RM58.5 Million Siniawan Flood Mitigation Project to Help Reduce Flood Impact in Two Villages

(Kuching, 25th) The Siniawan Flood Mitigation Project, costing RM58.5 million, is expected to greatly reduce the long-standing impact of flooding suffered by Desa Widra and Kampung Sinabu Dibaruh.

The project includes the construction of four detention ponds with a total area of more than 14 acres. Once implemented, the project will help alleviate flooding in 58 hectares of flood-prone areas, benefitting about 4,000 residents.

Sarawak Deputy Premier and Siniawan MP Dato Amar Sim Kui Hian stated that Phase 1 of the project will cost RM14.5 million and is currently 19% complete, including one of the detention ponds being built on 3.9 acres of land.

“This detention pond can store over 40,000 cubic meters of rainwater, equivalent to about 12,000 water trucks, and is expected to be completed within 20 months, that is, by July 24, 2026.”

He pointed out that this detention pond, also known as a “flood storage pond”, is one of the four in the overall Siniawan flood mitigation plan, with the remaining three also under construction. The land used for the project could have otherwise accommodated around 40 housing units.

After inspecting the detention pond in Desa Widra with Sarawak Department of Irrigation and Drainage Director Dato Ahmad Daniel, Sim Kui Hian said that the detention pond is not only intended for flood prevention, but the authorities are also looking into turning it into a multifunctional recreational area. For example, during the dry season, it could serve as a football field or a community event space, maximizing the use of land.

In addition to building the detention pond, Phase 1 will also include the upgrading of a 2.5-kilometer drainage system in the area, including culvert structures, to enhance overall drainage efficiency and disaster resilience.

“As for Phase 2, the total estimated cost is RM44 million and will cover the construction of a second detention pond, a levee over 1 km long, a 3-meter-wide pedestrian walkway, a pumping station, and a comprehensive upgrade of local drainage systems. The related designs have been completed and are expected to go to tender within this year.”

Sim Kui Hian stated that funding for the flood mitigation plan is classified as a joint responsibility of the federal and Sarawak governments. However, since 2016, he has adhered to one principle: regardless of whether the funds are from the federal or Sarawak governments, the goal is always to bring tangible benefits to the people of Siniawan.

“These two phases of work are crucial steps in solving the long-term flood problems faced by Siniawan, and also demonstrate the Sarawak government’s commitment to sustainable urban development and enhancing disaster resilience.”