Protecting lives from erosion and flooding

The Sarawak government is prioritising riverbank erosion and flood mitigation efforts across several districts, said Minister of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom.
“Among the key initiatives involves Batang Rajang and Baram riverbank protection where proposals for erosion control structures at various longhouses and villages, including Rh. William Gima and Kampung Benawa, will be evaluated under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP),” he said during his winding-up speech today (Nov 19).
Rundi added that Mukah district developments, including a coastal erosion project in Kampung Pulat and a Mukah town waterfront, with estimated costs of RM20 million and RM60 million respectively, are slated for tender next year.
“Saratok flood mitigation, two erosion control projects in Kampung Kupang and Kampung Melango are awaiting approval, with costs totalling over RM37 million. Meanwhile, Maludam flood prevention, a federal government-approved project addressing tidal flooding in Tanjung Riong, Betong Division, is expected to commence in 2025,” he added.
Furthermore, Kabong emergency rehabilitation efforts at Kampung Sungai Benang include increasing the ceiling allocation to RM21 million, with emergency repairs already underway.
These projects are integral to safeguarding communities and infrastructure while addressing environmental challenges.
He also assured that Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) studies for Batang Lupar will commence in 2025 to manage water resources comprehensively.