implemented in 2018.

14. For the 16 Night Markets approved in 2017 under the Cabinet Committee Socio-Economic Transformation Initiatives, 2 have already been completed while the remaining 14 are at various stages of implementation and scheduled for completion by the end of this year. I had witnessed impactful local economic activities since the starting of the weekend night market at Batu Kawa Old Town.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

15. In 2017, the Federal Government has approved a grant of RM265 million under the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS) for 23 Local Authorities to carry out maintenance of roads, drains and road furnitures under their respective jurisdiction. MARRIS constitutes a very important source of funding for these local authorities to enable all their registered roads to be maintained to the required road safety standard. In order to achieve this, my Ministry is changing the road maintenance format from project-based to program-based. For this purpose, all the 23 Local Authorities under the Ministry have been directed to carry out a comprehensive roads and drains inventory in order to facilitate more systematic planning and effective maintenance works.

16. My Ministry has also received RM36.2 million from the Federal Ministry of Urban Well-being, Housing and Local Government (KPKT) for local authorities in the State to implement 342 minor infrastructure development projects, out of which 66 have been completed. The rest of the projects will be completed by the end of this year.

SMART Community Development and Engagement Programmes

Datuk Amar Speaker,

17. My Ministry has also implemented many initiatives involving the community in order to enhance their capacity and capabilities to be more responsive, more self-reliance and self-regulated. The community and the local authorities can together make the difference to create a socially and economically vibrant environment for our cities and towns. Up until November 2017, there are 156 community programmes approved by the Ministry and implemented by the 23 Local Authorities.

Anugerah Menteri Kerajaan Tempatan dan Perumahan (AMKTP) for SMART Community Programme

18. Since its inception in October 2016, SMART Community Award has gained popularity amongst the local authorities and the participating communities. There were 140 local authorities SMART Community Programmes running in 2016 and there were 3 winners of the Award out of the 8 initially shortlisted. This year, out of the 156 local authorities SMART Community Programmes, 11 were shortlisted to win the Award. It is my sincere hope that such award will encourage more community-generated initiatives in our pursuit to inculcate the culture of volunteerism.

Urban Poor Eradication Programme (PPKB)

19. For 2017, under the Urban Poor Eradication Programme, my Ministry has also received an allocation of RM4.14 million from the Federal Ministry of Urban Well-being, Housing and Local Government (KPKT) for the local authorities in State to implement 276 house repair projects for the urban poor. To-date,all the 276 house repair projects have been completed making us the second highest achiever for this programme after Selangor.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS)

Datuk Amar Speaker,

20. I wish to update this august House the progress of the installation of the coordinated adaptive traffic system (SMART Traffic Light) at junctions in MBKS area in order to have impact in easing the traffic congestion during peak hours. To-date, there are already 8 junctions installed with the system in MBKS area. There are namely junction at Jalan Pending, Jalan Simpang Tiga, Jalan Wan Alwi (Tabuan Jaya), Jalan Kedandi (Lodge School), Jalan Song (Friendship Park), Jalan Song (Tabuan Laru), Jalan Song (BDC) and Jalan Padungan (MBKS Swimming Pool). Two more junctions at Jalan Rock and Jalan Chawan will equipped with same system within this year. As a result of the implementation of the SMART Traffic Light, there has been significant improvement of traffic the flow which has ease the traffic congestion at the said locailty during peak hours. Hence, MBKS plans to add another ten (10) more junctions to be upgraded with the system.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

21. There are two agencies implementing road maintenance works in the State namely the local authorities and JKR. For the ease of differenciating between local authorities roads and JKR roads, MBKS has embarked on putting Council’s crest on their road name signage. I have directed the other local authorities to do the same in their respective areas.

Issues Raised by Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat

22. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Kota Sentosa, there was nothing fishy in the issue of Occupation Permit by MBKS for Vivacity Apartments. Preliminary Inspections to Apartment Tower D were carried out by Building and Health Inspectors of the MBKS on 10 April 2017 and again on 27 April 2017. At that material time, only Apartment Tower D was completed, then partial Occupation Permit was issued to Apartment Tower D (excluding Tower E) on 28 April 2017 in accordance with the Local Authorithies Standard Operating Procedure under the Key Focus Activities (KFA).

23. On 17 May 2017 and again on 26 May 2017, MBKS carried out preliminary inspections to Vivacity Apartment Tower E. During the inspection on 26 May 2017, MBKS record showed there was no live cable and scaffolding at the premises. Final inspection was carried out again on 29 May 2017 to ensure works were fully completed and in compliance with the approved building plans as per the Checklist for Application for the Issuance of Occupation Permit submitted by the project architect. Hence, the Occupation Permit for Apartments Tower D & E was issued by MBKS on 30th May 2017 upon receipt of Form F from the project architect.

24. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Tupong, my Ministry is aware for the need for Occupation Permit (OP) to be issued promptly after all building requirements are complied with. This is applicable to all regardless of whether it is landed or strata-title property development. In the case Taman Hillside Matang, the OP will be issued once all the requirements are fullfilled by the developer.

