SIBU: The design drawings for the proposed bridge project connecting the west bank to the town centre here have been completed.
Disclosing this, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the project was proposed by the Sarawak United People Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan Branch Chairman, Cr Kevin Lau Kor Jie, to the Premier during the Chinese New Year (CNY) gathering banquet last year.
“However, it still awaits the Premier’s final approval before proceeding to the next stage.
“The Premier responded at that time, instructing two Sibu Deputy Ministers, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee and Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, to study the feasibility of the proposal,” he said at the 2026 CNY Luncheon jointly organised by the six SUPP Sibu branches, held at a prominent hotel here today.
Meanwhile, Dr Sim, who is also SUPP President, said that CNY is a time for family reunions, and remarked that SUPP, which was founded in Sibu in 1959, is now into its 67th year.
It is truly remarkable, he said, to have survived for 67 years, as many political parties have disappeared within the same timeframe.
He attributed SUPP’s continued strength to the perseverance of its members and supporters, who continue to contribute to the development of Sarawak.
Stressing that Sarawak today is vastly different from what it was a decade ago, he stated that from being underestimated previously, it has now transformed into a region that is highly anticipated and being closely watched, making the identity of the people of Sarawak even more valuable.
He emphasised that Sarawak’s development achievements stem not only from the Premier’s leadership but also from the joint efforts of political parties, leaders, and the people.
Pointing out that Sarawak is currently entering a crucial development phase, he explained that facing the upcoming 12th Sarawak state election, the people of Sarawak must unite to ensure Sarawak’s continued steady development and uphold the original aspirations of the party’s founding members in their struggle for Sarawak and its people.
He stated that education and talent development are crucial cornerstones for Sarawak’s development, and Sarawak is actively catching up to ensure its future generations are more competitive, despite the significant resources required for education.
Dr Sim pointed out that while the federal government allocated RM1 billion to build a cancer centre in Kedah, it showed a different approach regarding Sarawak’s needs.
Therefore, he said the Sarawak Government will use state funds to build the Sarawak Cancer Centre, costing over RM1 billion, which will be paid back later by the federal government rough welfare assistance.
“To benefit its citizens, the Sarawak Government has also agreed to cover RM500 million worth of medical equipment costs for the Sarawak Cancer Centre,” he added.
He indicated that the Sarawak Government’s Caring Assistance Scheme (SKAS) will disburse aid in installments, and it is expected that by 2030, the number of beneficiaries and the scale of assistance will double, benefiting even more people.
Noting that Sibu plays a vital role in Sarawak’s development, he said following the 2022 Sarawak state election, the Premier personally visited Sibu to seek solutions for the town redevelopment and flood mitigation plans.
“The Premier decided to entrust the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) with the overall planning, and details regarding the groundbreaking ceremony will be announced by himself in due time,” added Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government.
Among those in attendance were Dr Sim’s wife, Datin Amar Enn Ong; Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee; Bukit Assek state assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek; Sibu Municipal Council Chairman, Clarence Ting Ing Horh; and Kevin Lau who is also the organising chairman.
