Contractor will identify cause of wastewater pond

Chong pointing at the pond

3 May 2025

SANDAKAN: LDP Vice President and Municipal Councillor, Chong Thien Ming, today received an update from Encik Aleef of the Drainage Department regarding the progress in addressing the manhole issue at Taman Indah Jaya Phase 1.

Encik Aleef informed Chong that the appointed contractor will be undertaking surveillance work to identify the location of the broken or collapsed underground piping, which is the root cause of this significant problem. This issue was initially raised a year ago, as the sinkhole near Indah Apartment has become increasingly severe. According to Chong, the damaged area has resulted in a pond of wastewater.

Chong expressed his concern about the potential health risks posed by the stagnant wastewater, particularly as a nearby school means children frequently use the area when being dropped off or returning home. He highlighted that wastewater is a breeding ground for germs, creating an unhealthy environment. Chong, who also serves as the chairman of the Sandakan Health Clinic Advisory Panel, emphasised the potential health implications.

Workers carrying out their job

Chong outlined two key concerns that need to be addressed: firstly, the extent to which the damaged underground discharge piping is affecting the entire Taman Indah Jaya area; and secondly, the potential health impact of the wastewater on schoolchildren.

He visited the site this morning to observe the contractor's progress. According to the contractor, they plan to use a remote CCTV camera to navigate the piping route until the damaged section is located, allowing for a thorough analysis of the problem.

Following this assessment, a report will be submitted to the Kota Kinabalu headquarters to initiate the tender process for the necessary replacement work.

Chong expressed his hope that residents of Taman Indah Jaya will exercise patience, as the full repair of the damaged pipe may take some time.

He affirmed that he will continue to monitor the situation closely and maintain communication with the engineers involved.