The Tanah Datar District Government in West Sumatra is renewing its request for funding to rebuild sabo dams damaged by flash floods. The request, being re-submitted in 2026, specifically addresses damage to a sabo dam in Jorong Duo Koto, Guguak Malalo Village, South Batipuh Sub-district.
Infrastructure Projects Underway
This re-proposal follows an earlier initiative to construct three additional sabo dams impacted by the Mount Marapi cold lava flood disaster. That project, with an estimated cost of Rp249 billion (approximately US$14.8 million), is expected to begin construction soon. The new dams will be located in Batang Lona, Sungai Jambu Village, Pariangan Sub-district; Batang Anai in Singgalang Village; and Batang Pagu-Pagu in Pandai Sikek and Singgalang Villages, both in Sepuluh Koto Sub-district.
According to Eka Putra, the sabo dam in Guguak Malalo is particularly important because local communities depend on the Batang Malalo River for essential needs, including irrigating rice fields, obtaining drinking water, and maintaining community sanitation.
Recent Flooding and Current Concerns
The sabo dam in Jorong Duo Koto collapsed following flash floods in late November 2025, as reported by Guguak Malalo Village Head Mulyadi. Flooding impacted three locations within the village, prompting calls for the construction of multiple sabo dams to mitigate future risks. Currently, debris – including rocks, wood, and sand – is accumulating at floodgates in Jorong Duo Koto, raising concerns about potential further disasters.
Mulyadi emphasized the potential benefits of the check dam, stating it “will be extremely beneficial because it can control water flow, especially during the rainy season.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sabo dam?
The article does not define a sabo dam, but indicates they are a type of water resources infrastructure used to control water flow.
Where are the three new sabo dams planned?
The three new sabo dams will be built in Batang Lona, Sungai Jambu Village, Pariangan Sub-district; Batang Anai in Singgalang Village; and Batang Pagu-Pagu in Pandai Sikek and Singgalang Villages, both in Sepuluh Koto Sub-district.
When did the sabo dam in Jorong Duo Koto collapse?
The sabo dam in Jorong Duo Koto collapsed in late November 2025 due to flash floods.
As the Tanah Datar District Government awaits a response to its re-proposal, it is possible that construction of the Guguak Malalo dam could begin alongside the other three projects. However, funding approval and logistical considerations could delay the start of work. If funding is secured, the construction timeline for the Guguak Malalo dam remains uncertain.
