KUALA KRAI: Approximately RM3 million is required to repair the ageing Sultan Ismail Suspension Bridge, which is over 100 years old and currently shows signs of leaning, posing a risk of collapse. State Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Datuk Kamarudin Md Nor said that the estimate was based on research and discussions conducted by the Kuala Krai Public Works Department (PWD) regarding the bridge’s structural condition.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the estimated cost for repairing the bridge, as proposed by the Kuala Krai District PWD, is RM3 million. Datuk Kamarudin expressed hope that the government, particularly the relevant agencies, will allocate the necessary funds for this project. At present, no work has begun as budget approval from the relevant parties is still pending. The state government fully supports the restoration of the bridge and is committed to collaborating with the relevant parties, emphasising the importance of preserving this historic structure, which dates b
ack to the British era.

Previously, concerns were raised by residents about the Sultan Ismail Suspension Bridge, which was built around the 1920s. The bridge features European-style architecture, spanning 21 meters in length and 9 meters in width. Once a vital link for land transport between Kuala Krai and Kota Bharu, it has not been in use since 1986, when a new bridge was constructed nearby. Cracks have been found on the structure, and soil erosion has occurred near the bridge, raising fears that it could collapse at any time.

Meanwhile, Mohd Shukri Mohd Isa, director of the National Heritage Department for the Eastern Zone, mentioned that the department would assist in finding solutions to address the issue. He highlighted that the cost of repairs is significant and necessitates meticulous planning. Support from both federal and state governments is crucial, and the department aims to share the responsibility and find the best way to preserve the bridge.