By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, Aug 7: The upgrading works at the Sungai Tujoh Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex are expected to be completed by the end of this year, with the Public Works Department (JKR) instructed to review the project timeline and promptly resolve technical issues, including piling problems identified as one of the main causes of delay.
Minister for Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the key components of the project include the construction of additional booths for immigration and customs operations, the widening of roads to add four new lanes, and the installation of public toilet facilities for the convenience of travellers.
“We aim to complete the project before year-end to ease traffic congestion at this border checkpoint ahead of major celebrations such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Gawai next year,” he said in a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report.
Lee made the remarks during a working visit to the border complex on Tuesday (Aug 5), where he inspected the physical progress of the project and received a technical briefing from the Public Works Department (JKR) and the appointed contractor.
He emphasised that the project is part of the Sarawak government’s proactive response to public complaints, particularly the severe congestion often experienced at the ICQS during festive periods and weekends.
To ensure smooth and timely execution, Lee proposed the formation of a special task force comprising representatives from JKR, the Immigration Department, and the Customs Department, which will serve as a platform for technical coordination and will monitor progress on a regular basis.
As a temporary traffic management measure, major construction works have been proposed to take place on weekdays, from Monday to Thursday, to minimise disruptions during peak weekend traffic.
“I have asked JKR and the contractor to intensify their efforts and find solutions to accelerate the implementation so that the project can be completed as scheduled,” he stressed. — DayakDaily
