BINTANGOR: River safety and cleanliness remain a key priority for the Sarawak Government to safeguard the interests of communities that depend on water transport.
Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, said this is because rivers play an important role not only as transportation routes but also as lifelines that support economic activities and the daily lives of communities, especially in coastal and inland areas.
”We aim to raise public awareness about the importance of river safety practices, compliance with navigation regulations and our shared responsibility to ensure our rivers remain clean, safe and well-preserved,” he said.
”The cooperation of all parties is crucial to prevent accidents, protect river infrastructure and preserve the environment for future generations.”
He made the remarks during the River Safety and Cleanliness Campaign as well as the project handover ceremony for the Replacement of Existing Pontoons and Other Associated Works at R.C. Pontoon Wharf, Main Bazaar, here on Tuesday (Feb 10).
He said the upgrading project for the R.C. Pontoon Main Bazaar Jetty not only complements the safety campaign but also provides a safer, more comfortable and more accessible experience for boat operators, passengers and the local community.
According to him, the project, valued at RM3,040,357, was implemented by the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) under the supervision of the Sarawak Ministry of Transport, beginning on November 6, 2024 and fully completed on December 19, 2025.
Lee expressed appreciation to the SRB, the project team, and the contractor for their commitment and cooperation in ensuring the project was carried out smoothly and on schedule.
With the completion of this project and the implementation of the River Safety and Cleanliness Campaign, we reaffirm Sarawak’s commitment to safer, cleaner rivers equipped with better infrastructure,he said.
