Uggah (sixth left) and other officials raise their arms to celebrate the bridge’s final connection

BINTULU (Sept 23): The Bintulu-Jepak cable-stayed bridge over Kuala Kemena is now connected from both ends, marking a significant milestone for the people here.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas led the first group of officers and elected representatives in crossing the bridge from Bintulu town to Jepak.

“The bridge, a key part of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s vision to unite both sides of Bintulu, is now in its final stages of completion,” he told reporters when met after officiating at the official ‘stitching’ ceremony yesterday, which involved connecting the final segment of the bridge.

Uggah, also Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, said the bridge is not only a triumph for the Bintulu community but also for all Sarawakians, as well as the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government under the leadership of Abang Johari.

According to him, the construction of the bridge is progressing smoothly and currently 87.82 per cent completed, despite previous setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

He expressed confidence that the project will be completed by February next year, as the remaining tasks comprise premix works, installation of guard rails, road works, and other minor works.

“The completion of the bridge will not only be a landmark achievement for Bintulu, but also as a testament to the resilience and dedication of those involved in the project,” he said.

Once completed, the 1.2km bridge will significantly shorten the journey from Bintulu Airport to its town, from 22km to 6.4km.

The RM460 million project is touted as Bintulu’s version of San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Among those present were Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee, Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang, Samalaju assemblyman Dato Majang Renggi, Bintulu Resident Nyurak Keti, and Sarawak Public Works Department director Dr Cassidy Morris.