KUCHING: The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry is conducting an integrated river basin management (IRBM) study across nine Sarawak river basins to chart a comprehensive river management plan, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Fadillah, who serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, said the Irrigation and Drainage Department is directly leading the study, which covers the Batang Rajang Basin.
Speaking at the national-level World Rivers Day celebration at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang in Sibu on Saturday (Oct 24), Fadillah noted that the Batang Rajang study is expected to wrap up in August 2027.
"The findings will provide an action plan to help the Sarawak government manage rivers in a more integrated, systematic, and continuous manner," Fadillah said. "This effort is vital to safeguard water resources, minimise flood risks, and balance development with community well-being and environmental sustainability."
Highlighting ongoing community initiatives, Fadillah pointed to the National River Trail programme, which aims to foster closer ties between local communities and their waterways.
He expressed hope that these trails would serve as recreational spaces, environmental education hubs, and ecotourism sites, while encouraging the public to actively protect river environments.
Fadillah also outlined significant infrastructure investments, noting that under Rolling Plan 1 (RP1) of the 13th Malaysia Plan, RM7.4bil in project costs has been allocated for 46 water-related projects in Sarawak, comprising 33 ongoing extension projects and 13 new ones. Of this total, RM5.8bil is dedicated to DID-led projects covering flood mitigation, river conservation, and coastal erosion protection.
For Fadillah, hosting the national event in Sibu carried personal significance. Growing up in the town, he reminisced about swimming and fishing in the Batang Igan, a major tributary of the Batang Rajang.
"Sibu's selection is deeply meaningful because this town has grown alongside the Batang Rajang, which remains an integral part of the history, life, and development of the local community," he shared. "It is no wonder a celebration dedicated to rivers resonates so strongly with the people here."
