SARIKEI: The development of physical and digital infrastructure in Sarawak continues to be strengthened as a strategic measure to improve connectivity and bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas.

Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said that the state government's continuous efforts have had a significant impact on the connectivity system, especially the Sarikei to Mukah route which is now more efficient.

According to him, the travel time which previously took about three and a half hours has been successfully shortened to around two and a half hours as a result of the implementation of several major bridge projects.

Among the projects involved are the construction of the Batang Igan, Batang Lassa and Batang Paloh Bridges which are expected to be completed in the near future.

"With this bridge, the people no longer need to rely entirely on ferry services, thus saving time on commuting daily," he said.

He said this when attending the closing ceremony of the 2026 ‘Randau Komuniti’ Programme organised by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) Sarikei Division at the Kampung Selalang Community Hall on Sunday.

The Kuala Rajang Assemblyman said that these facilities would not only improve the comfort of road users, but would also facilitate daily affairs including economic activities.

At the same time, he reminded users to always obey the speed limit to ensure safety even though travel is now faster.

Datuk Len added that this infrastructure development was in line with the state government's commitment to strengthening basic facilities throughout Sarawak.

According to him, the effort included the construction of roads, bridges and increased internet access to ensure that rural people were not left behind.

He said that this initiative was also in line with the development vision under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.

He explained that this balanced development would not only improve the standard of living of the community, but would also ensure that no community was left out of the state's progress.

He added that internet facilities in particular play a key role in the modern economic era by opening up more opportunities for the people to develop. -UKASnews