MIRI – Flood mitigation efforts in Miri remain a pressing concern as three major projects continue to face delays, with residents still experiencing recurring flash floods in several areas.
Sarawak Transport Minister and Senadin State Assemblyman (ADUN) Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin confirmed that while progress has been made, two projects have stalled and one remains incomplete, leaving communities vulnerable during heavy rainfall.
The first initiative, the Miri River Flood Project, is designed to improve drainage across the Miri River Basin. According to Dato Sri Lee, physical progress has reached 71.53 percent, with completion targeted for May 2026. Works include improvements at Pengkalan Lutong and Tanah Pendam Krokop.
The second project, known as the Second Selapat Bah Miri Renggat Project, involves upgrading ditch systems in Sungai Dalam, Taman Lopeng, Kampung Pujut Tanjung Batu, and Taman Tunku. Initially launched in November 2025, the project has since been halted, raising concerns about its timeline.
The third, the Sungai Lutong B Flood Project, is scheduled to begin in December 2025. It will cover Senadin Village, Sealine Village, MCOT, and Lutong, aiming to address long-standing drainage issues in these flood-prone areas.
Dato Sri Lee stressed that coordination between agencies such as the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), the Miri Divisional Disaster Management Committee (JPBB), and contractors is crucial to ensure the projects meet specifications and are completed on schedule. He noted that the government is determined to resolve bottlenecks and accelerate progress.
In the meantime, short-term measures are being implemented. Authorities have been tasked with patching potholes, clearing blocked drains, and maintaining existing infrastructure, particularly along Jalan Ilmu, where drainage has been severely affected.
Dato Sri Lee also confirmed that three Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) have been opened to assist flood victims. These include Dewan Pujut Tanjung Batu, Masjid Darul Imam Kampung Tudan Phase Two, and Dewan Komuniti Tudan Phase Four, collectively providing 37 rooms and shelter for 153 evacuees.
He assured that evacuees are being supported with adequate supplies, clean water, sanitation facilities, and fogging services to prevent disease outbreaks. Quarantine measures are also in place, following standard operating procedures (SOP).
The minister reiterated that while long-term flood mitigation projects are essential, immediate interventions remain critical to safeguard residents. The government’s phased approach aims to reduce risks, improve safety, and enhance the resilience of Miri’s communities against future flooding.
