SIBU: Federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing hopes that the federal government will assist with dredging work on the Rajang and Igan rivers.
Tiong, who is also the Dudong assemblyman, said that he recently discussed the matter with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“We must carry out dredging.
“We can see in Bintangor and Sarikei that the water is unable to flow out, leading to flooding when it rains continuously for several days.
“The same issue is happening in Dudong, where water from Kapit accumulates and cannot be channelled out to sea,” he said.
He said this when speaking to reporters during his visit to the temporary relief centre (PPS) at Dewan Komuniti Sibu Jaya here today.
Tiong stressed that he is confident that if dredging is carried out, flooding in Sibu will be reduced.
Meanwhile, regarding the PPS, Tiong urged the public to donate essential supplies such as food to those affected.
“Although the welfare department does provide aid, it may not be sufficient.
“So, those who are able should help them,” he said.
As for financial assistance, Tiong said that they are waiting for the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee to decide on the amount to be allocated.
“If it is truly necessary, we will conduct an assessment and provide assistance wherever possible,” he said.
