By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 10: A new road network linking Sebuyau, Sri Aman, Lingga, Betong, Roban and Sarikei could reduce the journey between Kuching and Sibu to about two hours, says Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the improved connectivity would integrate Sibu more closely with Kuching and other growth areas in Sarawak, forming part of efforts to restructure Sibu’s development.
Speaking during a private dinner with village chiefs and community leaders (KMKK) from Sibu Division at Kingwood Hotel in Sibu tonight, Abang Johari said he personally experienced the challenges faced by rural communities when he travelled by motorcycle after officiating the opening of Batang Lupar Bridge 1 yesterday (July 9).
“Recently, I rode a motorcycle and was given the honour of officiating the Batang Lupar Bridge. Batang Lupar is a game changer. I rode past Maludam, passed Pusa, stopped at Pusa, and from Pusa I continued towards Sarikei before finally arriving in Sibu.
“This means I know the situation and connectivity in rural areas,” he said during the event which was broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) on Facebook.
Abang Johari said the State government was developing new road links that would open up connectivity between various parts of Sarawak.
“From Sebuyau, we are developing the Second Trunk Road to Sri Aman and this road will continue to Lingga,” he said.
He said another road was being developed from Lingga directly to Betong, which would be about 20 minutes from Simanggang, while another route would connect Lingga to Roban through Betong before continuing to Sarikei and Sibu.
“The distance is about 212km, with a reduction of 140km. This means from Kuching to Sibu using the new road will only take two hours,” he explained.
Abang Johari said the improved connectivity would allow Sibu to become more integrated with Kuching as well as areas in Sri Aman and Betong.
He added that Sibu would also be connected to Tanjung Embang, where the State government plans to develop an international airport and a deep sea port, with the journey expected to take about one and a half hours.
“This is the Sibu that we must restructure,” he said.
Abang Johari said better connectivity would be crucial in supporting Sibu’s future development as Sarawak continues to build new economic corridors across the State. — DayakDaily