25. On the issue raised by Ahli Yang Berhormat for Lingga on your request to build the waterfront in Lingga, I wish to inform Ahli Yang Berhormat that Sri Aman District Council has no plan to build Lingga Waterfront at present.

26. On the upgrading of roads in Maludam, in 2017, Betong District Council has six (6) road repair and resurfacing projects costing RM1.2 million at Kampung Sepinang Phase II, Kampung Semarang Phase II, Rumah Panjang Sg Pedada Phase II, Rumah Panjang Sg Daun Phase II, Rumah Panjang Meranti and Jalan Kampung Triso. All of these six (6) projects will be fully completed by end of this month. In 2018, another seven (7) roads will be repaired and upgraded.

27. On the issue raised by Ahli Yang Berhormat for Telian on the new Mukah sanitary landfill, I wish to inform Ahli Yang Berhormat, that the approved site for a new sanitary landfill is located at an oil palm plantation belonging to Sarawak Plantation Berhad. There are two proposed access roads to this site. Mukah and Dalat District Council will hold a discussion to finalise on the access road. Currently, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the site is on-going and is expected to complete in December 2017.

Housing

Datuk Amar Speaker,

28. I will now deliberate on housing.

29. First of all, I would like to thank our YAB Prime Minister for the allocation of RM2.2 billion for the development of housing nationwide and for the provision for 600 units of My Beautiful New Home (MyBNHome) as announced in the 2018 national budget. My Ministry will continue to work with the Federal Government in order for Sarawak to have a sizeable share of the RM2.2 billion allocation and sufficient number of MyBNHome built in Sarawak.

30. MyBNHome was one of the National Blue Ocean Strategy (NBOS) initiatives announced by YAB Prime Minister of Malaysia in his 2017 national Budget. It provides affordable housing for households who does not own a house with a monthly household income of below RM3,900. Under the scheme, Industrialised Building System (IBS) technology will be used and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students will be employed as one of the requirements in the construction of MyBNHome.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

31. For the information of Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat, and also in responding to the request for more affordable housing in Bau by Ahli Yang Berhormat for Tasik Biru, for 2017, the Federal Government has agreed to build 51 units of MyBNHome at Kampung Sibuluh Resettlement Scheme, in Bau. Under this project, each house will cost RM60,000 to build and to be sold at RM30,000 per unit. The Federal Government will subsidise 50% of the building costs and the remaining balance will be financed through Bank Simpanan National loan.

32. Program Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) gives opportunities for those with monthly households income of RM3,000 and below to own a house. Currently, 1,956 units are under construction in Kuching, Samarahan, Miri and Sibu. PPR Sungai Rait, Lambir in Miri consisting of 505 units of single storey terrace house have been completed and handed over to the successful applicants in stages beginning August 2017. PPR Sg. Tengah Matang II consisting of 439 units single storey terrace is 100% completed and now is in the process of issuance of Occupation Permit (OP) while PPR Tanjung Tuang Samarahan consisting of 180 units single storey terrace is nearing completion.

33. For 2017, Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) has approved 705 units of houses under the Program Rumah Mesra Rakyat 1Malaysia (RMR1M) in Sarawak. This program is to help those families also with a household income of RM3,000 and below who do not own a house or are living in dilapidated house. The house will be built at the cost of between RM68,000 to RM79,000 per unit. Out of this cost, the Government will subsidise RM20,000 and the balance will be financed through loan.

34. Out of the 705 units of RMR1M in Sarawak a total of 270 units has been completed. While 52 units at Sg. Midin Petra Jaya have been handed over to the successful participants. The construction of the remaining 435 units will be completed by end of 2018.

Skim Perumahan Khas Rakyat (SPEKTRA Housing)

Datuk Amar Speaker,

35. The private sector also contributes in the provision of affordable housing through Skim Perumahan Khas Rakyat (SPEKTRA housing) to cater for the low to medium income group. Since April 2016, the State Planning Authority (SPA) has approved 3 types of houses under this program comprising 1,869 units of SPEKTRA Lite (selling price ranging from RM100,000 to RM120,000), 2,865 units of SPEKTRA Medium (selling price ranging from RM135,000 to RM168,000) and 1,921 units SPEKTRA Plus (selling price of RM150,000 to RM198,000). My Ministry will closely monitor the implementation of this SPEKTRA housing by private sector.

Long House Loan Scheme

Datuk Amar Speaker,

36. I would like to inform this august House that since the implementation of Longhouse Loan Scheme in 1978, 632 longhouses consisting of 14,371 doors have benefitted from this Scheme with the total funding of RM108 million. In October this year, my Ministry has received funding of RM10 million from the Federal Government for the Scheme. Currently, there are 21,118 waiting list under this Scheme requiring an estimated funding of RM633 million.

Reviving “Sick“ Private Housing Project

Datuk Amar Speaker,

37. As at 31^st October 2017, currently there are 605 private housing projects in Sarawak. A total of 20 projects i.e about 3% is classified as “sick“ project. To-date eight (8) projects have been successfully revived through effective coordination by my Ministry with the interested parties. My Ministry will continue to closely monitor these projects.

