BINTULU: The severe flooding that occurred several months ago serves as a significant reminder to all parties of the urgent need to reassess the drainage system and river capacity in this rapidly developing area.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing emphasised that long-term measures, such as deepening the Sebiew river and relocating residents living along the riverbanks, must be prioritised to reduce the risk of similar disasters recurring.
“The recent flooding not only caused property damage and disrupted community connectivity, but also sent a clear warning that the current drainage system is no longer adequate to support Bintulu’s rapid growth,” he said in a speech delivered by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Khairul Firdaus Akhbar Khan, during the MOTAC Hari Raya Gathering with the Community @Bintulu 2025 at the Arena Petanque Jepak last night.
Tiong, who is also Bintulu MP, mentioned that the Flood Mitigation and Relocation Workshop for Squatters and Riverside Residents of Sungai Sebiew was held in Putrajaya on February 25 and 26 to coordinate efforts among the relevant agencies.
“The relocation sites have been identified in the areas of Jepak and Sungai Plan to ensure that river-deepening works and flood mitigation efforts are not hindered by squatter settlements or unplanned housing,” he explained.
According to Tiong, the implementation of this project will be closely monitored and is expected to begin soon for the safety and wellbeing of the residents here.
Meanwhile, he also reminded the public to be cautious of the spread of false information and the misuse of his image by irresponsible parties.
“I urge the public not to be easily deceived by suspicious content on social media. If in doubt, verify with me or the service centre, or report it directly to the authorities,” he said.
Also present were Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee and Bintulu District Officer Awang Mohammed Nizam Awang Ali Bohan.
