THE Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah officially launched the Kampung Seberang Guai bridge today. 

His Majesty had consented to the 770m bridge – built at a cost of RM98.5 million and spanning Sungai Pahang – being named the Al-Sultan Abdullah Bridge. 

The king said he hoped the construction of the bridge would not only connect both banks of the river and strengthen friendships (between the people), but that it would also bring development to the areas involved. 

“With the construction of this bridge, we can head to Chenor… and there is a big bridge there too, but it is a little sad as Chenor and the surrounding areas such as Kampung Nyak and Kampung Pesagi cannot be developed quickly. 

“However, I hope that with this new bridge, there is a new paradigm. Make the effort and have programmes…to ensure each basic facility is sufficient and that there are facilities that can encourage activities (such as) agriculture. If this can be worked on, God willing every village can be developed,” he said.  

Also present at the launch was the Regent of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Works Minister Abdul Rahman Mohamad, Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, and Bera MP Ismail Sabri Yaakob. 

The agong also urged quick completion of the new bridge in Temerloh to overcome the high volume of traffic on the present Sultan Ahmad Shah Bridge. 

His Majesty expressed his gratitude to all parties involved in the construction of the Guai bridge, which was completed on November 30, 2021. 

The Guai bridge was built following the floods in 2014 that cut off links to nine villages involving 1,200 residents. 

“Let us make this bridge a symbol and landmark that is proof of the link between myself and my people, between the palace and community, because the palace where the king resides is where the people seek shelter or help to resolve their problems,” said His Majesty. 

The king also advised the Rural and Regional Development Ministry to prioritise development projects for rural residents. – Bernama, September 23, 2023.