PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof has expressed support for several flood mitigation and river management initiatives proposed by the Sarawak government.
These include remedial works at the Sungai Sarawak Barrage and improvements to river monitoring systems.
The matter was discussed during a courtesy call by Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, who led a delegation from the Ministry and the Sarawak Rivers Board to meet Fadillah, who is also Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), at Menara PETRA here yesterday.
During the meeting, Lee gave a briefing on several proposed projects aimed at strengthening flood mitigation and river management in the state, including maintenance and upgrading of critical river infrastructure.
Fadillah acknowledged the urgent need for remedial works at the Sungai Sarawak Barrage to address the deteriorating structural condition of the facility and the continued expansion of riverbed scouring both upstream and downstream.
“These works are essential to ensure the continued effectiveness of the barrage in supporting flood mitigation efforts in Kuching and surrounding areas,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of strengthening river monitoring systems and encouraged closer collaboration between the Department of Drainage and Irrigation (DID) Malaysia and DID Sarawak in upgrading telemetry stations at the Sungai Sarawak Barrage.
The proposed upgrading is expected to improve real-time monitoring capabilities and enhance flood management operations along the Sungai Sarawak Basin.
In addition, Fadillah agreed in principle that the procurement of trash skimmers and trash collection boats for Sungai Sarawak and Sungai Miri would be funded through his office.
The equipment will support river cleaning operations, particularly in removing water hyacinth and floating domestic waste, contributing to cleaner and more sustainable river management.
During the meeting, Lee also raised concerns over persistent siltation affecting fishermen at Kampung Batu Satu in Miri following the completion of a wave breaker constructed as part of a coastal erosion control project.
Lee said the issue has affected local fishermen’s livelihoods and requires urgent intervention.
“We appreciate the support shown by the Deputy Prime Minister in addressing this matter.
“The proposed solution will help restore access for fishermen and improve the overall condition of the coastal environment in Kampung Batu Satu,” he said.
