PRIORITY will be given to riverbank erosion and flood mitigation efforts across the state.
Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Minister
Datuk Seri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom said the government is committed to ongoing and proposed projects under the Department of Drainage and Irrigation (DID).
“Among the key initiatives involves the 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 at the Assembly on Tuesday (Nov 19).
“A coastal erosion project in Kampung Pulat and a Mukah town waterfront, estimated to cost RM20 million and RM60 million respectively, are slated for tender in 2025.
“As for flood mitigation in Saratok, two erosion control projects in Kampung Kupang and Kampung Melango are awaiting approval, with costs totalling over RM37 million.”
And a federal government-approved project to address tidal flooding in Tanjung Riong, Betong Division, is expected to commence next year, he said.
He highlighted that these projects are integral to safeguarding communities and infrastructure.
He also assured that a Batang Lupar Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) study will commence in 2025 to manage water resources comprehensively.
Meanwhile, replying to Lingga assemblywoman, Dayang Noor Azah Awang Sohor question, he said the Department of Agriculture Sarawak is considering to revisit the abandoned Pilot Brackish Water Aquaculture Project (PABP) in Kampung Tanjung Jaya, Lingga.
“The participants have the choice to operate the culture ponds themselves or apply for the Inland Fisheries Project Development Programme,” he said.
