KUCHING, March 27: The Federal government has allocated RM7.2 billion for the construction of the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road Phase 2 (SSLR II), with an anticipated completion time of three to five years.
In a news report by TVS, Minister of Works Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi emphasised the significance of this project in providing crucial access and mobility to the residents of northern Sarawak, particularly those in remote interior areas.
“Spanning 322 kilometres and implemented through four design and build packages, it will connect Lawas to Limbang and subsequently to Mulu town without passing through Brunei,” he said during a ceremony to present appointment letters to project directors and acceptance letters for SSLR II at the Ministry in Kuala Lumpur yesterday (March 26).
The event was attended by Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak director Datu Richard Tajan, who was also appointed as the project director for SSLR II to oversee and monitor the project implementation on behalf of the Ministry as the project owner and main contractor representative.
Nanta pointed out the vital role of road networks, particularly evident during the Covid-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2021 when border closures by Brunei severed connectivity between northern Sarawak and Kuching.
“This led to assistance being routed through Sabah,” he said.
Elaborating on the project’s significance, he highlighted its potential as a catalyst and multiplier for development and economic growth, while also anticipating positive impacts on ecotourism, particularly in Ba’Kelalan and Mulu renowned for their rich biodiversity.
Nanta urged contractors to ensure timely project completion and provide optimal value to the government.
“I extend my congratulations to JKR Sarawak, which has been entrusted with overseeing and monitoring this high-value, impactful project, thereby enhancing its competence as a technical implementing agency in the Sarawak Region,” he said. — DayakDaily
