KUCHING: State-funded projects such as the Second Trunk Road (STR) and the Sarawak Coastal Road reflect the Sarawak Government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure across the State.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state government had invested RM5.58 billion in the construction of the 225-kilometre STR, which will reduce travel distance and time between Sibu and Kuching.
He added that another RM5.42 billion was allocated to build the 896-kilometre coastal road network.
“The STR, starting from Samarahan Bridge and connecting to the Pan Borneo Highway at the Roban junction, is expected to be completed in 2028.
“Meanwhile, the coastal road, slated for completion in 2027, will link coastal areas from Kota Samarahan, Asajaya, Sadong Jaya, Sebuyau, Kabong, Tanjung Manis, Daro, Matu, Igan, Oya, Mukah, Balingian and Bintulu to Miri, before connecting to the Pan Borneo Highway.
“Without efficient connectivity, Sarawak’s economy cannot grow rapidly and inclusively,” he said.
He said this in his address during the parade held in conjunction with the 79th official birthday of the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, at Padang Merdeka here today.
Abang Johari said infrastructure development also extended to northern Sarawak through the construction of the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road.
Additionally, he asserted that the state government is committed to expanding the road network by upgrading logging roads in interior areas, particularly in Kapit and Ulu Baram.
“All these projects will strengthen connectivity in northern Sarawak and open new economic opportunities, particularly in agriculture and rural tourism,” he said.
