KUCHING, June 22 – Authorities have moved quickly to address a worsening riverbank erosion problem at Kampung Rantau Panjang, Batu Kawa, with an immediate RM200,000 temporary solution approved while plans for a permanent protection project are being finalised.
The initiative was announced following a site visit by Sarawak Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Director Datu Ir Ts Ahmad Denney and his team under a turun padang programme to assess the situation on the ground.
The temporary works are intended to reduce further erosion and safeguard nearby residents while consultants and surveyors complete the design process for Phase 2 of the riverbank protection project. The permanent project is expected to be opened for tender by the end of this year.
Riverbank erosion has become an increasing concern across Sarawak, where many villages are located along major rivers. Changes in weather patterns and the effects of global climate change have contributed to stronger river flows and higher water volumes, resulting in more frequent erosion and flooding incidents that threaten public safety and property.
The riverbank protection project at Kampung Rantau Panjang has faced several challenges over the years. Phase 1, involving 450 metres of riverbank protection, was initially awarded through an open tender in 2019 at a cost of approximately RM8.7 million.
However, the project encountered difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic due to a sharp increase in construction material costs. The rising expenses affected project implementation and resulted in delays.
As a result, the project was re-tendered in 2022. The lowest successful bid for the same 450-metre section increased significantly to RM11.6 million, representing an additional RM2.9 million compared to the original contract value. Construction was eventually completed after 18 months and was fully finished in late 2023.
For the next stage, Premier Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has approved a project ceiling of RM31 million to complete the remaining 500 metres of riverbank protection under Phase 2.
Officials noted that construction costs have continued to rise over the years. Estimates show that a complete 950-metre riverbank protection project would have cost around RM18.6 million in 2019 and RM24.6 million in 2023. In comparison, the current allocation of RM31 million is required for the remaining 500 metres alone, highlighting the impact of inflation and increasing construction costs.
Once completed, the project is expected to bring additional benefits to the community. Plans include linking the Kampung Rantau Panjang riverbank area with Batu Kawa Riverbank Park through a proposed glass bridge. The development will create an approximately three-kilometre scenic riverside route while strengthening connectivity between the traditional Malay village and Batu Kawa’s historic Chinese township.
The riverbank protection project is expected to enhance public safety, protect valuable land from erosion and support future community development in the rapidly growing Batu Kawa area.
