Price tag of RM100 mln Mukah waterfront project may increase due to shore reclamation, redesign plans

Abang Johari (seated fourth left) during a press conference after visiting UTS Laila Taib Mukah Campus on Aug 13, 2024. Photo credit: Sarawak Public Communications Unit

By Karen Bong

MUKAH, Aug 13: The cost of the proposed Mukah waterfront project may exceed the initial estimate of RM100 million due to the need for shore reclamation and a redesign of the waterfront landscape.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg explained that the project will transform Mukah’s landscape, extending up to the Tellian River, which is renowned for the Kaul Festival activities.

“The initial estimate for the project was RM100 million, with RM60 million allocated for the first phase and RM40 million for the second phase.

“I have approved this allocation, but it seems the cost might increase due to the necessary replanning,” he stated during a recorded press conference after visiting the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) Laila Taib Mukah Campus today.

Abang Johari revealed that construction for the project, aimed at enhancing the beauty of Mukah, is expected to begin in 2025 following the completion of new survey work.

“There is a need to reclaim the shores and redesign the waterfront, all while ensuring the surrounding settlements remain undisturbed. This will create a stunning environment for Mukah,” he added.

Once completed, Abang Johari is confident that the project will provide an even more vibrant and splendid setting for the Kaul Festival along the river in the future.

Malaysian Deputy Economy Minister and Mukah MP Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib, Minister of Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine were among those present. — DayakDaily