SERIAN: The newly built suspension bridge connecting Kampung Hulu here to the other side of the village is now ready to benefit the locals.
The project, which cost nearly RM300,000 was completed in just six months on April 12 this year after construction began on Oct 13, 2021.
Serian MP Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem said that initially, the proposal to build the bridge was to make it easier for villagers to go to the village cemetery located across the river.
“Previously, if a death occurred, the villagers would have to bring the remains across the river by small boat.
“But seeing that there are also new settlements by the local residents in the area, the suspension bridge will also pave the way for them to move between the area,” he said when officiating at the Kampung Hulu, Serian suspension bridge today.
He also noted that there are about 15 residents on the other side of the village, living in four houses. In addition, the local people also have vegetable gardens and paddy fields in the area.
Thus, he added, the construction of the suspension bridge would spur the socio-economic activities in the area.
Residents also expressed their appreciation to the government for the assistance provided under the People’s Project 2022.
One of the senior residents of Kampung Hulu, Acher Ahmad said the people’s hardship in managing matters related to the remains has finally been taken care of.
He thanked the Serian MP and especially the government for the help provided and hoped that the bridge could continue to benefit the villagers.
On the same note, Riot who is the Prime Minister’s special envoy to Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, said he envisaged Serian having its own riverfront as the other cities and towns in the state had.
“We have submitted our proposal on the Serian Waterfront to the relevant parties. However, there is no official correspondence so far.
“But I believe, once we have the waterfront, it will add another attractive landscape for the beauty of Serian,” he said.
In September 2020, a riverfront project was proposed as the latest landmark for Serian town.
To be located near Kampung Hulu and facing the Sadong River, the proposed project will also comprise a night market and recreational facilities.
Also present during the officiating of the suspension bridge were Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus.
