BINTANGOR (Feb 11): The Sarawak government continues to prioritise river safety and cleanliness to safeguard the interests of communities that depend on water transport, particularly boat operators, passengers and residents.

Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said rivers play a vital role not only as transportation routes, but also as lifelines supporting economic activities and the daily lives of communities, especially in coastal and interior areas.

“Through this campaign, we aim to raise public awareness on the importance of practising river safety, complying with navigation regulations and sharing responsibility in ensuring our rivers remain clean, safe and well-preserved.

“The cooperation of all parties is crucial in preventing accidents, protecting river infrastructure and conserving the environment for future generations,” he said, according to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit report.

He made the remarks during the River Safety and Cleanliness campaign and the handover ceremony for the replacement of existing pontoons and other associated works at the R.C. Pontoon Wharf, Main Bazaar, Bintangor here on Tuesday.

Lee said the upgrading project of the R.C. Pontoon Wharf at Main Bazaar not only complements the safety campaign but also provides a safer, more comfortable and accessible experience for boat operators, passengers and the local community.

The RM3.04 million project was implemented by the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS). It commenced on Nov 6, 2024 and was fully completed on Dec 19, 2025.

Lee also expressed his appreciation to SRB, the project team and the contractor for their commitment and cooperation in ensuring the project was carried out smoothly and completed on schedule.

“With the completion of this project and the implementation of the River Safety and Cleanliness campaign, we reaffirm Sarawak’s commitment towards safer, cleaner rivers equipped with better infrastructure.

“This will ensure that the river transport system continues to function safely and sustainably, benefiting the people in the long term,” he added.

Credits: Yunus Yussop, The Borneo Post 2026