Cabinet Decision Pending on RM2.6 Billion Kuching Flood Control Plan, Says Fadillah
Kota Samarahan — A large-scale flood mitigation proposal for Kuching, estimated at RM2.6 billion, is currently under consideration and awaiting approval from the Cabinet, according to Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof.
Fadillah, who also holds the portfolio of Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, said the proposal combines two key flood management projects — the second phase of the Kuching flood mitigation plan and the Sungai Samariang project — into a single, integrated framework.
He explained that the initial scope only covered Phase Two of the Kuching initiative. However, following a request from the Sarawak government, the federal government agreed in principle to include the Samariang component to ensure a more comprehensive approach to managing water systems that are closely interconnected.
If endorsed, the combined projects are expected to enhance flood resilience across several vulnerable areas, particularly in Samariang, where drainage systems are linked to broader urban water flows.
Speaking at the Petra Squad 2026 Sarawak Zone programme, Fadillah also highlighted ongoing works under the RM191 million Sarawak River Integrated Basin Development Project. This includes flood mitigation efforts at Sungai Gersik and Sungai Sinjan, as well as river deepening works in Matang, with completion targeted for October 2027.
He noted that once completed, the project is expected to provide improved flood protection for more than 22,000 residents in Kuching.
Fadillah further announced that the RM97.2 million Phase Three flood mitigation project in Sibu has been fully completed since December 2023 and has now been officially handed over to the Sarawak state authorities.
Looking ahead, he said the state government is expected to fund the RM120 million Phase Four of the Sibu project, while federal funding will be sought for the RM474 million Phase Five.
He also confirmed that the RM10 million Stakan flood mitigation project, completed in August 2024, has been handed over to address flash flooding issues along the Kuching–Samarahan border.
Fadillah stressed that these projects form part of a broader and continuous effort by the government to improve flood management infrastructure and reduce risks through coordinated planning between federal and state agencies.
-wilayah.com.my
