SIBU: The proposed bridge linking Sibu to the ‘West Bank’ has reached the final stage of design selection, pending a final decision by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the Sarawak Public Works Department (PWD) is currently evaluating two to three design proposals, including one inspired by the ‘London Bridge’ concept.
He said the high-impact project is estimated to cost between RM300 million and RM400 million, and has already received in-principle approval for implementation.
“We are now awaiting the Premier’s decision on the most suitable bridge design. Once decided, the consultancy tender will be called, and I expect the bridge to be realised within the next two to three years.
“If a bridge is built connecting Sibu to the West Bank, the entire area will certainly see significant development,” he said when officiating the Gongxi Raya 2026 programme organised by the Komuniti MADANI Datuk Robert Lau Hoi Chew at SMI Park here on Saturday (April 11).
Dr Sim, who is also THE Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said the project gained momentum after it was raised by Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan branch chairman, Kevin Lau Kor Jie, in the presence of the Premier last year.
He stressed that infrastructure development such as bridge construction is crucial, noting that Sarawak has successfully completed 20 bridges using its own funds.
He added that construction costs have increased by more than 40 per cent, making the earlier decision to undertake such projects independently a prudent one.
On a separate development, Dr Sim also commended Sarawak’s racial harmony, which is reflected in its education system, including Chinese national-type schools (SJKC), which currently enrol about 25,000 Bumiputera students out of a total of 60,000 students.
“In Sarawak, the Chinese language belongs to all races. When we are all proficient in Chinese, we can progress together,” he said, adding that the spirit of ‘Kongsi Raya’ is a unique strength that must be preserved.
