Batang Lupar bridge proves Sarawak’s development capability, says Wilfred Yap

suppadmin | May 22, 2026

Sentosa State Assemblyman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin said the opening of the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge to public traffic on May 21 marked a major milestone for Sarawak and reflected the commitment of the GPS State Government under the leadership of Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the approximately 4.8 kilometre bridge is now recognised as the longest river crossing bridge in Malaysia, replacing the long standing ferry service between Sebuyau and Triso while significantly improving connectivity for communities in Sarawak’s coastal areas.

“Travel time that previously depended on ferry schedules and congestion has now been greatly reduced,” he said.

Wilfred Yap said Sarawakians should also remember the political climate surrounding infrastructure development during the Pakatan Harapan federal administration from 2018 to 2020.

He claimed that during that period, Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen had repeatedly defended the federal government’s decision to review, terminate, or delay infrastructure projects in Sarawak.

He said Chong had in October 2018 described many projects announced under the previous federal administration as “hot air projects” due to the alleged absence of approved allocations, while also alleging that certain projects were awarded without open tender.

Yap added that in May 2019, Chong had told the GPS government to “stop being a crybaby” over cancelled projects in Sarawak while defending federal budget cuts as necessary measures to prevent national bankruptcy.

He added that residents in Sebuyau, Triso, Maludam, and nearby areas are now directly benefiting from improved connectivity because the GPS government remained committed to implementation despite criticism from DAP leaders during the PH administration.

Yap said while DAP leaders questioned Sarawak’s development agenda and defended federal spending cuts affecting the State, GPS continued focusing on long term infrastructure planning and implementation.

He said the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge now stands as a symbol of what Sarawak can achieve through political stability, disciplined financial management, and a government prioritising development over political polemics.

“GPS will continue to build, connect, and develop Sarawak for future generations,” he said.