KUCHING: The investigation into the defects and collapse involving the first phase of the Tambirat waterfront project has been completed, with further action now pending legal advice and a review of the project specifications.
Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Malaysia and Kota Samarahan assemblywoman Datuk Rubiah Wang said the investigation, which involved external experts from Peninsular Malaysia, had concluded and the findings were currently under consideration by the Sarawak Attorney General’s Chambers (SAG).
“We are waiting for further action, especially legal advice from SAG, as we are looking at bringing this case to a higher level, including to court,” she told reporters after officiating the Yayasan Sarawak Education Sponsorship programme held in conjunction with the Higher Education Institution Tour Series (HITS) Sarawak 2026 at Plaza Merdeka here today (June 13).
At the same time, she said the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) is reviewing the bill of quantities (BQ) and technical specifications of the project to ensure that the waterfront can be completed safely.
“The waterfront is still needed and must be completed. The implementing agency is currently reassessing the specifications and project requirements before immediate action can be taken,” she said.
Rubiah said the original project, which cost more than RM20 million, was more than 50 per cent completed before it suffered structural defects and a collapse that worsened erosion in the surrounding area.
The project has remained abandoned for about two years following the incident.
According to a previous report, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the investigation report into the incident was completed in March.
He said the investigation was carried out to determine whether the collapse was caused by construction defects, natural factors or other technical issues.
The Tambirat waterfront project, implemented by the Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (IRSDA), was originally scheduled for completion in 2025 but was delayed following the collapse.
Meanwhile, the second phase of the project, which covers one kilometre and estimated to cost between RM130 million and RM150 million, is expected to commence before the end of the year.
