New fibre boats with better capabilities to be used for crossing Sg Btg Kayan, says rep

LUNDU (Aug 29): New fibre boats will be introduced to replace the existing regular ferry boats used for crossing the Sungai Kayan between Kampung Selampit and Kampung Bitokan, said Billy Sujang.

The Opar assemblyman said this decision was made following concerns with the current boats being unsuitable for the river’s conditions, particularly during low tide, making it difficult for boaters to dock properly at the villages’ jetties.

“After discussions with tribal leaders, the Sarawak Rivers Institute (LSS), Greater Kuching Development Coordinating Agency (GKCDA) and Transport Ministry, we have determined that regular boats are not suitable for this river.

“When the water level drops, the boats could not reach the jetty due to the choppy conditions,” he told reporters at Kampung Bitokan here today.

Billy said the authorities have directed suppliers to design and manufacture new fibre boats tailored to the needs of the river.

Due to the urgency of the situation, he additionally instructed the suppliers to complete the design within one week.

“Once the design and pricing are finalised, the fibre boats must be ready within two months, meeting the necessary specifications for Sungai Batang Kayan,” he said.

Adding on, he said the new boats would be capable of ferrying motorcycles, with a maximum capacity of 12 passengers, as well as safety equipment and solar-powered lighting to enhance safety.

Earlier, Billy was accompanying the Minister of Women, Child Development and Community Welfare Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, who visited Kampung Bitokan.

During her visit, Fatimah delivered aid to the families of the three victims who perished in a recent boat tragedy in Sungai Batang Kayan.