SIBU: Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee has urged the federal government to approve the fifth phase of the flood mitigation pump project.
He said the project, which involves constructing three pump stations along Sungai Seduan, is estimated to cost more than RM400 million.
“I’ve been briefed by DID Sarawak that the phase five pump station project in Sibu will be the final phase, as phase four is already in the tendering process.
“I urge the federal government to quickly approve phase five of the pump station project under the flood mitigation programme in Sibu, which is in my constituency, Pelawan,” he said when met by reporters at the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sibu branch annual flag sale today (Mar 22).
He added that the project would be highly effective in addressing floods along Jalan Ling Kai Cheng and other flood-prone areas in the Pelawan constituency.
“The last I heard, it was included in 13MP (13th Malaysia Plan). I hope it will be given priority. Don’t just include it and push it to the back of the queue.
“For the sake of the people of Sibu and their safety from frequent floods, I urge the federal government to make it a top priority in 13MP,” he said.
He acknowledged that phase five is the most expensive among all five phases of the Sibu flood mitigation project.
However, he emphasised that the well-being of the people must come first, regardless of the cost.