Tribunal Tuntutan Pembeli Rumah Sarawak

38. Tribunal Tuntutan Pembeli Rumah Sarawak (TTPRS) has been actively conducting awareness programmes on house buyer’s rights in the State. Since its inception in 2010, a total of 196 cases were heard and settled by the Tribunal. Up to October this year 38 cases were heard and settled, a testimonial of the increasing awareness of the Tribunal service from house buyers. From the records, the most common grievances faced by the house buyers are late handing over of the house, poor workmanship and non-compliance with the agreed building specifications.

Issues Raised by Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat

Datuk Amar Speaker,

39. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Piasau, HDC plans to build a total number of 769 units of Program Rumah Mampu Milik (RMM) in Miri on part of Lot 3710, Block 6, Kuala Baram Land District, Miri. Out of these 769 units, 278 units are under SPEKTRA Lite with selling price of RM100,000 per unit for intermediate unit and RM120,000 per unit for corner unit. Meanwhile, the balance of 491 units are for normal housing with selling price ranging from RM170,000 to RM299,000 per unit.

40. For the information of Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat for Balingian, Repok, Batu Danau and Bukit Goram, HDC will conduct feasibility study based on good business practice in order to ascertain the housing needs including the type of houses to be built in any particular area.

41. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Balingian, a total of 22 applicants for Rumah Mesra Rakyat 1Malaysia (RMR1M) at Skim Pembesaran Kampung Balingian Fasa 2 have been approved by Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB). Casting of lots had been completed on 17^th August 2017 at Pejabat Daerah Kecil Balingian. The applicants were required to furnish HDC with the information on their properties search before formal letter of offer to be issued.

42. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Tupong, the Federal Government has implemented Program Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Matang Sungai Tengah comprising of 439 units of affordable single storey terrace house which are nearing completion. As for the digital facilities and amenities of PPR projects, currently there is no allocation from the Federal Government for such digital facilities. However, the State Government has considered to install Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) for PPR Taman Dahlia for the year 2018.

43. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Layar, HDC had implemented 14 units of affordable single storey semi-detached houses on HDC’s vacant lots in RPR Betong along Jalan Berbanggai. Currently, the project is 80% completed and expected to be fully completed by first quarter 2018. Selling price for these houses ranges from RM250,000.00 to RM280,000.00 per unit.

44. HDC had also planned to implement 92 units of affordable single storey semi-detached house and 13 units of detached house also on HDC’s vacant lots in RPR Betong. Construction for these 105 units of affordable house will commence once approval for all the related statutory requirements of the project from the relevant authorities has been obtained. The 105 units of these affordable houses will be sold at affordable prices below RM300,000 per unit.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

45. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Jemoreng, my Ministry has submitted an application for funding under mid-term review (MTR) of RMK-11 for implementation of 24 units of SPEKTRA Permata for Skim Pembesaran Kampung Igan and 20 units of SPEKTRA Permata for Skim Pembesaran Kampung Tian, Matu. The project will be implemented once funding by the State Government is approved.

46. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Kabong, currently HDC had completed the site formation works for 212 housing lots at Skim Pembesaran Kampung Sungai Muroh, Kabong. For 2018, funding amounting of RM500,000 for pilling works and cross overs for 25 units of Program Rumah Mesra Rakyat 1Malaysia (RMR1M) houses had been approved by the State Government. HDC will commence with the implementation of these two works by first quarter of 2018 once the successful applicants have been confirmed.

47. On the issue raised by Ahli Yang Berhormat for Tanjung Datu on public housing in Lundu, HDC will commence the earthworks for Skim Pembesaran Kampung (SPK) Lundu by early next month. Meanwhile, tender for Skim Pembesaran Kampung Sematan earthworks is currently under evaluation and the works will commence in early 2018. Funding for the construction of total 76 units of houses has been submitted for State approval.

48. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Samalaju, currently the Government has no specific housing programme for squatters. However, Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has plan to develop HDC’s landbank at Kidurong for mixed development. Subject to funding approval from Federal Government, the mixed development will also include affordable apartments for low income group including squatters.

DEPARTMENT OF IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE SARAWAK (DID)

Datuk Amar Speaker,

FLOOD MITIGATION AND URBAN DRAINAGE

Federal Programs and Projects

49. In 2017, the Federal Government has allocated an amount of RM47.84 million for Flood Mitigation and RM45.29 million for River Management Program.

50. The allocations are for the implementation of Flood Mitigation Projects, River Bank Protection, Pasca Banjir projects and river clearing and maintenanceworks throughout the State. The Flood Mitigation Project for Bintulu at JalanTun Razak with physical progress of 13% is on schedule for completion by December 2018. The flood mitigation for Sibu phase 3 for ceiling of RM100 million and Kuching for ceiling of RM150 million are expected to commence by early next year and the second half of 2018 respectively.

51. The Government will continue to give priority to Stormwater Management Master Plan study for urban centers in Sarawak with approved fund amounting to RM11 million under 11^th Malaysia Plan. Stormwater Management Master Plan for Sarikei and Bintangor is in progress and scheduled to be completed by February 2018.

