KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is strengthening road network planning around Kuching through the Kuching Traffic Master Plan 2030 to address traffic congestion arising from the rapid growth of residential areas and new developments.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the master plan, which is based on data, traffic simulations and modelling, serves as a guide for the government in planning new roads and increasing the capacity of existing routes.

According to him, among the major projects being implemented is the RM207.88 million Jalan Batu Kawa to Jalan Stephen Yong project, funded by the Sarawak Government to improve traffic flow in the area.

"The RM207 million comes from the state budget to help ease traffic flow in Batu Kawa, where the increase in residential developments has led to congestion," he said.

He said this when met by reporters after officiating at the launch of Jalan Batu Kawa to Jalan Stephen Yong Construction Project here on Wednesday.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari explained that the long-term plan also includes widening Jalan Malihah in Matang to four lanes and constructing new road networks connecting Siburan, Kota Samarahan and Serian via Kampung Munggu Kopi to Gedong.

In addition, plans are underway to enhance the road network in Petra Jaya through connections to Jalan Matang, Telaga Air and the Bako-Buntal route to improve connectivity and access to new development areas.

"We already have data and plans up to 2030, and we are conducting traffic simulations and modelling to anticipate the locations of new residential developments that will require good road infrastructure connections," he added.

Meanwhile, according to the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak, the Jalan Batu Kawa to Jalan Stephen Yong project involves the construction of a 5.664-kilometre road built to U3 standards, comprising two lanes for two-way traffic.

The route, connecting the Batu Kawa-Matang Junction at Sungai Moyan to the Jalan Stephen Yong Junction, is expected to reduce traffic congestion along Jalan Batu Kawa-Kuching by up to 30 per cent upon completion.

The project, which commenced on 11 February 2026, is scheduled for completion on 10 February 2029.

Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo and Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya. -UKASnews