RM384 million allocation for ART to address traffic congestion

Abang Johari tabling Sarawak Budget 2021 at DUN today (Nov 9, 2020). Screenshot taken from the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) livestream of DUN proceedings.

By Lian Cheng

KUCHING, Nov 9:  A sum of RM384 million will be allocated in 2021 for the implementation of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) to address traffic congestion in Kuching-Samarahan areas.

The ART system is also aimed to promote efficient and sustainable transport system.

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg believed that transport infrastructure acts as a key enabler to ensure seamless mobility and connectivity to all growth areas in the State.

“Thus, the State Integrated Transportation Master Plan up to 2050 will be formulated to chart the policy directions, plan, strategies and initiatives for the sector,” said Abang Johari when tabling Sarawak Budget 2021 at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex here today.

He said one of the major development of State Integrated Transport Master Plan is ART which is part of the Kuching Urban Transport System.

Meanwhile,  the Sarawak government will also allocate RM25 million for continuation and completion of Aids to Navigations (AtoNs) for Batang Rajang Access Channel to Tanjung Manis Port in 2021.

“As the landscape of the shipping industry is ever-changing, the safety of the access channel to our State ports is essential in meeting our future logistic demand.

“AtoNs are basic infrastructure that will enhance the navigational safety and security of our Sarawak ports,” added Abang Johari. — DayakDaily