KUCHING: The RM31-million allocation for Batu Kawa is primarily a comprehensive riverbank protection and rehabilitation project, not solely for the construction of a glass bridge as has been claimed.
In a statement released today (June 28), SUPP Batu Kawa Branch Youth Chief, Chen Tzeum Ling, said the proposed glass bridge was merely one component of the overall project, with an estimated cost of approximately RM1 million, accounting for only a small fraction of the total budget.
He said the majority of the remaining funds would be utilised for riverbank protection and stabilisation works, public safety facilities, landscape enhancement and other related infrastructure improvements.
He said the project was particularly crucial as the area had previously experienced riverbank collapses, including incidents where vehicles had fallen into the river.
“Riverbank strengthening and rehabilitation works are both urgent and necessary,” he said in the statement.
Chen reminded the Democratic Action Party (DAP) not to confuse or mislead the public, nor distort the facts regarding the project without verifying them first.
He said under the leadership of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Batu Kawa residents had never had to choose between landmark projects and basic infrastructure development, with both having progressed simultaneously.
While landmark projects helped enhance Batu Kawa’s image and future development potential, essential infrastructure such as roads, drainage systems and public amenities continued to be upgraded to ensure residents genuinely enjoyed the benefits of development, he said.
He noted that the Member of Parliament for Stampin receives approximately RM4.5 million annually in constituency allocations, and hoped these funds would be effectively used to speed up infrastructure and people-centric development projects in Batu Kawa for the benefit of local residents.
