Kuching: DAP Sarawak has raised serious concerns over public safety at the Jalan Mendu flood mitigation project, warning that the prolonged delay in the project has created hazardous conditions for road users.
Special Assistant to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, Michael Kong Feng Nian, said the project was originally scheduled for completion on 9 February 2026, but is now approaching six months beyond its deadline, with no clear indication from the authorities on when it will be completed.
He said the extended construction period has left temporary traffic management measures in place far longer than intended, increasing the risk to motorists and motorcyclists.
“One of the most frequent complaints from road users concerns the temporary plastic safety barriers, which have repeatedly been found overturned or lying across the roadway. This is already dangerous, particularly for motorcyclists and during periods of poor visibility,” he said.
Kong said that following further complaints from members of the public, he inspected the site and found that metal reinforcement bars (rebar) had been used to secure the plastic barriers.
He warned that many of the metal rods were protruding from the barriers and could cause severe or even fatal injuries if a vehicle or motorcycle were to collide with them.
“This is unacceptable. Safety measures are meant to protect the public, not create new hazards. The longer this project remains unfinished, the longer road users are exposed to these unnecessary dangers,” he said.
Kong urged MBKS and the contractor to immediately review the safety measures at the site, remove all exposed metal rods, and ensure that temporary barriers comply with proper safety standards.
He added that the public has already endured months of traffic disruption due to the project’s delay, and the authorities must ensure that poor project management does not result in a preventable tragedy.
