Kota Kinabalu: The Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (Acem) Sabah branch welcomed the ongoing RM125 million Likas River Flood Mitigation Project, covering the Inanam and Kolombong corridors, as a key step towards reducing flood risks in the state capital.
Its Chairman Ir. Benny Song (pic) said the project, implemented through multiple packages covering different river basins, including Kolombong, and the RM39 million allocation for Phase Two covering the Rampayan River to Muara Numbak, reflected the Federal and State Governments’ commitment to addressing longstanding urban challenges in Greater Kota Kinabalu.
“We express our appreciation to both the Federal and State Governments for moving decisively from planning to implementation on these essential public works.
“As these flood mitigation measures are rolled out across multiple basin packages, this represents a strong and encouraging foundation. Moving forward, we hope the comprehensive engineering scope will also incorporate strategic tidal control infrastructure — such as a barrage flood gate at Kuala Inanam — to effectively mitigate tidal backwater effects and optimise drainage discharge during heavy downpours,” he said, Thursday.
Acem Sabah also welcomed Budget 2027, presented in Parliament by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, particularly the development allocations for Sabah.
“We welcome the Madani Government’s continued financial support and focus on Sabah’s basic infrastructure and long-term socio-economic development.
“Beyond flood mitigation, continuous funding for core utility sectors — including reliable water supply networks, grid stability and power generation, and comprehensive road and municipal infrastructure — is fundamental to elevating the quality of life for all Sabahans and driving industrial growth,” he stressed.
Benny added that local consulting engineers in civil, structural, mechanical and electrical disciplines were ready to work with government agencies, funding bodies and technical departments to ensure successful project delivery under the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 development roadmap.
“Our local consulting engineers possess comprehensive localised technical expertise — spanning civil and structural works, bulk water supply schemes, power generation, distribution and mechanical and electrical building services — essential for transforming budget allocations into enduring public assets.
“We hope and look forward to seeing local consulting engineering firms actively participating in and benefiting from these budget allocations, as local professional involvement ensures that every ringgit delivers maximum long-term value, safety, and operational excellence for Sabah,” he said.
Acem Sabah reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal and Sabah Governments to support the State’s long-term development under Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0.
