By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 27: Senator Robert Lau has questioned whether the proposed RM58 million flood mitigation project for Sungai Bidut in Sibu Division will be included and approved under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
Debating the 13MP in the Dewan Negara on Tuesday (Aug 26), Lau highlighted that the proposal by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) is crucial to revive Sungai Bidut as an agricultural hub, as the area has suffered from worsening floods for decades.
“Over 120 years ago, under the rule of the Second White Rajah Charles Brooke, the government of Sarawak developed the Rajang River Basin into a major food-producing region. The area between the Rajang, Igan, and Lebaan Rivers, centred around Sungai Bidut, was identified as a key agricultural zone. It soon became known as the food basket of Sarawak, covering several thousand acres,” he said.
However, Lau noted that over the last 30 to 40 years, frequent flooding caused by outdated bunds, dilapidated floodgates, and siltation at river mouths has devastated farms.
“Today, vegetable farms flood almost every time it rains heavily, especially during high tides,” he stressed.
According to Lau, the DID’s proposal involved upgrading bunds, installing new floodgates, and carrying out regular dredging works to protect farmlands.
He emphasised that the project is expected to cost RM58 million but would yield significant returns by restoring thousands of acres to agricultural productivity.
“This project, if carried out successfully, will make this area agriculturally productive again. It will open up more land to agriculture. It is a project worth every dollar and will deliver returns manifold,” he said.
Lau urged the relevant ministry to confirm whether the proposal has reached the top decision-making level and whether it will be incorporated in the 13MP.
“I seek from and ask the relevant Minister: Has this proposal reached the top decision-making levels? Will it be included and approved under the 13th Malaysia Plan?” he asked.
He concluded by expressing support for the 13MP, while reiterating the importance of addressing Sungai Bidut’s longstanding flood woes. — DayakDaily
