KUCHING: The Oya coastal erosion control project in Mukah, completed last October, has not only fortified the coastline against erosion but also enhanced its beauty, drawing an increased number of visitors and boosting local socioeconomic activities.
Women, Childhood, Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the project will be officiated by Head of State Tun Pehin Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar at the Oya Kaul Festival on April 21.
Fatimah credited Wan Junaidi for the project’s initiation during his tenure as the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment.
“The erosion control project has significantly impacted the local community, spurring economic and recreational activities. We are deeply grateful to Tun Wan Junaidi for his pivotal role in this project,” she told reporters after visiting Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi at Astana Negeri today (Mar 26).
In addition to preventing driftwood accumulation and coastal erosion, the project has positively affected the local economy and community well-being.
The Dalat assemblywoman also highlighted the role of the Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK), which plans to construct nine Lebuk Kaul to further enhance the beach’s appeal.
Each Lebuk will offer traditional Melanau dishes to visitors at no cost.
The Oya Kaul Festival is set to feature a symbolic handover ceremony, described by Fatimah as a visually striking event with a boat procession accompanied by drumbeats.
