The government of Sarawak gives priority to the building of the Coastal Highway, with RM520 million projects ongoing.
These include the construction of the Batang Samarahan Bridge that was recently awarded for a 36-month contract period, Batang Sadong Bridge to be completed in July 2016 and Kuala Balingian/Kuala Tatau road, which is set for completion in October 2017.
Moreover, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Communications has requested for funds under the 11th Malaysia Plan (11MP) for the missing link between Tanjong Manis and Selalang as well as bridges over seven major rivers which are estimated to cost RM3.13 billion.
“We have also proposed for the upgrading of three stretches of the Coastal Road totalling 83km under the 11MP with an estimated cost of RM400 million,” said Dato Sri Michael Manyin (BN-Tebedu).
He also revealed that works for the upgrade of the Pan Borneo Highway from two to four lanes will commence on 30 April, beginning with the stretch from Nyabau junction to Bakun junction.
“Work to upgrade the 8km stretch from Mile 10 to 15 of Kuching/Serian road from two to four lanes will be tendered in May while the stretch from Tanjung Datu to Sematan (32.4km) is already completed. The rest of the highway will also be upgraded with construction works to start in 2016. The entire highway will be completed in 2023,” added Manyin.
He noted that the upgrading of the Pan Borneo Highway will have direct economic effects on Sarawak as the improved road may lead to reduced transportation cost and prices of goods.
Farah Wahida, Editor of PropertyGuru, wrote this story. To contact her about this or other stories email farahwahida@propertyguru.com.my
