Batang Igan Bridge to open to public on March 15

MUKAH (Feb 4): The Batang Igan Bridge is expected to open to the public on March 15, ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, marking the end of the area’s ferry service.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the bridge would significantly reduce travel time across the river from up to 30 minutes by ferry to around one minute by road.

“This is a historic moment for the people here. The bridge will bring a major transformation to daily life and serve as a catalyst for socioeconomic development, education access, healthcare services, and connectivity in Mukah, particularly around Jemoreng and Batang Igan,” he told reporters after officiating at the Batang Igan Bridge Stitching Ceremony.

The Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development said the project was initially proposed to be funded by the federal government but was later taken over by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government to ensure timely implementation.

“Last year, eight bridges were completed across Sarawak and this year we expect another nine bridges to be completed, including this Batang Igan Bridge.

“This reflects the GPS government’s strong commitment to accelerating infrastructure development throughout Sarawak,” he said.

He added that the 1,439.4-metre-long bridge, built to JKR R5 standards, features a dual two-lane carriageway and utilises a T-beam structure with balanced cantilever prestressed and post-tensioned construction methods.

“The total project cost is RM285.5 million, which includes the construction of approach roads on both sides of the bridge.

“With the completion of this bridge, ferry services in the area will be discontinued and the ferry will be relocated to other areas still in need of such services,” he said.

According to Uggah, infrastructure projects of this scale not only improve mobility but also open up economic opportunities and enhance the quality of life for rural communities.

“This is the spirit of GPS, we promise, we deliver, and we complete,” he stressed.

He also expressed appreciation to the Public Works Department (JKR), contractors, and local residents for their cooperation throughout the construction period, despite challenges such as poor weather conditions.

Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya thanked the GPS government for its continued efforts to develop rural infrastructure.

The Jemoreng assemblyman said the completion of the bridge symbolised the Sarawak government’s firm commitment to ensuring rural areas are not left behind in the development agenda.

Among those present were Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah and Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs and Ukas) Datuk Abdullah Saidol.