by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 24: The development of Sarawak is most effective when led by Sarawakians who understand the State’s unique challenges and terrain, said Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
According to a TVS report, in this regard, he said the implementation of AP182, which entrusts the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR Sarawak) with the management of Federal projects, has enabled the department to accelerate projects and deliver strong results. In 2025, it successfully completed the construction of eight major bridges and 1,795 kilometres of roads across the State.
Uggah pointed out that the eight main bridges that have been completed include the Marudi Bridge, Muara Lassa, Tun Taib Mahmud Bridge in Jepak, Tun Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Haji Bujang Tuanku Haji Othman across Batang Rajang, Batang Saribas, Datuk Amar Juma’ani in Sungai Bintangor, Sebauh and Lingga.
“These bridges are not only engineering landmarks, but also lifelines that connect communities, shorten travel distances and increase economic opportunities,” he said during the JKR Sarawak Grand Excellence Gala 2026 last night.
He also noted that JKR Sarawak had successfully used 95 per cent of the approved budget allocation in 2025, thus reflecting the efficiency of management and the effectiveness of project implementation.
He added that AP182 has accelerated project delivery by allowing Federal projects to be implemented using local expertise and decision-making.
“The development of Sarawak is most effective when managed by Sarawakians themselves who understand the challenges and terrain of the State,” he explained.
Meanwhile, in terms of innovation, Uggah noted that JKR Sarawak has also stepped into the era of smart engineering with the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Unit which has introduced technologies such as BIM, LiDAR systems, AI dashboards and Bentley System to ensure faster, more sustainable and cost-effective infrastructure development. – DayakDaily
