Samarahan Boulevard: Phase 1 works progressing well, tender for Phase 2 to be out soon, says minister

Samarahan Boulevard's Phase 1 construction is advancing, with the tender for Phase 2 anticipated to be announced this year, according to State Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) is set to issue the tender following the completion of Phase 1, which is nearly finished.

The total cost of the project is estimated at RM127 million, with Phase 2 alone projected to cost around RM70 million. The boulevard aims to provide a space for major events and alleviate congestion in Kuching, as the Central Padang or Padang Merdeka has become overcrowded when events are held there.

Abdul Karim emphasized that the concept of Samarahan Boulevard is reminiscent of large public squares found in significant cities such as China’s Tiananmen Square or Iran’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, which are designed for recreation and hosting large-scale events. For the Tambirat Waterfront, Phase 2 of the project will encompass the entire 1km-long Kampung Tambirat Waterfront.

The Premier has approved the commencement of Phase 2, and once the implementing arrangements are finalized, the project will be put out to tender. The cost of Phase 2 is expected to exceed RM100 million.

Regarding Phase 1, Abdul Karim stated that efforts will be made to salvage the project after a section of the structure collapsed before its planned completion in 2024. The matter is currently under legal proceedings.