The Muara Lassa Bridge, spanning 2.43 kilometres and built at a cost of RM600 million, is now completed and open to the public.
The soft launching ceremony of the bridge was officiated by Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, today (Jan 9).
As Sarawak’s second-longest bridge after the Batang Lupar Bridge, its completion marks the end of ferry services at Muara Lassa.
When interviewed by the Sarawak Tribune, residents shared their joy over the bridge’s completion but reflected on the bittersweet memories of using the ferry.
MUHAMMAD NAJIB MOHD ZULKARNAIN, 31, Public Servant
“Like eggs on the edge of a knife, that’s what it felt like riding the ferry when the river was choppy. It’s an unforgettable experience that left me traumatised. However, with the completion of this bridge, Daro can now be accessed after 10 pm, as the ferry no longer operates after that time.”
SANDORA YUSUF, 50, Housewife
“I’m definitely happy with the bridge’s completion. Now, we only have to deal with one ferry in Batang Paloh since the bridge is still under construction. However, travelling by ferry in Batang Paloh is quicker compared to Muara Lassa. Honestly, I’m going to miss the atmosphere of waiting for the ferry, where we could catch up with relatives and wait together. I remember once waiting from one morning until the next, which was almost 12 hours.”
MOHAMMAD KHAIRUDDIN RUSHDI AYUPHAN, 31, Media Practitioner
“When assigned to cover events in Daro or Matu, I had to plan my travel time very carefully as I couldn’t predict how long it would take to reach the event location. This was because ferry services were unpredictable in terms of speed and the number of vehicles at the ferry terminal. So, I had to leave early in the morning to ensure I arrived at the destination before the programme started. The same goes if I needed to return to Sibu; I would leave early in the morning or the night before.”
ROSMAWATI ABDUL RAHMAN, 55, Trader
“I once waited almost 8 hours for the ferry during the festive season. Honestly, I prefer using the express boat rather than taking my vehicle because it is not about the distance but the long wait for the ferry. With the completion of this bridge, I will definitely use my car more often to go to Pulau Beruit to buy fresh fish and prawns.”
