KUCHING – Sarawak is set to undergo a significant transformation in its transport network, with 20 major bridges scheduled for completion by 2028. The large-scale initiative is expected to accelerate economic activity, particularly in rural and coastal regions, by improving accessibility and strengthening trade routes.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg confirmed that the bridge projects form part of a broader strategy to expand the state’s road and transport infrastructure. He explained that the programme builds on the momentum of the Pan Borneo Highway and other ongoing road developments.
“By 2026 to 2028, all bridges, including the 20 main structures and smaller ones, are expected to be completed. Once this phase is finished, our attention will shift to the next major development project,” he said during the Sarawak Bumiputera Consulting Engineers (GJPBS) Anniversary Ceremony and Engineer Awards 2025.
The Premier highlighted that the completion of these bridges will pave the way for the Northern Coastal Highway, a strategic project designed to connect northern Sarawak. Given the region’s hilly terrain, the highway will require bridges, viaducts, and tunnels, demanding advanced engineering expertise.
According to the Premier, the bridge programme is not only about connectivity but also about stimulating the economy. He stressed that the projects will generate thousands of jobs across multiple sectors, including engineering, architecture, and construction.
“What we do is inject state funds into the local economy to create more jobs. This is the government’s long-term policy to ensure development continues to benefit the people,” he said.
The state government has also assured that Sarawak’s financial position remains robust, with stable revenue projections beyond 2030. This fiscal strength, the Premier noted, will allow the state to continue implementing large-scale infrastructure projects in phases, ensuring sustainable growth and long-term benefits for the population.
The bridge initiative is part of a wider infrastructure push by the Sarawak government. Recent reports highlight that the state has already invested billions in road and bridge projects, including the Batang Lupar Bridge, Batang Igan Bridge, and Batang Rambungan Bridge, which are either under construction or nearing completion. These projects are seen as critical to reducing travel times, enhancing logistics, and connecting remote communities to urban centres.
Observers believe that the completion of the 20 bridges will mark a turning point in Sarawak’s development, creating stronger links between rural areas and economic hubs.
Improved connectivity is expected to support industries such as agriculture, tourism, and logistics, while also enhancing access to education and healthcare for communities in remote areas.
Also present at the GJPBS event was Ir. Irwan Zulkarnain Datuk Mohd Hasbie, Chairman of the association, who welcomed the announcement and emphasised the opportunities it would create for local professionals.
With these projects, Sarawak is positioning itself for a new wave of growth, ensuring that infrastructure development remains at the heart of its strategy to achieve long-term prosperity.
