SIBU: The recent announcement of plans to build an iconic bridge connecting downtown Sibu to the western bank has been greatly welcomed.
Irene Wong, the Special Assistant to Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew, expressed hope that it would materialise as soon as possible.
“I urge the Premier to set a clear completion deadline, rather than allow the project to drag on for another five years or more,” she on Tuesday (April 8).
Wong noted that the initiative would undoubtedly play a vital role in the development of Sibu’s western region and significantly improve connectivity between the two sides.
“If the Sarawak government truly values the development of the western bank, then, along with the bridge construction, it should also formulate a comprehensive 10-year development blueprint for the area, especially focusing on flood control and infrastructure, to ensure the western bank’s growth can keep pace with that of the town centre.”
Highlighting that the plan is not a new idea, she stated that the first such bridge, the Igan Bridge, was originally meant to reduce reliance on ferry crossings.
However, the bridge’s location was disappointing as it was built too far from densely populated areas on the western bank. As a result, many residents still depend on ferries for daily travel, she noted.
She hoped that this new “London Bridge” will not disappoint the local residents of the western bank again, especially for those who commute daily between both sides, as it would eliminate the need to detour via the Igan Bridge, saving commuting time and improving quality of life.
Wong stressed that regardless of the final design chosen, the bridge must fully take into account the Rajang River’s importance as a waterway.
The design, she pointed out, should ensure that development and river transport can go hand in hand, without restricting the movement of large vessels due to the bridge’s construction.
She also stated that since the Sarawak government has pledged its full commitment to this project, it should concurrently develop a more holistic and long-term flood management plan for the western bank, especially in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding during the rainy season.
“In addition, the Sarawak government should consider drafting a 10-year blueprint for agricultural and shipbuilding industry development, focusing on unlocking the economic potential of Sibu’s western bank. This would help carve out a distinct industrial identity for Sibu.
“Such efforts would not only encourage more young locals to stay in their hometowns but also reduce the pressure on them to seek livelihoods elsewhere.
“Just as Miri is renowned as the Oil Town, and Bintulu has gained international recognition as one of the world’s four emerging low-carbon industrial clusters, Sibu also deserves its own signature development identity,” Wong added.
