MARUDI: The much awaited Marudi Bridge, a RM116.5 million infrastructure project, officially opened to the public here today (Nov 11).
The new bridge marks a significant development milestone in the Baram region, eliminating the need for ferry services across the Batang Baram river.
Construction of the Marudi Bridge began on Oct 20, 2022, and was completed on Oct 18, 2024 — nine months ahead of schedule.
“This bridge serves as a catalyst for further connectivity projects in the region,” said Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Aidel Lariwoo during the opening ceremony.
He said new road network developments expected to branch out from the Marudi Bridge include a 42-kilometre road linking Marudi to Eastwood Valley in Miri and a 76-kilometre route extending from the bridge to Kuala Melinau in Mulu.
The state government has laid out plans for additional road connections aimed at enhancing regional connectivity.
These include a 26-mile stretch between Long Panai and Long Lama, scheduled to start construction next year.
Further connections from Mulu will link to other parts of Sarawak, including a 160-kilometre route to Nanga Mendamit and the 140-kilometre stretch from Long Lopeng to Lawas.
This network is part of the Pan Borneo Road Phase 2 and the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road (SSLR) projects.
Once these road networks are completed within the next five years under the 13th Malaysia Plan, the region will enjoy direct road access from Miri to Marudi, Mulu, Limbang, and beyond.
This infrastructure transformation is expected to strengthen economic opportunities and accessibility for communities across northern Sarawak.
Key officials at the bridge opening included Deputy Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr. Penguang Manggil, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Gerawat Gala, Baram MP Datuk Anyi Ngau, and Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau.
