By Karen Bong
SIBU, Feb 17: A taskforce committee has been formed to study the feasibility of a 400-metre bridge across Igan River, aimed at enhancing connectivity between Sibu west bank and the town centre.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has instructed Deputy Education and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee and Deputy Local Government Minister Datuk Michael Tiang to lead the committee in evaluating the proposal, which could significantly drive development in the Bawang Assan area.
“Now that we have built bridges including one spanning over four kilometres across Batang Lupar, 400 metres is nothing,” he said.
This was proposed by Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Youth Central chairman and SUPP Bawang Assan chief Kevin Lau during the SUPP Chinese New Year celebration held at a hotel here today.
Abang Johari expressed confidence that the new connection would spur economic growth and unlock the potential of Sibu’s hinterland.
“With the connection, we can develop the other side of Sibu. I know you want to fight Shanghai with many bridges. That’s what we want – new ideas, new ways of thinking, and the people must support,” he remarked.
Beyond linking Sibu West Bank to the town centre, Abang Johari added that the project aligns with broader plans to construct a road from the area to Dalat and Mukah, further integrating the region’s transport network and fostering economic opportunities.
He also noted that Sibu has long faced structural challenges due to its land composition, prompting the need for world-class engineering solutions.
The Sarawak government had engaged Danish expertise for a RM30 million project, leveraging Denmark’s experience in managing land below sea level, similar to the challenges in Sibu.
“Sarawak is in a strong financial position, having generated RM14 billion in revenue last year, allowing us to seek top-tier expertise. We take this bold step because we want Sibu to be the best. If we get a normal engineer, then we get the same problem,” he stated.
Advanced technology, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) and artificial intelligence (AI), will be used in planning and cost estimation, as seen in the upcoming elevated road project in Kemuyang.
Additionally, AI-based 3D modelling will be employed to visualise Bukit Assek’s terrain, assess soil structure, and estimate underground water levels to facilitate proper drainage of the 600-acre area.
Abang Johari emphasised that the redevelopment of Sibu, expected to span 15 years, is set to transform the town into a modern and vibrant hub.
“We have to build a beautiful Sibu. We do what we say. So far, no other states can implement 15 bridges simultaneously. This is no ‘hot air’ (just talk). With these infrastructure in place, we can open up more economic opportunities and activities, including paddy cultivation for food security.
“We can identify areas in Sibu for agriculture development. All these can only be done if we are united. We hope to make changes and impact Sarawak in the Year of Snake,” he affirmed.
Deputy Premier and SUPP president Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Deputy Tourism Minister Dato Sebastian Ting, Tiang, and Dr Annuar, were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
