SIBU: Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee urged all relevant authorities to act proactively to prevent a repeat of the tragedy in which a two‑year‑old boy died after falling into an open manhole in Sibu on Monday (Aug 4).
He said the incident, which took place at Jalan Wong Soon Kai, highlights a long‑standing public safety issue involving missing or unsecured manhole covers.
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic incident where a two-year-old boy tragically fell into an open sewer manhole.
"I wish to express my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the bereaved family during this most difficult time,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (Aug 6).
Tiang said immediate action must be taken regardless of whether the infrastructure falls under the jurisdiction of local councils or federal agencies.
"I strongly urge all relevant authorities, including the Sibu Municipal Council, the Public Works Department (JKR), and Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), to conduct thorough surveys and inspections of their respective areas to identify and replace any missing or damaged manhole covers without delay,” he said.
Tiang said he had personally contacted the Sibu Municipal Council chairman, JKR Sibu divisional engineer, and Sibu DID engineers to seek urgent and coordinated action in addressing the matter.
Tiang also called on the police to take stern action against those involved in the theft and illegal trade of scrap metals, which often include manhole covers.
"This incident is a painful reminder of our collective responsibility to ensure our towns and cities are safe for all residents, especially young children.
"Let this be a turning point for us to strengthen our vigilance and improve coordination among all stakeholders to prevent such tragedies from happening again,” he said. — Bernama
