SERIAN: Tasik Danu, a well-known recreational lake here, has been drained as part of a large-scale redevelopment project set to transform the area into a vibrant water theme park and commercial hub.
The dewatering process began on Feb 11, marking the first step in an ambitious effort to boost tourism and invigorate the local economy.
While many welcome the development, others have expressed mixed feelings about the drastic change to what was once a serene body of water surrounded by nature.
For Rojini Jeraee, 63, the transformation is a sign of progress.
Relaxing near the lake, he recalled that the area was once a swamp before being converted into a lake in 1983.
He noted that some current residents of Kampung Bunga Siantan, located within a kilometre of Tasik Danu, originally lived on parts of the lake’s land, near where the iconic monument now stands.
“This place was just a mangrove swamp before, with forests surrounding it.
“Part of the lake, now home to a ship replica, was once the site of Sarawak’s Police Field Force (PFF) quarters,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
Although he acknowledged opposition from some residents, Rojini expressed optimism the redevelopment will bring long-term benefits.
“Many here disagree with the project, but for me, it’s a great initiative. It will turn the lake, which has been undermaintained, into a well-managed facility.
“I heard they’re building a water theme park, which is a fantastic idea, not just for boosting development in Serian, but also for growing the local economy,” he added.
Another local, Ahmad Zaini Sidik, 66, echoed similar sentiments, describing the project as a much-needed catalyst for the town’s growth.
Originally from Bau, Ahmad has lived in Serian for years after marrying a local woman.
“Young people may be unhappy about seeing Tasik Danu drained, but for my generation, we see this as progress.
“I used to bring my children here for walks, but now is the time for the area to be developed,” he said.
He pointed to the Lepapa Hypermarket — also built by the same developer, Tecktonic & Sons Holdings Sdn Bhd — as an example of how new infrastructure can create job opportunities.
“Many young people who once worked in Kuching have returned to Serian because of job openings here.
“It’s more convenient. They don’t have to rent a place and can stay at home while contributing to their local economy,” he added.
For some, however, the redevelopment comes with a sense of nostalgia.
Boniface Lendang, 38, was seen at the lake with his family, enjoying what would be their final visit before construction begins.
“This lake holds many memories for us. That’s why I wanted to bring my children here one last time, even though it’s already dried up,” he said.
Still, he believes the project is a step in the right direction.
“A new lake with a proper water park sounds like a good idea. Even though we’ll have to pay an entrance fee in the future, it’s worth it.
“After all, there aren’t many water parks in southern Sarawak,” he added.
The redevelopment plan is extensive, with one section of the lake set to be transformed into a water theme park featuring massive slides, a dedicated children’s water play area, and an adult pool.
According to Project Manager Freddy Chong from Tecktonic & Sons Holdings Sdn Bhd, the redevelopment will span 24 acres and include a mix of commercial, recreational, and hospitality facilities.
In a Facebook post, he said the commercial section will feature 37 two-storey shop lots, 30 three-storey shop lots, a single-storey commercial unit with a mezzanine floor, and a three-storey commercial pavilion with strata title.
Meanwhile, the recreational and hospitality components will comprise a single-storey theme park facility with a mezzanine, a single-storey sports complex, a 10-storey residential apartment with 167 units, and a 10-storey hotel with 42 rooms.
Additionally, 12 one-storey commercial kiosks will be built to complement the overall development.
