By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 18: Two years after the collapse of the old structure disrupted a daily river crossing for residents, the upgraded Pending Jetty is now set to restore a vital lifeline for riverside communities, with completion expected by Aug 24, 2026.
The jetty, which serves residents from Kampung Muhibbah and nearby areas including Pinggan Jaya, has long provided a convenient route across Sungai Sarawak for those travelling to work, school and carrying out daily activities.
The previous jetty collapsed on Sept 5, 2023, affecting around 200 users comprising students, boat operators, private sector workers and nearby residents who depended on the crossing.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister and Santubong MP Dato Sri Nancy Shukri said the RM600,660 upgrading project is now almost 90 per cent complete, with only about 12 to 13 metres of work remaining.
“The project started in February and is expected to be completed by Aug 24. Now, it is almost ready.
“There are only about two bays left, including the staircases. One bay is about six metres, so there is about 12 to 13 metres remaining,” she told reporters after inspecting the project today. The audio recording of her remarks was later shared with DayakDaily.
Nancy said the remaining works could be completed on schedule if weather conditions remain favourable, as unpredictable weather remains the main challenge for the contractor.
“The water level can be predicted, but the weather is sometimes not predictable. That will be the challenge for the contractor.
“But so far, everything looks good and hopefully it can be completed on time,” she added.
She further said the jetty is important for residents from Kampung Muhibbah and Pinggan Jaya as it provides a shorter and more convenient alternative compared with travelling by road.
Although residents can still use road access, Nancy said the journey requires a longer detour through Samarahan before reaching their destination.
“If they use the road from Kampung Muhibbah or Pinggan Jaya, they have to go through Samarahan first before coming back here.
“They have to spend more on fuel. Using the jetty is easier because it is closer and more convenient,” she said.
The Pending Jetty Across Kampung Muhibbah upgrading project was approved under the Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof’s allocation with a ceiling of RM600,660 and is being implemented by the Sarawak Rivers Board (LSS).
The 12-month project includes site preparation and demolition works, piling, jetty and concrete works, as well as the installation of street lighting and a marine lantern.
Once completed, the upgraded jetty is expected to provide a safer and more comfortable crossing for residents who rely on Sungai Sarawak as part of their daily commute. — DayakDaily
