
By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Feb 4: Senadin assemblyman Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin has called on the authorities to act against developers responsible for clogged waterways, particularly at the Bumi Jaya Industrial Park along the Pujut Bypass, leading to stagnant floodwaters at Kampung Pujut Tanjong Batu.
During a site visit today, Lee expressed his concern over the severe flooding affecting the village despite previously implemented drainage and flood measures.
He said that according to villagers, the main storm drain and natural steam had been blocked by a developer, leading to stagnant floodwaters that failed to subside for days.
“I was surprised that the kampung (village) flooded so badly this time. The drainage system in the kampung is well-maintained, with concrete drains and a control gate to regulate water flow.
“For over a decade, there had been no serious flooding here. The blockage caused by the developer is the real issue,” he said.
Lee, who is also Sarawak transport minister, said that more than 30 villagers worked together to remove the blockage, but remnants of it remain, preventing the drainage of floodwaters.
At the same time, Lee also highlighted similar flooding problems at Desa Senadin and Permyjaya, where overgrown vegetation and accumulated rubbish were contributing to blocked drainage systems.
“Yesterday, the Miri Disaster Management Committee (MDMC) directed the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID), Miri City Council (MCC), and the Public Works Department (JKR) to clear all storm drains, roadside drains, and river outlets.
“River cleaning must be prioritised, as water hyacinths and other aquatic plants are worsening the situation.”
In addition to tackling flood mitigation, Lee called for the reinstatement of roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) bins across Miri to curb illegal dumping.
He expressed disappointment over the widespread littering along roadsides and urged public cooperation in maintaining cleanliness.
“The reintroduction of RoRo bins will provide a proper place for residents to dispose of rubbish, reducing the likelihood of waste clogging drains and worsening flooding.
“However, the public must also be responsible. If provided with these facilities, they must use them properly and not dump waste outside the bins,” he said, suggesting that MCC consider enforcing anti-littering by-laws more strictly to ensure compliance.
He urged all agencies to adopt a proactive approach to flood prevention and city cleanliness, ensuring that infrastructure developments do not come at the expense of public safety and environmental health. — DayakDaily