PENAMPANG: Parti Solidariti Tanahairku (Sabah Star) Beaufort Acting Division Chief, Jin Tze Vun, has urged the Sabah Government to implement a sand pumping technique using hydraulic pumps in the Padas River as a solution to the Beaufort’s flooding problems.
Jin highlighted that sand has been accumulating on the riverbed for years, contributing to the river’s reduced capacity and increasing the likelihood of overflow during periods of heavy rain.
He suggested that the government issue permits to credible contractors who possess the necessary expertise and machinery to carry out the sand pumping project. He stressed that contractors with proven experience and access to hydraulic pumps would be crucial for ensuring the success of the initiative.
“The accumulation of sand and sediment in the Padas River has been building up for decades, and this is one of the main reasons for the river’s inability to manage large volumes of water effectively,” Jin said after receiving his official mandate to head the division from party president Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan today. Jin took over from Aliapa Osman, who had served the division for 16 years.
“By sucking out the accumulated sand from the riverbed, we can deepen the river, which may allow it to hold more water during heavy rainfall and ultimately reduce the risk of flooding in surrounding areas.”
Jin’s call comes in light of previous heavy rains and rising floodwaters that have caused widespread damage in Beaufort and nearby districts. He noted that the current methods of flood management have proven insufficient, and new approaches must be considered to mitigate the impact on residents.
The use of hydraulic sand pumping involves high-pressure water or air that turns the accumulated sand into a slurry, which can then be pumped out through pipelines to designated locations. This method, according to Jin, would be far less disruptive compared to traditional dredging, offering a more precise and environmentally controlled alternative.
“We need a proactive approach to flood prevention, and hydraulic sand pumping could be a key part of that solution. The Padas River is an essential waterway for the local community, and its deepening could offer much-needed relief during flood seasons,” Jin concluded.
The Beaufort division chief also called on the state government to expedite the process of approving permits for qualified contractors, urging them to prioritize safety, environmental considerations and effective flood mitigation strategies in the planning of the project.
As the community awaits the government’s response, Jin remains hopeful that this initiative will spark further discussions about long-term flood management solutions in Sabah, particularly for areas prone to seasonal flooding.
Meanwhile, Jin is seen as the right person to lead the division as he has demonstrated excellent performance while serving as the Beaufort Parliamentary Coordinator. He is known as a leader who actively engages with the grassroots and has successfully attracted many new members, injecting fresh energy into the division.
As the only Chinese leader in the Beaufort Division, his appointment reflects the party leadership’s strong commitment to racial diversity, as well as recognition of his merit and dedication.
Dr. Jeffrey expressed full support for the appointment, while praising Jin’s organizational abilities and loyalty, which have earned the trust of grassroots members. He is confident that Jin can lead the Beaufort Division to greater heights based on his proven track record.
Jin, in return, expressed his highest appreciation for the trust placed in him by the party president. He pledged to continue the strong foundation built by Ali Akbar while strengthening unity among members and improving the quality of service to the people.
“I will lead the team to continue expanding membership and ensure that the party’s ideology reaches every corner of Beaufort. With full commitment, I will lead the Beaufort Division in facing the challenges of the upcoming General Election to fight for the rights of the people of Beaufort, in line with the mandate given by the President,” he stressed.
He added that as a local leader, he would contribute to addressing challenges faced by residents in Beaufort parliamentary, particularly flood and socio-economic wellbeing of the people, particularly youths.
Caption: Jin (second left) receiving his appointment letter from Dr Jeffrey while Aliapa and the party’s division Women’s wing chief Noria Balang look on.
