BINTULU (Feb 21): The government is optimistic that the construction of Phase 1 of the Pan Borneo Highway project can be completed by the end of this year.

Senior Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the target is achievable despite various challenges faced during the construction period, including the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We target that Phase 1 of Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway project from Telok Melano to Miri will be fully opened by the end of this year.

“Although [previously] we faced several challenges, such as the shortage of manpower and raw material supply, we are giving our full commitment to completing Phase 1 of the project by the end of this year,” he said in his speech at the opening of the Nyabau flyover here on Saturday (Feb 19).

The 1.2km flyover is the longest elevated intersection for Sarawak portion of the Pan Borneo Highway.

The RM16.117 billion worth project, which has 11 work packages and commenced in October 2015, involves the construction of a 786km stretch of road from Telok Melano to Miri.

Meanwhile, Fadillah said the successful construction of the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway is a testament to the close relationship and cooperation between the federal government and the Sarawak government, which should be continued for the benefit of the people of the state.

“We have [so far] managed to open several road alignments of the highway, including in Telok Melano as well as from Serian to Balai Ringin and in Julau. Insyallah, we are targeting that more [will be opened],” he added.

Source: EdgeProp,February 21, 2022