MOTS advances road projects with Works Minister

KUCHING: The Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS), led by its minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, visited the federal Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, to discuss projects addressing traffic congestion and road safety in Miri, and a bus terminal in Kapit.

A press statement issued by MOTS said the proposed T-junction with a smart traffic light system along Miri Bypass Road/Pan Borneo Highway has received strong support and agreement from the Minister of Works, who is committed to disbursing the necessary funds once available. 

The statement added that the new junction is designed to reduce the long distances required for U-turns and alleviate road congestion.

Lee also highlighted the importance of including the proposed flyover construction at Kuala Baram/Sg Tujoh junction in the Trans Borneo upgrading project during his working visit that took place last June 25. 

“This addition is essential for enhancing road safety, especially as the area is already facing heavy traffic to and from Brunei,” the statement read.

Adding further, the statement said that it is expected to see heavy vehicle traffic increase from the industry sector in about two to three years’ time following the completion of the dredging project to deepen the Kuala Baram access channel at Miri Port. 

“It was agreed that this proposed flyover project be included in the 13th Malaysia Plan.

“Another project in the Miri Division involves the upgrading of Pujut 3 (GK Roundabout) Road from four lanes to six lanes, including a new traffic light junction,” MOTS added in the statement.

The Works Minister said that the preliminary work allocation has been approved and JKR Sarawak is currently appointing a consultant.

According to the statement, Nanta was briefed on the approved State RMK12 bus terminal project at Kapit in his constituency and also proposed a new site which will be submitted for approval.

Also accompanying Lee were the permanent secretary for Ministry of Transport Sarawak Datuk Hee Sieng and the ministry’s engineer.