KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg on Monday (Nov 8) declared open Phases 1 and 2 of the Batu Kawah Riverbank Park after which he had a walkabout in the area with his entourage.
Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, great efforts were made by those present to comply with the public health standard operating procedures.
Be that as it may, the chief minister looked pleased with the just-completed phases of the project which are complementary to a master plan for housing development in the area going in the direction of Bau district.
The chief minister having a light moment with a vendor who is selling food nearby. 
Abang Johari (centre, front row) in front of the Guang Loong Temple. 
Abang Johari (second right) and others walk on the new ‘Galaxy Bridge’. 
The chief minister greeting members of the public upon passing by the Guang Loong Temple.
Abang Johari said all projects implemented in and around the area will be linked to one another to turn Bata Kawah into another satellite town in the city.
Batu Kawah incumbent assemblyman Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, who was present during the visit, showed the chief minister around the park and pointed out the various landmarks to him.
According to him, the park is not just an iconic landmark, but also a legacy.
He recalled that more than RM300 million was allocated to Batu Kawah for development and the park was supposed to be funded by both the state and federal governments. However, following the change of federal government in 2018, the fund was withdrawn.
It was fortunate that Abang Johari agreed to support the park project, and for phase five he has agreed to allocate an additional RM5 million to allow the project to continue. This is because of the increase in material cost.
Abang Johari (second right) points at the temples across the ‘Sky Window’ structure. 
Abang Johari (second right) and others walk on the new ‘Galaxy Bridge’. 
Dr Sim (centre) with Abang Johari (left) looking at the landscape of Batu Kawah.
