KUCHING, Nov 15: The driveway to the house of a resident along Jalan Penrissen near Kota Sentosa commercial centre has been consistently plagued by flooding issues due to clogged drains filled with soil and grass, coupled with the lack of proper drainage, resulting in water accumulation during heavy rain along the curbs that eventually flow towards the house.
Michael Kong, special assistant to Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen, in highlighting the homeowner’s predicament has called on local authorities to improve the maintenance of roads and drains.
“Mr Chen’s residence has repeatedly experienced frequent flooding since the completion of the 6th and 7th Mile flyovers. An inspection along Jalan Penrissen unveiled a troubling issue—all water (drainage) outlets are obstructed by soil and grass.
“Additionally, the lack of proper drainage causes water to accumulate along the curb, redirecting its flow towards Mr Chen’s house and causing distressing flooding,” he said in a statement today.
In response to this, Kong said he will write to Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak to urge them to ensure contractors prioritise the maintenance of this critical aspect of the road infrastructure.
Highlighting that the deficiencies in the secondary drainage system are concerning, he emphasised that local authorities should not cite a lack of funding as an excuse, given the substantial reserves of the Sarawak government and the allocation of up to RM9 million annually to elected representatives for community projects and activities.
“The claim of insufficient funding contradicts the ample resources available. What is lacking is the initiative and genuine concern for the welfare of the people,” he said.
Kong thus appealed to Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) and Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap to promptly look into and address this pressing issue.
“It is evident that more can be done, and concerted efforts are necessary to alleviate the burdens faced by individuals like Mr Chen,” he added. — DayakDaily
