KUCHING: The newly officiated Sungai Bintangor Bridge has been named Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge in honour of the late Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said naming the bridge after his late wife was a meaningful tribute, even though she did not have the chance to witness its completion.
He said he had no hesitation when the proposal was brought forward by Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki, on behalf of the local community.
“I want to thank the people of Satok, of all races and religions, especially those in this area, for remembering my late wife’s contributions. It’s true that she stood by me throughout my service in Satok.
“I also wish to thank the villagers, through their assemblyman, for proposing that the bridge be named in her honour,” he told the media after officiating at the launching ceremony of the bridge here last night (Aug 5).
Earlier in his speech, Ibrahim who is the Deputy Utility (Sarawak Energy and PETROS) Minister, said the naming recognises her quiet but impactful legacy, particularly in welfare and community development in Sarawak.
He described her passing as a profound loss not only to the state and nation, but especially to the residents of Satok constituency, where her presence and efforts were deeply felt.
“I believe this bridge will not only connect communities, but stand as a symbol of love, sacrifice, and the legacy of a remarkable woman, mother, and leader,” he said.
He said the late Juma’ani’s contributions were too numerous to list, but her actions spoke volumes, always carried out humbly and without fanfare.
He recalled several community projects she initiated, including the establishment of the Community-Based Rehabilitation Centre (PDK Satok), which continues to serve children with special needs in the area.
He added that the same building also functions as a Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PAWE), providing space for social and religious activities in the Satok constituency.
“In Petra Jaya, she led the challenging SABATI building project which was completed at a lower cost under her leadership, and now used for welfare and charitable activities,” he said.
He said she also revived the Petra Jaya Welfare Association in 1993, which under her leadership, played a meaningful role in serving communities across Kuching and Petra Jaya.
Ibrahim said he had observed her close-up since entering politics in 1985, often accompanying Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in Satok.
Despite being the daughter of Sarawak’s second Head of State Tun Tuanku Bujang, she remained humble and approachable, regularly mingling with locals during daily routines.
“Ask anyone in Satok, they’d likely have seen her buying groceries at the market. Everyone affectionately called her ‘Kak Ani’, a sign of how close she was to the people.
“We deeply appreciate the contributions she made to our community, and her legacy will be remembered always.
“Thank you, Yang Amat Berbahagia Almarhumah Puan Sri Datuk Amar Kak Ani. Your deeds will never be forgotten,” he added.
