New roads, flood solutions for Sibu under 13MP
THE implementation of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is expected to serve as the primary driver for infrastructure development and execution of large-scale flood mitigation projects in Sibu, Sarawak.
Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng said the 13MP, spanning from 2026 to 2030, will allocate funding for a range of strategic projects aimed at enhancing connectivity between key areas and addressing the recurring flood issues in Sibu.
'Among the main initiatives identified are the construction of a new road linking the Hann's Residence roundabout in Jalan Wong King Huo to Jalan Lapangan Terbang, as well as the upgrading of Jalan Kong Yit Khim and Jalan Salim,' he told reporters after distributing packs of Milo to constituents at his service centre.
Chieng said a study by the Public Works Department (JKR) revealed that cost of relocating utilities along the original route would exceed that of constructing a new road.
'As such, an alternative route from Jalan Kong Yit Khim to Sibu Jaya via the Bukit Penyau residential area will be built.
'The proposal to instal traffic lights at the Jalan Bukit Penyau junction is also under consideration, though implementation is expected to begin only after the first phase of the 13MP.'
He also said the second phase of the Sentosa Flood Mitigation Plan has been listed under the portfolio of state Public Health, Housing and Local Government Ministry led by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian.
'This project has received encouraging support from the ministry and is expected to be among the earliest initiatives to be carried out under Rolling Plan 1 of the 13MP,' said Chieng.
Among other projects in the pipeline, he said, were a new link road connecting Teku to Ulu Sungai Merah, Permai and Sibu Airport, as proposed by Pelawan assemblyman Datuk Michael Tiang.
Chieng said a flood mitigation project covering Kampung Saujana, Jalan Jeruwit and Jalan Ek Dee has also been included under Rolling Plan 2 of the 13MP.
'The 13MP is not simply a five-year development blueprint, it is a vital opportunity to transform Sibu's development landscape in terms of road infrastructure, and to enhance the safety and well-being of the community,' he added.
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