BINTULU: The Phase 1 of the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway project from Telok Melano to Miri is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
Senior Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway has reached 78 percent of completion and there are several work packages would be opened (launched) to the public throughout the year until December.
He said although there were several challenges, including shortage of manpower and materials, those who were involved in the work packages would have to seek solutions to overcome the issues.
“Besides, the contractors had given their assurance and commitment to strive to meet this scheduled timeframe,” he said this the official opening of the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway – Nyabau Section (Work Package Contract 10) here today, which was officiated at by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Fadillah said the Nyabau section was the fourth section under the Pan Borneo project to be opened up while the other three were the Telok Melano section, the Serian to Balai Ringin section, and the Julau section.
The RM16.117 billion worth project which has 11 work packages and commenced in October 2015 involves the construction of a 786km stretch of road from Telok Melano to Miri.
He said the project proves the commitment and close cooperation between the federal government and the Sarawak government.
Fadillah, who is also the Petra Jaya MP said the Phase 2 of the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway has also been discussed at the federal cabinet meeting.
“God willing, it has been agreed that the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road will be Phase 2 of the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway,” he said.
He explained that this was because the previous Phase 2 which involved Limbang and Lawas was now a new alignment under the state government.
“In principle, we have agreed to move this second alignment to the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road, whereby Phase 1 has been implemented.
“The remainder, which is estimated to cost RM7 billion, has been agreed in principle to be implemented as Phase 2 and it will be fine-tuned later,” said Fadillah
