Kota Kinabalu: There is no solid evidence, to date, that the Pan Borneo Project is causing flash floods, said Assistant Public Works Minister Datuk Limus Jury.
Limus stressed that each design of the Pan Borneo Highway has considered the engineering aspects and met the criteria set by the Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) to ensure that the new roads built will not cause more severe flooding problems in one area.
“The government also constantly monitors and, if necessary, revises the design of the drainage system based on the current situation and residents’ feedbacks,” he said during question-and-answer session, at the State Legislative Assembly sitting, here, Wednesday.
In addition, he said, the Ministry has started to prepare for the northeast monsoon.
He said this in response to Bongawan assemblyman Dr Daud Yusof’s question.
Based on the Ministry’s engagements with various ministries, agencies, and department as well as some data, Limus said, it was found that there are several factors that contribute to the flash floods, including garbage and rapid development that is not compatible with existing drainage system.
“Several initiatives have been planned to overcome the causes of the floods, including the cleaning of drainage systems throughout Sabah either under the control of local authorities, the DID, or the Public Works Department (PWD).
Surprised with the explanation from the Ministry, Kapayan assemblywoman Jannie Lasimbang had asked whether a thorough study was made before the Ministry made a conclusion about the flash flood issue.
“In my village, Kampung Nampasan, and I think in many other villages in Penampang, the flash floods happened due to the Pan Borneo Project,” she said.
To this end, Limus said, the Ministry is gathering complaints or inputs from locals affected by the floods.
“The Ministry will look into the road designs and it will be improved, if necessary,” he said.
Meanwhile, the government is very concerned about the problems faced by rubber tappers who lose their source of income during the monsoon season.
As such, Assistant Agriculture and Fishery Minister Hendrus Anding said the Monsoon Assistance (BMT) was provided since 2017.
“Rubber tappers will receive a RM600 aid with a distribution of RM200 per month for three months which will be given in November, December and January,” he said in response to Sindumin assemblyman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob’s question.
In 2021, he said, through the Federal Rural Development Ministry, the Sabah Rubber Industry Board (LIGS) has received allocations distributed to 86,323 smallholders and rubber tappers throughout the State and this included some 1,853 recipients in Sipitang.
* Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss.
* Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.