Betong, Sarawak


Betong is a town in Betong Division in Sarawak, Malaysia, lying in the Saribas area. It used to be placed under the district of Sri Aman.

Location

Betong division is located between three main rivers, Batang Lupar, Batang Saribas and Batang Kelaka, covering an area of 4,180 km2.

Population

By October 2011, the population was nearly 94,000, the majority being Ibans , followed by Malays, Chinese, Bidayuh, and Melanau, while the remaining are other races.

Economy

Main areas are farming, agriculture and fishing but there are some who work in the public and private sectors as well as business.

Education

As a way to ensure the development of human capital to meet the demands of Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy and other major projects in the State, major investments are made in the development of educational facilities like vocational schools and polytechnics. This is expected to encourage more local and foreign investors to come to Betong and explore opportunities they never knew Betong had.

Recognition

In recognition of Betong's rich history, rapid growth and contribution to Sarawak's economy, it was accorded Division status in 2002. It was then selected to become the administrative division centre. The areas of administration include the Saratok District and the Betong District. Betong has also been expanded to cover the Small District of Maludam, which had been under the jurisdiction of the Sri Aman District. Betong is acknowledged by many as the place where the earliest educated Ibans can be found. This paved the way for Ibans in other areas to also educate themselves.

Notable people