By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 6: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has dismissed public speculation by clarifying that the woman recently seen beside him at official functions is his daughter, not a new partner.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge here last night (Aug 5), Abang Johari shared that it had been 44 days since the passing of his wife, and he had asked his daughter, Dayang Norjihan, to accompany and assist him.
“People began asking among themselves who the woman beside me was. Some even said I was quick to find a replacement for my late wife,” Abang Johari recalled.
“People misunderstood… but I was simply asking for help from my daughter.”
When met by reporters after the opening ceremony, Abang Johari expressed deep gratitude to the people of Satok for naming the new bridge after his late wife, describing it as a heartfelt tribute to her unwavering support throughout his political journey.
He said he did not hesitate to agree with the proposal from the people of Satok, conveyed through their elected representative, to name the Sungai Bintangor Bridge in honour of his late wife, Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang.
“I would like to thank the entire Satok community and people from all walks of life for choosing to honour my wife’s soul and legacy in this way. It is true that she was always by my side, especially throughout my service to the people of Satok,” he said.
The idea to rename the bridge was first put forward by Deputy Minister for Utility (Sarawak Energy and Petros) and Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki during the launch ceremony, as a heartfelt tribute to Juma’ani’s unwavering service and devotion to the people of Satok.
According to a fact sheet by the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR), with a total cost of RM50.6 million, the bridge features a central tower supported by three massive columns and is complemented by the adjacent Sungai Bintangor waterfront.
The structure spans 108.5 metres across Sungai Bintangor and includes a four-lane dual carriageway.
Together, they are expected to become a new attraction in Kuching, offering visitors a gateway to experience the rich heritage and traditional lifestyle of the surrounding Malay villages.
This iconic bridge design will serve as a landmark and a new tourist attraction, enhancing the city’s identity and drawing both domestic and international visitors, which in turn stimulates local businesses and promotes economic growth.
It will also benefit residents by improving daily commuting convenience, accessibility, and connectivity to surrounding areas. — DayakDaily
