IGAN, March 16: The opening of the Batang Igan Bridge was met with heartfelt gratitude from the local residents, who can now save travel time between the Matu-Daro district to Igan or Mukah and vice versa.

Previously, the journey took up to an hour using a ferry, but now it only takes a few minutes, thus facilitating work matters, emergencies, and family visits.

For Nur Isma Shafiza Shaffari, 26, a private sector worker who often returns to her village during the festive season, the new bridge is expected to bring significant changes.

"I feel grateful that it shortens travel time. Before, when I went to the Matu-Daro district, it took 30 minutes, sometimes up to an hour in line during the festive season. Now, it only takes five or two minutes to get there. I feel very grateful," she said.



Meanwhile, civil servant Khalil Hajani, 52, said that the bridge benefits the villagers of Igan who work and have farms across the river and helps connect the bonds between the villages of Igan, Matu, and Daro.

"Before this bridge existed, using the ferry made matters difficult, especially during emergencies. We are grateful that with the bridge, activities on both sides of the area have become easier. Especially during this Ramadan and Syawal month, we have been gifted with a beautiful bridge and it is truly proud," said Khalil.

The opening of this bridge not only saves time and facilitates travel but is also expected to have a positive impact on the lives of residents, ease daily activities, and boost economic development in the surrounding area. -TVS