SIBU: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has called for the urgent completion of the riverbed survey in Sibu, warning that further delays could compromise the accuracy of vital data needed for flood mitigation efforts.
Speaking at a meeting to review the progress of Sibu’s flood mitigation project, he stressed the importance of completing the hydraulic survey report for the Rajang and Igan rivers as soon as possible to obtain reliable data.
“This data is crucial as it will allow us to begin river dredging works, restoring the rivers’ capacity to manage rainfall—an essential step in addressing the challenges posed by sudden climate changes,” he said.
Tiong expressed frustration over the slow progress of the hydraulic report, noting that delays could lead to changes in sediment accumulation, making the data outdated and less effective for planning.
“I am very grateful to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah for recognising the urgency of completing the report swiftly and offering to assist in securing RM26 million in funding to finalise the remaining survey work,” he said in a statement, Thursday (Nov 7).
Tiong, who is also the Dudong assemblyman, urged the relevant authorities to submit a comprehensive project plan as soon as possible, with the aim of completing the hydraulic report by March 2025.
To expedite the process, he suggested expanding the survey team, enabling multiple teams to work simultaneously on different rivers to improve efficiency.
“Sibu has been grappling with flash floods for years, with residents enduring four to five floods annually.
It is disheartening for the people to hear about government flood prevention measures, only to see no real improvement,” he added.
Tiong also highlighted the worsening sedimentation issues in the Rajang and Igan rivers, particularly in areas like Bintangor and Sarikei, where stagnant water is increasingly common. This prevents the river from flowing smoothly towards Tanjung Manis.
“If dredging is not undertaken soon, future floods will only worsen, posing greater risks to lives and property,” he warned.
