Simoi (second right) handing over contributions to flood victims from Rumah Titty Empaga, Kampung Tanjung Baru, Maludam yesterday.

SRI AMAN: The state government will continue to help folks here overcome problems caused by frequent flooding.

According to Lingga assemblywoman Simoi Peri, the frequent flooding in this area is caused by its problematic drainage which does not flow out as it is supposed to.

She stated that she already had a discussion with Department of Irrigation and Drainage Betong, which resulted in a proposal to the federal and state government for allocation to enlarge the drainage system in the area.

“The paper has been presented to the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry for consideration. We hope that the allocation can be approved immediately so we can quickly tackle the flooding problem here,” she said when visiting Rumah Titty, Kampung Tanjung Baru Maludam near here yesterday.

She revealed that one of the ideas was to build a 10km water outflow way from Ulu Sungai Maludam into Sungai Batang Lupar. This is expected to cost RM10 million.

The second idea was to build a 3km water outflow way from Sungai Maludam to Sungai Melebu, which will cost RM2.5 million.

“We believe we can solve the problem of flooding in Maludam area with these solutions.”

She added that although the allocation they applied for was for a large amount, she hoped that it can be approved so they can start improving the lives of folks there.Maludam has about 3,000 residents.

At the same time, Simoi asked for patience from those affected by the floods, explaining that the government is working to solve the problem.

During the visit, Simoi handed over food hampers to 22 families from Rumah Titty Empaga, Kampung Tanjung Baru Maludam and 14 families from Rumah Sungai Meranti Maludam.

The two-meter deep flood waters have put the lives of residents there on hold, disrupting travel to Beladin, Pusa and Betong.