52. Studies for some other main towns namely Sri Aman, Betong, Debak, Spaoh, Saratok, Limbang, Lawas and Serian are being planned in the next two years.

53. For coastal erosion protection and river mouth rehabilitation programme, the Federal Government has approved a total of RM84 million under the 11^thMalaysia Plan. There are ten (10) projects under this programme. The projects at Kampung Santubong, Kampung Tanah Hitam and Kpg Siru Melayu have been successfully completed while the one at Kampung Serpan, Asajaya is currently under construction.The remaining six (6) projects at SK Bedengan, Sematan, Buntal, Sebuyau, Batu 1 Kuala Baram and Oya Hilir are in the various stages of design and procurement.

54. In addition, RM29.96 million has been approved for river mouth dredging works to mitigate flood and facilitate river navigation. The four (4) projects are the river mouths of Sg. Sematan, Sg. Buntal, Sg. Bako and Sg. Limbang.

State Urban Drainage Program

55. The State Government has allocated RM18.88 million this year to implement five (5) Urban Drainage Improvement projects. Two (2) of these projects are nearing completion namely the drainage improvement works in Lawas town and drainage outlet for Sarawak General Hospital at Green Road with physical progress at 95% and 90% respectively. Two projects pending award are the Drainage improvement works at Kpg. Gita, Kuching and Kpg. Jeriah, Sibu. The other project at Kpg. Bahagia, Sg. Teku, Sibu is still in the detailed design stage.

Issues Raised by Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat

Datuk Amar Speaker,

56. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Lingga, DID has submitted proposal for riverbank erosion project covering Kampung Hilir, Kampung Tengah and Kampung Hulu in RMK-11, estimated at RM29.0 million but the proposal was not approved. DID will resubmit the said proposal again under the next rolling plan for consideration.

57. For the information of Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat for Lingga and Beting Maro, construction of bund and riverwall are not only costly but also lead to a false sense of security when people start building on low-lying platform or extend their stilt house to the ground level. Bunding also required space and buffer along the rivers which are often not available in existing kampung. Therefore a more practical approach for many villages along coastal and riverine areas subjected to tidal flooding and at high risk of riverbank failures is relocation to higher ground.

58. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Telian, DID has put up a proposal to the Federal Government under the 11^th Malaysia Plan to request for an allocation of RM8 million to implement the riverbank protection works at Sungai Penakub/Sungai Telian, Mukah. In addition, DID has also put up proposal for Stormwater Management Masterplan for Mukah (RM2.5 million) and also drainage improvement works for Mukah (RM10 million) under the 11^th Malaysia Plan but these were not approved. DID will continue to source for both Federal and State funding.

59. On the request of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Jemoreng, for river clearing works in Sungai Bawang, Sungai Sekaan Besar, Sungai Sekaan Kecil and Sungai Sok, I wish to inform Ahli Yang Berhormat that DID will put up a proposal to the Federal Government for the consideration. The total length of these rivers is 5.7km and is estimated to cost RM650,000.

60. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Jemoreng, DID will submit a revised proposal for the coastal protection works at Kampung Sekerang, Igan in the next RMK-11 Rolling Plan. This revised proposal is estimated to cost RM25 million from the original RM3.5 million. On the other request for coastal erosion protection works at Kuala Matu, DID will conduct the investigation and to come up with the proposal for funding.

SEWERAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT (SSD)

Urban Sewerage

Datuk Amar Speaker,

61. I will now touch on various sewerage projects in the State under taken by the Sewerage Services Department.

Septic Sludge Treatment Facilities

62. Under the First Rolling Plan (2016 and 2017) of the 11^th Malaysia Plan, the Federal Government has approved a total of RM60 million to build four (4) additional septic sludge treatment plants to serve the towns of Betong, Sarikei, Kapit and Limbang. I am glad to report in this august House that the siting proposals for all the four plants have been approved. We are now proceeding into the detail design works and schedule to call tender in the first quarter of next year.

Centralised Sewerage Systems

Datuk Amar Speaker,

63. The construction of Miri Centralised Sewerage System, Phase 1, Package A involving the sewer network has achieved 3.5% progress and is on schedule. The works has commenced on 30^th March 2017 and it is scheduled for completion in 4 years time. The calling of tender for Package B involving the construction of the centralised sewage treatment plant is scheduled in the 1^st Quarter of next year. The total scheme value for Package A and Package B is RM428 million.

64. For Kuching Centralised Sewerage System Zone 1 Package 2, the project has commenced on 7^th September 2017 and is scheduled to complete in 15 months’ time. Currently, it is in the site preparatory stage. This project has an approved allocation of RM 20 million for the provision of sewerage infrastructure in Darul Hana Development Scheme.

65. The Kuching Centralised Sewerage System Package 2 has also commenced on 15^th September 2017 and is scheduled to complete in 6 years’ time. Currently, works has started along Jalan Tun Abdul Rahman Yaakub and Jalan Tun Salahuddin. The progress is on schedule at 0.5%. This project is to provide sewerage infrastructure in Petra Jaya area and has an approved allocation of RM750 million.

