KUCHING: Sarawak DAPSY secretary George Lam has appealed to the GPS government to engage in open dialogue with residents affected by the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project, stressing the importance of balancing development with the well-being of local communities.
Lam said he had received feedback from residents of Taman Stutong Indah who were concerned about the ongoing construction of the ART elevated track next to their homes. He explained that the work began on July 28 without prior notice, leading to road safety issues, traffic congestion, and waste management problems.
“I visited the site that same afternoon and confirmed the residents’ concerns,” he said.
He noted that on July 29, Sarawak Metro and its main contractor met with residents and agreed to address immediate issues such as traffic management, waste disposal, and safety barriers. While this was a positive step, Lam said some concerns remain, particularly over the alignment and design of the elevated track.
According to Lam, the Bandar Kuching Parliamentary Constituency Service Centre had sent letters to Sarawak Metro on July 29 and August 14 requesting dialogue, and residents also submitted a petition on July 31. However, he said no response has been received so far.
On August 17, Lam, together with Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen, visited the site again to meet residents directly.
He pointed out that Sarawak Metro’s earlier Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) indicated that the track would be built along the median of Jalan Canna, but the current construction is taking place much closer to residential fences.
“This has naturally raised questions among residents, who would like clarification on why the original alignment was not followed and whether any design changes were officially approved,” he said.
Lam emphasised that the request from residents is straightforward: they hope for greater consultation before works proceed further.
“I sincerely urge the GPS government, particularly the Minister of Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, to facilitate a dialogue session involving all stakeholders. With proper engagement, I believe development can move forward smoothly while also addressing the concerns of the people,” Lam said.
By Connie Chieng