JKR Sarawak has technical edge to lead nation in Bailey bridge deployment

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 29: The Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak has been urged to position itself as a national reference centre of expertise in the installation of modular steel (Bailey) bridges, in line with Sarawak’s ambition to become a leader in agile and responsive infrastructure development.

This vision was highlighted by Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Administration) Datu Buckland Bangik during the official launch of the Final Acceptance Test (FAT) for a Modular Steel (Bailey) Bridge today.

He said the technical capability and high level of readiness demonstrated by JKR Sarawak not only enable swift access restoration in disaster-hit areas but also position the department as a strategic asset in national disaster management and infrastructure resilience.

“This bridge is not just ordinary infrastructure, it is a critical emergency asset that enables the rapid reconnection of communities cut off by natural disasters. The Bailey Bridge has repeatedly proven effective in restoring access to vital services such as healthcare, food supplies, and rescue efforts,” he said in his officiating speech.

In a post shared on its social media, JKR Sarawak highlighted that the FAT conducted today serves as the final verification of the bridge’s compliance with engineering, structural, and safety standards before full deployment.

It also symbolises the strong collaboration between JKR Sarawak, JKR Sabah, and the Royal Army Engineers Regiment (RAJD), demonstrating a united and coordinated disaster response mechanism.

The test marks a significant milestone for the Bailey Bridge project, which is currently being constructed in areas such as Sungai Baleh, Long Banga, and Miri, following Sarawak’s receipt of a set of modular bridges from the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) on Jan 9 this year.

Buckland emphasised that the synergy between federal and Sarawak agencies is crucial in enhancing disaster response effectiveness, adding that NADMA remains a key strategic partner to Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) in efforts related to risk reduction, mitigation, emergency response, and recovery.

He also lauded the continuous support from NADMA, including logistical aid and the provision of additional Bailey Bridges, which would further strengthen Sarawak’s disaster preparedness.

“Beyond its technical purpose, this project reflects the shared commitment of the Federal Government, Sarawak and Sabah governments, JKR, RAJD and all involved agencies in creating a resilient infrastructure ecosystem,” he said.

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