SUPP Youth: RM31 mln Batu Kawa project focused on riverbank protection, not just glass bridge

Composite photo showing SUPP Batu Kawa Youth Chief Chen Tzeum Ling (left) and DAP’s Sim Kiat Leng.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 28: The RM31 million Batu Kawa riverside development is a comprehensive riverbank protection and rehabilitation initiative—not merely a glass bridge project—says Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Batu Kawa Branch Youth Chief Chen Tzeum Ling.

He said the proposed glass bridge at Rantau Panjang, estimated to cost about RM1 million, is only a small component of the overall allocation.

“The majority of the funds will be channelled towards riverbank protection and stabilisation works, public safety facilities, landscape enhancement and other related infrastructure improvements,” he said in a statement today.

Chen stressed that the project is necessary due to past riverbank collapse incidents in Batu Kawa, including cases where vehicles had fallen into the river.

“Therefore, riverbank strengthening and rehabilitation works are both urgent and necessary,” he said.

He also rejected claims that the project sidelines basic infrastructure needs, saying development in Batu Kawa has consistently progressed in a balanced manner.

“Batu Kawa residents have never had to choose between landmark projects and basic infrastructure development. Instead, both have progressed simultaneously,” he said.

Chen said while signature developments such as the glass bridge and riverside promenade enhance Batu Kawa’s identity and tourism potential, essential infrastructure such as roads, drainage systems and public amenities continue to be upgraded.

He also cautioned the Democratic Action Party (DAP) against misrepresenting the project, urging the opposition not to distort facts without verification.

Chen added that the Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen receives about RM4.5 million annually in constituency allocations, expressing hope that the funds are effectively used to support people-centric infrastructure development in Batu Kawa.

On June 26, Special Assistant to Stampin MP, Sim Kiat Leng, said the RM31 million Batu Kawa riverside development project—which includes a glass bridge at Rantau Panjang and a 3km riverside promenade—should be welcomed as part of efforts to enhance the local environment and boost tourism potential.

However, he said that while such landmark developments are positive, equal attention must also be given to pressing grassroots issues affecting residents.

He pointed out that the project comes with a RM31 million price tag, while residents across Batu Kawa continue to face problems such as deteriorating roads, damaged drains, frequent flash floods and inadequate street lighting.

Sim said these issues remain urgent and require government attention and funding, as they directly affect daily safety and living conditions.

He added that beautifying the riverfront and creating landmark projects may enhance the area’s image, but basic infrastructure such as village roads, drainage systems and street lighting represents the immediate needs of the people. — DayakDaily