DARO: The reliance on water transportation in Sarawak will soon be a thing of the past as more bridges are completed across the state.
In stating this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said once all the bridges are completed, there will be no further dependence on boats, outboard engines, or any other forms of water transport.
“This is evident with the completion of the Muara Lassa Bridge, which is now widely used by the public.
“We will also construct the Batang Paloh Bridge, which will connect Pulau Bruit to Tanjong Manis, and it is expected to be completed by 2026,” he said at the when officiating at the opening of the Muara Lassa Bridge here Saturday (Feb 22).
Abang Johari added that once the Batang Rajang Bridge in Sarikei is completed in March, it will link Sibu and Sarikei.
He emphasised that the construction of these bridges marks the realisation of the agenda to develop a network of road connections through bridge infrastructure.
“Since the projects are fully funded by the state without imposing any toll charges, the people will be able to travel freely — an initiative made possible due to Sarawak’s strong financial position, which allows the government to give back to the people,” he added.
The event also saw Abang Johari riding on a motorcycle along the RM600 million Muara Lassa Bridge, which spans 2.43 kilometres (km).
Later at a press conference, he described the ride on the bridge as a smooth one and believed it would be a catalyst in developing Daro and Pulau Bruit.
Earlier, Daro assemblyman Safiee Ahmad said that the Muara Lassa Bridge is a testament to the Sarawak government’s commitment to developing rural areas using its own financial resources.
He said that gratitude should be extended to the Premier for his dedication and proactive approach in ensuring that this facility is made available for the local community.
“With this bridge in place, it will have a positive impact, particularly on the local economy. As a result, the residents here are now ready for the development that is set to take place,” he said.
On Daro’s development, Safiee proposed the construction of a bus terminal here, citing an increasing number of people who wish to use public transport.
He added that since the bridge serves as a major route, more vehicles will enter Daro, necessitating the development of a multi-storey car park to ease traffic congestion.
“I also propose that a hotel be built in Daro to accommodate the visitors,” he said.
