NANGA MEDAMIT, Sarawak, 11 September 2025 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the significance of the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road (SSLR) Phase 2 project as a major boost to mobility, infrastructure, and daily life for residents in the often‐isolated northern region of Sarawak.
Speaking at the official launch in Nanga Medamit today, Anwar expressed empathy for the long-standing challenges faced by communities in Limbang, Lawas, Ba’kelalan and outlying areas. He painted a vivid picture of the obstacles, recounting his journey from Miri to Limbang, which required crossing through Brunei—a detour that exemplifies both the complexity of terrain and the dearth of direct road access. “From the air, you can see the steep hills, the rugged topography,” he said, “which helps explain the significantly higher cost of building infrastructure here.”Project Scope & Impacts
- Cost & Completion: SSLR Phase 2 is budgeted at RM7.6 billion with an expected completion in 2029.
- Route: The route will span 335 kilometres, linking Mulu, Nanga Medamit (Limbang), Long Luping (Lawas) and Ba’kelalan.
- Works Included: To be built are not just roads, but also bridges, viaducts, lighting, drainage infrastructure—an integrated effort to bring modern mobility to rural and remote communities.
Phase 2 builds upon Phase 1, the section between Lawas and Long Luping, which has already reached about 57.6% completion. Once operational, the SSLR network is projected to significantly reduce travel times, cut reliance on cross-border routes through Brunei for internal transit, and open up economic opportunities for people in these northern parts of Sarawak.
Wider Implications & Government Vision
Anwar, joined by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, emphasized the federal government’s commitment to closing connectivity gaps. The SSLR is intended as a transformative infrastructure undertaking that not only improves logistics and access but also supports social inclusion, education, trade and rural development in geographies traditionally hindered by harsh terrain and scattered settlements.
For many residents, the infrastructure deficit has meant longer travel times, higher transport costs, and limited access to services. The SSLR Phase 2 aims to address these constraints—making it easier for people to move between communities, access healthcare, schooling, markets, and to integrate more fully into the state and national economy.
Challenges & Outlook
While the project promises substantial benefits, Anwar acknowledged the technical and financial difficulties of building in such difficult terrain. The high cost, the need for durable design (e.g. bridges, viaducts), and environmental factors were all highlighted as contributing to the complexity. Still, the government is pushing ahead, viewing SSLR Phase 2 as essential infrastructure rather than optional development.
The SSLR project is positioned as a “game-changer” for northern Sarawak: if delivered on time and on budget, it could transform how residents access essential services, connect to the rest of Sarawak and Sabah, and engage in broader economic activity. Monitoring progress toward the 2029 completion date—with attention to environmental impact, quality of construction, and community engagement—will be key metrics to watch.
