By DayakDaily Team
ASAJAYA, Feb 2: The recent flooding in Asajaya is not primarily caused by the king tide but rather by ineffective drainage, which prevents rainwater from flowing out quickly, said Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
According to a report by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS), Abdul Karim who is the Asajaya assemblyman explained that continuous heavy rainfall has led to stagnant water, and the situation worsens when the king tide occurs simultaneously.
“This condition prevents rainwater from flowing out to the sea, leading to flooding in several areas, including Kampung Sampun Tebun,” he said during a visit to SK Sampun Tebun temporary evacuation centre (PPS) here today.
While the flood situation remains under control, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of the area’s drainage system.
Kampung Sampun Tebun, located near the sea, has rarely experienced floods over the past 25 years, making the current situation unusual.
Authorities have relocated several affected residents to evacuation centers, including SK Sampun Tebun, which now shelters 106 household heads, and SK Kelali in Sadong Jaya.
Abdul Karim added that the Public Works Department (JKR) is assessing the existing drainage system, including the condition of ditches and how efficiently they channel water out of flood-prone areas.
“If not properly managed, this issue will persist, especially during prolonged rainy seasons.
“Immediate improvements must be made to prevent more severe flooding in the future and ensure the safety of residents,” he stressed.
Also visiting the PPS were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Sadong Jaya assemblyman Datuk Aidel Lariwoo. — DayakDaily
