SIBU: The success of the Sarawak Premier Motorcycle Convoy programme from Batang Lupar 1 Bridge to Sibu carried a clear message that rural areas of Sarawak are no longer isolated, but are rapidly developing with various basic infrastructures.

The convoy programme led by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg was not just a leisurely activity but instead clear evidence of the connection access in rural areas including in the central zone of the state.

The Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, which acted as the starting point of the convoy programme on Thursday, has become a 'game changer' in connecting coastal areas and is poised to open up various high-value economic opportunities in the Sebuyau area.

Recognised as the longest river crossing bridge in Malaysia, the iconic structure is a witness to the vibrant development brought by the state government led by the Sarawak Premier in Sebuyau.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari, who led a convoy of 20 high-powered motorcycles, departed from the Batang Lupar Bridge at 12.55 pm on Thursday, heading to Pusa before stopping by in Sarikei and concluding in Sibu at around 6.05 pm.

The 214-kilometre journey was effortless as connection access throughout the central region of Sarawak was complete with the Pan Borneo Highway, in addition to other road and bridge projects.

This is the result of the government's strong commitment to providing complete basic infrastructure to ensure that rural communities enjoy development on par with those in urban areas.

Apart from highlighting the development in the state, the programme also served as a platform to strengthen the relationship between leaders and the people.

It was a manifestation of the determination of the state government led by the Sarawak Premier to approach the rural community directly to hear their voices and aspirations.

The participation of many state leaders together with the Sarawak Premier in this convoy sent a clear message that the state government firmly prioritises the interests of the people.

Among those involved in the motorcycle convoy were Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, MTCP Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Ministry for International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) Advisor Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais, Sarawak Police Commissioner CP Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah and son of the Sarawak Premier, Dato Abang Abdillah Izzarim Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Zohari.

In addition, it was also joined by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and several other dignitaries accompanied by more than 20 other vehicles. -UKASnews