BETONG: The Batang Saribas 1 Bridge is now officially open, offering long-awaited relief to coastal communities that for years depended on ferry crossings for daily travel.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the RM375.5 million bridge links longhouses and villages in the area, opening access for agriculture and other economic activities to grow.
He said the bridge also strengthens road connectivity between rural settlements and Kuching, forming part of the state’s broader development framework under the coastal road network.
“We must take a modern approach in connecting towns and cities, no more relying on boats. In the past, Sebuyau residents had to wait for high tide just to get to Kuching. During the monsoon season, they couldn’t even leave.
“All these were obstacles to connectivity. That’s why we in the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government are determined to find solutions for rural problems,” he said when officiating the new bridge today.
Abang Johari said the government’s goal is to establish a full network of infrastructure by 2030 that not only improves access, but also supports rural education and modern agricultural practices.
He said the soon-to-be-completed Batang Lupar Bridge, which will be the longest river-crossing bridge in Malaysia, will mark a major milestone in the state’s infrastructure rollout.
“Everything will be connected – from Kuching to Sebuyau, to Lingga, to Simanggang, to Betong and Saratok – all through a seamless road and bridge system.
“This is also in line with our education policy to equip our children with the knowledge needed to benefit from the developments taking place in rural areas,” he added.
Additionally, he said the bridge would be renamed based on local historical relevance, and entrusted the matter to historians and elected representatives to determine a suitable name.
Earlier, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the Premier’s vision of a direct Kuching–Miri road trip without ferry crossings is becoming a reality, backed by substantial investment.
He said RM5.9 billion has been allocated for the construction of 16 major bridges across Sarawak, aimed at removing ferry bottlenecks and ensuring smooth, uninterrupted journeys.
“Five bridges are now complete – Marudi, Muara Lassa, Batang Rajang, Batang Saribas and Jepak – and 11 more are in various stages of construction.
“Our ministry is working hard to deliver these projects on time. We hope that by June 2026, drivers will no longer have to endure hours-long queues for the ferry,” said Uggah.