The Batang Lupar No. 1 Bridge, connecting Sebuyau and Maludam, will officially open to traffic today, marking a major milestone as Malaysia’s longest river-crossing bridge.
Previously, the Sungai Johor Bridge, measuring 1.7 kilometres, held the record as the country’s longest river-crossing structure.
Stretching about 4.8 kilometres across the Batang Lupar, the new bridge is part of Sarawak’s broader infrastructure development under the Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Road Programme, aimed at improving connectivity between coastal regions and major towns.
Construction of the project began in March 2021, and a soft opening ceremony is scheduled this afternoon, to be officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
The RM848.75 million project was developed through a joint venture between Perbena Emas Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Pansar Berhad, and China Railway Major Bridge Engineering Group Co Ltd.
With the bridge now operational, the Sebuyau-Triso ferry service has been discontinued, ending decades of reliance on ferry crossings for local residents and commuters.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said the bridge would significantly ease travel, especially during festive periods such as Hari Raya Haji and Gawai Dayak, removing the need for long waits at ferry points.
