UEM Edgenta’s unit named PMC for Sarawak mega road projects

KUALA LUMPUR: UEM Edgenta Bhd’s unit, Opus Consultants ( M) Sdn Bhd, has been named the project management consultant (PMC) by the Sarawak government for its RM11 billion Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Roads project.

Opus Consultants, which was recently awarded the first package of the project worth RM50 million, would be working with the Sarawak Public Works Depar tment , in providing overall project management and technical expertise. This includes overseeing key deliverables within the project work scope such as preliminary and detailed designs of 20 work packages ranging from the development of new roads and bridges, including four iconic cable-stayed bridges and pavement rehabilitation works.

UEM Edgenta in a statement yesterday said, in addition, Opus Consultants would also be overseeing upgrading works of about 300 km of the existing 896 km of coastal roads, construction of 10 new bridges for the Coastal Road Network and construction of 232 km of the Second Trunk Roads project.

Managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Merican said to support the projects, local talent will make up 51 per cent of its total workforce in Sarawak, all of whom will be provided with intensive training, as well as knowledge transfer.

“Being awarded this mega project is a significant milestone for us. We’re proud to be playing a key role in providing vital infrastructure for the state which could lead to positive socio- economic development for the people, such as the ability to reduce travel time, as well as spur commercial activities in the local area specifically and the state, in general,” he added.

The Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Roads project, estimated to be completed in eight years, was launched by Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg in Sarikei on April 6, 2019.

The Coastal Road Network is set to provide the state’s coastal area with better access and seamless connectivity between towns, namely Kota Samarahan, Sadong Jaya, Sebuyau, Kabong, Tanjong Manis, Daro, Matu, Balingian and Bintulu with the Pan Borneo Highway network.

The Second Trunk Roads project on the other hand will link Kuching and Sibu to the Pan Borneo Highway network through Sebuyau, Sri Aman and the Betong link. — Bernama