The first is a canal, the second is a bridge, and the third is a barrage. “The required allocation is substantial — over RM1 billion — and the existing budget is still insufficient as all three packages need to be implemented simultaneously,” he told reporters in Kuching after visiting a flood relief centre.

Fadillah, who is also energy transition and water transformation minister, said Putrajaya was in the midst of finalising the tender for this project though the existing allocation was insufficient, The Borneo Post reported.

“We are currently discussing this with the economy ministry, as this project is quite large,” he was quoted as saying.

Fadillah, a senior leader of ruling state coalition Gabungan Parti Sarawak, expressed optimism that the government would be able to secure the necessary funds to expedite the project.

“We hope it can be finalised this year. If the project proceeds, it will benefit Kuching and surrounding areas like Bau, as it will help channel excess water from upstream during high tides.”

As of 4pm, 13,472 people in 17 districts in Sarawak have been evacuated from their homes due to floods. The Bintulu district is the worst-hit with 4,811 victims relocated to six relief centres. In Kuching, there are 238 flood victims taking shelter at two relief centres.