Sewerage Master Plan Studies

Datuk Amar Speaker,

66. The Federal Government has also approved RM1 million each for three (3) sewerage Master Plan studies under the RMK-11 First Rolling Plan (2016-2017). These master plan studies are for our smaller urban centres of Kota Samarahan Town, Sarikei and Bintangor Town, and Mukah Town. These studies have commenced on 22nd May 2017 and shall be completed within eight (8) months. The progress of the three studies are all on schedule.

SARAWAK HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Health Services

Datuk Amar Speaker,

67. I shall now touch on the services provided by Sarawak Health Department, one of the Federal departments under my watching brief.

68. The Department provides services through a network of 23 hospitals consisting of one (1) state hospital, three (3) major specialist hospitals, five (5) minor specialist hospitals, three (3) special institutions and 11 district hospitals. The department also operates 205 health clinics or Klinik Kesihatan (KK), seven (7) Klinik Desa, 35 Klinik 1Malaysia (K1M) and 24 Klinik Kesihatan Ibu dan Anak (KKIA).

69. Sarawak Health Department has a total of 25,233 approved posts of which 96% has been filled. These consist of 308 specialists, 2,764 medical officers, 328 dental officers, 625 pharmacists and 8,608 nurses. The remaining is the supporting personnel for the medical services.

70. To-date, the State Health Department has received RM1.95 billion under the operating expenditure compared to RM2.5 billion in 2016, a decrease of RM550 mil. Of the allocation received, RM1.174 billion or 60% is for emolument alone while the remaining RM774 million or 40% is for drugs, vaccines, reagent, consumables, maintenance and administrative costs.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

71. I am pleased to inform Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat of this august House that throughout this year, most of the communicable diseases reported in the State are under control and with declining incidence rates. However, non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart diseases continue to pose problem. In addition to this, the Rabies outbreak declared in July this year is a new challenge in the history of health services in Sarawak.

Rabies

72. The last case of human Rabies in Malaysia was reported in the year of 1998 in Kedah, involving a person scratched by a cat infected with rabies. Sarawak was rabies-free until the declaration of human rabies outbreak on the 1^st July 2017. Sarawak Health Department has since reported six (6) laboratory confirmed human rabies cases, five (5) of whom had died due to the disease. The latest human rabies case was notified on 8^th August 2017. The patient is currently critically ill and warded in intensive care unit of Sarawak General Hospital.

73. Up to 25^th October this year, four (4) Divisions are affected by the rabies outbreak, namely Serian, Kuching, Sri Aman and Samarahan. A total of 4,320 cases of animal bites from the outbreak areas have been reported to Sarawak Health Department. Out of this number, 1,586 cases have received vaccination.

74. My Ministry is working closely with Sarawak Health Department, Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak, Sarawak State Agencies, and non-government organizations (NGO) in controlling and preventing the rabies outbreak.

75. Rabies is a fatal disease if left untreated. However, it is 100% preventable through prompt medical care. Dogs remain as the main global source of rabies disease in humans. To-date, 90,000 brochures have been distributed to the community and 420 banners have been put up at strategic locations to educate and continually remind the public on rabies. Sarawak can be declared free of rabies once again after the State remains free of animal and human rabies for a period of at least 2 years. For information, the World Health Organization (WHO) has the target of eliminating rabies globally by the year 2030.

KOMUNITI SIHAT PEMBINA NEGARA (KOSPEN)

Datuk Amar Speaker,

76. The Ministry of Health introduced Komuniti Sihat Pembina Negara (KOSPEN) in 2013 with the objectives to promote healthy lifestyle, to provide health screening services, to detect early non-communicable disease among the community members. It is alarming to note that the rate of undiagnosed diabetes is increasing with 16.0% recorded in 2014, 16.5% in 2015 and 21.2% in 2016. Since 2013, a total of 989 KOSPEN localities have been set up throughout the State, with 5,978 community health volunteers-known as Gerak Sihat Malaysia or GSiM-recruited and trained. To-date, a total of 40,209 persons have been screened by the GSiMs. As at 30^th September 2017, the department has registered 136,892 cases of diabetes throughout the State, of which 7,036 cases are newly diagnosed cases.

Dengue

77. As at 21^st October this year, 818 dengue cases were reported in Sarawak compared to 2,302 cases over the same period in 2016, a decrease by 64.46%. Sarawak Health Department is committed to continue to work hand-in-hand with other non-health agencies in the State to further reduce dengue cases in Sarawak.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

Tuberculosis

78. As of October 2017, a total of 2,197 tuberculosis cases were reported compared to 2,242 cases in 2016, a decrease of 2.0%. Sarawak Health Department is taking steps to detect as many cases as possible through systematic screening and to start early treatment in order to control the spread of the disease. In 2016, the Department started a new TB screening service through its mobile x-ray unit. As at 21^st October, 2017, a total of 7,982 persons have been screened using the mobile x-ray at 152 rural locations throughout the State. Out of that, 49 cases were found to have tuberculosis.

