KUCHING: Pending State Assemblywoman Violet Yong urged the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Sarawak, and the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), to take stronger and more coordinated action in resolving the recurring flash flood problem in Kuching South.
Yong said the heavy downpour around 6pm yesterday once again caused flash floods in several residential areas, including Pending Heights, Bintawa Fishing Village, Sungai Apong and Foochow Road No. 1, resulting in damage to household items, electrical appliances, furniture and vehicles.
“Many residents had to spend long hours cleaning mud and debris from their homes. This is a recurring issue that has troubled the people for many years,” she said.
Yong noted that despite past efforts and public complaints, the situation remains unresolved and, in some areas, has even worsened.
“In Pending Heights, for example, the flood situation appears to have deteriorated after the recent drainage upgrading works by MBKS. This raises concerns about whether the drainage system was properly planned and implemented,” she said.
She stressed the need for a comprehensive and long-term drainage improvement plan involving all relevant agencies to prevent further hardship for residents.
“It is time for a coordinated approach to address the root causes of these flash floods rather than temporary or piecemeal solutions,” Yong said.
She also called on the Sarawak Premier and the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government to consider providing compassionate assistance to flood victims in the affected areas, including Pending Heights, Bintawa Fishing Village, Sungai Apong and Foochow Road No. 1.
“The residents should not have to bear these losses alone. Extending financial aid would be a meaningful gesture of care and support from the government,” she added.
Yong further suggested that DID Sarawak and MBKS conduct a detailed technical study and take prompt remedial measures to improve the drainage systems in known flood-prone areas.