SARIKEI – Two road projects with a combined contract value of about RM98.8 million have been launched in Sarikei to expand road capacity, improve traffic flow and strengthen connectivity across the division.
The projects comprise the construction of the Nyelong By-Pass/Kwong Ming-Minah Link Road and the upgrading of the existing Nyelong By-Pass from a single carriageway to a dual carriageway.
The groundbreaking ceremony for both projects was officiated by Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities and Sarikei Member of Parliament Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii, who is also the Repok assemblyman, on 2 October.
Both projects are being implemented by the Sarawak Government, with the Sarikei branch of the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) serving as the supervising agency.
The projects are intended to respond to increasing traffic volumes in Sarikei, where residential, commercial and industrial development has placed greater pressure on the existing road network.
The first project, the Nyelong By-Pass/Kwong Ming-Minah Link Road, has a contract value of RM12.62 million and is being undertaken by Fully Contractor Sdn Bhd.
The 18-month contract began on 23 July 2026 and is scheduled for completion on 22 January 2028.
The project involves constructing a new road of approximately 2 kilometres with a 25-metre road reserve, linking the existing Nyelong By-Pass with Jalan Kwong Ming-Minah.
The new route will be built to JKR R3 standards as a two-lane single carriageway, with paved surfacing and usable shoulders on both sides.
Works also include civil and drainage infrastructure, street furniture, protection or relocation of affected utilities, environmental management and protection measures, as well as traffic management arrangements during construction.
The new connection is expected to provide an additional route for motorists while increasing the capacity of the existing road network. It is also intended to improve connectivity and reduce traffic disruption, particularly during peak periods.
The second project involves upgrading approximately 3.6 kilometres of the existing Nyelong By-Pass.
With a contract value of RM86.166 million, the project is being carried out by Perbena Emas Sdn Bhd under a 30-month contract. Its original completion date is 17 June 2028.
The existing two-lane single carriageway, built to JKR R3 standard, will be widened and upgraded to a four-lane dual carriageway under JKR U5 standards.
The scope includes improvements to traffic-light intersections along the Nyelong By-Pass, soil treatment works and the construction or upgrading of sewerage and drainage systems.
Street lighting will also be installed, while affected utilities will be protected or relocated as necessary during construction.
Environmental protection and traffic management measures form part of the project to help manage the impact of construction on motorists, surrounding areas and other road users.
The Nyelong By-Pass currently functions as an alternative route for motorists travelling into and out of Sarikei town. It also serves traffic travelling between Sarikei and Bintangor, making improvements to the route relevant to both local and through traffic.
The expansion of residential, commercial and industrial areas has increased demand on the existing road network, creating a need for additional capacity and improved road connections.
Huang expressed hope that both projects would progress according to their respective schedules and comply with the required specifications and standards.
He also stressed the importance of prioritising the safety of road users and construction workers throughout the implementation period.
Once completed, the two projects are expected to provide additional road capacity, improve traffic movement and strengthen links between different areas of Sarikei.
The works also form part of longer-term infrastructure planning aimed at supporting Sarikei’s development by providing road facilities capable of handling changing traffic demands.
The combined projects represent a substantial investment in the division’s transport infrastructure, with completion dates extending into 2028.
Their effectiveness will ultimately depend on the successful delivery of the planned works, traffic management measures and associated infrastructure within the respective project periods. – Sarawak Daily
