Mohd Nizam (second left) and others during a site visit to Zubaidah’s home.
TENOM (July 8): A worsening riverbank erosion problem in Kampung Ulu Uloi here, which is threatening the safety of a resident’s home, has drawn the attention of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister and Melalap assemblyman Datuk Jamawi Jaafar.
The issue came to light following a report submitted by the village development and security committee (JKKK) to the Community Development Leader Unit (UPPM) on the increasingly critical erosion near the home of Zubaidah Abd Mazid.
The erosion is believed to have been caused by major flooding several years ago, with the situation worsening following recent flood incidents.
Representing Jamawi, his special officer Mohd Nizam Ag Kassim visited the affected site to assess the situation and coordinate follow-up action with the relevant agencies.
Also present were Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) assistant engineer Azrie, mukim development officer Mimi Azerrah Musno, Melalap People’s Representative Office representative Denesly Justin, Kampung Ulu Uloi JKKK chairman Jasri Johari, as well as Herryzan and Carl Amo.
Jamawi said the visit was aimed at evaluating the extent of the damage and obtaining detailed information on the risks faced by residents living near the affected area.
He said the matter had also been brought to the attention of Tenom DID chief Lahaman Dahing to enable immediate action, as the erosion had reached a critical stage and posed a potential danger to nearby residents.
“Prompt intervention is important to prevent greater risks to those living close to the affected riverbank,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
According to Jamawi, he had been informed that the department would prioritise the case and take swift action to safeguard the affected community.
“Alhamdulillah, Lahaman Dahing has informed us that the department will give priority to this case and take immediate measures to ensure the safety of Kampung Ulu Uloi residents,” he said.
Jamawi also expressed appreciation to the department, community leaders and all parties involved in efforts to address the erosion problem.
He stressed that close cooperation between government agencies and local communities was essential to ensure issues affecting public wellbeing could be resolved effectively.
“Every public complaint is given due attention and followed up with action.
“God willing, the close collaboration between leaders, government agencies and the community will continue to be strengthened for the wellbeing of the people and the development of the Melalap constituency,” he added.
Jamawi said he would continue monitoring developments on the matter until a suitable solution is implemented to ensure the safety and wellbeing of villagers.