KUCHING: Residents in Batu Kawa here have voiced disappointment over attempts by a non-governmental organisation (NGO) to halt the second phase of the Desa Wira flood mitigation project, saying the project is crucial to protect communities frequently affected by flash floods.
Recent heavy rainfall triggered mandatory evacuations involving 91 families and 341 residents, with those affected mainly from Kampung Sinar Budi Baru and Kampung Desa Ria along Jalan Desa Wira.
Of the total evacuees, 225 were residents of Desa Wira, where the second phase of the Batu Kawa flood mitigation project is currently underway.
The flood mitigation initiative, designed to protect about 4,000 residents, includes the construction of four dry ponds covering 14 acres aimed at reducing recurring flood risks in the area.
The second phase involves the construction of another dry pond, a 1-kilometre protective bund with a pedestrian walkway, a pumping station and improved local drainage systems.
However, residents expressed concern after learning that Persatuan Kebajikan Penduduk Desa Wira Batu Kawa, through its chairperson, Dr Chang Li Kuin, had submitted a memorandum to the Premier on March 5 seeking intervention to suspend the second phase of the project.
Community leaders said the recent evacuation highlighted the urgency of completing the flood mitigation works to safeguard residents and prevent further displacement during heavy rainfall.
Tuai Rumah Robert James, representing residents of Taman Desa Ria along Jalan Desa Wira, said villagers have suffered repeated losses due to flash floods whenever heavy rain occurs.
He said the flood mitigation pond is a critical infrastructure project that should not be delayed, as it would help address long-standing flooding issues and improve the quality of life for residents.
“We have suffered losses and property damage for many years due to recurring floods,” he added.
“The project is a government initiative aimed at ensuring a safer future for the community.”
Meanwhile, Kampung Sinar Budi Baru Village Development and Security Committee’s (JKKK) secretary, Mohamad Iskandar Azahaman, said the village was recently hit by severe flash floods that forced the opening of a temporary evacuation centre.
“Therefore, on behalf of the residents of Kampung Sinar Budi Baru, I urge the government to expedite the project to prevent flash floods from recurring.” He added.
Meanwhile, Kampung Stapok headman, Roslan Jamali, also called for the project to continue, stressing that frequent flash floods not only cause property damage but also threaten the safety and well-being of residents.
“The proposed flood mitigation infrastructure would serve as a long-term solution to manage excess rainwater runoff and improve the local drainage system,” he said.
Residents also noted that there had been no reported flood incidents at Jalan Field Force Batu Kawa since the completion of a flood mitigation project in the area in 2024.
