Sibu: The DAP P.212 Sibu Service Centre has embarked on a community initiative to install solar-powered street lights in Sibu’s West Bank, providing immediate lighting solutions for rural roads that have long lacked proper street lighting.
Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew said the project is one of the mini community facility initiatives undertaken by his service centre to enhance public safety and improve the daily lives of residents in underserved areas.
He said the first phase targets installing 35 solar street lights, with priority given to roads frequently used by residents but that remain poorly lit at night.
According to Ling, the DAP P.212 Sibu service team has been carrying out the installation works on the ground, with the first batch already completed at Jalan Kwong Ting, Jalan Hock Chung, Jalan Hock Chuong, Jalan Guong Ming Hilir and Jalan Bukit Igu 2.
He said the installation of solar street lights is only a short-term measure.
“In the long term, local authorities must take more proactive measures to address the shortage of street lights in rural areas, as the average lifespan of solar street lights is only around three to five years,” he said.
He added that many rural roads are surrounded by dense trees, making them even darker at night as moonlight is also blocked.
“Therefore, the issue of insufficient street lighting must be emphasised as it concerns the safety of motorcycle riders, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
“In this regard, local authorities need to expedite efforts to provide additional street lighting facilities in rural areas to ensure the safety of road users,” he urged.
Meanwhile, Ling advised road users travelling on unlit roads to exercise extra caution, reduce their speed, and remain alert to road conditions to prevent unwanted incidents.
