DESIGNED with both function and form in mind, the Sungai Bintangor Bridge is set to become a new landmark in Kuching.
Spanning 57 metres across Sungai Bintangor, the four-lane, fixed cable-stayed bridge will be officially launched by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on Aug 5.
It is a long-anticipated development for residents of Kuching and nearby areas.
Now fully completed and ready for public use, the bridge not only serves as a crucial link between the city centre and surrounding communities but also holds promise for revitalising local economic activity.
Ahead of the launch, Sarawak Tribune spoke with local residents nearby to gather their views about the new structure.
HAMALI BUJANG, Bintangor Besar village chief
This bridge has brought relief to the residents as it helps shorten their daily travel time. Previously we had to take a long detour to get to the city centre, now it only takes a few minutes, at most, three to four minutes from my village.
With the presence of this iconic bridge, there have been suggestions to establish local businesses in the surrounding area. From an economic standpoint, it has the potential to generate income for the community.
Even before it was built, many believed it would become a tourist attraction and now that it’s here, people are excited to see it become a new landmark and a source of pride for the area.
Personally, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the Premier, especially the Sarawak government, for building this iconic bridge, which is deeply meaningful to the local residents—especially the people of Satok. This is very important. It is not just for our use, but also benefits the entire Satok community.
MUHAMMAD AMIROL ABDUL KHALID, 22, Employee
I’m really happy because this bridge will make life easier for the villagers here. I often use it for commuting and going to the market. We’ve been waiting for this bridge since the MCO. I heard there might be vendors under the bridge, which could boost the local economy and attract more people. The design is beautiful, especially the tower carvings, very unique. I’m genuinely excited.
MOHAMAD NAZMI ABDUL RAHIM, 25, Administrative Officer
I often jog around this village area and to me this bridge is something the residents here have really been waiting for because it makes travel so much easier.
Previously, we had to use alternative routes, but now there’s a shortcut thanks to this bridge. The design is beautiful and eye-catching, and I believe the locals will really like it.
Besides jogging, I also use the bridge to drive through whenever it’s open during certain hours. Once it’s fully open, it will make access to this area much easier—especially during Ramadan when many people sell food. So next year, getting in and out of the area will be much more convenient.
Mohd Asyarani Fakhri Hashim, 25, Assistant Engineer
I am from Samariang, but I often jog in this area with friends who live nearby. I enjoy jogging here because I get to see the beautiful bridge and the lively atmosphere created by the villagers. It’s also safe, as I regularly pass by the bridge. It looks impressive and I usually bring my friends along to check it out. Now it’s much easier to get to the market too. So far, there hasn’t been any traffic congestion when using the bridge.
SYAI’QAL RAMLI, 25, Assistant Engineer
I also jog regularly and pass through the bridge area. In my opinion, this kind of infrastructure is quite rare, even though the Premier has built many bridges, this one is the most beautiful so far because of its design. You can even explore underneath it, there are stairs and open areas. It’s iconic and could attract visitors to the area.
My house is nearby, and I always drive past it. I think it will make life easier for residents, especially when going to places like the waterfront market.
Before this, it was tough because of the ongoing construction and limited opening times. We’ve been waiting for this bridge for a long time and are very excited for its opening. Right now, if it’s closed, there’s usually a traffic jam due to U-turns. Once it’s fully open, it should be much more convenient.
SYED MUHAMMAD, 75, Retiree
This new bridge certainly brings many benefits. Its tower is beautifully designed with intricate carvings and also serves as the main structural support of the bridge.
In terms of convenience, the bridge is a great advantage for the villagers as the road is now wider than before.
Overall, it is a positive improvement, and it is hoped that it will help ease traffic congestion and prevent jams.
