Regular Drainage Inspections Needed to Prevent Flash Floods in Sandakan

4 February 2026

SANDAKAN: Regular inspections and maintenance of drainage and water flow systems in housing estates across Sandakan must be continuously carried out to prevent clogged drains and flash floods, said Member of Parliament for Sandakan, Vivian Wong Shir Yee.

She said blocked drains, although often viewed as a localised issue, could escalate into serious problems such as flash floods, particularly during the rainy season, if not addressed promptly. Such situations would inevitably affect residents’ daily lives, environmental cleanliness and public safety.

Vivian stressed that relevant authorities must take the matter seriously and act swiftly by ensuring regular cleaning and maintenance works are carried out to keep water flowing smoothly and prevent stagnation. She added that her office had received several public complaints, including from residents of Taman Mawar, involving Lorong 2, Lorong 19 and Lorong 21, where clogged drains had caused flash flooding.

Following the complaints, representatives from the Sandakan Parliamentary Service Centre and Municipal Councillor Chin Yee Kent conducted site inspections in the affected areas. The issue has since been formally reported to the contractor responsible, with hopes that immediate remedial action will be taken.

According to observations at the site, the drains were believed to be blocked due to the accumulation of waste and prolonged poor water flow, resulting in water pooling and overflowing during heavy rain.

Vivian said the Sandakan Parliamentary Service Centre has submitted the findings of the site visit to the Water Department, urging the relevant authorities to deploy officers to inspect the drainage structures and systems, and to carry out regular maintenance to ensure long-term effectiveness.

She added that her office would continue to monitor the situation in collaboration with the relevant agencies until the issue is fully resolved, while also urging residents to promptly lodge any complaints related to public facilities or drainage problems with her service centre to facilitate coordination and follow-up action.