KUCHING: The new Sungai Bintangor Bridge at Jalan Datuk Ajibah Abol here will become another iconic tourist spot, said Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the bridge will be able to expose tourists to the local traditions and livelihoods in the area which symbolises a part of the state’s cultural heritage.
“That is why I have requested for the bridge to be an iconic infrastructure in terms of design which would allow water transportation to travel under the bridge.
“That location will open up another activity and we can hold water sports activities there,” he told reporters at a press conference after his visit to the Sungai Bintangor Bridge project site yesterday.
Abang Johari said the bridge would complement other development projects including the Brooke Dockyard which would be turned into a commercial area, and the first ‘smart’ building in Sarawak — Hikmah Exchange.
Prior to the upgrading project, he said the bridge was too narrow and required expansion for those travelling along Jalan Datuk Ajibah Abol from Masjid Bahagian up to Jalan Haji Mataim junction.
He explained that a temporary bridge has been built next to the old bridge which would be demolished soon for the construction of the new bridge.
Asked whether Chung Hua Middle School No. 4 in Jalan Haji Taha would be affected by the urban renewal programme in the area, Abang Johari said discussion was ongoing and one of the options was to relocate the school.
“The school management has requested for the school to be relocated to a new location but that matter is still under discussion. They are still in the process of identifying a suitable location and I think by next year, (the relocation) should be okay,” he revealed.
Abang Johari said that the state government was putting in effort to develop the new urban areas namely from Jalan Song to Kota Sentosa, Batu Kawa up to Bau, as well as Petra Jaya.
“We will also maintain, retain, and rejuvenate the old (Kuching) city centre since some of the old buildings would require upgrading or repair work.
“The whole city of Kuching will be well-planned, including public transportation,” he said.
Also present were Infrastructure and Ports Development Assistant Minister Datuk Julaihi Narawi, Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Satok deputy chairman Datuk Ibrahim Baki, secretary Abdul Samat Gany, vice chief Hilmy Othman and state JKR director Datuk Zuraimi Sabki.
