THE recent flash floods in Miri, caused by a convergence of extreme rainfall and tidal surges, have spurred the Sarawak government to fast-track flood mitigation projects worth over RM75 million.
Deputy Minister of Public Health and Housing (Local Government) Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, described the downpour as a “sky burst” event, saying the deluge coincided with a king tide, overwhelming Miri’s drainage system and inundating flood-prone and low-lying areas across the city.
“In response to these challenges, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) initiated the Rancangan Tebatan Banjir Sungai Miri in November 2023, with a total allocation of RM25.655 million,” he said during the fourth meeting of the fourth session of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
Phase 1 of the project focuses on the construction of two key pump stations; one at Jalan Miri, Lutong, near the Lutong Bridge, and another at Jalan Permaisuri, close to the Sungai Baong cemetery. These are aimed at reducing flood risks in Kampung Pengkalan Lutong and Jalan Jee Foh.
Dr Penguang added that Phase 2, which has been approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12), will cover a wider area including Pujut, Lopeng, and part of Taman Tunku, including residential zones that have recently experienced frequent flooding.
The detailed design is completed, and the project is expected to proceed in the final quarter of 2025.
Dr Penguang said the DID is exploring long-term, sustainable flood solutions, including the development of vertical shaft reservoirs linked by underground tunnels. These systems would capture excess stormwater and gradually release it into nearby rivers, easing pressure on surface drainage networks.
Another option under consideration is the repurposing of existing sewage tunnels for stormwater management which is a method already in use in Canada and several western countries.
“These comprehensive efforts reflect the government’s resolve to protect Miri’s urban and suburban populations from the worsening impacts of climate-induced flood events,” he said.
