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KUCHING: The Sarawak government has announced that the flood mitigation project around the Sarawak General Hospital (HUS) will proceed with modifications to preserve the main structure of the Old Nurses’ House, a heritage building located on Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg.
Sarawak Deputy Secretary to the State Government (Economic and Development Planning), Datu Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, stated that the area was chosen for the flood mitigation project due to its frequent flooding, especially during high tides. Initially, all structures in the area were planned for demolition to make way for the project. However, after careful consideration of the Old Nurses’ House’s historical value, the government decided to preserve its main structure.
“Instead of completely removing the building, we will relocate part of the proposed reservoir to a new area in the southeast, pending approval from the state planning authority,” he said during a media conference at the Kuching Old Nurses’ Home site on Thursday.
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This decision aligns with a community-based approach, ensuring that public feedback plays a key role in urban development. The Sarawak Heritage Society (SHS) welcomed the government’s move, praising the balance between flood control and heritage conservation.
Additionally, the restored Old Nurses’ Home will serve as Anjung Kasih, a free temporary accommodation centre for families of underprivileged patients receiving treatment at HUS. Abdullah Zaidel mentioned that while a budget has been allocated for restoration, additional funds might be needed to ensure the project is fully realised.
The Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts (MTCP) will oversee the restoration efforts, ensuring that the building is preserved while still addressing infrastructure needs. With this initiative, the state government aims to safeguard Sarawak’s heritage while implementing essential flood management solutions.