KUCHING – Significant advancement has been reported on the dedicated infrastructure supporting Sarawak’s pioneering Autonomous Rapid Transit network, with three river piers now fully constructed for the critical Sungai Kuap crossing.
The structure represents a milestone as the inaugural and sole bridge designed exclusively for the ART guideway, forming an essential corridor between transit stations in Kota Samarahan and those serving central Kuching.
Progress on the Blue Line route along the Kuching-Samarahan Expressway continues steadily, with utility relocation works for fibre optics, water mains and electrical cabling proceeding alongside guideway construction.
Sarawak Metro chief executive Mazli Mustaffa confirmed the bridge remains on schedule for completion by mid-2026, a prerequisite for commencing phased operations on the Blue Line’s first package.
“By 2026, the stretch from the Rembus Depot to Riveria Station, and onwards to Stutong Station, will begin operations following the bridge’s completion,” he stated in recent remarks to local media.
The broader Kuching Urban Transportation System encompasses three lines spanning 69.9 kilometres with 28 stations across the Greater Kuching area.
The hydrogen-powered ART technology forms the backbone of this state-funded initiative, managed by Sarawak Metro under the Development Bank of Sarawak.
Construction teams have implemented adaptive measures to maintain momentum during Sarawak’s monsoon periods, including temporary drainage solutions, enhanced personal protective equipment and adjusted machinery protocols for wet-weather conditions.
Road user safety within active work zones remains a priority, with reflective barriers and advanced warning signage deployed throughout the corridor. The Rembus Depot, a key maintenance and stabling facility for the ART fleet, reached completion in late 2024.
Public cooperation has been acknowledged as instrumental to maintaining project timelines amid ongoing Expressway works. Commuters and motorists are encouraged to observe reduced speed limits and follow directional signage when approaching construction areas.
The ART system employs sensor-guided vehicles operating on dedicated lanes, offering a modern alternative to conventional rail while requiring less extensive civil works.
Phase one of the network targets initial pilot services before the close of 2026, with longer-term aspirations including connectivity to the proposed new Kuching International Airport at Tanjung Embang.
As infrastructure development speeds up along the Samarahan-Kuching corridor, the new bridge is a clear sign of progress towards a connected and sustainable transportation system for Sarawak’s capital region.
