SIBU: The third concrete bridge and road upgrading project located beside the Sang Ik Methodist Church in the Tanjung Kunyit area, West Bank here has been successfully completed, marking the full completion and connectivity of the first three concrete bridges along the route.
On Thursday afternoon (May 14), Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan Branch chairman, Cr Kevin Lau Kor Jie with his team members , as well as engineers from the Sibu Public Works Department (PWD) and the contractor, made a final inspection on the completed project.
The project was funded under the Special Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) Fund allocated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Lau said that the three bridges were previously old and deteriorating wooden structures frequently used not only by nearby residents, but also by motorcyclists travelling to and from nearby schools.
“Previously, the three wooden bridges were narrow, with only accessible to motorcycles. Taking into consideration the safety of residents and road users, we conducted multiple site visits and discussions with the relevant authorities, which eventually led to the construction of the three connected concrete bridges we see today,” he said.
Lau, who is also SUPP Youth chief, noted that with the completion of the upgrading works, the local drainage system has improved significantly, while road safety and convenience for users — especially students and daily commuters — have also been greatly enhanced.
With all three concrete bridges now fully connected, he said, the route is no longer limited to motorcycles and can now accommodate small private vehicles, providing greater convenience for residents travelling in and out of the area.
He added that the entire project, from the upgrading of the first wooden bridge to the completion of the third concrete bridge, took more than a year to complete.
“As the three bridge projects were carried out in phases to minimise disruption to residents and road users during the construction period, the overall project duration was inevitably longer.
“In addition, several technical challenges were encountered during the implementation process, though all works were ultimately completed successfully,” he stated.
Lau also expressed his appreciation to nearby residents for their patience, understanding and cooperation throughout the construction period, and hoped to continue working closely with the community to address local issues and bring further development to Bawang Assan.
