MIRI: The Immigration Department must work together with the relevant departments to improve the road and surrounding areas at the former Sungai Tujuh Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Centre.
Assistant Minister of Communications Datuk Lee Khim Shin stated this after visiting and inspecting the area yesterday following feedback posted by regular travellers on his Facebook about the condition of the road, abandoned buildings and unkempt landscape at the centre.
“These do not augur well with the image of Miri and the new centre, which recorded around 3 million visitors going in and out last year, making it is one of important gateways to Sarawak,” he said.
Government departments and agencies must work together and co-operate with each other in solving problems or face the wrath of the public and users.
He commended the prompt action taken by Public Work Department to cover potholes on Thursday and decision to resurface the road.
“For a more effective upgrade and improvement to this facility, it is better for the Immigration Department to work together with relevant authorities such as Public Work Department and Miri City Council,” he said.
“Immigration Departmet wants to demolish the structure but they need the help of Public Works Department on the design of the roads coming in and out from the entrance leading to the new CIQ,” said Lee.
He also proposed that the department come out with cost to demolish the structure.
The co-operation will enable Immigration Department to present the headquarters with a budget for the cost of the project.
Apart from the improvements to road system and condition, he also proposed that a new arch be erected while the council could help in its landscaping.
To ease congestion and to avoid mad rush of visitors going back to Brunei during upcoming Chinese New Year celebration and other celebrations and holidays, Lee urged the Immigration Department to look into possibility of extending their operation hours to 12 midnight for three days prior to the celebration.