KUCHING – Ten temporary relief centres (Pusat Pemindahan Sementara, PPS) have been activated across Sarawak following heavy rainfall and rising river levels that displaced more than 1,100 residents.
According to the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (JPBNS), the centres were opened early in the morning to provide shelter and assistance to affected families. A total of 1,140 individuals from 287 households have been relocated to safer ground.
The PPS facilities are currently operating in several divisions, including Kuching, Samarahan, Miri, Limbang and Lawas.
These areas have been among the hardest hit by continuous downpours since late December, which caused rivers to overflow and inundated low-lying communities.
Officials emphasised that the centres remain open as the situation continues to evolve. The committee confirmed that coordination with local agencies is ongoing to ensure food supplies, sanitation, and medical support are adequately provided.
JPBNS Secretary Abdul Wahab Rahim stated that the committee is monitoring conditions closely and will maintain operations until floodwaters recede.
“JPBNS continues to take action and take care of the operation so that all PPS are open, the abundance of eyes and the style of cleaning and bleaching the children is taken care of,” he said, stressing the importance of hygiene and safety for evacuees.
The relief centres are equipped with basic necessities, including bedding, clean water, and food rations. Authorities have also deployed personnel to oversee crowd management and ensure compliance with health protocols.
Flooding during the monsoon season is a recurring challenge in Sarawak, particularly in rural districts where drainage systems are limited.
The state government has urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and to move to designated centres when instructed.
Community leaders have been working alongside disaster response teams to assist evacuees, especially the elderly and children. Volunteers have also joined efforts to distribute supplies and provide emotional support to families affected.
The Meteorological Department has forecast continued rainfall in parts of Sarawak, raising concerns that more residents may need to be evacuated in the coming days. Authorities are prepared to open additional centres if required.
The state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring that displaced communities receive the necessary assistance.
Officials encouraged the public to follow official updates and avoid spreading unverified information that could cause confusion.
With floodwaters showing little sign of receding, the PPS centres remain a crucial lifeline for those affected, offering temporary refuge until conditions improve.
