SIBU: Jalan Ling Kai Cheng, which is often hit by floods here, especially during the rainy season, will be completely upgraded in a high-impact project worth RM3.61 million.
The project commenced on Monday (Aug 25) and is expected to be completed by January 2026.
The project, which involves road leveling and drainage system improvements, is funded through a combination of funds from the Sarawak Disaster Relief Fund of RM2 million and the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) of RM1.61 million.
According to Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, the allocation reflects the government’s commitment in addressing the flooding issue that affects thousands of residents and road users every year.
“Although initial studies showed that this project may take up to four years to complete, we are grateful that with the appointment of a qualified contractor, the construction work is now only expected to take four months,” he said when officiating at the earth-breaking ceremony for the project.
The Pelawan assemblyman said the section involved in the upgrade is one kilometre from the Jalan Deshon junction to the bridge (Sungai Seduan), which has been identified as the worst-affected area during heavy rains.
The road, he added, will be raised by 75 centimetres in both directions, so that it would be safe from future floods during heavy rains.
He pointed out that the project was carefully planned so as not to negatively impact nearby residences.
The drainage system, he said, will be upgraded so that rainwater flow can be better managed without flowing into residential areas.
“During the near past Chinese New Year celebrations, flooding on this road caused major disruption to traffic and residents. With this upgrading project, we are trying to prevent such incidents from happening again.”
However, Tiang admitted that the construction works may cause temporary disruption to traffic flow.
To address this, the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) will deploy traffic wardens to help smooth traffic movement during the work period.
In the meantime, Tiang also expressed his gratitude to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for approving additional funds through the Natural Disaster Relief Fund as well as the strong support from SMC in launching the project.
“We will ensure that this project runs smoothly, is completed on schedule and meets the set standards. The main goal is to provide safe road facilities, can be passed at all times, and is flood-free.”
With this large allocation and meticulous planning, local residents are expected to enjoy more comfortable and safe routes, especially during the rainy season.
SMC chairman Cr Clarence Ting Ing Horh, representatives of the relevant agencies and the contractor were among those present.
