13-06-2025
Long-awaited Kanowit ferry service nears completion, will ease rural travel
Photo shows the ferry ramp opposite Pasar Tamu Kanowit, currently undergoing repair and upgrading works.
KANOWIT (June 13): The long-awaited ferry service connecting Kanowit town and SMK Sedaya in Ngemah across the Rajang River should be operational soon, said Machan assemblyman Allan Siden Gramong.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony of appointment letters to community leaders (KMKK) for Kanowit District today, Allan said repair works on the ferry terminal and supporting infrastructure were currently underway and progressing steadily.
'We hope the ferry would be operational this year. It is very much needed by the people of Kanowit.
'Currently, residents travelling from Ngemah to town have to use the Kanowit-Julau-Durin Road or Penyulau-Lukut Road, which takes a long time,' he said.
He added that the ferry service would significantly shorten the travel time for rural villagers accessing key facilities in Kanowit town, such as the Kanowit Hospital and Kanowit District Office.
Allan also revealed his proposal to establish a Kanowit Business Integrated Centre near the ferry terminal site.
The proposed centre, he said, would house service counters from key government agencies such as Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), Sesco and Telekom Malaysia.
'We are also proposing the construction of a new community hall at the same site, as the current town hall is limited in size and facilities,' he pointed out.
Allan also expressed hope that the Sarawak government would consider and approve both projects, which should help ease congestion at the current Kanowit Market, especially during the peak morning hours.
'Having an integrated business centre and a new community hall near the ferry terminal would reduce traffic and improve convenience for the people.'
At the same event, appointment letters were presented to community leaders under the Machan state constituency, which included five new appointees and 13 reappointments.
'I hope all the appointed leaders would serve sincerely and with integrity for the betterment of their respective communities,' said Allan. completion ferry service Kanowit
