KUCHING: The implementation of the Flood Mitigation Project (RTB) for the Stampin Resettlement Scheme is expected to benefit more than 9,000 residents, comprising approximately 1,000 households in the area.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said that the project is crucial for reducing the risk of flash floods, which frequently affect residents in the settlement which has existed for over 50 years.

According to him, Phase One of the flood mitigation project involves an allocation of approximately RM87 million to upgrade the drainage system and implement flood mitigation measures in the area.

He noted that the primary drainage works must be completed first before the smaller drainage systems within the residential area can be connected, ensuring that water flow is managed more effectively.

“Most importantly, it will help reduce flash floods. By enlarging the main drainage channels and connecting them to the Sarawak River, the capacity for water will be increased, which will help lower the risk of flooding,” he said.

He stated this when met by the media during a visit to the RTB launch for the Stampin Resettlement Scheme here on Thursday.

Datuk Amar Dr Sim explained that the project is expected to take approximately 30 months to complete, as its implementation involves an area with existing houses, water pipes, utilities and infrastructure.

According to him, a phased approach is necessary to ensure that development work can be carried out systematically without significantly disrupting the residents' amenities.

He added that efforts to address flooding must take into account changing weather patterns and the increasing frequency of heavy rainfall resulting from climate change.

The Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government clarified that flood mitigation planning now places greater emphasis on creating water storage spaces such as retention ponds to hold excess water before it is channeled away.

He noted that this approach is crucial to ensuring that new developments do not increase flood risks in the surrounding areas.

“Water needs space to be contained. That is why we must look at the entire system from minor drains to main drainage channels, and ultimately to the river,” he said.

He further added that the implementation of this flood mitigation project is part of the Sarawak Government’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and the well-being of the population, particularly in areas that have long been developed.

Datuk Amar Dr Sim added that the development of infrastructure such as drainage systems, roads and public facilities must be carried out continuously to ensure that these areas continue to evolve in line with the needs of the residents.

Also present were Kota Sentosa Assemblyman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng and other dignitaries. -UKASnews