KOTA SAMARAHAN – The first stage of the Samarahan Boulevard project is approaching completion, with preparations already underway for the second phase of development.
The initiative, valued at more than RM100 million, is expected to transform Kota Samarahan into a hub for major events and serve as a new landmark for Sarawak.
Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, explained that the boulevard would provide a dedicated venue for large-scale gatherings, reducing congestion in Kuching where such events have traditionally been held.
He noted that the boulevard’s scale and design would allow it to host celebrations such as Sarawak Day, National Day, and the Yang di-Pertua Negeri’s Birthday for decades to come.
“The first phase of this project is almost complete and will now enter its second phase. We also feel fortunate to have a suitable land area to develop this boulevard, which will become an iconic landmark in Kota Samarahan,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Samarahan Food and Cultural Festival 2026.
The initial phase alone required an investment exceeding RM20 million. However, adjustments to the budget meant that several planned features, including recreational facilities, were excluded.
Dato Sri Abdul Karim revealed that discussions had been held with architects and ministry officials before appealing to the Sarawak Premier to restore the original allocation proposed by consultants.
He emphasised that reinstating the full budget would ensure the boulevard’s facilities are delivered as intended for community benefit.
He further highlighted that the boulevard was conceived as part of a long-term government strategy to decentralise official events.
Since 1963, Padang Merdeka in Kuching has been the primary venue for parades and state-level celebrations, often resulting in traffic disruption. The new boulevard aims to ease these pressures by offering a purpose-built space in Samarahan.
Reflecting on the project’s legacy, Dato Sri Abdul Karim remarked that future generations would inherit a venue capable of hosting major state occasions for the next 30 to 40 years.
“When we want to hold Sarawak Day, National Day and His Majesty’s Birthday celebrations in the next 30 years or 40 years, all of them can be held in the Samarahan division because we have the largest boulevard, the longest boulevard,” he said.
The Samarahan Boulevard is expected to boost the district’s profile, not only as a centre for cultural and official events but also as a driver of economic activity.
Local businesses and tourism operators anticipate that the boulevard will attract visitors and create opportunities for growth.
As the second phase begins, the project continues to symbolise Sarawak’s commitment to modern infrastructure and community development.
Once completed, the boulevard will stand as one of the state’s most significant public spaces, designed to serve both present and future needs.
