Navigation study of Sarawak River to be completed soon, says state Transport Minister

KUCHING: A study on the navigation of the Sarawak River from the Kuching Waterfront to the historic town of Siniawan in Bau is expected to be completed soon.

State Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the study was in the final stage and scheduled for completion at the end of the second quarter this year.

"The important aspect of this study is identifying a safe navigation channel, dangerous shallow spots in the river and locations of interest for visitors.

"It will also identify suitable locations for jetties along the stretch from Kuching Waterfront to Siniawan town," he told Miro Simuh (GPS-Serembu) during question time in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting on Friday (May 10).

Miro had asked about the implementation of the proposed river transport system from Kuching Waterfront to Siniawan based on the navigation study.

Located about 25km from Kuching, the century-old Siniawan was one of the earliest Chinese settlements in Sarawak.

The town centre, which featured traditional wooden shophouses, hosts a night market every weekend.

Last year, Henry had said a river cruise may be offered from Kuching to Siniawan once the Sarawak River navigation study was completed and the route deemed safe for boat travel.

He also said the proposed river route had been included in the Bau tourism report while a study on a tour package had been done.