Rural Health Service (State Rural Transformation Initiatives)

79. Rural Health Service is under the Key Result Area 2 (KRA 2) of the State Rural Transformation Initiatives. The State Government has allocated RM2.8 million in 2017 to finance upgrading of rural clinics project through the National Blue Ocean Strategy (NBOS) approach, Rural Clinic Visiting Doctors and Cluster Clinic System.

80. A total of 114 rural clinics in Sarawak do not have resident doctors. The Rural Clinic Visiting Doctors service is an approach taken to fill this gap before permanent doctors can be posted there. For the first phase in 2017, 85 out of 114 rural clinics were involved in this program. To-date, 67 clinics are visited every month, 15 clinics are visited once every two months and 3 clinics are visited once every three months. The remaining 29 clinics will be included into this programme in Phase 2 in 2018.

Development Projects

81. For the information of Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat, two (2) hospital projects in Sarawak are being built under the supervision of Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) Malaysia. They are Petra Jaya Hospital and Sri Aman Hospital.

82. As at 22^nd October 2017, the actual progress for Petra Jaya Hospital is 27.68%, compared with the scheduled progress of 100%. The initial completion date was November 2016. The contractor was granted an Extension of Time (EOT) and the completion date was therefore shifted to 9^th June 2017. However, the project still suffers a huge delay. Currently, JKR Malaysia is closely monitoring the project in order to ensure that this much needed hospital completed for the benefit of the people of Sarawak as soon as possible.

83. For Sri Aman Hospital, the actual physical progress as at 28^th October 2017 is 23.40% compared with the scheduled progress of 41.00%. The initial completion date was 25^th October 2018. With the approval of the first Extension of Time (EOT) by JKR Malaysia, the new date of completion is now shifted to the 3^rd August 2019.

Pharmaceutical Services

84. For the information of Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat, Sarawak Health Department has taken steps to further improve the system at medication dispensing counters. Nine (9) Centralised Collection Centres for follow-up medications has been set up at:

K1M UTC Kuching, Sibu, Miri;
K1M Taman Malihah Kuching, Taman Rejang Sibu, Farley Sibu, Bandung Sibu and Taman Tunku Miri; and
Sarawak Health Department.

85. Other medication collection points such as Locker For You (Locker 4 U) have been set up in Sibu Hospital and K1M Taman Tunku Miri. Walk-Through Pharmacy in Kota Sentosa Health Clinic also has been set up for patients to ease the congestion at dispensing counters, while at the same time provide alternative collection points for follow-up medication. Follow-up medication can also be delivered directly to patients through PosLaju to avoid hassle of coming back to pharmacy. For patients who prefer to collect the follow-up medications at pharmacy counters, all hospitals’ and health clinics’ pharmacies are providing appointment dispensing service where the follow-up medications will be prepared before collection.

Issues Raised by Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat

Datuk Amar Speaker,

86. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Bukit Goram, the State Health Department has no plan yet to build a health clinic in Nanga Trusa, Sungai Belawai, Kapit as the population size has not reach the minimum number of people to qualify for a static clinic. Currently, the health services are provided by the Mobile Health Team from Kapit Divisional Health Office, once in every three months for a duration of three days. Approximately 130 patients seen over the three days

87. Datuk Amar Speaker, on the request to improve the medical facilities at Kapit Hospital raised up by Ahli Yang Berhormat for Bukit Goram, I wish to inform Ahli Yang Berhormat that the proposal for additional clinical block can only be materialised after the electricity component is upgraded to cater for the need of additional equipment. Due to space constraint at the Kapit Hospital, currently only 13 haemodialysis machines with the capacity to serve 78 patients are provided to cater for the need of 61 patients. Currently the hospital site has no more land to build additional quarters for the staff.

88. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Bukit Semuja, the implementation of Klinik Kesihatan Serian (Type 3) is under the supervision of JKR Sarawak. The project is expected to be tendered out in February 2018 and the construction period is 24 months.

89. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Pujut, the State Health Department has no plan to build a cardiac hub centre in Miri. The present cardiac facilities in the Sarawak Heart Centre, Kuching is still able to meet the needs for Sarawak.

90. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Repok, Sarikei Hospital has a total of ten (10) ambulances. A total of 36 new ambulances will be allocated for Sarawak hospitals in year 2018, of which at least two (2) new ambulances will be allocated to Sarikei Hospital.

91. For information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Tamin, currently 13 patients from Selangau who are receiving haemodialysis treatment in Bintulu Hospital, Sibu Hospital and Mukah Hospital. As the number of patients has exceed the minimum of 10, Sarawak Health Department will submit a proposal to Ministry of Health for a haemodialysis unit to be set up in KK Selangau.

92. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Ba‘ Kelalan, the 2018 national budget for Sarawak Health Department has not been determined yet. And with regard to the policy change by Ministry of Health relating to supply of medication from 3 months supply to 1 month supply, I wish to inform Ahli Yang Berhormat that this is due to the following reasons :

to monitor patients’ compliance and occurrence of adverse reactions;
to ensure that the medicines are properly stored so as not to compromise the efficacy of these medications and safety of patients; and
to avoid wastage of the medicine supplied.

