KUCHING: The current situation in the Middle East is not expected to affect the implementation schedule of eight major bridge projects in Sarawak targeted for completion this year.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the Sarawak Government remains confident that all projects will proceed smoothly without major disruption.

“For the eight bridges we aim to complete this year, we are not overly concerned.

"There may be a few problems, but it will not reach a level that can disrupt the implementation of the projects.

“We are confident everything will progress well, although we will continue to monitor the situation closely,” he said when met by reporters after the Sarawak Infrastructure Engagement Programme 2026 at a leading hotel, here on Tuesday.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah added that the construction of the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) 2 is also being closely monitored, particularly in terms of procurement and the sourcing of construction materials.

The Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development said that this step is crucial to ensure that project planning remains responsive to current developments, including any potential implications arising from global uncertainties.

He explained that the Sarawak Government together with the Federal Government are monitoring the prices of construction materials as part of efforts to navigate ongoing uncertainties.

He added that while solutions are being explored to address these challenges, the construction of the eight bridges remains on track.

Also present were Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Sarawak and Federal Deputy Ministers, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Dato Idris Buang, Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) Director Datu Dr Cassidy Morris, heads of departments and other dignitaries. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Translator: Nerissa Sia