LUNDU: The construction of the Rambungan Bridge, a critical component of the Sarawak Coastal Road Network between Sempadi and Lundu, is progressing ahead of schedule.
Physical works now stand at 5.84 per cent compared to the scheduled 3.76 per cent.
Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development (Infrastructure Development), Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, said the project has gained strong momentum since a new contractor, Titanium Project Sdn Bhd, was appointed through an open re-tendering process.
“This bridge is one of the most crucial elements in the Sempadi-Lundu coastal section, and it serves as the final primary link that will ultimately eliminate the need for the Rambungan ferry, the last ferry service operating in the Kuching division,” he said during an official site visit on Monday.
He added that the project was re-tendered at RM82 million for a 30-month contract period but a slight increase in cost was unavoidable due to rising material and construction costs.
“The new contractor has demonstrated commendable performance.
“We’ve seen a notable increase in manpower and equipment, including a new tower crane that’s being used to construct the main pylons,” Aidel said.
According to him, the twin pylons are the most technically challenging parts of the structure, as they carry the greatest load and represent a significant milestone in the overall completion.
“Once the pylons are up, the subsequent stages, including the installation of cable stays and launching of the bridge deck, will be much faster and more manageable.
“We’re aiming for completion by July 2026, but if the contractor sustains this pace, we may be able to deliver it earlier,” he said.
He noted that this model of recovery and acceleration had proven effective in previous cases.
“For instance, the Marudi Bridge project, which faced similar contractor delays, was completed nine months ahead of schedule following its re-tender.
“We are confident Rambungan can mirror that success,” he expressed optimistically.
Aidel also highlighted the increased presence of supervisory agencies at the project site, with active monitoring from the Public Works Department (PWD), the Resident’s Office, and the District Office.
“Their ground-level involvement ensures better coordination and timely progress,” he said.
Upon its completion, the Rambungan Bridge will render the ferry service obsolete.
Aidel confirmed that the ferry operations would be discontinued immediately once the bridge is opened to traffic.
“In past instances, ferries were redeployed to other areas where needed, like in Batang Igan or Batang Paloh.
“However, for the Kuching division, we have not yet identified a new use for the Rambungan ferry, or it may simply be decommissioned,” he said.
