KUCHING: The idea to establish a railway link from Bintulu to the new Indonesian capital of Nusantara has elicited a mix of optimism and scepticism among the local community.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian said that the high-speed rail could reduce travel time between the two cities to just three hours.
He said this after presenting cheques to NGOs and associations at the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) headquarters on Sunday.
It has been viewed as an opportunity for economic growth and improved connectivity between the two countries.
Members of the public, however, have expressed varied opinions on the feasibility and implications of the railway.
BILLY CHABU JIMBUN, 32,
Self-employed
“As a Mirian, the possibility would mean more job opportunities for us here, not only in Bintulu. But I am sure it won’t be possible in the short term. The proposal might take 10 to 20 years to realise the railway. If the high-speed railway were constructed, it would greatly facilitate travel from Sarawak to Indonesia.”
CALMIERA EVINA JALAN, 24,
Student
“It might happen due to all the technology advancements we have nowadays, even though the distance between Bintulu to Nusantara is almost the same as Sibu-Kuching. It was entirely feasible for Sarawak to have this railway, especially considering our successful completion of the Pan-Borneo project. Clearly, this development will create numerous job opportunities for the people of Sarawak and will also contribute to the growth of the local market in Bintulu.”
GRACE SELUTAN, 58,
Teacher
“It’s a bit of a mixed answer. Indeed, if there is a partnership with Nusantara, perhaps it could be effective, but it might take several years to see any results. No, if the state government attempts to handle it independently, it will never be accomplished. The road network within Sarawak itself has been under construction for quite some time, and even the land road connecting Miri to Lawas without passing through Brunei has yet to be completed.”
NUR ROZILA, 53,
Supervisor
“The proposal has its merit, but I was concerned about the potential impact on existing infrastructure and road closures while making the railway. However, the proposal has the potential to significantly reduce travel time from Bintulu to Nusantara, making the journey much shorter. Plus, having this railway might improve our development, and it could become one of our state’s tourist attractions.”
