Tanjong Batu rep calls for long-term flood solutions in Bintulu

BINTULU (Feb 5): Flood mitigation efforts in Bintulu must move beyond short-term fixes and focus on sustainable, long-term solutions to protect residents from recurring floods, said Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang Leong Ming.

Pang said he has repeatedly raised Bintulu’s flood issues at the State Legislative Assembly, stressing that the town’s existing drainage system, particularly in older residential areas, is no longer able to cope with rapid population growth and urban development.

“In many areas, several neighbourhoods are still sharing outdated drainage infrastructure, which has become a major contributing factor to frequent flooding,” he said.

Pang said this following a comprehensive briefing personally received by Deputy Premier and Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian from the Sarawak Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) on flood mitigation initiatives in Bintulu on Tuesday.

He noted that effective planning and proper implementation have already shown positive results.

Citing Kampung Assyakirin as an example, Pang said the area remained flood-free even during the severe floods of 2025 after its drainage system was upgraded.

“This clearly shows that expanding, deepening and re-planning drainage systems is among the most practical and effective flood mitigation measures available,” he added.

Pang also proposed that detention ponds be considered in flood-prone areas across Bintulu as part of a comprehensive and sustainable flood management strategy, aimed at easing water flow pressure rather than relying on temporary measures.

“Flood mitigation is not a one-off project; it is a long-term commitment,” he said.

He pledged to continue raising Bintulu’s concerns at the state level, working closely with relevant agencies and pushing for greater resources and funding to ensure meaningful solutions are implemented.

“Our people should not have to live in fear every time it rains,” he added.