SIBU: Sibu will have an iconic bridge that is similar to the London Bridge.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the construction of the bridge would transform the region, especially in the economic sector.

"If there is a 'Golden Gate Brigade' in Bintulu, the people of Sibu also don't want to lose. The people of Sibu want to build a 'London Bridge', which connects the west side. So we approve it.

"I and my (cabinet) colleagues will find funds to develop this bridge. Hopefully it will come true," he said.

He said this during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Reception with the Sarawak Governor and Premier here on Friday.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari also added that the construction of the bridge will increase the economic potential of Sibu town, especially in the west side which can be developed, including the agricultural sector and agro-based industries.

Earlier, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development and Nangka Assemblyman Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee in his welcoming speech requested the construction of the bridge.

Meanwhile, the Sarawak Premier also supported the proposal to build the Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Abang Ali.

He said that discussions would be held with the Federal Government on the matter.

"If possible, we will do it but the Federal Government has to pay back to develop this secondary school. We will use our funds first," he explained.

In addition, he also agreed to develop the Young Couples Housing in Kampung Teku.

"This is not a problem for us to develop this housing.

"We can do all these projects. Thank God, Sarawak's income has increased since I became our leader. We pray that our income will continue to increase," he said.

Also present were the Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar and his wife, the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Deputy Ministers and Members of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly as well as the Sibu Division Resident, Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman.-UKASnews