KOTA KINABALU: There is a critical need for Sabah's long-delayed flood mitigation projects to be up and running, says Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
This includes Packages 2A and 4 of the Sungai Moyog Integrated River Basin Development Project, which has been put on hold since the 11th Malaysia Plan, he added.
"This is a critical project which has been planned for years, but the application for funding was rejected multiple times by the Federal Government," he said in a statement on Thursday (Sept 18).
As such, Kitingan said, Putrajaya should expedite and approve the RM900mil needed for this vital project, which is expected to solve Sabah's flooding issues in the long term.
"It (the project) can save lives and property, and address flood woes," he said.
ALSO READ: Sabah seeks RM800mil for comprehensive flood prevention under 13MP (https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/02/24/sabah-seeks-rm800mil-for-comprehensive-flood-prevention-under-13mp)
He said the people of Sabah have suffered for too long and cannot wait any longer for flood mitigation solutions.
In expressing his sympathy to all victims of the recent floods and landslides, he noted that 13 people had died this week and one is still missing.
In addition, thousands of people have been affected, making this month's disaster a painful experience and grim reminder for all.
"As an immediate measure, the government will need to improve, fix and restore irrigation systems in affected areas while speeding up ongoing flood mitigation projects," he said.
He added that the people should not have to live in fear whenever it rains.
