RM250m flood mitigation projects for Kuching, Sibu
KUCHING: Two flood mitigation projects in Sibu and here will be launched soon, at a cost of RM250 million.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the allocation had been approved to tackle flash floods at both locations.
He said Kuching would receive RM150 million and Sibu RM100 million.
Junaidi said the responsibility of managing drainage issues fell under the state government and local authorities, and not his ministry.
“The execution of the flood mitigation projects comes under the order of the prime minister (Datuk Seri Najib Razak). My ministry is assisting the state government and local authorities to tackle flood-related issues, which cost us billions,” he said after officiating the Dato Sri Wan Junaidi community hall in Kampung Tabuan Lot.
Wan Junaidi said the ministry had appointed a company to carry out the projects, which would be launched by Najib and Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Abdul Rahman Johari Abang Openg.
“The launch date is being planned, with the projects set to be carried out simultaneously in Kuching and Sibu. The Sibu flood mitigation project is in its third phase, focusing on Bumiputera areas.”
He said the overall cost of the project in Sibu was RM890 million. A total of RM300 million in allocations had been disbursed, and the ministry would request an allocation for its fourth phase next year.
“In Kuching, the project will involve areas prone to flash floods, such as Batu Lintang, Stakan, Tabuan Melayu, Sungai Bedil and Gersik, including Sarawak General Hospital and several housing areas.”