KUCHING: Phase one of the Sarawak Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project — encompassing the Blue, Red, and Green Lines — has reached an overall progress rate of 35 per cent, marking a positive milestone in the implementation of the state’s modern public transport system.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, said that the two-year period leading up to 2028 is a critical phase.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring the project remains on track for completion according to the established schedule.

In line with this, the Premier highlighted that the completion of the Hikmah Exchange ART Station, scheduled for full completion by 2028, as a primary transport hub is vital. Its strategic location in the city centre will connect various key areas throughout Kuching.

"This station will provide access to all strategic locations in central Kuching, including Market Street. From the Padang Merdeka access point, the ART route will head towards Carpenter Street and continue on to Padungan.

"Through this network, the ART system will also link to Petra Jaya via the Green Line, connecting government offices before extending to Damai. Furthermore, this central station connects to Simpang Tiga, where federal offices are located. Consequently, this station is highly strategic, serving as the main ART hub that connects commuters to various destinations across Kuching City," he explained.

The Premier shared these details during a press conference following a site visit to the Hikmah Exchange ART Station on Friday.

Regarding related developments, he noted that another essential facility — the Rembus Depot, which houses the hydrogen refuelling station — is also progressing according to schedule.

For the record, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari revealed that the first two ART train sets are expected to arrive in Kuching in the first quarter of next year, by April 2026 at the latest.

Also present during the visit were the Deputy Minister for Transport Sarawak (Aviation and Road), Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Chairman of the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Abdul Aziz Dato Husain, and Sarawak Metro Chief Executive Officer, Ts Mazli Mustaffa. - UKASnews

Reporter: Jonnie Kiew
Translator: Ryan Lim
Photographer: Jaed Tepus