(Photos: Dr Sim (front, left) discusses final details with MPP and GOF Batu Kawa officials)

KUCHING (July 8): A new community recreational park will be developed at the General Operations Force (GOF) Batu Kawa along Jalan Field Force as part of ongoing efforts to expand public recreational facilities in the Batu Kawah constituency.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also Batu Kawah assemblyman, said the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) is finalising the necessary documentation and procedures for the project, which has a ceiling allocation of RM900,000.

He said the project is expected to be called for public tender shortly.

“This new park is in addition to the 10 neighbourhood parks currently under construction throughout Batu Kawa, reflecting the Sarawak government’s commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles and providing residents with convenient access to quality recreational spaces,” he said in a statement.

On the ongoing 10 neighbourhood park projects, he said these are implemented under the Sarawak government’s Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), involving a total allocation of RM3.82 million.

He revealed construction began in April this year and is expected to be completed by February next year, with MPP serving as the implementing agency.

“The projects involve the construction of new parks as well as upgrading and maintenance works, all of which are progressing according to schedule.

“The residential areas involved are Taman Genesis, Taman Moyan, Taman Highfield, Taman Desa Wira, Jalan Carina Estate, Jalan Batu Kawa Lorong 3, Taman Phoenix Batu Kawa, Jalan RPR Batu Kawa, Taman San Chin and Taman Vision Land,” he said.

On a related matter, Dr Sim said the Batu Kawa Riverbank Park has been well received by the local community since its completion, highlighting the importance of public parks and the strong demand for such facilities.

“Although the riverbank park offers a wide range of recreational facilities for people of all ages, we should also develop community facilities that are just steps away from your home,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Sim said Phase Two of the rejuvenation of the abandoned Ang Cheng Ho Quarry in Batu Kawa is ready to be tendered by MPP.

The project, with a ceiling allocation of RM8 million from the Sarawak government, will develop various park facilities surrounding the Phase One Ang Cheng Ho Multipurpose Hall.

The overall 70-acre site will eventually feature a ‘Blue Park’ with more than 20 acres of water sports facilities and a ‘Green Park’ comprising over 40 acres of landscaped urban forest and recreational amenities.

“The Sarawak government’s commitment to investing in community infrastructure that enhances quality of life, encourages healthy living and supports the sustainable development of Batu Kawah as a vibrant and liveable constituency,” added Dr Sim.