Proposed Sg Sarawak Bypass to divert 60 pct excess water, set for tender this year

Dr Sim speaking to reporters after the Chinese New Year Open House and Community Gathering at Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Multipurpose Hall on Feb 21.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Feb 21: The proposed Sungai Sarawak Bypass is designed to divert up to 60 per cent of excess water from Sungai Sarawak directly to the sea, reducing overflow into low-lying villages and urban areas along the riverbanks.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the RM2.4 billion project, funded by the federal government, is expected to be called for tender this year and implemented over five to six years due to its scale.

He said the bypass canal will span about 6km, beginning near Batu Kawa and connecting to Sungai Salak before discharging into the South China Sea.

According to Dr Sim, the large-scale project is necessary because local mitigation measures alone are insufficient when the main river level rises.

“The State government has spent more than RM200 million on local flood mitigation works in Batu Kawa, including drainage upgrades and retention ponds, with most of the projects completed or nearing completion,” he told reporters after the Chinese New Year Open House and Community Gathering at Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Multipurpose Hall today.

However, flooding linked to Sungai Sarawak overflow cannot be resolved solely through localised works.

“Flood mitigation is under the concurrent list. The state handles local infrastructure, while the Sungai Sarawak Bypass is federally funded because of its size and impact,” he said.

Dr Sim added that once completed, the bypass canal is expected to significantly reduce major flood risks in Kuching, including areas along the river stretching towards the city waterfront.

He maintained that a comprehensive plan has long been in place, but large-scale implementation depends on funding availability, describing the RM2.4 billion allocation as a major step towards a long-term solution. — DayakDaily