PENAMPANG: The Sabah government has advised riverine communities to relocate their houses farther from rivers for their safety.
State Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said this is among the disaster precautions to be taken during the heavy rain season.
"Do not build houses along riverbanks or near roadsides, as it not only endangers safety but also violates land regulations, since riverbanks are typically reserved areas. Even if the river falls within your land area, remember that rivers can change course over time. The reserve area or recommended buffer distance is supposed to be 40 chains, which is less than 1 kilometre," he told the media after Parti Bersatu Sabah and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star)'s Christmas celebration at Hongkod Koisaan here.
Jeffrey, who is also the state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister overseeing irrigation matters, was responding to questions about flood mitigation measures and Sabah's disaster management budget. He said both federal and state governments are focusing on the issue and have provided allocations to address disasters in Sabah.
"What is important is taking care of our environment, rivers, and forests properly. By doing so, we can ensure that the impacts of climate change are less damaging. If we take care of our rivers, forests, and natural surroundings, the damage can be minimised. At the same time, it is crucial for our people to exercise caution," he said.