Batang Paloh Bridge enters final stretch, eyes mid-October opening

Batang Paloh Bridge. Source: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

SEMOP, Sept 12: The nearly RM300 million Batang Paloh Bridge has entered the final phase of construction and could be opened to the public as early as mid-October, provided the remaining works are completed smoothly.

In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) report, Tanjong Manis MP and Malaysian Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) chairman Dato Yusuf Abd Wahab said the project’s progress was encouraging, with the entire bridge structure now connected.

He said that the remaining works include finishing the sides of the bridge and road, installing lighting and completing several related facilities.

“We are certainly very excited to see the progress of the Batang Paloh Bridge project because the people have been waiting for this facility to be completed for a long time.

“If all the works proceed smoothly, we expect the bridge could be opened for public use as early as mid-October, although the actual opening date has yet to be determined,” he said when met by reporters after attending a Smart TV handover ceremony for schools at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Semop here today.

The bridge is set to become an important link between Pulau Bruit and Tanjong Manis, Sarikei, and Sibu, helping residents travel without relying entirely on ferry services.

Yusuf said the bridge was expected to have a significant impact on the local community by improving connectivity, stimulating local development and creating more economic opportunities.

“With the bridge, travel for the people will become smoother and congestion, particularly during festive seasons, can be reduced.

“This will not only provide greater convenience to the people but also generate economic spillovers and create opportunities for various development activities in the surrounding areas,” he said.

The bridge is now awaiting completion of final works and safety verification before opening to the public. — DayakDaily