By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 1: Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap has pressed for urgent action on the long-delayed RM350 million flood mitigation project for the Stampin Resettlement Scheme, stressing that residents have suffered long enough and their safety must no longer be compromised.
According to a press release, Yap said the project, first announced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on Nov 16, 2022, was further set in motion with a kick-off meeting chaired by Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Datu Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel on July 13, 2023.
“However, despite clear state-level commitment and funding allocation by the Sarawak GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) government, the physical implementation of the project has yet to commence, much to the disappointment of the affected community,” he said.
Yap, accompanied by Penghulu Jakup Buan, Tuai Rumah Michael Mada, and representatives from various village development and security committees (JKKKs), held a crucial site meeting today with officers from the Drainage & Irrigation Department (DID) and their appointed consultant at the Stampin Resettlement Scheme.
The engagement was held to scrutinise the progress of the RM350 million Flood Mitigation Project — a long-overdue initiative that has become a major source of anxiety and frustration for local residents.
During the dialogue, Yap expressed deep concern over the slow pace of progress and relayed the mounting frustration of residents who have for years endured repeated flash floods.
“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about the safety, health, and dignity of the people — especially the elderly and children — who are at constant risk during the rainy season,” he said.
He appealed to DID and the appointed consultant to treat this matter with the utmost seriousness and to expedite all remaining technical and planning processes so that works can proceed without further unnecessary delays.
Yap emphasised that effective flood mitigation is not a luxury but an essential obligation to the people.
“As their elected representative, I stand firmly with the residents of the Stampin Resettlement Scheme.
“I urge all relevant authorities to redouble their efforts and uphold the trust placed in them by the community.
“It is my sincere hope that, through closer cooperation and commitment, this long-awaited project can finally be implemented in a timely manner,” he said.
The meeting ended with a clear consensus from local leaders and Yap calling for the prompt commencement of physical works, so that residents may finally live in safety and dignity. — DayakDaily
