KUCHING: The federal government has approved RM150 million in urgent funding to repair the Kuching barrage, which was reported to have suffered damage due to erosion.
Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, welcomed the announcement, describing it as a crucial step to ensure the safety of residents around Sarawak’s state capital from flood risks.
“This allocation comes after a detailed briefing on the current condition of Sarawak’s water infrastructure.
“On behalf of PETRA, as well as the MPs and residents of Kuching in particular, I would like to express my gratitude for the approval of this RM150 million,” Fadillah said.
He made the remarks when commenting on the Prime Minister’s announcement during the 2026 MADANI Ramadan Breaking of Fast event today.
Fadillah added that the request followed a state study which found that the barrage’s structural integrity had been affected by erosion at both the upstream and downstream sections of the river.
“The state study needs to be submitted as soon as possible so we can present it to the Ministry of Economy and the Cabinet, enabling the project to be implemented immediately,” he explained.
Earlier, the Prime Minister jokingly praised Fadillah’s persistence in raising Sarawak’s development issues at every meeting, including the urgent need to repair the barrage.
In response, he announced the immediate approval of RM150 million to restore the Kuching barrage.
He also noted that the federal government maintains continuous discussions with the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, to ensure that projects delayed at the federal level are resolved promptly.
