WITH Kampung Lintang now a memory, the relevant ministries and agencies are urged to expedite the implementation of all riverbank erosion prevention projects in Simunjan.
Its assemblyman Awla Dris expressed concern over the lack of updates on erosion control projects along the Pekan Simunjan waterfront.
He lamented that locals are forced to use the same site as the Simunjan Festival Regatta this year due to erosion, which remains unaddressed after several years.
“Similar issues persist in Kampung Sageng, where homes are on the verge of collapsing into the river, yet relocation efforts have stalled.
“Simunjan faces the constant threat of riverbank erosion, leaving Kampung Lintang as a mere memory,” he said when debating the 2024 State Budget in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
Awla said various projects, including a new road at the Gunung Ngeli Service Centre, river deepening and floodgate construction in Kampung Kelka and other developments like Medan Selera, Cottage Industry, Pasar Tamu, Mini Shop and Anjung Usahawan, face delays, triggering local discussions on social media.
He said the community blamed the government, alleging unfulfilled promises.
“I appeal to the ministries and agencies involved to take this issue seriously and expedite the implementation of all related projects so that the residents of Simunjan can experience development, thereby propelling economic growth in a positive direction,” he said.
Awla also called for expedited construction of the road connecting Kampung Sageng to Kampung Tebuan Iban, which was severed due to riverbank erosion in Kampung Sageng Sabal.
He said the current inconvenience forced residents to use a nearby cement factory’s entrance as an alternative route.
Awla also requested the Public Works Department (PWD) to prioritise the upgrade of the 18-km stretch from Kampung Sabun to Batang Sadong Bridge.
“As such, I request the relevant agency to take this matter seriously and assist us in obtaining a well-functioning road infrastructure,” he added.
