By Karen Bong
KUCHING, March 2: The Sarawak government will conduct a comprehensive study, including on adopting Dutch methods and techniques in flood prevention, in order to determine the best flood protection solutions and improve drainage systems, especially in flood-prone areas, throughout Sarawak.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government headed by Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian and other relevant technical departments have been tasked to conduct a thorough study for the whole of Sarawak.
“Dr Sim just returned from a study visit to the Netherlands in which a large part of the country lies below sea level.
“We are looking to adopt some of the methods for Sarawak including in Sibu, Miri and Sri Aman with low-lying lands that are more prone to floods,” he said during a visit to flood victims currently taking shelter at the temporary flood relief centre (PPS) located at SJK(C) Chung Hua Batu Kawah here today.
Abang Johari noted that the Dutch are experienced in water management with effective techniques and technologies, having dealt with rising sea-levels and floods for centuries.
He emphasised that the comprehensive study is necessary to identify suitable flood action plans and flood mitigation infrastructure or system for each area.
“For example, in Singapore, there are no bad flooding problems even though it is an island. This is because they have an effective drainage system.
“We can then implement flood mitigation measures in stages, such as beginning with Kuching in the first few years, followed by Sibu and other areas, according to funding availability until the flood problem is resolved,” he said.
Abang Johari also pointed out flood mitigation projects in Sarawak will take time and involve billions of ringgit in funding.
“Definitely, we cannot just rely on the federal government. It will take time. It cannot be that I come today and the problem is solved tomorrow. That’s impossible,” he added.
On the recent flood problems that have affected several areas in Kuching, Abang Johari said unlike in past years, the risk of flash flooding in Batu Kawah has been reduced after a retainer wall was built in Kampung Rantau Panjang.
“Flooding occurred mainly due to overflowing rivers especially during high tide and heavy rainfall as well as stagnant waters in village areas.
“With the retainer wall constructed, we are able to protect some of the villages from flash flooding. Such projects were also implemented in Desa Wira and Semariang,” he said.
Meanwhile, there are 80 flood victims from 19 families currently taking shelter at SJK(C) Chung Hua Batu Kawah PPS.
As the relevant authorities have reported that the rainy season will last until March 15, Abang Johari advised Sarawakians, especially those living in low-lying areas, to be on the alert for flood risk.
“Those affected are advised to contact the Civil Defence Force (APM) as well as community leaders including village chief and penghulu and get ready to evacuate to PPS when floods hit.
“I am very satisfied with the efforts and coordination by the agencies and departments involved in assisting the flood victims. The most important thing is there is sufficient food rations and a safe place for them to put up temporarily,” he added. — DayakDaily
