MIRI: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing progress of the Kuala Baram Delta Miri Access Channel Dredging and Deepening Project, describing it as a promising development for the state’s infrastructure and economy.
Speaking after a site visit on Tuesday (April 29), Uggah, who also serves as Second Minister for Finance and New Economy, and Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, said the project was currently 0.3 per cent ahead of schedule.
“So far, we are very pleased to see the progress,” he told reporters. “It seems that they have the resources and the technology. We’re happy to note that everything is moving slightly ahead of schedule.”
The project, which aims to dredge and deepen waterways in the Kuala Baram delta to improve navigation and mitigate flooding, carries a price tag of RM208.9 million.
The project involves dredging and construction of two dikes six kilometres (km) long with a depth of over 25 metres.
It also includes the construction of a 6km-long training bund that will guide river flow and sedimentation more effectively.
According to Uggah, the training bund is expected to be completed by December 2026, a deadline that the contractors have committed to.
“We agreed from the beginning that the training bund must be ready by the end of 2026,” he said.
“They have confirmed that they are sticking to this schedule, and we will be monitoring the progress closely.”
Uggah also noted the importance of regular on-site inspections, saying that the state government, under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), is taking a hands-on approach to ensure timely delivery.
“The Premier has directed us to go to the ground regularly.
“Being present makes a difference, it allows us to address issues as they arise, discuss them amicably, and ensure that the project ultimately benefits the state, our people, and the economy,” he added.
The project spans a considerable distance, and is considered a strategic initiative to bolster Sarawak’s coastal resilience and marine access.
“There’s still a lot to do,” Uggah added. “But this is a project that, when completed, Sarawak can truly be proud of.”
Also present were Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Infrastructure and Port Development II (Port Development) Deputy Minister, Datuk Majang Renggi, Miri Port Authority (MPA) Chairman, Datuk Paulus Palu Ngumbang, and MPA General Manager, Serawa Budol.
