BINTULU – The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has carried out an inspection in Bintulu to assess the flood situation and review the response measures taken by local authorities. His visit comes after several days of heavy rainfall that left thousands displaced across the division.
During the visit, the Premier received a comprehensive briefing on the current developments and toured several Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) to ensure that the welfare of flood victims remained a top priority.
He emphasised that the government’s immediate concern was safeguarding lives while preparing for long-term solutions.
The Premier highlighted that Sebauh district had been the worst affected, despite rainfall also being recorded in Bintulu town.
He noted that the unpredictability of extreme weather events continues to challenge disaster management efforts.
Speaking at the Bintulu Civic Centre PPS, Abang Johari explained that while meteorological reports often provide accurate timing of rainfall, the exact location of downpours is harder to determine.
“In some cases, weather reports show accuracy in terms of timing, but the location of the rain event cannot be fully ascertained,” he said.
This discrepancy, he added, meant that rainfall expected in Bintulu town had instead caused heavier flooding in Sebauh, complicating early mitigation strategies.
On infrastructure damage, the Premier confirmed that repair works would be postponed until after the monsoon season.
He explained that immediate restoration could result in repeated damage if another wave of heavy rain occurs in February.
“Infrastructure restoration works cannot be carried out at this time because there is a possibility of a second wave of monsoon in February,” he said.
Abang Johari announced that a state-level committee will be established to devise a long-term flood mitigation plan.
The committee will explore engineering solutions, drainage improvements, and river management strategies to ensure infrastructure resilience against future extreme weather. He stressed that detailed discussions must take place before any announcements are made.
The Premier’s remarks align with broader efforts by the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee, which has prioritised safety and relief operations.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas recently reiterated that all victims, regardless of whether they evacuated to PPS, would continue to receive assistance.
Meanwhile, the flood situation in Bintulu has shown signs of improvement. At the peak of the disaster, 66 PPS were opened to house 7,465 evacuees. As of now, 56 centres have been closed, leaving only 10 still operational, sheltering 1,638 individuals.
Local authorities have also taken steps to support affected communities beyond immediate relief. In Sebauh, new evacuation centres were opened to accommodate displaced families, while education initiatives in Bintulu have ensured that students continue learning despite disruptions.
The Premier reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable flood management, stressing that engineering expertise and technical planning will be central to future strategies.
His visit underscored the importance of balancing immediate relief with long-term resilience in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
