(Miri, 4th) Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin stated that the Miri Disaster Management Committee has established a task force for flood prevention to prevent flood incidents from reoccurring.
He said that the committee is composed of the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Miri City Council, and the Public Works Department. They are required to take action to prevent flooding, with each group conducting inspections of drainage systems in various areas to ensure the same incident does not happen again.
Lee Kim Shin made this statement during a press conference following a meeting of the Miri Disaster Management Committee in response to the recent floods.
He pointed out that, after receiving public complaints, many areas in Miri were affected by flash floods, including the basement parking of a hotel being submerged in water. The hotel staff was unable to manage the accumulation of water in time. This flash flood highlights issues with Miri's drainage system, particularly during the rainy season, when drains are easily clogged. Therefore, improving the drainage system is urgent.
"In addition to flood prevention, the high-risk area of Canada Hill will also be a focus of monitoring. This area has experienced soil erosion problems, posing a potential threat to the safety of nearby residents. The task force will strengthen monitoring measures in this region to ensure soil stability and the safety of drainage facilities."
He stated that to prepare residents in the interior areas of Miri, those in Sibuti, Baram, Telang Usan, Marudi, and Beluru should remain vigilant and prepare for potential floods. The local government and relevant agencies will also assist in providing support.
Additionally, he mentioned that Lutong Beach experienced severe flooding in 2022, with waves submerging the main road, significantly impacting the daily lives of local residents.
He said that the breakwater at Lutong Beach was damaged by wave erosion. Therefore, the beach requires a more robust breakwater, constructed with large stones, with estimated costs of 2.2 million Ringgit.
He urged the relevant authorities to apply for funds immediately and strive to complete the project soon to provide more reliable protection to local residents.
He revealed that from November 27th to today, there have been 89 flood reports in the Miri area and hopes that the measures by the authorities will help the Miri area safely get through the upcoming rainy season.
He hopes that all units will remain vigilant and implement action plans promptly to ensure that the quality of life of Miri residents is not affected by floods.
Lee Kim Shin made this statement during a press conference following a meeting of the Miri Disaster Management Committee in response to the recent floods.
He pointed out that, after receiving public complaints, many areas in Miri were affected by flash floods, including the basement parking of a hotel being submerged in water. The hotel staff was unable to manage the accumulation of water in time. This flash flood highlights issues with Miri's drainage system, particularly during the rainy season, when drains are easily clogged. Therefore, improving the drainage system is urgent.
"In addition to flood prevention, the high-risk area of Canada Hill will also be a focus of monitoring. This area has experienced soil erosion problems, posing a potential threat to the safety of nearby residents. The task force will strengthen monitoring measures in this region to ensure soil stability and the safety of drainage facilities."
He stated that to prepare residents in the interior areas of Miri, those in Sibuti, Baram, Telang Usan, Marudi, and Beluru should remain vigilant and prepare for potential floods. The local government and relevant agencies will also assist in providing support.
Additionally, he mentioned that Lutong Beach experienced severe flooding in 2022, with waves submerging the main road, significantly impacting the daily lives of local residents.
He said that the breakwater at Lutong Beach was damaged by wave erosion. Therefore, the beach requires a more robust breakwater, constructed with large stones, with estimated costs of 2.2 million Ringgit.
He urged the relevant authorities to apply for funds immediately and strive to complete the project soon to provide more reliable protection to local residents.
He revealed that from November 27th to today, there have been 89 flood reports in the Miri area and hopes that the measures by the authorities will help the Miri area safely get through the upcoming rainy season.
He hopes that all units will remain vigilant and implement action plans promptly to ensure that the quality of life of Miri residents is not affected by floods.