MIRI – The Sarawak Government has allocated RM50 million for a flood mitigation project in Miri, prioritising critical flood-prone areas such as Padang Kerbau and Jalan Cahaya, which have long suffered from recurring flash floods.
Sarawak Transport Minister, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, announced that both locations will be the first to receive attention under the new flood relief initiative. These areas frequently experience flooding due to inadequate drainage systems and water runoff from adjacent hilly terrains.
“I’ve instructed the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) to begin works in the most severely affected areas like Padang Kerbau and Jalan Cahaya without waiting for the full project rollout, which may take up to two years,” he said during a working visit to the project sites on Monday.
The minister inspected two key locations: the Tanah River Cleaning and Drainage Proposal in Jalan Cahaya, currently in the tender stage, and ongoing cleaning and drainage upgrades at Pujut Padang Kerbau.
A major issue identified was the lack of a culvert beneath the main road, which prevents effective water flow and causes stagnant floodwaters. “We will construct a culvert across the road and overhaul the entire drainage system to improve water discharge,” he assured.
However, Dato Sri Lee also noted an obstacle involving a privately-owned land parcel situated along a vital section of the proposed drainage path. The landowner has yet to grant temporary access for works to proceed.
“We’ll continue negotiations with the owner, but if no solution is reached, the government may resort to land acquisition in the interest of public safety,” he stated.
This flood prevention initiative forms part of the broader Deep River Drainage System Improvement Plan, which encompasses Taman Tunku, Jalan Cahaya, Padang Kerbau, and Lopeng Baru.
Dato Sri Lee expressed appreciation to DID for their dedication and collaborative efforts in realising this comprehensive flood mitigation plan aimed at protecting the people of Miri from future flooding.
