KUCHING: The nation’s tallest flagpole is expected to be fully erected by Nov this year.
In disclosing this, Deputy Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said that at the moment, the physical progress of the flagpole is at 25.2 per cent, which is 7.02 per cent ahead of its schedule.
“This soon to be state’s new iconic structure will be 99 metres (m) high weighing 120 metric tonnes.
“The cost of this flagpole amounts to RM28 million and once it is completed, it will fly a 25×12.5m size Sarawak flag which can be seen at every angle in the area,” he said, adding that the flag will be replaced monthly.
He said this when met by the media during his site visit of the flagpole project at Fort Margherita here yesterday.
While pointing out that once completed the flagpole would further enhance the patriotism of Sarawakians, he said that this new landmark would also be a new tourism attraction to boost the tourism sector here.
On the planning thus far, he said no barrier would be placed surrounding the area or the flagpole to enable locals and tourists alike to go there easily.
“With the flagpole being erected this year (2023) which marks the 60th anniversary of Sarawak’s independence, this flagpole will surely go down in history.
“With its strategic location which is accessible for all, we will also be making a square here.
“The square might not be as big as Padang Merdeka but it will be a medium sized one for any official events or gathering in the future,” he said.
Adding on, Dr Abdul Rahman pointed out that unlike other cities around the globe, the Sarawak’s flagpole is erected near Sungai Sarawak instead of in the middle of the city or in the hills.
For the record, the flagpole will be erected near the Tea House or Fort Margherita here (in the vicinity of the State Legislative Assembly Complex).
It is reputed to be the 12th tallest in the world.
