THE RM2bil Kuching flood mitigation project will be carried out by the same consultants behind the Sibu flood mitigation project.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said this was announced by Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, following talks with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Dr Sim said Abang Johari specifically asked for the consultants to lead the Kuching initiative.
“This shows that he views the capabilities and standards demonstrated in the Sibu flood mitigation project as being on par with Kuching.”
Dr Sim, who is also Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, said this at the Sibu District Community and Tribal Heads (KMKK) appointment notice and certificate presentation ceremony to about 100 community leaders.
He said the Kuching flood mitigation project was being funded by the Federal Government and crucial for the well-being and safety of the people.
On the role of community leaders, he said grassroots leaders serve as the frontline of the state government and a vital link to the people.
The appointment of these leaders were not merely ceremonial, but represented a significant responsibility, he noted.
“This appointment reflects the government’s recognition of the important role played by KMKKs,” said Dr Sim.
“You are true representatives of the Sarawak government.
“When the frontline encounters problems, these are the people’s problems.
“Therefore, community leaders play a crucial role as a bridge between the people and government,” he added.
Also present at the ceremony were state Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister and Pelawan assemblyman Datuk Michael Tiang, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Sibu Division Resident Abang Mohammad Porkan Abang Budiman, Sibu District Officer Tsong Chow Choon, Iban community leader Temenggong Stanley Gramong Bandar, Sibu Municipal Council chairman Clarence Ting and councillor Kevin Lau Kor Jie, who represented Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming.
