Batang Lupar Bridge 1 now open

BATANG LUPAR, 21 May 2026: The Batang Lupar 1 Bridge had its official soft opening today, making it now the longest river bridge in all of Malaysia at 4,844 metres long. The bridge cost RM848.7 million and was paid for entirely using Sarawak's own state funds.

Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who officiated at the launching ceremony, called it a historic moment for the State.

The biggest change for the people is the end of ferry crossings on the main coastal road between Kuching and Miri. Anyone who has travelled this route before will know the wait... sometimes 30 to 45 minutes just to cross the river. With the bridge now open, that crossing takes a mere five minutes or so.

Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, who is also the State Assemblyman for Sebuyau, revealed that this was one of three bridge projects along the coastal route that was cancelled by a previous government. Sarawak's current government made the decision to revive it and fund it themselves.

He said that though many questioned whether this project could be done, the Sarawak Government took a bold approach to continue it, and today it is a reality.

The Batang Lupar 1 Bridge's main cable span measures 598.8 metres, with a navigation channel that is 250 metres wide and 26 metres high, allowing large vessels to pass underneath. The bridge carries a two-lane road across the river. It is built to JKR R5 standard, meaning it meets the requirements for a major road link.

The opening ceremony was also attended by China's Consul General in Kuching, Xing Weiping, several state assemblymen, and senior officials from Sarawak's infrastructure and public works departments.

PHOTO CREDIT: UKAS