KUCHING: The public must play its role in keeping drains clean to help prevent flash floods during the rainy season, says Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
The Deputy Premier said this was important to complement drain maintenance works by local councils and the Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID).
"As the weather is changing, we are getting ready and making preparations to face any flash floods.
"While this is ongoing, we also need the public to help by not throwing rubbish into drains," he told reporters after announcing the Sarawak-level Chinese New Year open house here on Wednesday (Jan 22).
Dr Sim, who is also state Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, called on everyone to do their part, including reporting littering to the councils.
He also said long-term preparations were being made in flood-prone areas to address the issue.
"For example, four dry ponds are being constructed in Batu Kawa to solve the flooding issue," he said.
Parts of Sarawak were affected by flash floods in recent days because of heavy rain.
