KUCHING: Cleaning and tree-felling activities in the Padang Pasir area in Satok are being carried out to prepare for the implementation of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) infrastructure project, said Datuk Ibrahim Baki, the Satok assemblyman.
He mentioned that these efforts are part of broader preparations, especially concerning the development of the main central station.
“We are prepared in this regard, as everyone is aware that the construction of infrastructure related to the ART project is ongoing, and the Padang Pasir area is also included in the Blue Line route.
“The cleanup is not only about making the area tidier but also about ensuring contractors can proceed smoothly with the ART station project,” he stated.
He made these comments when speaking to reporters after the distribution of Christmas-decorated cookies at Thompson Corner, Jalan Nanas yesterday.
Ibrahim further elaborated that the contract for the project has already been awarded, and construction work will commence shortly.
It is worth noting that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had previously announced that the Padang Pasir area would be transformed into the main central ART station for Kuching City.
The station is anticipated to function similarly to Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral) once the project is finalised.
Moreover, Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd (Sarawak Metro) has outlined the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project, which will be implemented in phases. Phase 1 will encompass the Blue Line, Red Line, and Green Line.
The Blue Line will stretch from Rembus in Kota Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange in Kuching; the Red Line will link Kuching Sentral to Pending, and the Green Line will extend from Pending to Damai.
Phase 1 of the KUTS project, covering a total distance of 70 kilometres, is set to commence passenger services gradually in the fourth quarter of 2025, with the entire phase expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
