By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 12: Clearing works will soon commence to remove overgrown vegetation along the Tabuan River, paving the way for Sungai Apong fishermen to relocate their boats to the old jetty near Sungai Apong for docking and unloading of their catch, as the existing jetty is slated for demolition to make way for a residential development.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has taken proactive steps to assist the fishermen following concerns over the impending redevelopment of the current jetty.
Late last year, Sungai Apong fishermen approached political secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Kho Teck Wan, to highlight the challenges they would face once the existing jetty is demolished. They proposed reusing the old jetty along Sungai Apong, which is currently covered by overgrown vegetation, large trees and mangroves.
Kho subsequently brought the matter to the attention of the Sarawak River Board (SRB) and MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng to seek appropriate assistance and solutions for the affected fishermen. The issue was also highlighted by Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Public Complaint Bureau chief Milton Foo.
“Upon receiving the request, the SRB and the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) conducted three site visits to the old jetty to assess its structural integrity.
“The assessments were carefully carried out to ensure protection of the riverbank and preservation of the natural environment, including wildlife and mangroves along the Tabuan River, during the clearing process,” Wee explained in a statement.
Today, the proposed clearing methods and approaches were presented by the SRB and NREB to Wee, Kho and representatives of the fishermen for further discussion.
With the MBKS mayor agreeing to provide the necessary assistance and the fishermen concurring with the clearing process, the SRB will commence works to clear overgrown vegetation along the Tabuan River near the old jetty.
The clearing works are expected to take approximately one month to complete.
MBKS will extend its support by providing facilities such as RoRo bins and landscape assistance to ensure the riverbank works proceed smoothly. The collaborative effort underscores strong coordination between local authorities and state agencies in addressing community needs.
Wee expressed appreciation to the SRB and NREB for their cooperation and reaffirmed MBKS’ commitment to supporting the Sungai Apong fishermen in relocating their boats to the old jetty.
“This jetty is not merely a structure; it represents the livelihood of many families. As a city, we must ensure development progresses responsibly while safeguarding the welfare of our local communities. No one will be left behind,” he said.
MBKS has called on local residents and fishermen to extend full cooperation during the clearing works to ensure the project is completed efficiently and safely.
The Sungai Apong initiative reflects MBKS’ continued commitment to inclusive development, community engagement and practical solutions that balance progress with the livelihoods of the people. — DayakDaily
