Sabah – Labuan brigde: RM500K allocated to complete key phase to make it a reality

The long-discussed proposal for a bridge to connect the Federal Territory of Labuan with the mainland of Sabah has seen renewed commitment from the Malaysian Federal Government.

This massive infrastructure project, which seeks to replace the current reliance on ferry services, has been an aspiration for residents of both Labuan and Sabah for decades.

The bridge is currently in a crucial technical study phase with the contract for such effort officially awarded in May 2025.

Reports say that the special task force overseeing this process has received an initial budget of RM500,000 for the exercise.

It is understood that the study is comprehensive, designed to assess all critical aspects, including engineering specifications, economic spillover, environmental implications, and a detailed financial appraisal.

Interestingly, this is not the first time feasibility studies had been done for the proposed bridge.

The earliest known study was carried out in 2010 by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and other local universities.

In 2018, the Federal Government approved a more comprehensive techno-economic feasibility study with a budget of RM14.31 million, although this was later cancelled.

The current one is the third of such similar study.

The current technical study is expected to be completed by November 2026.

Then, a decision on awarding the construction contract and the subsequent start date for physical works will only be made after this vital study is delivered and analyzed by the government.

Proponents of the project describe the bridge as a potential “game-changer” for the region.

The primary benefit is the dramatic improvement in connectivity and the removal of the dependency on the often-congested ferry service.

Economically, the bridge is projected to induce increased growth, foster greater economic and social integration, and attract new investments in property and other sectors.

This improved access is also expected to significantly boost tourism and create more employment opportunities for the local population.

It is hoped that the bridge would soon be a reality, but before construction begins, it is hope the technical study will show the importance of having such a bridge.

Sources: MalayMail, TheVibes, BERNAMA