IT will only be sometime next year when the Pan Borneo Highway in Sarawak is expected to be completely built but, truth be told, it is already living up to its billing as a game changer.
I discovered as much when I took the road on a 15th general election work assignment in the central region of the state together with a senior reporter from our sister paper Suara Sarawak and our photographer.
Our journey started from Kuching to Sri Aman. It was expected that our trip there will take around three hours but to our surprise, it only took about two and a half hours.
The distance from Kuching to Sri Aman is 192 kilometres but frankly it did not feel all that far to me.
The road was smooth and the driving experience was excellent and comfortable with both two-lanes already completed.
The drive to Betong, Saratok, Sarikei and other districts was equally good.
As I was the driver on this trip, it was such a thrill to be on these roads, really an eye-opening experience.
Besides the stunning views and greenery along the way, the highway appears to have also encouraged economic activities in its surroundings especially in the rural areas.
There were also a few rest and recreation (R&R) centres along the highway which is a blessing for road users and lorry drivers travelling up and down Sarawak.
Most people I met on this highway said more R&R would be welcome complete with all the trimmings like cafes, restaurants, shops and restrooms for them to take breather on their travels.
Petrol stations are also needed along the highway as this can ensure road users will be able to go for long-distance travel without stopping.
It is my sincere hope that these improvements can be made to allow for a perfect Pan Borneo Highway experience.
