BINTULU – The newly opened direct route at the Medan Jaya Flyover project site is now accessible to the public, marking a significant step towards reducing traffic congestion in the town’s busy commercial centre.
The route, which connects the Bintulu District Police Headquarters (IPD) to Kidurong, is expected to ease daily travel for motorists.
However, the opening comes with adjustments to traffic flow, including diversions and the installation of additional traffic lights.
Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang Leong Ming highlighted the importance of caution among drivers as they adapt to the new system.
“Road users need to be more aware and careful because what they went through before may be different after this,” he said during a site inspection on Tuesday.
Although the road surface around the project remains under construction and may appear uneven, Pang emphasised that the direct route provides a smoother journey compared to previous diversions.
He reminded motorists that despite the convenience of a straight road, traffic lights must be strictly observed. “The new route may be shorter, but it must still be followed as marked,” he stressed.
The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) previously reported that the Medan Jaya–Tun Hussein Onn flyover project had reached 54.68 per cent completion as of September 2025, with full completion targeted for June 2026.
The RM137.7 million project spans 318 metres and is designed to alleviate congestion in Bintulu’s commercial hub.
Earlier this year, Pang had urged contractors to increase manpower to expedite progress and minimise disruptions.
He reiterated this call during his latest visit, advising contractors to adhere to schedules and avoid closing essential access routes. “If there are two accesses, ensure that both remain open. Do not inconvenience road users,” he said.
The assemblyman also reminded the public to exercise patience and drive carefully during the adjustment period.
With construction still ongoing, temporary inconveniences are expected, but the long-term benefits of the flyover are anticipated to be substantial.
The Medan Jaya Flyover project forms part of Sarawak’s broader infrastructure development strategy, aimed at improving connectivity and supporting economic growth in Bintulu.
Once completed, the flyover is expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve traffic flow for thousands of daily commuters.
