KOTA SAMARAHAN: The Samarahan Boulevard project is expected to cost more than RM100 million once completed, with its first phase alone estimated at over RM20 million.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the first phase of the project is nearing completion, with work on the second phase set to begin soon.
“The boulevard will become an iconic landmark — not a building, but an iconic feature — in Samarahan,” he said when met by reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of the Samarahan Food and Cultural Festival 2026 on Monday night (Jul 6).
He added that it is envisioned as a future venue for major state celebrations such as the Sarawak Governor’s birthday, Malaysia Day and Sarawak Day.
Abdul Karim said such events are currently held at Padang Merdeka in Kuching, which often leads to congestion across the city each time a major event takes place.
He said improved connectivity, including the ART line and upgraded roads, will eventually cut travel time between Kuching and Samarahan to just 15 minutes, making the boulevard easily accessible for large gatherings.
On the cost revision, Abdul Karim said the State Financial Secretary’s Office and Sarawak Treasury Department had earlier trimmed the project’s budget, which resulted in several components being removed from the original design.
He said the project’s architect subsequently met with his ministry after finding that many of the removed elements, including recreational facilities, were essential to the design.
Abdul Karim said the removals had already been approved by the Cabinet and the Premier, prompting him to request that the cost be reconsidered and restored closer to the original estimate proposed by the consultant.
“I’ve asked the Premier to consider raising the cost again, and God willing, it will be approved,” he said, adding that this would bring the budget back in line with the consultant’s original proposal.
