TAWAU: Proactive measures are needed to prevent a recurrence of the flooding that struck Kampung Bukit Segenggam, Tanjung Batu Keramat, on Jan 9.
Tanjung Batu Assemblyman Dr Andi Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal said his office is arranging meetings with relevant departments and agencies to identify solutions to ensure the safety of affected residents.
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“Although flooding frequently occurs in this area, we need to identify the root cause of the problem and engage the Drainage and Irrigation Department for further details,” he said.
Dr Andi, who is also Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, said this to reporters during a relief aid distribution for 20 household heads involving 95 flood victims at the Al-Mukarramah Mosque Temporary Relief Centre.
He said authorities are focusing on both short-term measures to reduce the impact of flooding and long-term solutions.
“We understand that building flood barriers or widening rivers will take time, but we cannot delay action as communities will continue to face flood risks.
“For now, we will prioritise short-term solutions, including reassessing the condition of bridges that serve as key connectors in the affected areas,” he said.
Dr Andi added that while residents have been allowed to return home, authorities will continue to monitor the situation to prevent further problems.
Residents in flood-prone areas of Tanjung Batu, particularly Kampung Bukit Segenggam, have been advised to remain vigilant due to unpredictable weather.
Village head Abdul Rahman Borhan, 70, called for immediate action to prevent recurring floods or at least reduce their impact.
“Since our village was established in 1969, this is among the worst floods we have experienced. Previously, water levels only reached ankle height, but this time it rose to between calf and waist level,” he said.
