KUCHING: With its bold three-legged pylon towering over Sungai Bintangor, the RM50.6 million Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge stands out as the only one of its kind in Malaysia.
Deputy Utility (Sarawak Energy and PETROS) Minister Datuk Ibrahim Baki said the cable-stayed bridge was inspired by the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam and features a unique tripod-style A-frame that gives it a striking and iconic silhouette.
He said the structure not only serves a functional purpose, but also reflects core values that symbolise Sarawak’s aspirations: stability, unity, and prosperity.
“Each cable is installed at different angles and lengths. That’s what makes this bridge unique. The process wasn’t easy, and time consuming.
“These three legs stand for stability, unity through cooperation, and prosperity — values that drive not only Satok, but Sarawak as a whole.
“It is hoped that the Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge will become another landmark for Kuching in particular, and Sarawak as a whole,” he said during the launching ceremony of the bridge last night (Aug 5).
Ibrahim, who is also Satok assemblyman, said the bridge would anchor future development around the Sungai Bintangor area, including a pedestrian walkway beneath the structure and a new riverfront area.
He said the bridge’s design also incorporated elements of cultural heritage, specifically the traditional ‘Keringkam’ embroidery that symbolises the history of the local Malay community.
He added that this blend of modern engineering and cultural motifs reflects Satok’s transformation from a traditional village cluster into a growing strategic zone within the city.
“The peak of the bridge is also shaped like the tip of a traditional oil lamp — a nod to the villages nearby, which are known for the ‘bertuntong’ tradition of lighting lamps ahead of Aidilfitri. When the bridge lights up at night, it will brighten the entire area.
“This area, including the Kampung Nombor villages, is traditionally known as a heritage zone.
“But today, it has been elevated as a strategic and high-value location under Kuching’s city development plan,” he said.
On the same note, Ibrahim assured that efforts are underway to repair homes near the area that were affected during the construction of the new bridge.
He said while the project experienced delays, it has now been completed and will ease traffic flow from nearby areas into the city centre and Kuching Waterfront.
He added that monthly coordination meetings with implementing agencies were held throughout the process, with updates regularly shared with the Satok community.
“Repair works on the affected houses and surrounding areas have already begun. The delay was not intentional, but due to technical issues that could not be avoided.
“For the homes that were affected, we will look into how best we can assist in restoring them,” he said.
