By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, April 5: The town of Sibu is set to welcome its own version of the iconic London Bridge under a major infrastructure initiative aimed at spurring economic development, particularly in the town’s western region.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the State government’s commitment to build the landmark bridge, which he said would become a defining symbol of Sibu, much like the Golden Gate-inspired bridge in Bintulu.
“If Bintulu has its ‘Golden Gate Bridge’, Sibu residents also want something iconic.
“They want a ‘London Bridge’ connecting the western areas — so we have approved it.
“We (Sarawak government) will look for funding to make this project a reality. God willing, it will materialise,” he said during a Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering in Sibu last night (April 4). An audio recording of his speech was made available to DayakDaily afterwards.
Abang Johari emphasised that the bridge would significantly improve connectivity and unlock the economic potential of Sibu’s western region, particularly in agriculture and agro-based industries.
The proposal was initially raised by Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, who is also the Nangka assemblyman, during his opening remarks at the event.
Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, were also present to grace the occasion.
Among others in attendance were Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, deputy ministers, State lawmakers, and Sibu Division Resident Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman. — DayakDaily
