LIMBANG — Malaysian Works Minister, Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, conducted a working visit to the Pandaruan Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (CIQS) on Saturday to assess the development of the Northern Coastal Highway (NCH) and Sarawak-Sabah Link Road (SSLR) Phase 2 projects.
Accompanied by Director of the Northern Regional Development Agency (NRDA), Datu Ubaidillah Abdul Latif, and Limbang Public Works Department (JKR) Division Engineer Mahathir Jokeni, the visit brought together 25 key personnel involved in the implementation of these strategic infrastructure projects.
Speaking to the media, Dato Sri Alexander said the inspection followed a coordination meeting between NRDA, the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA), JKR Sarawak, and the Ministry of Works. The meeting aimed to streamline the project’s progress and prevent unnecessary delays.
“The Northern Coastal Highway project will become a vital communication link in northern Sarawak. We aim to avoid any Extension of Time (EOT) unless caused by uncontrollable factors like weather. Early coordination helps us stay on track,” he stated.
The NCH, which commenced initial works earlier this year, is designed to bridge the Pan Borneo Highway network currently divided by Brunei’s territory. The 87.96-kilometre route is split into five sections—three in Limbang (44.46 km) and two in Lawas (43.5 km)—and will feature a two-lane, one-way road offering safer and more efficient travel.
Dato Sri Alexander also reported that SSLR Phase 2 began at the end of last year and is progressing across several packages, despite challenging terrain in some locations.
“These infrastructure developments are more than just road-building projects—they represent a strong collaboration between the Federal and Sarawak State Governments to boost economic growth, tourism, and logistics in the northern region,” he added.
The projects are seen as key enablers for improved connectivity and sustainable regional development, enhancing access for remote areas and supporting long-term socio-economic progress.
