KOTA SAMARAHAN: Approximately RM2.6 billion is required to implement flood mitigation projects in Sarawak, including in Kuching and Semariang, to strengthen protection against recurring floods.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, who is also Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), said the RTB project in Stakan, which began in April 2022, was fully completed in August 2024 at a cost of RM10 million.
In Sibu, Phase 3 of the project was completed earlier in December 2023, involving an allocation of RM97.20 million.
Fadillah said both projects have now been officially handed over to the Sarawak Government, marking an important milestone in ongoing flood mitigation efforts in the areas.
“With the completion of these projects, three phases of the RTB initiative in Sibu have now been successfully implemented.
“However, the overall plan is not yet complete, as two additional phases, namely Phase 4 (RM120 million) and Phase 5 (RM474 million), are still in the pipeline.
“Phase 4 is expected to be funded by the Sarawak Government, while Phase 5 will require Federal Government funding and is currently in the early stages of planning, including preliminary studies and design,” he told reporters at Masjid Darul Malihah Kampung Bukit Berangan today (Apr 13).
Furthermore, he said PETRA has expressed its commitment to supporting these upcoming phases to ensure the full completion of the flood mitigation system in Sibu.
“While flood conditions in areas such as Stakan and Muara Tuang have improved following the implementation of these projects, some locations continue to experience flooding.
“Therefore, further assessments and targeted interventions are needed to address remaining problem areas and enhance the overall effectiveness of flood control measures,” added Fadillah.
Meanwhile, there is also the focus on the proposed RTB Kuching project, which has been expanded to include flood mitigation works in Semariang.
He also noted that the inclusion of Semariang was necessary due to water flow patterns that could potentially shift flood risks to the area if not addressed comprehensively..
“Although the proposal has received approval in principle, it is still pending final approval from the Cabinet.
“If all planned RTB projects in Kuching and Samariang are approved and implemented, the total estimated cost is expected to reach approximately RM2.6 billion, reflecting the scale and importance of these efforts in strengthening flood resilience across Sarawak.”
