By Shikin Louis
SIMUNJAN, Oct 5: A new dual carriageway road from Bukit Kopi in Serian to Gedong will be constructed to shorten travel time and strengthen Simunjan’s connectivity with Sarawak’s major development hub.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the new alignment will bypass the longer existing route through Balai Ringin by providing a direct four-lane connection from Bukit Kopi to Gedong, and onwards to Simunjan, Samarahan and Tanjung Embang.
“With this new road from Bukit Kopi to Gedong, and Gedong connected to Simunjan, it will go all the way to Samarahan and Tanjung Embang, where we are building a new airport and a deep sea port,” he said when closing the Simunjan Festival here today.
He added that the modern airport at Tanjung Embang will replace the existing Kuching International Airport (KIA), which is no longer suitable, and together with the new port will drive Sarawak’s economic growth.
Abang Johari also stressed that the new connectivity will open up job opportunities and economic activities for the younger generation in Simunjan and nearby areas.
“This means Simunjan will be linked to major development that will bring employment and opportunities under the new economy,” he said.
Bukit Kopi, near Kampung Munggu Kopi in Serian, was historically known for coffee cultivation, hence its name.
At the same event, Abang Johari also announced plans to enhance eco-tourism and heritage trails by extending road access to Gunung Ngeli in Simunjan, making it part of the wider Wallace Trail network stretching from Santubong to Siniawan.
He recalled that naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace had carried out research in Sarawak during the 19th century that contributed to the theory of evolution alongside Charles Darwin.
“When Wallace came to conduct studies, his work stretched across the archipelago, including routes to Siniawan and Gunung Ngeli.
“That is why I want tourists to come to Gunung Ngeli to carry out research, and we have approved the construction of a new road to the site,” he said.
Abang Johari said this initiative will position Simunjan as a tourism hub tied to the Wallace Trail, drawing visitors from Santubong through to Siniawan and into the division. – DayakDaily
