BY AINI SELIKANG
DARO: Batang Paloh Bridge project was officially launched by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg today (August 22).
Following that, local residents voiced their comments especially gratitude for the project and the benefits it will bring to the area.
Haslimi Hassan, Kampung Badong chief
‘The bridge will shorten travel time from Daro to Sibu and Sarikei. This project will complement infrastructure development in our area, especially with the construction of Batang Lassa Bridge as well. Batang Paloh Bridge will surely boost economic development in the state’s central zone.
‘Currently, the journey from Daro to Sibu takes about three hours because we have to take the ferry. With the completion of the two bridges, the duration will be much shorter.
‘I hope that all parties involved would cooperate to ensure that the project gets implemented smoothly. Most importantly, continue to stand firmly behind the government so that there is continuity of development.’
Abang Shamsure Abang Wahap, a resident of Daro
‘Besides Batang Lassa Bridge, this project is much awaited by us because the two are interrelated. Without the Batang Paloh Bridge, we still have to use the ferry. The project is very beneficial to the people in terms of transportation of agricultural produce.
‘The project will create room for small traders to sell their products directly while increasing their income. This also makes it easier for locals to get to the city using their own transport and it will certainly be more economical than travelling today.’
Iskandar Naziri, a resident of Sarikei
‘We are very fortunate to have leaders who always listen to the people. The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government always takes various approaches to provide the best facilities which are much needed by coastal people.
‘Once upon a time, building Batang Paloh Bridge might have been considered impossible, but today it has become a reality. I believe that it will further boost development in this area including Sarikei and Tanjung Manis. As we know, the Batang Rajang Bridge which will connect Sarikei and Tanjung Manis is also being constructed. ‘Batang Paloh Bridge project is proof of the efforts of the state government in providing facilities needed by the people. I am confident that infrastructure development will not stop here. To me, this is another landmark development in Semop which will bring great benefit to the locals in the long run.”
