KUCHING, Jan 23: The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) recorded an outstanding achievement throughout 2025 by completing eight major bridges and constructing 1,795 kilometers of roads across the region, further strengthening Sarawak’s infrastructure network and economic growth.

Sarawak Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, stated that this achievement proves JKR Sarawak’s high commitment to ensuring no citizen, whether in urban or rural areas, is left behind in the wave of development.

“JKR is not just building infrastructure; it is building access, opportunities, and hope for the people of Sarawak,” he said.

He spoke during the JKR Sarawak Grand Excellence Gala 2026, held at the Borneo Kuching Convention Centre (BCCK) tonight.

Connecting Communities

According to Uggah, the eight major completed bridges include:

• Marudi Bridge

• Muara Lassa Bridge

• Tun Taib Mahmud Bridge (Jepak)

• Tun Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Haji Bujang Tuanku Haji Othman Bridge (crossing Batang Rajang)

• Batang Saribas Bridge

• Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge (Sungai Bintangor)

• Sebauh Bridge

• Lingga Bridge

“These bridges are not just engineering landmarks; they are lifelines that connect communities, shorten travel distances, and boost economic opportunities,” he added.

Financial Efficiency and Local Expertise

The Deputy Premier also shared that JKR Sarawak successfully utilized 95 percent of its approved 2025 budget, reflecting management efficiency and effective project execution.

He touched upon the role of JKR Sarawak through the implementation of AP182, which empowers the department to manage Federal projects, thereby accelerating implementation using local expertise.

“Sarawak’s development is most effective when managed by Sarawakians themselves, who understand the specific challenges and terrain of this state,” he explained.

Embracing Smart Engineering

In terms of innovation, Uggah noted that JKR Sarawak has entered the era of smart engineering with the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Unit to support project monitoring, asset management, and design processes.

The use of technologies such as BIM (Building Information Modeling), LiDAR systems, AI dashboards, and Bentley Systems ensures that infrastructure development is faster, more sustainable, and cost-effective.

He concluded by expressing his gratitude to the entire JKR Sarawak workforce for their dedication and sacrifice, often working under challenging conditions. He also acknowledged the media's role as a bridge between JKR and the public.

“The media are not just reporters; they are storytellers who help the people understand the value behind every infrastructure project,” he said. — TVS