PENAMPANG: The floods that severely inundated several areas in Penampang on Sunday have prompted the Social Democratic Harmony Party (PKDM) to call on the authorities to implement effective strategies and long-term planning, including proper drainage systems, to tackle the recurring issue.
Chief Coordinator for PKDM Moyog, Mckery Victor, said that while floods cannot be entirely prevented, they can and should be mitigated.
“We must find ways to alleviate the floods. It can be done. We cannot just let the weather wreak havoc on our settlements without doing anything to prevent it from happening again,” he said.
Mckery noted that Sunday’s flooding was not the worst Penampang has seen, but based on their research, it could have been avoided if proper flood mitigation measures had been in place, especially functional drainage systems.
Heavy rainfall that began around 4pm on Sunday and lasted until midnight caused severe flooding in villages such as Kolopis, Kiranau Tomui, Babagon Tagaal, Penampang Proper, Tuavon and other low-lying areas.
As of Monday morning, several sections in Kampung Kolopis remained impassable to small vehicles.
PKDM attributed the floods to a combination of factors, particularly poor drainage systems and ongoing road construction projects.
In a related development, SM St. Michael had to close temporarily on Monday due to severe flooding of its premises. Mckery said urgent action must be taken to resolve frequent flooding at the school.
“I inspected several badly affected areas and found that residents are increasingly concerned with the frequent floods.
I understand the difficulties they face — not only are they stranded when roads are submerged, but their livelihoods and safety are also affected.”He added that the current situation is not only worrying but also disheartening, especially knowing that such floods are preventable.
“As a community leader, I reiterate my commitment to raise the issue of recurring floods in Penampang to higher authorities, so that both short- and long-term solutions can be implemented immediately.”Mckery urged serious attention to be given to flood mitigation projects, drainage upgrades, and river management.
At the same time, he called on the public, particularly those living near rivers, to remain vigilant, avoid flooded areas, and prioritise the safety of themselves and their families.
He said PKDM Moyog would continue monitoring the situation and work closely with the authorities to ensure immediate assistance reaches flood-affected residents.
As part of medium- and long-term solutions, Mckery proposed that drainage systems be regularly cleaned, community cooperation be mobilised to maintain village drains and ditches, technical reports be compiled on the drainage conditions in affected areas and a Flood Operations Room be coordinated by PKDM through the formation of a Disaster Community Committee in each village.
He added that with today’s technology, communication during disasters can be improved via WhatsApp and other platforms to warn residents of impending floods.
For those displaced by floods, PKDM plans to work with agencies to establish well-equipped Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS).
“Being more prepared means ensuring the PPS are stocked with essential food supplies, medicines, and support facilities for vulnerable groups.
We will also improve village halls and suraus to serve as alternative PPS.”He concluded by saying the flood issue should not only be addressed during a crisis but must be treated as part of a long-term development agenda for the well-being of Penampang residents.