SIBU: An allocation of RM1.2 million from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) has been allocated to clean up three major rivers in the Durin area — Sungai Durin, Sungai Naman, and Sungai Assan.
According to Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Dudong Branch chairman, Councillor Datuk Teo Boon Siew, these rivers have not been cleaned for nearly 50 years.
“These rivers now have the opportunity to be restored after suffering from serious issues such as fallen trees along the banks, scattered rubbish, and overgrown vegetation, which have damaged the river ecosystem.
“They are not only vital waterways for local residents but also play a significant role in their daily lives, particularly in terms of water quality and activities that depend on the cleanliness of these rivers,” he told reporters after the miring ceremony held in conjunction with the Sungai Durin clean-up operation yesterday (Feb 14).
He added that the initiative has received full support from the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, who is also the Dudong assemblyman, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. He played a crucial role in securing government approval for the funds.
Teo said that the total cost of cleaning the three rivers amounts to RM1.2 million, with Sungai Durin and Sungai Naman each receiving RM300,000, while the longer Sungai Assan has been allocated RM600,000.
Without the clean-up, he fears that the deteriorating condition of the rivers would negatively impact residents living along these waterways, including more than 10 longhouses that rely on them.
“The clean-up, which began a few weeks ago, was temporarily halted due to rainy weather and fluctuating tides. However, with more stable weather conditions now, the contractor is expected to expedite the work,” he said.
