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Datuk Amar Juma'ani Bridge symbolises Sarawak's remarkable transformation, says Uggah
Abang Johari (front fourth right) launches the Datuk Amar Juma'ani Bridge. He is flanked by Uggah and his daughter Dayang Norjihan. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (Aug 6): The Datuk Amar Juma'ani Bridge, which was officially launched during a grand ceremony last night, stands as an iconic symbol of Sarawak's remarkable transformation.
In saying this, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the bridge is a proud representation of the progress and innovation driven by the state government under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
'This bridge is more than just a physical structure. It is a reflection of our commitment to economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability, which are the three main pillars of our Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030,' Uggah said in his speech.
He cited the bridge's distinctive features, including its 114.34-metre span supported by 32 cable stays from a single 52.1-metre-high tower – the first bridge of its kind in Malaysia.
The RM50.665 million project also includes four traffic lanes, pedestrian walkways, and sufficient clearance underneath for river navigation.
He praised the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) and its contractors for overcoming various challenges to complete the project, which was originally scheduled for three years but then extended to five.
'This is one of 17 bridges being constructed across Sarawak today with a total allocation of RM6.3 billion. These developments are made possible by the state's own revenue, thanks to the strategic and courageous leadership of our Premier,' he said.
Uggah also backed the proposal to rename the structure in honour of the Premier's wife, who passed away in June.
He said the renaming would ensure her legacy is remembered for generations to come.
'I fully support the proposal to name this bridge after the late Datuk Amar Juma'ani. She was a woman of great compassion and unwavering dedication to the people of Satok and Sarawak, and served the community faithfully alongside the Premier since 1981.
'This bridge, if named in her honour, will not only connect two riverbanks, but also serve as a lasting reminder of her contributions and the values she embodied which are kindness, humility and service,' he said.
Reflecting on Sarawak's development, he credited Abang Johari's leadership for propelling the state's transition from a traditional economy to a modern, high-tech, and green economy, now recognised globally.
He also cited international recognition for Sarawak as a low-carbon industrial cluster and the state's emergence as a regional energy hub for hydropower, solar, and hydrogen.
'From RM6.8 billion in 2017, our revenue has grown to RM14.2 billion in 2024. Sarawak was recognised by the World Bank as a high-income region since 2023, seven years ahead of our original target.
'These achievements, alongside major infrastructure projects such as the Hydrogen-Powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) and the RM1.78 billion Kuching ring road, are clear signs of how far we have come,' he stressed.
He called on Sarawakians to remain united and to continue supporting Abang Johari's leadership for the betterment of future generations.
'We are entering a new era for Sarawak, and with bridges like this, both literal and symbolic, we will continue moving forward together. Let this bridge be a testament to our aspirations and to the people who have helped shape this journey,' he added.
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