Premier to officially launch RM321.4 mln Batang Rajang Bridge tomorrow
SIBU (May 16): The Batang Rajang Bridge, spanning 1,440 metres at Sungai Pasi in Sarikei and constructed for RM321.4 million, is set to be officially launched tomorrow (May 17) by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The ceremony is scheduled to take place at 10am, with Abang Johari expected to deliver an address.
'This bridge is not only a symbol of infrastructure progress, but also serves as a catalyst for connectivity and economic development in surrounding areas,' said the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR), in a Facebook post.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also State Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, performed the pre-launching ceremony on March 27.
According to him, the project would reduce the travelling distance from Sarikei to Tanjung Manis from 122km to 53km, as well as cut travelling time from two hours and 30 minutes to just 45 minutes.
He added that the bridge would create more economic opportunities by accelerating the movement of goods and agricultural produce from rural areas to wider markets.
'This project is a testament to the Sarawak government's commitment to ensure balanced development between urban and rural areas,' he said during the March pre-launching ceremony.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) stated that Abang Johari is also expected to undertake a walkabout, attend a briefing, and officiate the launch of the Tanjung Manis Airport Upgrading Project at 1pm tomorrow.
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