BINTULU: An international consulting firm may be engaged to study Bintulu’s flood mitigation system as part of a long-term plan to address recurring floods.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the proposed study would assess the overall planning, capacity of existing infrastructure and improvements required.
According to the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS), Ramboll has been proposed for the study based on its involvement in the Bukit Assek urban renewal project in Sibu.
Ramboll is a Denmark-based global architecture, engineering and consultancy company.
“Ramboll is a major international consulting firm that works with local expertise while meeting international standards.
“The Premier has reviewed the plan for the Bukit Assek urban renewal project and is satisfied with it.
“He therefore wants Bintulu to engage the same international consulting firm to conduct the flood mitigation study,” Dr Sim said.
He said this during an inspection at Gem Park after attending a meeting with the Bintulu Division Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) on Thursday (Aug 27).
Dr Sim, who is also Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, said the firm would work with local experts, including surveyors and relevant technical parties.
He said experience gained from flood mitigation projects involving international consultants elsewhere could help in drawing up a suitable plan for Bintulu.
However, the proposed appointment has yet to be finalised, including its cost and scope of services.
The Bintulu Development Authority is expected to hold a meeting to finalise the matter.
Also present were Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang and Angeline Stephen Raja, a political secretary to the Premier.
