Pusa: The Batang Saribas 1 Bridge near Pusa has officially become the fifth bridge to be completed under the Sarawak Coastal Road Network project, marking a significant milestone in enhancing infrastructure development within the state. This newly opened bridge is expected to facilitate better connectivity, particularly for rural communities, and reduce the dependence on ferry crossings that have been a part of daily life for many years.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas officiated the soft opening ceremony of the RM375.5 million bridge. Representing Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Uggah announced that the bridge is now open for public use, marking the end of long-standing ferry crossings over the Saribas River. The bridge spans 1.55 kilometers and is part of a broader strategy to improve road connectivity across Sarawak’s coastline.
Prior to the Batang Saribas 1 Bridge, four other bridges-Batang Rajang, Muara Lassa, Marudi, and Jepak-had already been completed as part of the Coastal Road Network. The Sarawak government is working towards completing a total of 16 bridges under this initiative. Uggah shared that six more bridges, including the Sungai Lingga, Batang Igan, Batang Lupar 1, Sungai Limbang, Sebauh, and Sejingkat bridges, are expected to be completed within this year.
Looking ahead, the state government aims to finish the Batang Paloh, Krian, Batang Lupar 2, and Batang Saribas 2 bridges by next year. Uggah expressed excitement over these developments, noting that the new infrastructures are significantly reducing travel times across Sarawak. Specifically, the Batang Saribas 1 Bridge eliminates the need for a 30-minute ferry wait, thereby streamlining connectivity in the Betong Division.
Uggah emphasized the commitment of his ministry, in collaboration with the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR), to ensure that contractors adhere to project timelines and maintain quality standards. These efforts are aimed at delivering bridges that will have a transformative impact on the social and economic wellbeing of rural communities. “We are committed to our promises to rural communities. Delivery is proof that we are serious about development,” he stated.