BEAUFORT: Inappropriate construction of a ditch by Pan Borneo has led to Tamu Niaga area in Lumadan becoming dirty due to rainwater flowing into the area and affecting businesses.
Beaufort Berhad Business Cooperative Chairman, Awang Anak Selamat told Daily Express, the cooperative requested creation of a temporary ditch in front of the gate, which couldn’t be used due to existing ditches on the left and right.
These ditches redirected water into the Tamu Niaga area, causing water and soil to enter. Pan Borneo allegedly allowed this situation to persist, resulting in heavy rain channeling murky water into the area.
Businesses are facing losses as customers avoid the area due to its uncleanliness.
Customers who typically visit the area were deterred this time due to the condition.
Awang said the Pan Borneo contractor should redirect the water to the constructed ditch instead of channeling it into the Tamu Niaga area.
“We held a meeting and decided to file a complaint about this disruption, causing losses to traders. Customers are avoiding the stalls due to muddy conditions when it rains,” he said.
Awang and his committee plan to meet with the District Officer, as the Tamu Niaga falls under their purview.
Additionally, they intend to inform the Ministry of Rural Development, which constructed the building for public use.
They will also approach the Malaysian Cooperative Commission Sabah to assess the losses suffered by their members.
“We will seek compensation from Pan Borneo for the decline in our income recently,” he said.
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