Swee builds bridges in Brunei

Over the past 40 years, Swee has built some of Brunei's most important infrastructure, including the country's water supply networks. Today, Swee has linked up with a South Korean firm to build two iconic structures: bridges that will provide better connectivity between Brunei's capital and the surrounding regions. Bobby Chua, vice-chairman of Swee, tells us more.

How has Swee impacted Brunei's landscape?

For 40 years, since starting the business, we have participated in several large construction projects. Swee has built crucial water reservoirs, treatment plants and pipe networks; we have handled the majority of the water supply projects in the country. Swee also built the Muara to Jerudong part of the Muara-Tutong Highway, the country's main cross-national roadway, as well as the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Why did South Korea's Daelim choose you as a local partner for the Sungai Kebun Bridge?

After Daelim found out that we have a long-standing construction track record and are on good terms with the Brunei government, they teamed up with us for the construction of Sungai Kebun Bridge. This partnership was a success, and we are now in our second project with Daelim, as the contractor for the largest portion of Temburong Bridge.

What does Temburong Bridge mean for Brunei?

It will save a lot of travelling time, cutting drives from Muara to Temburong down to about 30 minutes. Once in place, Temburong can develop very quickly, be it in tourism or other industries.

How does the Royal government help investors?

I'm Singaporean. During my 40 years in Brunei, I have found that the government genuinely looks to help local and foreign businessmen.

(China Daily 02/23/2016 page7)