SEBUYAU: Work on the proposed dual carriageway project linking Kuching to the Damai area is expected to begin next year after funding for the project has been secured.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the project includes the construction of an additional Santubong Bridge to complement the existing crossing as part of the dual carriageway network.
He said the project would proceed as planned, with the necessary funding already in place.
“As we expand the dual carriageway road network towards Samarahan and Lingga, the river crossings must also be upgraded to dual carriageways.
“That is why another Santubong Bridge will be built under the Damai project. Work is expected to begin next year.
“The funding is already there. Just be patient. Nobody can build it overnight,” he told reporters after officiating at the opening of the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge here today.
Abang Johari added that Sarawak had planned a total of 21 bridges under its infrastructure programme.
“Eleven have already been completed, another six are expected to be completed by the end of this year, while the remainder are at various stages of implementation,” he said.
Earlier this year, Abang Johari announced plans for a new four-lane road linking the Yayasan Sarawak Roundabout and Pantai Damai, including the construction of a new Santubong Bridge.
The project will also include dedicated lanes for the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART), motorcycles and bicycles to improve connectivity while supporting future development in the Santubong area.
Abang Johari said the development would strengthen the road network, improve travel convenience for residents and tourists, and support plans to develop Santubong into a major tourism destination with projects such as an archaeological park and a cruise terminal.
