RM7.4 Billion Allocated For 46 Water-Related Projects In Sarawak
SIBU: The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), has allocated RM7.4 billion for the implementation of 46 water-related projects in Sarawak under Rolling Plan 1 (RP1) of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
Deputy Prime Minister and PETRA Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof said the substantial allocation comprised 33 continuation projects and 13 new projects.
“Of the total allocation, RM5.8 billion is for projects implemented by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), including flood mitigation, river conservation and coastal erosion control.
“The implementation of these projects is expected to strengthen water security, reduce disaster risks and improve the well-being of the people,” he said.
He was delivering his welcoming remarks at the 2026 National-level World Rivers Day celebration, themed ‘Rivers and Streams in Our Communities’, at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Fasa 2 here on Saturday.
The event was officially launched by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.
Elaborating on long-term management planning, Datuk Amar Fadillah said PETRA was also undertaking an Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) study for the Batang Rajang Basin.
He explained that Batang Rajang was one of nine river basins in Sarawak covered by the detailed study.
“The Batang Rajang IRBM study is expected to be fully completed by August 2027.
“The findings will provide a comprehensive action plan to help the Sarawak Government plan river management in a more integrated, systematic and sustainable manner,” he added.
Meanwhile, he urged the public to make use of the National River Trail (DSK) programme established nationwide, including in Sarawak, as spaces for recreation, environmental education and ecotourism.
At the same event, the 2026 Anugerah Khas Sumber Air (AKSA) award was presented to local communities in recognition of their outstanding commitment to grassroots river conservation and preservation efforts.
Other activities held as part of the celebration included the Ekspedisi Sumber Air Negara (EKSAN) around Sibu and Kapit divisions, a fishing competition along Batang Rajang, Pocket Talk sessions, as well as a Rahmah exhibition and sales event. -UKASnews
