KUCHING (Nov 17): A total of 5,765 private boats and longboats in Sarawak have been compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) as supporting data for the targeted Budi95 subsidy, aimed at assisting river-dependent communities across the state.

Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin revealed this in his welcoming remarks at the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Rivers Day Conference (SRDC) 2025, held in conjunction with World Rivers Day under the theme “Waterways of Life” at a hotel here yesterday.

The conference was attended by some 500 participants.

“To date, a total of 5,765 private boats and longboats have been compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) as supporting data for the targeted Budi95 subsidy, ensuring that no eligible beneficiaries are overlooked.

“This initiative reflects the Sarawak government’s commitment under the social inclusivity pillar of PCDS 2030, ensuring that our river dependent communities continue to receive equitable access to essential support and services,” he said.

The compilation of private boats and longboats complements the ongoing implementation of the RON95 petrol subsidy for passenger boats operating in Sarawak.

Since Oct 9, the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) has submitted data on more than 208 commercial boats and small vessels registered with River Transport Permits (RTP) to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).

“SRB’s role includes verifying registered boats with valid RTPs, reviewing data for subsidy eligibility, and ensuring proper oversight to prevent abuse,” Lee added.

During the conference, key studies related to Sarawak’s rivers were presented.

Assoc Prof Engineer Dr Lim Chye Ing, Associate Dean of External Engagement at Curtin University Malaysia, presented a study on water hyacinth in Sarawak rivers to Deputy Minister for Transport Sarawak (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, witnessed by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Lee.

Meanwhile, Capt Brian De Gray Magges, consultant at AJA Prima Sdn Bhd, presented a study report on navigation along Sungai Sarawak, from Kuching Waterfront to Siniawan Town Jetty, to Henry.

The conference also recognised notable contributions to river management and the riverine economy.

Kampung Pesang Padawan was named champion of the River Cleanliness and Landscape Competition and received the Anugerah Khas Sumber Air (AKSA) 2024, with village head KK Dony Nuong accepting the award.

The Sabah Sarawak Shipping Association (SSSA) received the River Economy Contribution Award, accepted by its chairman, Yong Ing Huong.

Both awards were presented by Dr Sim, who represented Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the event.

Lee also noted the Sarawak government’s ongoing efforts to modernise river transport through infrastructure upgrades, safety programmes, and training.

Key initiatives include the completion of the Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) for Sungai Sarawak in September 2024, installation of 270 Aids to Navigation (AtoN) across Sarawak waters, and professional certification training for 113 local boat operators.

Also in attendance were SRB chairman Dr Safiee Ahmad, MOTS acting deputy permanent secretary Hajiah Idris, and SRB controller Lt Col Ding Tiew Wong (Retired).

Credits: Jude Toyat, The Borneo Post 2025