SIBU: The Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak, in collaboration with the Public Works Ministry, will upgrade the existing `P-Turn’ at the intersection of Meruton/Merudu and Saratok to enter Jakar town, Senator Roderick Wong said.

He said construction works are expected to be fully completed by March 2024.

“The Public Works Ministry said the implementation of this P-Turn requires effort and involvement from all parties other than JKR and the decision to upgrade the existing P-Turn is the best method to improve the traffic flow to Jakar town,” Wong added.

He said this was the reply from the Public Works Ministry to his question on where the additional U-turn will be constructed to enter Jakar town in view that the Pan-Borneo Highway bypasses the town, rendering it into a `dead’ town.

Additionally, Wong also asked the Public Works Ministry as to whether the old road leading to Jakar town will still be used.

He said the ministry replied that the existing road to Jakar will continue to be used and maintained.

“For now, the Public Works Ministry said there are no plans to upgrade the road. However, this matter will be further refined after the entire Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway project is fully completed.”

Wong expressed gratitude to the Public Works Ministry and JKR Sarawak for actively cooperating in this matter and the decision to implement the `turn-right’ to Jakar town after making various research and exploration.

“I will continue to follow up with the Ministry of Public Works to ensure that the people of Jakar will also benefit from the construction of the Pan Borneo Highway.”