KUCHING – The Sarawak Government has reinforced its flood preparedness measures as the monsoon season sets in, urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and comply with evacuation orders when issued.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who chairs the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), said the state’s disaster response machinery has been mobilised across divisional and district levels.
He explained that the preparations are crucial as flood risks typically peak between January and February due to prolonged rainfall.
“We advise the public to be prepared. Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) in the interior have been instructed to remain vigilant. In remote areas where agencies may not arrive immediately, these teams are directed to ensure life-saving measures are taken without delay,” he said.
The Deputy Premier added that all departments are on standby to provide assistance. The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has prepared food and essential supplies to ensure evacuees are cared for at Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS).
Uggah made the remarks during a visit to the Stapok Community Hall PPS in Batu Kawa, which is currently housing flood victims.
He reminded residents in low-lying areas to prepare for contingencies and evacuate promptly when instructed, stressing that safety must come first.
On logistics, Uggah explained that the government has established a primary Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kota Samarahan, supported by several mini-bases across the state. Suppliers have been engaged at each base to ensure immediate delivery of necessities when required.
Reflecting on last year’s severe flooding in Bintulu, he noted that challenges in delivering mattresses and other essentials had prompted improvements in supply chain readiness.
“We hope the weather does not become so extreme that heavy rain is concentrated in a single area causing major floods, but we are fully prepared,” he said.
As of now, two PPS have been activated following continuous rainfall. The Kampung Sinar Budi Baru R-Piang Hall is sheltering 181 victims from 44 families, while the Stapok Community Hall is accommodating 199 evacuees from 54 families.
Also present during the briefing was Datu Buckland Bangik, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Administration) and SDMC Deputy Chairman, who reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and safety of affected communities.
The government continues to monitor weather developments closely, with agencies on high alert to respond swiftly should conditions worsen.
