KUCHING: The Kuching flood mitigation project, estimated to cost over RM2 billion, will open for tender this year and is expected to begin construction in 2026, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, said the project will involve three major components, namely a canal, a bridge, and the construction of a new barrage along the Salak River.
“What was approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) through the Fifth Rolling Plan (RP5) only covered two packages and did not include the barrage.
“This time it will include the barrage as well, with a cost of up to RM2 billion across three work packages. So, God willing, tenders will begin this year, and the project will commence next year. This is a major project for Sarawak,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after launching the HE Medical Clinic Kuching & Men’s Health Carnival at Canaan Square here today (Aug 2).
He mentioned that the new barrage, similar to the one in Sungai Sarawak, is designed to prevent saltwater intrusion during high tides.
“This project involves building a canal that will channel water into the Salak River, similar to what we did with the Sarawak River, where there is a barrage at the end.
“So in the Salak River, there will also be a barrage to prevent saltwater intrusion. We will be able to control it — when the sea level rises during high tide, the barrage will be closed so that saltwater does not enter,” he said.
