Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian announced the plan after visiting the site on June 22 with the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Sarawak team.

The proposed walkway will link the predominantly Malay riverside villages with the historic Batu Kawa Chinese old town, creating a continuous promenade along the river.

Riverbank Protection

The project includes Phase 2 riverbank protection works covering 500 metres (split into 350m and 150m sections). DID will first carry out a temporary RM200,000 solution while designs for the permanent structure are completed. Open tender is expected by end of this year.

Cost & History

The first phase (450 metres) was initially awarded in 2019 for RM8.7 million but became a sick project during Covid when material costs surged. It was retendered in 2022 at RM11.6 million and completed in late 2023.

Dr Sim said the Premier has allocated a RM31 million ceiling for the remaining 500 metres of riverbank works scheduled for 2026.

Dr Sim (in yellow shirt) reviewing the riverbank protection plan with DID Sarawak team during a site visit on June 22, 2026.

The proposed second phase of riverbank protection works at Kampung Rantau Panjang in Batu Kawa.

Rising Construction Costs

Dr Sim noted the entire 950-metre project would have cost RM18.6 million if done as a single project in 2019. The remaining 500 metres alone is now projected at RM31 million — a reflection of escalating material prices and global uncertainties.

Location: Kampung Rantau Panjang, Batu Kawa, Kuching
Details: 3km scenic walkway + glass bridge connecting Malay villages to Batu Kawa town

Source: DayakDaily

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