Floating pontoons proposed to improve safety
KAPIT: The Kapit Chinese Chamber of Commerce has proposed the government construct floating pontoons at both the Kapit Express Boat Terminal and Belaga Wharf for passenger safety and convenience.
Commenting on the recent drowning of a porter here, the chamber’s immediate past president Datuk Yong Hua Sying said having a pontoon similar to that of the Sibu Express Boat Terminal could have prevented the victim from falling into the river.
“There’s no reason why we can’t construct a floating pontoon at Kapit terminal.
“Variation of water level is just a convenient excuse. It’s a matter of design and funding. With today’s technology and design, nothing is impossible.
“It’s a matter of design and modification on the drawing,” he said yesterday.
There’s no reason why we can’t construct a floating pontoon at Kapit terminal. Variation of water level is just a convenient excuse.
He called for planners to visit Kapit in order to understand what is required.
“Come to the ground to run on the spot studies and especially now with the Bakun Dam at the upper reaches, the water level is actually quite stable,” he said.
Yong appealed to the authorities concerned to act for public safety.
“Kapit folks are government supporters.
“In fact, the whole Kapit Division – Katibas, Bukit Goram, Baleh, Pelagus, Belaga and Murum state constituencies, Kapit and Hulu Rajang strong parliamentary constituencies – are all represented by BN (Barisan Nasional) representatives.
“When the locals give strong support, being a fixed deposit, the government should at least respond favourably for the sake of public interest.
“Safety on public facilities,
Datuk Yong Hua Sying, chamber immediate past president
especially when it’s the gateway, shouldn’t be compromised. Life is precious,” he added.
Currently express boats are tied side by side at the Kapit Express Boat Terminal and Belaga Wharf, so passengers and porters have to cross from one boat to another to get to and from the terminals.