KUCHING (Oct 22): The Kuching Urban Transport System (KUTS) project continues to record steady progress, with major construction milestones achieved across key sites in Kuching and Kota Samarahan.

State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said contractors have caught up with the project timeline and are maintaining strong momentum to ensure operations for the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) Blue Line Package 1 can begin by the fourth quarter of next year.

During a working visit to several project sites today, Lee commended the improved pace of work and urged all parties to sustain their performance, emphasising that safety, quality, and adherence to schedule remain top priorities.

“The progress we see today reflects the commitment and collaboration of all parties involved. Contractors must continue to strengthen their workforce, follow timelines closely, and minimise inconvenience to the public,” he said in a statement.

Lee’s inspection covered the Rembus Depot in Kota Samarahan, the ART Blue Line alignment, and the Northbank ART Station, where he was briefed on ongoing works and upcoming phases.

At the Rembus Depot, he was welcomed by Sarawak Metro chief executive officer Mazli Mustaffa and representatives of the main contractor — a joint venture between Azam Sehasrat Sdn Bhd, IJM Construction Sdn Bhd, and Unique Deco Sdn Bhd.

The depot will house mechanical and infrastructure workshops, an operations control centre, and a stabling yard for ART vehicles.

He later visited the Northbank Station, where the joint venture contractor — Ibraco Construction Sdn Bhd, China Railway Engineering Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd, and Nanyang Tunnel Engineering Sdn Bhd — briefed him on site challenges and progress updates.

Mazli said both the ART vehicles and feeder buses are scheduled to arrive in stages in 2026, marking a major milestone for the KUTS project.

“We are preparing to receive the ART vehicles and feeder buses next year, with both services expected to commence by the end of 2026,” he said, adding that contractors remain committed to meeting the project timeline.

Accompanying Lee were State Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, senior officers from the ministry, and members of Sarawak Metro’s management team.

Credits: Churchill Edward, The Borneo Post 2025