By DayakDaily Team
PULAU BRUIT, Jan 9: The Batang Lassa Bridge, a vital link connecting Pulau Bruit to Daro and Tanjung Manis, has officially entered the pre-launch phase, marking a transformative milestone in enhancing Sarawak’s coastal infrastructure.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and Ukas), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, highlighted that the project embodies years of advocacy by coastal area’s elected representatives committed to improving road networks to spur socioeconomic growth.
In a news report by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), he recounted that the bridge’s construction was catalysed by the Pan Borneo Highway announcement in 2014 and reinforced through deliberations in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) in 2015, which underscored the urgent need for upgraded coastal road connectivity.
“During the April 2015 DUS session, I, along with the Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Ports Development, Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, and other coastal representatives, emphasised the coastal highway proposal as a focal point in our debates,” he shared during the pre-launch ceremony of the Batang Lassa Bridge in Daro today.
Following the 2016 Sarawak Election, Abdullah organised a pivotal meeting with the then Chief Minister, the late Pehin Sri Tan Sri Adenan Satem, alongside 10 coastal area representatives.
The delegation submitted a memorandum advocating for a comprehensive coastal road network, including nine bridges to connect various settlements.
This initiative gained momentum under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who succeeded Adenan in 2016.
Abang Zohari championed key infrastructure projects, announcing the construction of major bridges like the Batang Lassa and Batang Paloh bridges soon after his appointment.
“Over his eight years of leadership, Premier has spearheaded numerous development initiatives that have transformed Sarawak. With sound financial management, Sarawak is now able to independently fund critical infrastructure, particularly in rural areas,” said Abdullah, who is also the Semop assemblyman.
The Batang Lassa Bridge, spanning 2.43 kilometres, stands as Sarawak’s second-longest river-crossing bridge, constructed at a cost of RM600 million. Its completion will serve as a cornerstone of connectivity and economic progress for the coastal region.
Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Ports Development Datuk Aidel Lariwoo officiated the ceremony on behalf of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
This ambitious infrastructure endeavour underscores Sarawak’s commitment to advancing coastal development, laying the groundwork for enhanced prosperity and integration across the region. — DayakDaily
