Government must trengthen community resilience through indigenous practices

10 January 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Chairperson of DAP Sabah, Datuk Jannie Lasimbang, has expressed concern over ongoing water supply disruptions affecting residents in Kinarut and surrounding areas, urging authorities to take immediate and long-term action to address the issue.

She said water is a basic necessity essential for daily living, health and dignity, noting that prolonged disruptions place a heavy burden on households, particularly those with children, the elderly and individuals with caregiving responsibilities.

“Many residents have had to adjust their daily routines while living with uncertainty as they wait for the situation to stabilise,” she said in a statement today.

Jannie called on the relevant authorities to work earnestly to resolve the current disruptions and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

She said the water crisis also highlights the need to strengthen household and community resilience through practical and sustainable approaches.

According to her, rainwater harvesting, often viewed as a temporary solution, can help families cope during supply interruptions by reducing pressure on existing systems and providing short-term relief, even though it cannot replace proper infrastructure.

She noted that such practices reflect indigenous knowledge that values prudent use of natural resources and preparedness during uncertain times.

Jannie said she has consistently advocated for the adoption of indigenous lifestyle practices that are simple, affordable and achievable at the household level, including rainwater harvesting, composting household waste, reducing plastic use and maintaining kitchen gardens.

“These are practical solutions that help families reduce costs, minimise waste and build a more secure relationship with their environment,” she said, adding that consistent practice contributes to stronger and more resilient communities.

She also welcomed and commended Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar for promoting the Kitchen Garden initiative, which she said supports food security and reduces dependence on external food supplies.

Encouraging households to grow their own vegetables and basic food crops empowers families to play an active role in sustaining their livelihoods, she said, noting that the initiative aligns closely with indigenous values of self-reliance and stewardship of the land.

Jannie urged the government to continue and expand support for rainwater harvesting systems, gravity-fed water supply systems, kitchen gardens and composting initiatives, stressing that these should be recognised as essential components of long-term resilience and environmental sustainability.

She cited the Tagal system as a successful example of an indigenous practice adopted into policy and law in Sabah, which has improved river management and increased fish supply for local communities.

Traditional indigenous practices that have sustained communities for generations can continue to strengthen resilience, she said, alongside ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and ensure reliable public services for all.