RM2.7 mln Sungai Bale bridge boosts connectivity, rural development in Ulu Baram

Gerawat (standing first row, centre) together with others after launching the Sungai Bale bridge in Ulu Baram on June 24, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

MULU, June 25: The completed RM2.7 million Sungai Bale Bridge in Ulu Baram now serves as a vital gateway to economic opportunities, education, healthcare services, and the overall development of the local community, strengthening connectivity for rural residents in the Baram interior.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala, said the new bridge represents more than just a physical infrastructure project, but a strategic link that will improve the quality of life for people in Bario, Long Banga, Long Peluan and surrounding settlements.

He said the bridge will provide a safer, faster and more reliable all-year-round route, reducing travel difficulties that were previously affected by river conditions and weather changes.

“The Sungai Bale Bridge is not merely about connecting two riverbanks. It is about connecting people to opportunities, whether in terms of trade, education, healthcare access or social development,” he said in a post shared in his social media.

He highlighted this during the officiating ceremony for the new bridge on Wednesday (June 24), where he represented Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development.

Gerawat noted that the project reflects the Sarawak government’s continued commitment to rural infrastructure development, particularly in interior regions where accessibility remains a key challenge.

He said various agencies, including the Public Works Department (JKR), the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda), the Highland Development Authority (HDA) and the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), have been working together to implement infrastructure projects across Ulu Baram.

“These coordinated efforts are in line with the government’s agenda to ensure that rural and remote communities are not left behind in the State’s development progress,” he added.

He also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in the successful completion of the project, including the implementing contractor, local community leaders and residents who provided cooperation throughout the construction process.

Gerawat expressed hope that the Sungai Bale Bridge would become a symbol of progress and unity, while serving as a catalyst for continued socio-economic development in Ulu Baram. — DayakDaily