KUCHING – The Minister for Transport Sarawak has conducted a comprehensive site inspection to review advancements on the major public transit initiative, the Kuching Urban Transformation System (KUTS).
Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin visited multiple key locations in Kuching and Kota Samarahan to assess the development of the infrastructure firsthand.
During the tour, the minister observed that notable advancements had been made since his previous assessment. He reported that contractors have successfully realigned their work with the project’s original schedule.
Officials commended the accelerated pace of construction and emphasised the necessity for all involved parties to sustain this positive momentum.
A critical objective is ensuring the commencement of operations for the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) Blue Line (Package 1) by the final quarter of the next year.
The minister issued a clear directive for contractors to remain vigilant regarding potential obstacles, notably pre-existing underground utility services. Strict adherence to established safety procedures and operating protocols was also mandated.
The working visit encompassed several pivotal sites, including the Rembus Depot in Kota Samarahan, segments of the ART Blue Line alignment, and the developing Northbank ART Station.
At each location, the minister received detailed briefings on the current status, encountered difficulties, and forthcoming construction phases.
At the Rembus Depot facility, the delegation was received by the Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd, Ts. Mazli Mustaffa.
Representatives from the main contracting consortium, a joint venture involving Azam Sehasrat Sdn Bhd, IJM Construction Sdn Bhd, and Unique Deco Sdn Bhd, were also present.
The depot’s scope includes specialised mechanical workshops, core infrastructure, an administrative and operations control complex, and a stabling yard for the vehicles.
The inspection also covered a specific section dedicated to the Blue Line ART lane. Subsequently, the team proceeded to the Northbank Station site, where the contractor a joint venture of Ibraco Construction Sdn Bhd, China Railway Engineering Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd, and Nanyang Tunnel Engineering Sdn. Bhd. provided updates on their progress and specific site-related challenges.
Minister Lee reiterated the importance of contractors maintaining a robust workforce, strictly following project timelines, and delivering high-quality workmanship.
A repeated concern was the need to implement all practicable measures to reduce traffic disruptions and ensure public safety throughout the construction period, thereby minimising inconvenience for daily road users.
The inspection party included the Deputy Minister for Transport, Datuk Dr. Jerip Anak Susil, alongside senior officers from the Ministry of Transport Sarawak and high-level management representatives from Sarawak Metro.
The KUTS project represents a significant investment in Sarawak’s urban mobility and is closely watched as a benchmark for the state’s modern infrastructure capabilities.
