By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 24: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has lauded Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg as the ‘Bapa Transformasi Infrastruktur Sarawak’, praising his bold vision and unwavering drive in advancing the State’s development to new heights.
Uggah, who is also State Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, made the tribute during the official launch of the newly renamed Jambatan Tun Taib Mahmud in Bintulu last night (July 23).
He proposed that iconic bridge runs such as the recent ‘Larian Jambatan Jepak’, which far surpassed its target with around 2,600 participants, be expanded into an annual Hari Sarawak event across all 17 major bridges statewide.
“Several days ago, we organised the ‘Larian Jambatan Jepak 2025’ with about 2,600 participants. The Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak had to close registration early, proving how popular this iconic bridge is.
“Perhaps in the future, we can host similar events at all 17 bridges throughout the State during Hari Sarawak celebrations,” he said, as reported by TVS, citing a Suara Sarawak news report.
He added that such events would not only foster unity among the people, but also symbolise the State’s pride in its infrastructure advancements driven by the Sarawak government.
The 1.283km-long Jambatan Tun Taib Mahmud, fully completed on March 22 at a cost of RM466.7 million, features a 3.5km dual carriageway.
Uggah noted that four major bridges have already been completed and opened to the public this year, namely Batang Rajang Bridge in Sarikei, Muara Lassa Bridge in Mukah, and Batang Saribas 1 Bridge in Pusa.
“Another six bridges are under construction and are expected to be completed by 2026, including Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, which will be the longest in Sarawak at 4.8km.
“We hope all of these bridges can be completed by March next year, or even as early as this December,” he said, adding that once completed, these bridges will enable uninterrupted overland travel from Kuching to Miri without relying on ferry services.
The Marina Bridge in Miri is expected to be the 17th bridge, with contractors indicating possible completion within three years, ahead of its four-year contract duration.
According to Uggah, JKR Sarawak has been tasked with implementing RM42.6 billion worth of infrastructure projects fully funded by the Sarawak government, including the construction of new bridges across the State.
He also revealed that the Premier has approved several more bridges, including in Sibu and Sebuyau, bringing the total to 20 new bridges in the coming years.
“With this comprehensive connectivity, people across the State will enjoy greater mobility, ultimately enhancing their socioeconomic wellbeing,” he stressed.
In closing, Uggah commended Abang Johari’s transformative leadership.
“Now, all of Malaysia, even the world, knows how rapidly Sarawak is developing.
“Some may be envious, but we will continue to defend and build under the Premier’s leadership. Agik Idup, Agik Ngelaban (As long as I live, I will keep fighting),” he declared with passion. — DayakDaily
