PENAMPANG: The Sabah government is committed to accelerating the completion of flood mitigation projects, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
"These projects are designed to provide robust infrastructure to manage floodwaters and protect vulnerable areas.
"By prioritising these projects, we aim to enhance the resilience of our communities against future flooding events," he said in a statement following the devastating impact of overnight flooding that hit several districts, including here, Inanam and Tuaran.
Kitingan is also state agriculture, fisheries and food industry minister, a portfolio that oversees irrigation and drainage matters.
He said the ministry was also fast-tracking the implementation of the Integrated River Basin Project for Sungai Moyog, focusing on Package 4 and Package 2A, which are scheduled to start this year and be completed by 2029.
He added that the project involves the construction of additional flood control structures, riverbank stabilisation, and improvements to drainage systems.
"These enhancements are crucial for managing the flow of the river and reducing the risk of overflow during heavy rainfall," he said.
As for short term measures, he said the authorities would implement a rigorous schedule of routine maintenance work on monsoon drains, cleaning and dredging of drains and rivers among others.
He added that the government was also dedicated to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to develop and implement effective flood management strategies.
This includes investing in advanced technologies, enhancing early warning systems, and promoting community awareness and preparedness.
"In light of the severity of this situation, I am calling on the federal government to provide urgent assistance to Sabah.
"Specifically, we are requesting monetary compensation to support those affected by the floods. We also require funds to cover the substantial clean-up costs incurred in the aftermath of the flooding.
"The timely support of the federal government is crucial in ensuring that our communities can recover swiftly and effectively.
"This collaboration will enable us to provide the necessary resources and support to those who have been impacted by this disaster, and to implement the long-term measures required to prevent future occurrences."
Kitingan also extended his sympathies to all those affected by the calamity and expressed his deepest condolences to the family of Monica Ting Siew Kong, 37, who tragically drowned in Penampang.