KOTA BELUD: Sabah Drainage and Irrigation Department (JPS) urged to refill the riverbanks that were excavated or deepened by a sand mining firm.
The Sabah National Unity Organisation (Perpaduan) President, Gundohing Jack Giau, who made the call, said based on observations in certain areas of the Kadamaian River, the riverbanks have reached a depth of 12 feet, posing significant risks to individuals who are not proficient swimmers.
He also said the company holding the previous concession appears to have conducted sand mining activities without adhering to the standard operating procedures (SOP).
“I previously opposed these mining activities on June 27, 2024, when I invited the Sabah Assistant Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Datuk Peto Galim, to visit the site,” he said.
“During a dialogue session, the Assistant Minister requested that the new sand mining activities be halted, as the concession had already expired or been revoked in December 2023.
“I also sought clarification from the JPS engineer, who informed me that JPS had not been notified about any approvals for river excavation after Dec 2023,” he said in a statement.
Jack made the remarks following a tragic incident involving a 16-year-old female student, believed to have drowned while swimming near Pirasan, around 3.30pm last Sunday.
According to him, Perpaduan viewed the incident very seriously, especially since the accident occurred just 500m from his residence.
“I urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to refill and repair the damaged riverbanks over a distance of 1km from Piasau Village to Rangalau Village.
“This is crucial as the riverbanks in that area are severely eroded and pose a significant danger,” he said.
