KUCHING – The Netherlands is ready to work with Sarawak in tackling the state’s perennial flood problem, drawing on centuries-old expertise in water management against rising challenges posed by climate change.
Dutch Ambassador to Malaysia Jacques Werner said the relations in this area needed to be strengthened, during a courtesy visit to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian. He said that the Netherlands is set to ink a MoU on water cooperation with Malaysia’s Federal Government, and proposed to expand the framework to Sarawak.
“Over centuries, we have cultivated many strategies and become experienced and knowledgeable in water management. We wish to extend knowledge and expertise as well as goods and services like these to Sarawak in the future, for a risk minimisation on done and impacts of flood impact,” Werner told reporters when met after the meeting at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, Petra Jaya.
Sarawak has had to battle severe floods over the years, and those in places like Bintulu and Sibu are among the hardest hit. Climate change, along with rapid urbanisation, has been blamed for an increase in the number and severity of floods.
A study carried out by Swinburne University in Kuching states that with increased sea levels as well as intense rain, there is a rise in flood depth and spread along the Sarawak River. At the same time, WWF-Malaysia warned that deforestation and weak land planning are eroding natural protections and making communities more vulnerable.
They are eyeing smarter, longer-term solutions for flood control in Sarawak. The Ministry of Public Health, between Housing and Local Government has said in the recent past that traditional defences against flooding need to adapt to an increasing urbanised landscape under pressure from climate change.
In this context, the offer by the Netherlands of technical know how is considered timely. The nation has long been prided in its advanced system of flood protection: dykes, canals and cutting edge storm water management. Inclusion of Dutch experience could open channels for Sarawak to known solutions and technologies, making the state more resilient should disasters ever happen again.
Apart from water, Werner said Dutch companies are keen to tap into opportunities in the infrastructure sector in Sarawak. He mentioned that a number of companies are willing to participate in the state’s grand plan for development of new airports and redeveloping existing ones.
This is after previous discussions between the Dutch delegates and Sarawak officials on port and maritime development, during which the Netherlands’ competency in dredging and port planning was identified as a potential strength.
Pointing out that cooperation between Sarawak and Dutch firms could help the state to achieve its bigger economic picture, including placing infrastructure projects where they won’t utterly crumble under environmental pressures.
With Sarawak still grappling with climate change challenges, potential collaborations and linkages with international experts can be important in ensuring the safety of communities and development in the state.
