IGAN – The long-awaited Batang Igan Bridge has officially opened, ending more than 30 years of reliance on ferry services for local residents. The bridge, part of the Sarawak Coastal Road development, is expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth along the coastal corridor.
The pre-opening ceremony on 16 March was officiated by Douglas Uggah Embas. He described the bridge as a major milestone in Sarawak’s infrastructure expansion, in line with the state’s broader development agenda.
Measuring 1,439.40 metres in length and built at a cost of RM285.5 million, the bridge was constructed to JKR R5 Standard specifications. It features a two-lane design using prestressed post-tensioned T-beam and balanced cantilever systems, with upgraded approach roads to improve safety and comfort.
Previously, ferry crossings took around 30 minutes. The new bridge reduces travel time to just a few minutes, offering convenience for daily commuters and businesses.
Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah noted that the bridge is part of more than 20 major bridges under the leadership of Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, who has prioritised infrastructure as a key driver of development.
The Batang Igan Bridge is the ninth completed bridge in Sarawak, following the Marudi, Muara Lassa, Tun Taib Mahmud (Jepak), Tun Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Haji Bujang Tuanku Haji Othman (Batang Rajang), Batang Saribas, Datuk Amar Juma’ani (Bintangor), Sebauh, and Lingga bridges.
First announced in 2018, the project reflects Sarawak’s commitment to modernising rural infrastructure and forms part of the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to elevate the state to high-performing status by 2030.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Corporate Affairs Adviser at the Premier’s Office; Dato’ Murshid Diraja Dr Juanda Jaya, Integrity and Ombudsman Adviser; Ahmad Johnie Zawawi, Member of Parliament for Igan; Dato’ Ir Yusuf Abdul Wahab, MP for Tanjung Manis; and Datu Dr Cassidy Morris, Director of the Sarawak Public Works Department.
The opening of the Batang Igan Bridge marks the end of an era for ferry services and is expected to boost local economic activity, improve mobility, and strengthen Sarawak’s infrastructure network for generations to come.
