IGAN: The Sarawak Government continues its commitment to strengthening rural infrastructure with the Batang Igan Bridge scheduled to open to the public on March 15, improving connectivity for local residents ahead of the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the opening of the bridge will end the local community’s reliance on ferry services to cross Sungai Batang Igan, thus significantly enhancing rural connectivity.

He noted that ferry crossings previously took about 30 minutes, but with the completion of the bridge, travel time will be reduced to just a few minutes, greatly easing daily travel for residents.

He said this when speaking to the media after officiating the Batang Igan Bridge Stitching Ceremony, here on Wednesday.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah added that the project is expected to bring about significant improvements particularly in terms of basic amenities, access to education, and overall community wellbeing in the affected areas.

He also said the bridge will open up greater opportunities for socio-economic activities and further stimulate the development of existing economic potential in the surrounding areas.

Meanwhile, he expressed his appreciation to the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) and the contractor for their strong commitment and dedication in ensuring that the project is completed according to the set schedule.

Also present at the ceremony were Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Tellian Assemblyman Royston Valentine, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development Sarawak Datu Chiew Chee Yau and JKR Sarawak Director Datu Dr Cassidy Morris. -UKASnews