MIRI: The Kuala Batu 1 wave breaker project here is set for a design overhaul to address issues related to the accumulation of black organic materials.
Minister for Transport, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin disclosed that the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Miri has been tasked with re-evaluating the current design.
This move comes in response to complaints from local fishermen about the debris problem.
Speaking after a site visit on Tuesday (July 23), Lee explained that the northern part of the wave breaker might be closed to prevent the build-up of decomposed organic materials.
“The area is affected by the Northeast Monsoon from January to March, which brings these materials to the site. The fishermen have suggested closing the northern side to mitigate this issue,” he said.
From April to December, the Southwest Monsoon brings sand from the southern side, causing further clogging.
Lee noted the need for a solution that addresses both seasonal issues without incurring additional costs.
“If the proposed changes do not work, we will have to look at redesigning the structure entirely.”
The wave breaker, costing RM17 million, was completed in April this year.
However, the original design has not effectively managed the influx of organic debris and sand, resulting in shallow waters that hinder fishing activities.
DID, working closely with the project’s consultant, will propose closing the entrance on the northern part of the wave breaker as an initial step.
Lee assured that this adjustment would not require extra budget allocation.
“We have received feedback from the fishermen of Kampung Kuala Batu 1, and it’s clear that the current design needs to be reconsidered to solve these problems.”
The consultation team is expected to find a viable solution to ensure the wave breaker functions effectively without impacting the local fishing industry.