93. On another issue raised by Ahli Yang Berhormat for Ba’kelalan, on the status of Lawas Hospital, I wish to inform Ahli Yang Berhormat, that this is a project supervised by JKR Malaysia. The Phase 2B of the project is retendered as the previous appointed contractor declined to proceed due to cost. Phase 2B is currently under tender evaluation stage for the second time.

94. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Daro, KK (Jenis 4) Daro, Mukah, has been approved with the cost of RM35 million under RMK-11, Rolling Plan 2 in 2017. The implementing agency for this project is JKR Sarawak. The Preliminary Detailed Abstract (PDA) will be submitted by JKR to KKM for approval in January 2018 and expected to be tendered out in May 2018.

95. On the issue raised by Ahli Yang Berhormat for Lingga regarding the upgrading of KK Maludam, Ministry of Health has approved RM111,528 in 2016 for the repair and upgrading work of KK Maludam. Apart from that, a total cost of RM70,800 has been approved under the Rural Transformation Initiatives – KRA 2 for upgrading and renovation work of quarters at KK Maludam.

96. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Meluan, there is no plan to build Hospital Julau at present. The site identified is for future development of a new clinic in Julau. The current KK Julau can cater to the need of local population. Patients requiring further treatment will be referred to Sarikei Hospital.

97. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Murum, Sarawak Health Department has plan to build KK Metalun and KK Tegulang. The sites for the said clinics have been identified and approved by the Ministry of Health. The project proposal will be submitted under the 4^th Rolling Plan. Apart from that, KK Sungai Asap will be upgraded to become the referral clinic in the Cluster Clinic System under the Cabinet Committee for Rural Transformation Initiatives. The clinic will be the referral for cases from KK Sungai Koyan, KK Uma Sambop, KK (S) Sarawak Hidro dan KK Tubau.

98. For the information of Ahli Yang Berhormat for Serembu, there is no plan to build KK Krokong and KK Siniawan at present. The health services in both places can be catered by KK Serasot.

FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT

Fire and Rescue stations under RMK-11

Datuk Amar Speaker,

99. The Fire and Rescue Station at Tanjung Manis was completed on 12^th October 2017 while construction works for Daro, Batu Niah and Samalaju Fire and Rescue Stations is still ongoing.

100. Apart from that, the new Fire & Rescue Stations for Matu, Belaga, Sibu Jaya and the replacement of Bintangor Fire and Rescue Stations are still in design stage by JKR Sarawak.

“Khidmat Bakti Bomba” project under the National Blue Ocean Strategy (NBOS) 7

101. The Fire and Rescue Department of Sarawak through “Khidmat Bakti Bomba” program under National Blue Ocean Strategy 7 (NBOS 7) have provided assistance in the form of house repair for the poor and also helping to reconstruct houses that has been burnt down.

102. As at October 2017, the Fire and Rescue Department of Sarawak has repaired 30 houses, rebuilt 13 burnt houses while the rebuilding of another 2 houses are in progress.

Fire Safety Awareness Program

103. The Fire and Rescue Department Sarawak will continue to be committed to implement Public Educational and Awareness programs in fire safety to the community in Sarawak. As at September 2017, the department has carried out 1,346 Public Awareness Programs, 19 longhouse fire safety campaigns, 56 fire points and set up 101 new Bomba Community teams with a total of 1,080 members.

Statistic of Emergency Calls

104. Up to September 2017, Fire and Rescue Department Sarawak received a total of 5,666 emergency calls, as compared with 4,058 calls recorded for the same period in 2016 which is an increase of 40% due to rescue and special service. The 56 emergency calls comprised of 1,409 calls on fire outbreaks, 3,546 rescue calls, 694 calls for special service and 17 prank calls. The numbers of call on fire outbreaks recorded in 2017 have decreased by 12% as compared with the cases recorded for the same period in 2016 (1,595 cases). The department managed to save RM234 million worth of properties. However, the estimated loss recorded due to fire was RM121 million, an increase of 69% as compared to RM71.6 million in 2016. This marked increase is mainly due to high value content of properties affected by fire.

POLITICAL ISSUES

Datuk Amar Speaker

105. SUPP as one of the 4 component parties of BN Sarawak would like to strongly support Captain Abg Jo, of Team Tok Nam to continue Tok Nam’s 53 actions and principles such as funding for the Chinese Schools, UEC graduates for Sarawak Civil Service, 90% of teachers in Sarawak are Sarawakians, English as the 2^nd official language including resolve in Sarawak Autonomy as seen from the motion on MA 63 that was passed by this August House on 9 Nov 2017. I am pleased to see even Honorable members from DAP reluctantly raising their hand to support the motion despite stating not supporting in the debate.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

106. Luckily Honorable members from DAP support the motion as otherwise you can see how the West Malaysia DAP treated our Sarawakian. During the DAP’s CEC re-election (2012) on 12 November 2017, only one Sarawakian is elected (tengok sahaja).

