UNDER the 2024 State Budget, a sum of RM662 million will be set aside for the implementation of various road and bridge projects.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stressed that road development which includes bridges, has always been given priority by the Sarawak government to connect all areas statewide.
Among the key projects to be prioritised are: design and construction of the inner ring road in Kuching; Jalan Pakan-Ulu Kota; Pakan-Sarikei (Phase III); and the replacement of seven temporary bridges under Phase 1 with permanent RC bridges.
Additionally, Jalan Sg. Bidut-Kpg Tutus-Kpg Sebedil-Kpg Bungan Kecil, Sibu; Marudi Bridge Over Batang Baram, Miri; Sg. Limbang Bridge; Sg. Bunut No. 2 Bridge and Connecting Roads, Limbang; and various roads and bridge projects under Projek Rakyat are also being given priority.
“Under the 2024 Budget, emphasis will continue to be given to basic infrastructure and services to improve rural connectivity and accessibility, which will drive economic growth and development in this area.
“Balancing urban-rural development and achieving sustainable urban-rural integration will be the key priorities to ensure balanced development as Sarawak progresses towards becoming a developed region,” he said when tabling the Supply (2024) Bill on the first day of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
Meanwhile, under the Alternative Funding Initiative, Abang Johari, who is also the Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development, said among the ongoing catalytic initiatives are the construction of the Coastal Road Network and the Second Trunk Road projects.
The two projects are estimated to cost a total of RM11 billion. The projects are now at various stages of implementation.
