Flood plans threaten heritage site

KUCHING: A heritage building in front of Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) is facing the wrecking ball amid plans to address chronic flooding in the area.

Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah expressed deep concern over the proposed demolition of the former nurse hostel, a building he said holds significant sentimental and historical value.

“The building holds meaningful memories for many trained nurses. It is very sad to hear that it will be demolished,” Karim told a press conference at the Borneo Craft Global Expo and Conference 2024 (BCG 2024) held at Baitulmakmur 2 Building today (Aug 6).

He questioned the decision to target the hostel for demolition, suggesting the underlying problem might be the drainage system rather than the building itself.

The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) has identified the need for a water retention pond to mitigate flooding, but Karim was surprised the ministry responsible for heritage preservation was bypassed in the planning process.

“I understand that the museum director’s assessment at that time also said the building did not have heritage value. I am very shocked and disappointed,” he added.

Karim stressed the importance of exploring all options to resolve the flooding issue without sacrificing the heritage building.

“We are advocating for a comprehensive assessment of alternative solutions,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Sarawak Heritage Society (SHS) has also raised objections to the demolition, describing the building as a valuable part of the state’s heritage. The group is also calling for the preservation of the former nurse quarters at the intersection of Crookshank Road and Tun Abang Haji Openg Road.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had confirmed receiving a letter from SHS requesting intervention to save the quarters and pledged to review the preservation applications.