Tiang says that this project’s final phase would involve the construction of three pump stations along the Seduan River.

SIBU (March 22): The federal government should give priority to the approval and implementation of Phase 5 of the Sibu Flood Mitigation Project (FMP).

In making this call, Sarawak Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang stated that this project’s final phase would involve the construction of three pump stations along the Seduan River.

“I am still awaiting federal government approval. Last I heard, this project was added to the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).

“Based on the briefing by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Sarawak, Phase 4 (of FMP) is already up for tender.

“I thus urge the federal government to speedily approve Phase 5, which involves the Pelawan area, for the sake of Sibu folks,” he told reporters when met after officiating at the Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) Sibu Chapter’s annual flag sale in Star Megamall here today.

On the project, Tiang described it as an effective method to address flooding issues at Jalan Ling Kai Cheng, Jalan Apollo, and Jalan Gelama.

“In this regard, Phase 5 will be the most effective if initiated, costing around RM400 million, the most expensive among all the phases under the Sibu flood mitigation programme.

“However, regardless of the costs and budgets, we still need to take care of the people’s welfare,” he stressed.

Additionally, Tiang gave assurance that the upgrading works on Jalan Ling Kai Cheng would commence after the floods had receded.

“I will also continue reporting this situation to the SDMC (Sarawak Disaster Management Committee),” he said.

On the recent flooding situation in the region, Tiang stated that the disaster relief team under the leadership of the Sibu Resident’s Office was already in motion.

“They continue to closely monitor all the affected areas.

“As far as I know, as of yesterday (March 21), Sibu recorded 21 schools affected by the floods. I thus urge the public, particularly those residing in low areas, to be more cautious,” he said.

The deputy minister also said his Pelawan Service Centre was ready to distribute food aid to those affected by the flood.

“Those facing food supply problems are welcome to contact my service centre on 012-760 9622.”