MUKAH, March 16: The Batang Igan Bridge, which connects communities in the Mukah Division, officially opened to the public today, marking the end of a ferry service that had operated in the area for more than 30 years.

Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, said the 1.4-kilometre bridge, built with a RM285.5 million budget, marks another major milestone in the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government’s efforts to strengthen infrastructure development across Sarawak.

Speaking during a press conference for the pre-opening ceremony of the Batang Igan Bridge earlier today, he emphasized that the completion of the Batang Igan Bridge reflects the state government’s efforts in connecting the different divisions and district that are separated by rivers.

“The completion of the Igan Bridge reflects GPS’s commitment to delivering on our promise to build 20 bridges across Sarawak.

“This proves that we deliver. Today we can clearly see that the Batang Igan Bridge, stretching 1.4 kilometres and costing RM285.5 million, has been completed and is open for use starting today,” he announced.

Uggah added that the new bridge will significantly improve mobility for residents in the area.

Previously, crossing the river by ferry took about 30 minutes, but with the bridge now open, the journey can be completed in just around one minute.

He also revealed that several other bridge projects in Sarawak are expected to open this year, including the Sungai Krian Bridge, which is scheduled for official inauguration on March 18.

In addition, he expressed hope that seven more bridges currently under construction will also be completed within the same timeframe.

Among them is the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, which is set to become Malaysia’s longest river bridge at 4.8 kilometres once completed.

Uggah asserted that infrastructure development such as roads and bridges not only enhances connectivity between communities but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth, particularly in rural areas.

The Batang Igan Bridge is part of the Sarawak government’s broader initiative to improve transportation networks and accelerate development across the state. – TVS