MIRI:The Sarawak-Sabah link road, when completed, will be an economic catalyst, says Baru Bian.
Work on the road from Long Lama to Lawas over a distance of 300km will probably start end of this year or early next year.
“It’s good news for Sarawakians, especially those residing in the northern region.
“Once the road is completed, it not only provides access but also serves as an economic catalyst,” said Baru, the Works Minister, during a live RTM broadcast here today.
Phase Two of the Pan Borneo Highway, he added, would bypass Brunei.
“We will create a new link road — from Miri, Marudi to Long Lama, Long Kovok, Long Bedian up till Lawas, Merapokand endsat Sipitang, Sabah.”
On the state government’s plan to develop another road linking Miri to Marudi and further up to Long Terawan, Baru said, “If that’s the case, we will embark on another section of the road.
“Perhaps we can start from Long Lama instead of Miri.”
On the latest development of the Pan Borneo Highway, Baru said 36 per cent of work had been completed and full completion is expected by June 2021.
“We have 10 remaining packages, which are being carried out from Sematan up until Miri.
“From Bakun’s junction to Sungai Tangap in Bintulu, about 34 per cent of the physical development is completed, while Sungai Tangap to JalanPujut link in Miri, about 36 per cent has been completed,” the Selangau MP said.
Meanwhile, Baru said a hearing on the Gunung Mulu National Park encroachment case is set for March 17.
