MIRI (June 6): Strong collaboration between the government and private sector is crucial in driving economic growth, as well as supporting development of tourism and investment activities in Sarawak.
In saying this, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan hailed the Lepapa Lawas project as a prime example of a private-sector-led development that supported the government’s development plans.
“The presence of a modern commercial hub like this will further enhance economic activities and improve Lawas’ competitiveness as a developing growth centre,” he said at the launch of Lepapa Hypermarket Lawas and Roxy Hotel Lawas.
Awang Tengah, also the state Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment, regarded such development as a part of a larger master plan, which included a proposed water theme park.
“If realised, the project will bring a new dimension to the tourism and recreation industry in Lawas, making the district more attractive to visitors from within the country and abroad,” he said.
Awang Tengah said the Lepapa Hypermarket Lawas, an investment by Tecktonic & Sons Holding Sdn Bhd, demonstrates the private sector’s confidence in Lawas’ economic potential and thus, it should contribute significantly to the district’s continued development.
The project, he noted, was designed with a spacious layout to provide a more comfortable shopping experience for visitors.
“The development of Lepapa Lawas and Roxy Hotel Lawas is transforming the district’s landscape and economy, while promoting Lawas as a destination and creating job opportunities for local residents.
“This complements Lawas’ existing strengths, including its rich traditional cuisine, handicrafts and tourist attractions, which have the potential to attract more visitors from outside the district,” he added.
On the hotel project, Awang Tengah said the new establishment would increase the availability of quality accommodation in Lawas, an important factor in supporting the growth of tourism, business and investment sectors.
He stressed that such facilities were becoming increasingly important as more programmes, events and economic activities were being carried out in northern Sarawak.
Among those present were Awang Tengah’s wife Datuk Dayang Morliah Awang Daud, Lawas MP Datuk Henry Sum Agong, Lawas District officer Ladin Atok, and Lepapa Lawas project owner Lee Chin Teck, who is also managing director of Tecktonic & Sons Holding Sdn Bhd. SOURCE: BorneoPost
