KUCHING: Batu Kawa has the potential to be developed into an integrated urban centre similar to Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), given its vast land area and existing facilities.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said these advantages provide opportunities for more comprehensive development, positioning Batu Kawa as one of Kuching's emerging growth areas.

"Batu Kawa has ample space for development, along with facilities that can be developed under an integrated concept similar to KLCC," he said.

He said this when speaking at the launch of the Jalan Batu Kawa to Jalan Stephen Yong Construction Project here on Wednesday.

According to him, Batu Kawa has undergone significant transformation compared with its past, in line with Kuching's continued expansion into suburban areas.

In this regard, the area's development should capitalise on the available space to create a more modern urban environment equipped with facilities for residents.

Efforts to strengthen development in the area are also supported by the RM207.88 million Jalan Batu Kawa to Jalan Stephen Yong Construction Project, fully funded by the Sarawak Government.

The 5.664-kilometre project connects the Batu Kawa-Matang Junction at Sungai Moyan to the Jalan Stephen Yong Junction and includes the construction of two reinforced concrete bridges across Sungai Moyan and Sungai Sarawak. -UKASnews