KUCHING: The completion of the Batang Lupar Bridge 1 marks a historic achievement for Sarawak and stands as a major catalyst for future economic growth and connectivity.
Economic analyst Datuk Peter Minos said Sarawakians should be proud of the project, which is now recognised as the longest river bridge in Sarawak and Malaysia.
Recalling the opening of the Batu Kitang Bridge years ago, Minos said residents in Bau and Lundu districts were then very excited because the bridge finally linked the two districts directly to Kuching.
“For days and months, people talked about the new bridge. Though short, it was greatly welcomed and appreciated,” he said.
He said Sarawak has now gone much further with the completion of the Batang Lupar Bridge, which stretches 4.8km across Batang Lupar, surpassing the 1.7-km Sungai Johor Bridge, previously the country’s longest river bridge.
The bridge, built at a cost of about RM848 million, is part of the Sarawak Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Road project.
It connects Sebuyau and Triso, replacing the long-used ferry service and significantly improving travel convenience for motorists.
According to Minos, the bridge is more than just a physical structure as it reflects Sarawak’s ability to undertake and complete major infrastructure projects of national importance.
“We did something never done before. This is history, not just an ordinary report on physical development and progress,” he stressed.
He described the bridge as an important economic development catalyst that would help connect regions, reduce travelling distances and create opportunities for trade, tourism and investment.
“It connects people and regions. Given time and the will of the people and the Sarawak government, it will definitely usher in economic development and progress,” he said.
Minos added that the bridge, like many others built along the Coastal Highway, has brought happiness to the people by ending dependence on cumbersome ferry crossings.
Besides saving time and improving accessibility, he said the bridge would encourage more growth in surrounding areas in the years ahead.
He also called on Sarawakians, especially motorists, to appreciate the Sarawak Government’s efforts in implementing major infrastructure projects throughout the state.
“Good things cannot be taken for granted. Behind this achievement are the Sarawak Government, the Premier and those who planned, financed and completed the project, ” he said.