Datuk Amar Speaker,

107. Captain Abg Jo, of Team Tok Nam, not only continues Tok Nam’s policy, but continues to strengthen and transforming Sarawak economy thru Digital Economy and working towards Sarawak Financial Autonomy (now 100% Sarawak owned Bakum Dam, 100% Sarawak owned DBOS, 100% Sarawak owned PETROS). All these are for the young Sarawakian, the future of Sarawak

Datuk Amar Speaker,

108. Our Honourable members from DAP always claimed Penang is better (despite they are being sidelined by their West Malaysia boss). Let’s compare DAP Penang Government and PR or PH Selangor Government’s 2018 Budget with BN Sarawak Government

Revenue Total Expenditure Deficit

Sarawak RM5.525 b RM8.226 b RM256 m

Selangor RM2.250 b RM3.120 b RM870 m

Penang RM504 m RM1.337 b RM748 m

Datuk Amar Speaker,

109. DAP always said Malaysia bankrupt. Looks like is because Penang’s government running out of money or should we said insolvency. This is not surprising as before 20km of roads are built in Penang, DAP Penang government paid RM209 million of consultant fees. Before the tunnel is built in Penang, DAP Penang government paid RM220 million of consultant fees project not just white elephant but no elephant can be seen! Why our Honourable members from DAP Sarawak don’t dare to ask Penang CM to take responsibility, resign or walking the talk on CAT? Is it because our Honourable Members from DAP Sarawak too scared of their West Malaysia boss (or the kitten from Sarawak was given something)

Datuk Amar Speaker

110. DAP Penang Government only needs RM100m for flood mitigation but claimed Federal Government doesn’t allocate them funding. However, they had more than RM400m for consultant fees for projects that can’t be seen.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

111. As I spoke in this August House in May this year, I promise to continue on the 53 U Turns of DAP which I need to continue today as otherwise I may be cited for janji tidak ditepati

112. Tok Nam’s 53 Actions and Principles. DAP’s 53 U Turns

i. At first DAP wanted blanket subsidies for petrol but in their latest alternative budget 2018, it has been changed to targeted subsidies for motorcycles and cars below 1,000cc.

ii. At first DAP opposed BR1M but they now say BR1M is a good thing and will continue this policy.

iii. At first DAP protested strongly for a return to sugar subsidies but now DAP agree with the govt that cheap sugar leads to higher consumption thus is bad for the health.

iv. Before 2008, DAP had protested strongly against Gurney Drive and other land reclamation projects but now DAP approved 6,000 acres of land reclamation projects in Penang.

v. At first DAP protested against the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) project but now they are building the same road projects as part of the 3 main roads portion of the dodgy Penang Tunnel project.

vi. DAP says they are against toll rates but is now giving a 30 years toll concession for the Penang Tunnel project

vii. DAP keeps saying that the govt is corrupted and wasteful and will cut spending if they took power but since taking power in Penang, their annual state operating expenses are now almost 500% of what it was in 2008.

viii. For 22 years, DAP says Tun Mahathir is the root of all the problems in Malaysia and must be removed from power to “save Malaysia”. Now they want to put back Mahathir into power in order to “save Malaysia”.

ix. Before 2008, DAP protested heavily against hill-side and hill-top developments but since taking power, they have approved more than 56 such projects between 2008 – 2015 and are now defending the hill-side and hill-top projects despite landslides and losing human lives.

Datuk Amar Speaker,

113. Because of time constraints, I shall continue the other U Turns in the next Dewan session next year. What I can say is Sarawakians are not stupid. I hope that the people could now clearly see the true colour of the DAP and reject their “blaming SUPP” brand of politics to distract the people’s attention and hide their failure to deliver the goods to the people they represent. The people can also see that DAP is a Party that has no firm principle and can change its stand anytime to suit its purpose. It has been changing partners. Very fortunate that Sarawak doesn’t have UMNO or UMNO culture. Unfortunately Sarawak have DAP and DAP culture.

114. Let’s in the coming GE 14 next year, Sarawakians choose to have stronger BN Sarawak rather than any West Malaysia parties. SUPP being the oldest Sarawakian Party has always been a loyal and faithful Sarawakian Party. Our first Sarawak coalition government partner was with PBB in 1970 and continued later until today as BN Sarawak. We have stood steadfastly together through thick and thin, through good and bad times, such as the 1987 Ming Court incident and my Party big loss in 2011 State Election and 2013 Parliament Election.

CONCLUSION

Datuk Amar Speaker,

115. Before I conclude, I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate and thank Datuk Amar Speaker for your wisdom in ensuring that the proceedings in this august House were conducted with dignity and proper decorum.

116. I would also like to put on record my thanks and appreciation to Yang Berhormat Tan Sri Datuk Amar State Secretary of Sarawak and all officers from the various Ministries, State and Federal Departments as well as government agencies for their hard work and dedication in ensuring the smooth proceedings of this august House. My special thanks also go to our friends from the media who have provided detail coverage throughout the sittings.

117. Lastly, I would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.