‘Help us get funds to fix flooding, don’t just complaint’, MBKS Mayor tells opposition

Wee sharing the data from DID on the unusually heavy downpour that exceeded 100mm of rainfall during his ShallWeeTalk session on Oct 25, 2025.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Oct 25: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has urged opposition representatives to play a more constructive role by helping to secure federal funding for drainage and flood mitigation projects, instead of merely criticising local authorities over the flash floods that hit parts of Kuching South on Oct 22.

Wee pointed out that the flash flood was primarily caused by an unusually heavy downpour that exceeded 100 millimetres of rainfall within 24 hours, a level considered extremely high by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Sarawak.

“Let’s be fair. We are not denying responsibility, but we must recognise the facts. The graph clearly shows a sharp vertical rise in rainfall within just a few hours. Even the best drainage systems would struggle to cope with that volume,” he said during his ShallWeeTalk session today.

He stressed that MBKS and other local authorities have been proactive in monitoring flood-prone areas, collecting reports from city councillors and community leaders, and prioritising upgrades based on available resources.

However, the council’s ability to act swiftly is often constrained by limited funding.

“Instead of pointing fingers, why not help us get more funds? Opposition members have colleagues in the federal government, including the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT). They can appeal for allocations to support drainage improvement projects in their constituencies,” Wee said.

He explained that local councils, including MBKS, rely heavily on federal and State allocations for infrastructure works.

“We have the expertise to design and carry out the projects but what we need is the funding. If you can help us secure it, we’ll implement it right away,” he added.

Wee emphasised that recurring flash floods cannot be blamed solely on the city council, as other factors such as illegal extensions, blocked drains, and rubbish dumping also contribute to the problem.

“Many building owners have cemented over drains or parked vehicles that block water flow. The public must also play their part. It’s not fair to keep blaming the council when some of these problems are caused by irresponsible behaviour,” he said.

He further reminded that Kuching South is an old, densely developed area that requires constant maintenance. With rising costs and shrinking allocations, local authorities face increasing challenges in sustaining essential public works.

“If our funding keeps getting cut, how are we expected to keep up with repairs and upgrades? We’re doing our best within the limits of our budget,” he said.

Wee reiterated that MBKS has applied for dozens of infrastructure improvement projects, including through agencies like National Landscape Department under the 13th Malaysia Plan, but not all have been approved or funded.

“What we hope is simple, for everyone, including elected representatives, to work together. We’re not here to take credit or shift blame. We just want to solve the problem for our residents,” he concluded. — DayakDaily