Sarawak’s transport landscape is set for a major transformation with the launch of the autonomous rapid transit (ART) system, which is scheduled to begin operations this year along the Samarahan–Kuching route. Plans are already underway to extend the ART network to the new Kuching International Airport in Tanjung Embang, Asajaya district, in the Samarahan Division.
Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the ART route would operate similarly to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1–Terminal 2 link, providing fast and efficient passenger transfers. “All this is expected to be realised within the next five years,” he said at the closing of the Asajaya Ambal Festival 2026.
Powered by hydrogen, the ART system will serve as the backbone of the billion-ringgit Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), developed by Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd. The first stage of the project is targeted for operational launch by the end of this year.
Abdul Karim, who also serves as Asajaya assemblyman, highlighted that the airport project will impact several villages, with land acquisition and compensation currently in progress. The new airport is projected to handle up to 15 million passengers annually and will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure, according to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In addition to the airport, the state plans to develop a new deep-sea port at Tanjung Embang. Abdul Karim noted that with these two major projects, Asajaya—once a remote and difficult-to-access area—will emerge as a key transportation hub for Sarawak.
Earlier this year, Sarawak Metro officially transitioned into a state-owned enterprise under the Sarawak State Financial Secretary, marking an important step in the state’s corporate restructuring efforts. Mazli Mustaffa, Sarawak Metro’s CEO, said the move demonstrates the government’s commitment to streamlining operations and enhancing public transport development. “This is an exciting phase for Sarawak Metro, but it also brings greater responsibility with more deliverables in the years ahead,” he said.
Mazli noted that 2026 will be a particularly demanding year as major infrastructure work for KUTS ramps up, with revenue service for the ART system’s first phase expected by year-end. Last week, he briefed Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin on progress at the ART interchange station at Simpang Tiga.
Construction of the ART network began two years ago, starting with the Blue Line, followed by the Red Line. The first phase of KUTS spans 69.9km, comprising the Blue, Red, and Green lines, and will include 28 stations.
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Blue Line: 27.6km from Rembus near Summer Mall in Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange in Kuching city centre. The Rembus depot will serve as the central hub for ART operations and administration. Key stations will include University Malaysia Sarawak, Sarawak Heart Centre, Sarawak General Hospital, Swinburne University, major shipping complexes, and other strategic locations.
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Red Line: 12.3km connecting Kuching Sentral regional bus terminal to Pending, with stations at the new Kuching International Airport and prominent shopping centres.
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Green Line: 30km from Pending to Damai Central in Santubong.
Once complete, the ART system will provide seamless, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport across Kuching and Samarahan, significantly enhancing connectivity for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
