SERIAN – A groundbreaking ceremony was held on 15 July 2026 to mark the commencement of the Sungai Sadong Bridge construction project in Kampung Sorak Melayu, Serian. The event was officiated by Yang Berhormat John anak Ilus, State Assemblyman for Bukit Semuja (N.23), and attended by representatives from multiple government agencies and community leaders.
The project is being implemented by the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) Serian Division in collaboration with the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA). A detailed briefing was delivered by Puan Dayang Siti Aishah binti Abang Shamat, Civil Engineer from JKR Serian Division, outlining the scope and expected benefits of the development.
Located approximately eight kilometres from Bandar Serian, the project will directly benefit residents of four villages: Kampung Sorak Mawang, Kampung Sorak Sumpung, Kampung Slabi Entukuh, and Kampung Sorak Melayu. The construction plan includes a new paved road stretching 1.491 kilometres and a reinforced concrete bridge measuring 101 metres.
Once completed, the bridge will significantly reduce travel distances between Kampung Sorak Sumpung and Kampung Sorak Melayu. The current journey of 16.3 kilometres will be shortened to just 1.7 kilometres, providing residents with faster, safer, and more convenient access. This improvement is expected to ease daily travel, enhance connectivity between neighbouring villages, and support local economic and social activities.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials including Ir. Ts. Jackson Lo Seng Sian, Senior Engineer from the Bridge and River Structures Branch, representing the Sarawak Public Works Director. Also present were Ir. Ts. Adriana anak Peter Chee, Assistant Engineer (Development) of JKR Serian Division, officers from GKCDA, the Serian Division Resident Office, Serian District Office, Serian District Council, and respected community leaders.
The Sungai Sadong Bridge project is part of Sarawak’s broader infrastructure development agenda, aimed at improving rural connectivity and supporting regional growth. By providing modern road and bridge facilities, the government seeks to ensure that rural communities are not left behind in terms of accessibility and development opportunities.
Officials highlighted that the project will not only improve transportation but also contribute to safer travel conditions. The new infrastructure is expected to reduce risks associated with longer journeys on existing routes, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Enhanced connectivity will also facilitate better access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets.
Community leaders expressed optimism that the bridge will bring long-term benefits to residents, including improved mobility, stronger social ties between villages, and greater opportunities for local businesses. The project is seen as a catalyst for rural transformation, aligning with Sarawak’s vision of balanced development across urban and rural areas.
The ceremony underscored the importance of collaboration between state agencies, local authorities, and residents in ensuring the success of infrastructure projects. JKR Serian Division reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the project on schedule and to the highest standards of safety and quality.
With construction now underway, the Sungai Sadong Bridge is expected to become a vital link for the Serian community, symbolising progress and improved quality of life for the villages it will serve.
