KUCHING: Residents of Kampung Sinar Budi Baru at Taman Desa Wira carried out a major gotong-royong to clean up the neighbourhood yesterday.

Organised by the village security and development committee (JKKK), the programme also involved the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) and the Civil Defence Department.

Residents of all ages worked to clear trash, tree branches, soil, debris and overgrown grass particularly in the drains and watercourses surrounding the village.

JKKK secretary Othman Anyan stressed that the community clean-up programme was part of the village’s preparation for the rainy season and the possibility of flooding.

“We are taking extra precautions through a proactive measure such as this as we’ve seen and learnt from the impact of serious flooding in Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.

“This kampung is prone to flooding, especially during the monsoon season.

Thus we need to act so to prevent and reduce the risk of flooding,” said Othman, while urging other neighbourhoods to maintain and keep drains and watercourses clear of obstructions so that rainwater can quickly drain away.

He pointed out that a blocked drainage system was a major contributor to flooding in the village.

“Moreover, the dense development in the surrounding areas here in Batu Kawah, with more and more new commercial and residential areas coming up, it also affects the drainage system,” he said.

Othman added that the programme will hopefully raise awareness among residents and the public of the importance of flood prevention and readiness.

“Ensure evacuation centres such as community halls are equipped with adequate facilities and ready with necessities like food to accommodate people,” he advised.

“Our kampung is ready with all the necessities and also know where to get help in the case of emergencies.” Ketua Kaum Arpan Husaini said adding more such programmes will be organised in future to improve the village.

“We also encourage the children to do their part to ensure the cleanliness of our village and the surrounding areas,” he said.

The Kampung Sinar Budi Baru JKKK has also set up a flood relief fund in aid of victims from Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Perak.