MIRI – Authorities in Miri have stepped up integrated drainage works to address recurrent flash floods, with coordinated efforts involving the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), the Public Works Department (JKR) and the Miri City Council (MBM).
The move aims to strengthen maintenance, investigations and long-term flood mitigation measures across several vulnerable areas.
Sarawak Minister for Transport and Senadin Assemblyman, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, said the multi-agency approach is being reinforced to tackle flooding in locations such as Senadin, Permyjaya, Pujut Adong, Lopeng and Tudan.
He noted that DID has already taken proactive steps by cleaning and maintaining drainage systems in areas identified as prone to water flow obstruction.
“DID has actually been taking action since early this year. Several areas under their jurisdiction have already been cleaned, including main drains and retention ponds in Permyjaya, Desa Senadin, Tudan and Jalan Datuk Permaisuri,” he said after chairing a coordination meeting on drainage, flooding issues, damaged roads and utilities at the Miri Resident’s Office.
Among the areas where works have been carried out are Curtin Water, Permyjaya Wetland, Senadin Phase 7, Jalan Datuk Permaisuri, and earth drains in Tudan Phases 3, 4 and 5. Maintenance works in Desa Pujut have also been completed.
Despite progress, Dato Sri Lee highlighted that several sites still require further attention, particularly drainage outlets obstructed by development activities and utility infrastructure such as high-voltage distribution poles owned by Sarawak Energy.
He also urged JKR to focus on drainage systems along the Pan Borneo Highway, where undersized culverts and illegal dumping have disrupted water flow.
MBM has been tasked with ensuring regular inspections and cleaning of drainage systems under its jurisdiction, especially in residential areas frequently affected by flash floods.
Dato Sri Lee stressed that close coordination among agencies is vital to identify the root causes of flooding and expedite improvement works before heavy rainfall returns. “All agencies are now on standby and can be mobilised at any time should flooding occur,” he said.
He further encouraged local residents to play an active role by monitoring their surroundings and promptly reporting drainage issues or damage that could pose flood risks.
The intensified drainage works reflect Sarawak’s broader commitment to improving urban infrastructure and safeguarding communities against climate-related challenges.
With coordinated action and community involvement, Miri aims to reduce the impact of flash floods and strengthen resilience in flood-prone areas.
