MIRI – The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) has formally handed over the Oversight Road Acquisition Initiative Plan and the Rural Bridge Transformation Programme (RBTP) to the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
The presentation, held on 25 April 2026, symbolised JKR’s commitment to strengthening the state’s infrastructure development agenda.
The initiative was presented by JKR Director, YBhg Datu Adj. Prof. Ir. Ts. Gs. Br. PMr. Dr Cassidy anak Morris, during a strategic briefing in conjunction with the Sarawakku Sayang Miri Division 2026 Programme.
The briefing highlighted the department’s role in ensuring that Sarawak’s road and bridge networks are managed more systematically, safely, and efficiently for the benefit of rural communities.
To date, a total of 5,977.038 kilometres of logging roads across Sarawak have been successfully registered under the MARRIS system.
Of this, 2,363.591 kilometres are located within the Miri Division. The registration process is seen as a crucial step in formalising road management, ensuring that these routes are properly maintained and accessible to the public.
The Rural Bridge Transformation Programme was also emphasised during the session, with 26 bridges in Miri Division identified for development.
The programme aims to improve safety, accessibility, and connectivity for rural residents, enabling smoother travel and better integration with urban centres.
By upgrading bridges, the government hopes to reduce travel risks and enhance socio-economic opportunities for communities in remote areas.
Dr Cassidy explained that the initiatives are aligned with Sarawak’s broader development agenda, which prioritises the well-being of its people while supporting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
He noted that the projects will serve as catalysts for rural transformation, ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with the state’s ambitions for balanced development.
The Premier of Sarawak, who officiated the Sarawakku Sayang Miri Division 2026 Programme, welcomed the initiatives as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to deliver high-impact projects.
He emphasised that infrastructure remains a cornerstone of Sarawak’s development strategy, particularly in bridging gaps between rural and urban communities.
Observers highlighted that the collaboration between the state government and JKR demonstrates a strong commitment to delivering practical solutions for rural connectivity.
The integration of road acquisition and bridge transformation projects is expected to significantly improve living standards, while also supporting agriculture, education, and healthcare access in remote regions.
The handover of the plans and the strategic briefing underscored the importance of coordinated efforts between government agencies in achieving long-term development goals.
With thousands of kilometres of roads now registered and dozens of bridges earmarked for transformation, Sarawak is positioning itself to meet the needs of its rural population more effectively.
