Abang Johari (sixth right) receives a memento from Haidar Khan (fifth left) while others look on. — Sarawak Public Communications Unit photo

BINTULU (April 7): The newly-completed Jepak Bridge is a symbol of the second wave of development taking place in Bintulu, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Let the bridge stand as a symbol of unity for the people of Bintulu; a beacon of progress built on the engineering expertise and innovation of Sarawak’s talent.
“This landmark represents a leap forward for the town’s infrastructure and growth, and reflects the aspirations of a community striving not only for modernisation but the transformation of Bintulu into a smart city equipped with strategic infrastructure,” he said during the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering at Kampung Assyakirin Phase 1 Community Hall here yesterday.
He added the Jepak Bridge had reshaped Bintulu’s infrastructure, and that its transformative impact was so striking it evoked an atmosphere reminiscent of Japan.
“Earlier, I arrived from Miri—upon reaching the Jepak intersection, my car turned towards Jepak. I wondered why we were heading in this direction only to realise I’d forgotten about the new bridge we have.
“From the airport to Bintulu town, it took approximately 20 minutes—so quick and efficient. My driver had to slow down, as many (people) stopped by the side of the bridge to take photos,” he said
With this new feather in Bintulu’s cap, he believed the BDA would continue enhancing its services.

The premier added the Sarawak government was advancing the second wave of development in Bintulu by establishing a new Resident’s Office. He also noted that as he passed through Kampung Assyakirin Phase 1, he noticed the development of housing projects that resembled gated communities. “Once completed, they will showcase the epitome of modern living. These are sophisticated residential areas that now stand in Bintulu,” he said. During the event, Abang Johari also officiated the opening of Surau Darussyakirin, where he also performed the ‘Zohor’ prayer with fellow Muslims.

Also present were State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar and his wife Puan Sri Datin Amar Fatimah Mohamad Iskandar; Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi; Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Dato Majang Renggi; Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; BDA deputy chairman Dato Haidar Khan Asghar Khan; BDA general manager Datu Muhamad Yakup Kari; Bintulu Resident Datu Nyurak Keti; Tanjong batu assemblyman Johnny Pang; and Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee.