SUNGAI Juru will undergo major rehabilitation after the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry approved RM60mil under the First Rolling Plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan for the project.
Penang Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow, said the high-impact project is crucial and expected to begin next year.
State publisher, Buletin Mutiara, reported that the project would address riverbank erosion, waste pollution and protect public infrastructure and property.
“It will also focus on improving the safety of residents living near the river.
“The state government hopes the project will proceed as scheduled and become a model for future initiatives in Penang,” said Chow when officiating at the launch of the National River Trail (DSK) and Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) Programme at Sungai Rambai.
Also present were state exco members, Zairil Khir Johari and Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Central Seberang Perai district officer, Datuk Kamarul Haizal Koderat, Penang Irrigation and Drainage Department director, Lt Kol (PA) Ooi Soon Lee, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Pendidikan Khas Bumbong Lima principal, Rosiah Mohamed Ariff and Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan (Cina) Jit Sin principal, Ngoh Kam Fat.
Chow said 55 river trails had been developed in Penang, stretching a total of 88.5km and benefitting communities in surrounding areas.
“One successful example is the Sungai Rambai DSK project completed this year.
“The project included the construction of Dataran Kejat, a 3km public walkway, and ongoing landscaping works.
“This initiative has benefitted over 200 residents and attracted visitors seeking to enjoy outdoor recreation and the beauty of nature, especially on weekends,” he said.
Chow added that the DSK programme emphasised active involvement from local communities, government agencies and non-governmental organisations in combating pollution and raising awareness about river conservation and sustainability.
“This close cooperation shows that river preservation is not the responsibility of any single party but a shared duty for the wellbeing of future generations.
“The DSK programme serves as an important platform to achieve the goals of Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM).
“The IRBM approach promotes comprehensive, multi-stakeholder management aimed at improving water quality, ensuring sufficient water supply, reducing flood risks and conserving the environment as a national treasure.”
Chow said three IRBM plans were completed for Sungai Juru, Sungai Muda and Sungai Perai while the plan for Sungai Jawi was being prepared.
“The implementation of these plans is vital to ensure Penang’s rivers are managed in a more systematic, efficient and sustainable manner.
“I urge all stakeholders and Penangites to continue playing their part in protecting the state’s rivers so that our natural water resources are preserved for current and future generations.”
