Abang Johari (front row, seventh right) photographed with other guests in front of Selangau District Office on Dec 18, 2023. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (JaPen)

By Shikin Louis

SIBU, Dec 18: The Sarawak government will build a new access road connecting Pan Borneo Highway directly to Selangau town, says Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the current entry point to Selangau was quite far from the main locality which will cause travelers to not stop by the town and eventually affect the economic activities of the local community.

“That is why I have requested the Public Works Department (JKR) to review the entry point from Pan Borneo Highway directly to Selangau town while the current road can be used as an exit.

“Thus, the entry point won’t bypass Selangau and we do not have to construct an R&R (rest and recreation facility) around here because the town itself can become the stop-off point and a tourist attraction,” he told a press conference after officiating at the opening ceremony of Selangau Riverfront and Selangau District Office building here today.

He also hoped that the review can be finalised before 2025.

During his speech earlier, Abang Johari also revealed that the construction of the entry point will cost more than RM2 million as proposed by Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang.

“I request JKR together with Land and Survey Department who will also be involved in the redesigning phase, and Pan Borneo Highway Branch (PBHB) to give their input so that the new road does not affect the traffic flow to enter Selangau.

“That is why I said it will cost more than RM2 million for that project,” he added. — DayakDaily