SINGAPORE: Mr Tan Chiew Koon’s landed house in a low-lying neighborhood has suffered several floods in recent decades.

The 79-year-old, whose family has lived in Pasir Panjang for the past 60 years, said flooding was common there during the late monsoon season, which brings more rainfall.

In one particularly bad case about 15 years ago, the water came up to his waist and caused damage to his property.

Such inconveniences led to frequent engagements with the authorities.

Over the years, the situation has improved with drainage systems and canals upgraded.

Since 2021, Mr Tan has been helping the national water agency PUB coordinate flood awareness efforts in the neighbourhood.

“Together with some of my neighbors … we identify residents who are more vulnerable to flooding, get their names and forward them to PUB,” he said.

Then they help distribute flood prevention devices the agency provides for free, such as flood bags that inflate when they come into contact with water.