MIRI: Temporary remedial works will commence immediately on the Lutong Beach following a directive from Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
The emergency measures, aimed at mitigating severe coastal erosion, will be funded by the federal government.
This was disclosed by Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting during a press conference today.
Also present was Mayor Adam Yii, who is also Pujut assemblyman.
Ting highlighted the urgency of the situation, stressing that the high tide and strong waves had already caused significant damage to the coastal road.
He revealed that he had written to the Deputy Prime Minister on Jan 16 to alert him to the severity of the erosion and to request urgent intervention.
“The approved RM45 million federal allocation for the overall project is still in the tender process, which closed on Jan 31. However, we cannot afford to wait months for the completion of that process, as the erosion is rapidly worsening,” Ting explained.
Recognising the immediate danger, he sought emergency funding of RM5 million to stabilise the affected area and prevent further destruction.
In response, Fadillah instructed that temporary works begin without delay, though the exact amount allocated for the emergency intervention has not been disclosed.
Ting expressed gratitude for the swift response, noting that local authorities, including State Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin and Miri’s Disaster Management Committee, are also working on additional measures to reinforce the area.
In the meantime, police have been asked to erect warning signs to ensure public safety.
“This is an ongoing concern, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely. We are grateful that the Deputy Prime Minister has taken decisive action, and we will work together with all relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the public and the protection of Lutong Beach,” Ting added.
