KUCHING: Any project that improves connectivity for the people would be welcomed by Sarawak, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah in response to the proposed Trans-Borneo Railway.
Speaking to reporters in a press conference today, the State Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development said discussions on the proposed railway have taken place, but the project is currently still at the feasibility study stage.
“At the moment, what I understand is that the matter has been discussed, but it has not yet reached the stage of implementation. They are currently conducting a feasibility study in Sarawak,” he said.
He explained that among the possible routes being studied include connections from Kuching to Bintulu, Bintulu to Miri, as well as potential links extending towards Nusantara in Indonesia.
“There are plans, and we hope that this can become a reality in the future. When studies like this are carried out and the findings are positive, insya-Allah it can eventually become a programme or project that will be implemented,” he added.
However, Abdul Karim noted that the Sarawak Government has yet to consider the construction of the Trans-Borneo Railway at this stage.
“For Kuching, we already have the ART project, but for the Trans-Borneo Railway it has not reached that stage yet. That is why the study is being carried out,” he said.
He added that if the railway project eventually materialises, it would be something the state would welcome.
“Of course, if it becomes a reality, it is something we would strongly welcome. Anything that can make travel and connectivity easier for the people will receive our support,” he said.
Earlier, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the final feasibility report for the proposed Trans-Borneo Railway is expected to be completed by the middle of this year following additional engagement sessions with stakeholders in Sabah and Sarawak.
He added that if implemented, the railway project could take decades to be fully realised.
