by Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, May 12: Once completed, the tallest flagpole in the country, which is currently being built in the vicinity of Fort Margherita will be a symbol of sovereignty, patriotism, unity, and pride for the people of Sarawak, says Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication II Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
Dr Abdul Rahman said its symbolism was why Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg wanted the flagpole to be built here.
“Apart from seeing it rising and flying daily, the new landmark will also be the tallest flagpole in Malaysia and could add to our tourism attraction products in Kuching City.
“For the your information, the size of the flag itself is 25 by 12.5 meters, and it would be frequently changed,” he explained.
He told reporters this after visiting the site to inspect the progress of the project today.
Dr Abdul Rahman said the flagpole would be strategically located and could be seen from all directions.
“The location is also in a concentration zone for tourists and is adjacent to the State Assembly Building facing the Kuching Waterfront. Once completed, the area will be accessible to the public as there are many entry points.
“It is in the vicinity of attractions like the Traditional English Tea House, the cascading fountain, the hanging garden, and the majestic Fort Margherita,” he shared.
Dr Abdul Rahman said the flagpole would measure 99 metres in height and cost RM28 million and is expected to be completed by November this year.
“The latest project physical progress is 25.2 per cent, so the construction is 7.2 per cent ahead of schedule,” he disclosed.
“The initial idea to build this tallest flagpole here came from the Sarawak Premier in 2022, and we appointed the Kuching City North Commission (DBKU) to implement the project.
“DBKU later appointed KKB Engineering Berhad (KKB) as the contractor in March this year and they have ten months to complete it.
“The flagpole structure weighs 120 metric tonnes and is being built by precise engineering,” said Dr Abdul Rahman.
Also present during the site visit were DBKU mayor Datu Juniadi Reduan and the founder, chairman and group managing director of KKB Engineering Berhad, Dato Sri Kho Kak Beng. — DayakDaily
