Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian addresses flood issues

suppadmin | August 21, 2024

Faced with the challenges of climate change and rapid local development in Batu Kawa, Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian remains committed to addressing the flood issues affecting various areas through multiple channels.

Dr. Sim who is also Batu Kawa Assemblyman conducted an inspection of the ongoing drainage system upgrading project in the Desa Wira area, where he received a briefing from the officers of the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID). During the visit, he announced the construction of the third retention pond in Batu Kawa, specifically in the Desa Wira area, to combat the recurring flash floods.

He highlighted that the entire project, which includes the construction of the retention pond and the upgrading of surrounding drainage systems, will cost RM 20 million. This Projek Rakyat is expected to be completed within 20 months.

He explained that the DID has already initiated the process for the Desa Wira retention pond project through an open tender. The tender advertisement was published in July this year, followed by a site inspection, and the tendering process will be completed in August this year.

“To effectively address the flooding issues in Desa Wira, a comprehensive plan is required. This involves upgrading internal drains, expanding the external drainage systems, and constructing retention ponds to mitigate the problem,” Dr. Sim reiterated.

Currently, three drainage system upgrade projects are underway in Desa Wira, including the upgrades of drains at Lorong 17B1/B2, Lorong 17B3/B4, and Lorong 17A6, with the total cost of over RM 3.54 million, RM 3.27 million, and RM 4.37 million, respectively. These projects cover a total drain length of 3,843.6 meters and are expected to be completed by February 2025.

According to him, the Sarawak government has approved the construction of the first retention pond on the vacant land in front of MJC New Township, at a cost of RM 19.88 million. This project commenced on May 24, 2024, and is expected to be completed by May 23, 2026. Additionally, the second retention pond will be constructed in the Pine Square commercial area, at a cost of RM 22.50 million, and is slated for completion by November 23, 2026.

Dr. Sim emphasized that addressing drainage issues is an ongoing process. With the increasing amount of rainfall and surrounding land developments, the government will continuously explore and implement measures to alleviate or reduce the occurrence of flash floods.