20-07-2025
Uggah eyes statewide bridge runs after successful Bintulu event
Uggah flags off the runners at the start of the Jepak Bridge Run 2025 – Photo by Abang Ismail Abang Suud.
BINTULU (July 20): The bridge run event could become a statewide phenomenon following the resounding success of the Jepak Bridge Run 2025 this morning, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Speaking to reporters after officiating at the flag off ceremony at the Bintulu Civic Centre, he proposed that similar running events be held simultaneously across the state in future to celebrate newly completed bridges.
The Jepak Bridge Run, which saw the participation from around 2,300 runners, marked a historic celebration of the completion of the Jepak Bridge, which is a major infrastructure milestone linking Kuala Kemena in Bintulu.
'First, I would like to congratulate Dr Cassidy Morris (JKR Sarawak director) and his team from JKR Sarawak for successfully organising this morning's Jepak Bridge Run.
'With over 2,000 participants, it was a very successful and exciting event. I believe everyone is extremely proud of this bridge. If you noticed earlier, it looked like an army of ants going up and down the bridge, a truly remarkable sight,' he said.
Uggah praised the energy and enthusiasm of the local community, highlighting how the unique scenery and design of the Jepak Bridge had captured the public's imagination.
'This event has certainly excited the people of Bintulu. The view from the bridge is spectacular, and this kind of community engagement should not be limited to just one location,' he said.
Looking ahead, Uggah proposed that the Jepak Bridge Run be made an annual event, and encouraged JKR Sarawak to explore the idea of hosting simultaneous runs across other newly completed bridges in the state.
'We are now constructing 16 bridges throughout Sarawak. Five have already been completed, and the rest are progressing well,' he added.
Among them, he noted, is the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, which spans 4.8 kilometres, a very attractive location for a future bridge run.
With proper planning and coordination, Uggah said the concept of a bridge run phenomenon could be established, potentially held simultaneously across different divisions in Sarawak to foster unity, promote health, and celebrate the state's infrastructure achievements. bridge run douglas uggah embas lead statewide pehnomenon
