By Shikin Louis
SIMUNJAN, Oct 5: Sarawak will construct a new dual-purpose riverbank embankment in Simunjan using State funds and modern Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology to prevent erosion and transform the area into a waterfront attraction.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, when closing the Simunjan Festival here today, said over RM100 million had been approved for the project, which is in the design stage, and assured it would not suffer the same fate as previous embankments.
“We do not want the embankments like before, which collapsed because the piling did not reach deep enough. This time, we are doing it properly and the allocation is from Sarawak, not from Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
Later, when met by reporters, he explained that studies had found the main weakness of past embankments was shallow piling that could not withstand strong river currents.
“With this funding, we can use the right technology. Even with water pressure, the embankment will hold firm because of the technology applied in its design. That is the first purpose.
“The second is to serve as a beautification project for Simunjan. When you build an embankment, you also create space for infrastructure like roads, which will enhance the town’s landscape,” he elaborated.
Abang Johari also revealed that another riverbank embankment project will be carried out in Kampung Sageng once the design phase is completed. – DayakDaily
