KOTA KINABALU: Authorities have been urged to strengthen flood mitigation measures in the city following flash floods caused by intense and heavy rainfall here over the past few days.
Api Api assemblyman Loi Kok Liang said the state Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID), Kota Kinabalu City Hall, Public Works Department and other relevant agencies must quickly strengthen flood mitigation ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.
He said recent heavy downpours caused temporary flooding along several major roads and low‑lying areas in the city, serving as an early warning that existing drainage systems may struggle to cope with increasingly unpredictable weather.
"Though floodwaters generally subsided quickly, these incidents highlight the growing risk of more serious flash floods during the rainy season if preventive action is not taken," the Parti Warisan assemblyman said in a statement on Friday (June 12).
Loi said that the flooding disrupts daily activities, hampers emergency response, poses safety hazards, and could lead to more severe consequences if heavier rainfall occurs.
He urged the authorities to immediately inspect and maintain drainage systems, culverts, waterways, retention ponds and flood infrastructure.
"Drain clearing operations to remove silt, debris and obstructions must be done immediately and resolve issues at flood prone hotspots.
"Drainage system capacity in rapidly developing areas should be reviewed.
"Given increasing climate variability, a proactive approach is essential. Delaying action until major flooding occurs would be irresponsible and costly," Loi added.
