KUCHING: Phase one of the Sarawak Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project has reached an overall completion rate of 35 per cent, reflecting steady progress in the state’s effort to build a modern and efficient public transport system for Kuching and its surrounding areas.
The phase covers the Blue Line, Red Line and Green Line, which together form the backbone of the ART network. Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg described the current period as crucial, noting that the next two years leading up to 2028 will determine whether the project is delivered according to schedule.
He stressed that close monitoring and firm execution are necessary to ensure all components of the project move forward as planned. According to him, timely completion is important not only for infrastructure development but also for improving daily mobility for city residents.
One of the most important elements of phase one is the Hikmah Exchange ART Station, which is expected to be fully completed by 2028. The Premier said the station will function as the main transport hub for the ART system due to its strategic location in the heart of Kuching.
He explained that the station will connect major areas in the city centre, including Market Street. From the Padang Merdeka access point, the ART route will pass through Carpenter Street before continuing to Padungan. The Green Line will link the city centre to Petra Jaya, connecting key government offices before extending towards Damai. At the same time, the network will also provide access to Simpang Tiga, where several federal offices are located.
With these connections, the Hikmah Exchange station will serve as the central point linking commuters to various destinations across Kuching, making it a vital part of the overall transport network.
The Premier shared these updates during a press conference after conducting a site visit to the Hikmah Exchange ART Station on Friday. He also noted that other supporting facilities are progressing well, including the Rembus Depot, which will house the hydrogen refuelling station needed to support the ART vehicles.
In terms of operational readiness, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari revealed that the first two ART train sets are expected to arrive in Kuching in the first quarter of next year, with April 2026 set as the latest possible timeline.
The site visit was also attended by Deputy Minister for Transport Sarawak (Aviation and Road) Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Sarawak Economic Development Corporation chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Abdul Aziz Dato Husain, and Sarawak Metro chief executive officer Ts Mazli Mustaffa. Their presence reflected the strong inter-agency coordination behind the project, which is expected to play a major role in shaping Kuching’s future urban transport landscape.
