Premier: New roads, bridges end long ferry waits ahead of Hari Raya

Abang Johari (sixth from left) presents a Sumbangsih Raya pack to a representative of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) as other dignitaries look on during the Sumbangsih Raya 2026 programme at Satria Pertiwi Complex on March 6, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (Japen)

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, March 6: Sarawakians travelling to Daro, Igan, Betong, Sri Aman, and other areas will no longer face long ferry waits this Hari Raya, thanks to new roads and bridges across the State.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the improved connectivity allows residents to travel directly to their hometowns in a single day, making festive visits faster and safer.

“InsyaAllah, this Hari Raya, fewer people will need to take the ferry. In areas like Daro, Igan, Betong, and Sri Aman, we have built or are building many new bridges.

“This means if you work in Kuching and want to go to Daro, you can travel directly without using a ferry,” he said when speaking during the Sumbangsih Raya 2026 programme held at Satria Pertiwi Complex here today. An audio recording of his speech was shared with DayakDaily.

He further said the same improvements apply to Mukah, and by the next Hari Raya, all areas in the State are expected to be connected, allowing families to travel without concern when visiting relatives in their villages.

“Even trips to Sebuyau or Lingga can now be done in a single day,” he added.

He noted that these improvements are part of an investment worth more than RM12 billion in roads and bridges across Sarawak.

Abang Johari also highlighted northern Sarawak, where new roads are being built to improve connectivity across the region, eventually linking Miri to Marudi, Mulu, Long Terawan, Limbang and Lawas.

Once completed, these roads will eliminate the need for ferries along these routes and allow residents to travel more efficiently.

“This will allow our communities in the interior to connect and celebrate Christmas together,” he stressed.

He also said the projects are a form of public welfare, as all State roads remain toll-free.

“Unlike in Peninsular Malaysia where tolls are charged, our roads are free. This benefits the people and also makes it easier for security forces to operate,” he added.

At the Sumbangsih Raya 2026 programme, Abang Johari symbolically handed over 11,900 packs of retort food and ready-to-eat meals to 11 security and enforcement agencies that will be on duty during the upcoming Aidilfitri. — DayakDaily