SERIAN: The upgrading of Jalan Padawan has regained momentum following the resolution of earlier setbacks caused by encroachments within the road reserve, said Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Aidel Lariwoo.
Aidel said authorities have already acquired the land for road construction.
“However, several dwellings were later erected within the reserve, including in the centre of the alignment, preventing contractors from proceeding with works.
“The situation led to prolonged delays and eventually contributed to the termination of previous contract, as the contractor was unable to continue construction under such constraints.
“It took quite some time for the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Land and Survey Department to settle this issue, and now with a new contractor, the project is progressing,” he said to the media after a briefing session from PWD Serian this morning.
The Jalan Padawan upgrading project is part of a broader effort to improve road connectivity between Kuching and surrounding areas, including Serian.
This is Phase 1 of the project which is progressing ahead of schedule, with works currently reaching 54 per cent completion.
Aidel said the 15km stretch from Tapah junction to Kampung Teng Bukap was initially slated for completion in February next year.
He added the contractor has expressed commitment to complete the project earlier than scheduled, following steady progress on site.
“Phase 2 for Jalan Padawan upgrading project is set to be implemented under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), covering a stretch of 15km from Kampung Teng Bukap to Kampung Anah Rais.
“Project authorities confirmed that the design for Phase 2 has been completed, while land-related issues have also been resolved, paving the way for smooth implementation once the project commences.
“The phase is expected to begin within the RMK13 period, spanning from 2026 to 2030, with hopes that construction can be completed within the same timeframe,”
Phase 2 forms part of a broader road connectivity plan linking Kuching to Serian and further to Tebedu, enhancing accessibility and supporting development in the surrounding areas.
He said, once completed, the upgraded route is expected to improve traffic flow and strengthen connectivity between rural communities and main road networks.
