MIRI (July 22): Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg says the upcoming Miri Marina Bridge will be a game changer for the city, comparing its future appeal to the “San Francisco of Sarawak”.

He said the RM450 million project will not only offer scenic views of the South China Sea and surrounding Canada and Lambir hills, but also drastically cut travel time between Pulau Melayu and the Marina area from 30 minutes to just five.

“This landscape upgrade in Miri, with its iconic facilities and connectivity infrastructure, aligns with the city’s image as the resort city of northern Sarawak, putting it on par with other tourist destinations,” Abang Johari said at the groundbreaking ceremony at the Miri Waterfront Commercial Centre today.

The two-lane cable-stayed bridge will span 650 metres with a 1.2km total length and 20-metre clearance.

Construction is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year and would take 36 months to complete.

Abang Johari said Sarawak’s infrastructure growth is part of its long-term economic plan, which has attracted global recognition, including from the World Economic Forum and World Bank.

He said Sarawak’s revenue reached RM14.6 billion last year, and the state now aims to hit RM300 billion in GDP within 10 years, building on its gas development roadmap.

“Our GDP is now touching RM199 billion from RM140 billion previously. Over the next five years, a RM280 billion target is achievable provided there is political stability and the people of Sarawak remain united,” he said.

The Miri Marina Bridge project also supports broader plans to connect Miri with key sites such as the planned Beraya township and Unesco sites in Niah and Mulu, along with improved road links to Marudi, Long Terawan, Bukit Buda and Lawas.

Power supply in the region will also be upgraded from 275kV to 500kV to meet growing demand.

Urging Sarawakians to remain united, Abang Johari warned against a “crab mentality” and called for teamwork like that of ants to move Sarawak forward.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas also praised the state’s infrastructure progress, noting that 16 bridges are currently being built across Sarawak, with several already completed.

He added that the Premier will officiate the opening of the new Jepak Bridge in Bintulu this week.

Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, State Secretary Datuk Amar Abu Bakar Marzuki, state ministers, local leaders, and representatives from NGOs and government agencies.