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KUCHING, Sept 25: A total of 5,501 personnel, bolstered by comprehensive logistical resources spanning land, river and air support, along with sufficient food aid are in place to confront any potential challenges posed by flood disasters and heavy rainfall during the northeast monsoon transition phase in Sarawak.
Deputy Premier and Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas revealed this as he outlined Sarawak’s readiness in response to the Malaysian Meteorological Department’s (METMalaysia) advisory for the monsoon transition phase commencing on Sept 19.
Throughout this transitional period, the occurrence of thunderstorms, which often bring torrential rain and strong winds, could potentially cause flash floods and structural damage.
Uggah emphasised that disaster response agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police, Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), and the Civil Defence Force, have readied a manpower contingent of 5,501 individuals.
“They will be assisted by logistic resources, comprising 487 land assets, 249 river assets, 12 air assets and 207 support assets, all in a state of readiness to face the transitional phase of the monsoon,” he said in a statement after chairing an SDMC meeting today.
In terms of disaster relief supplies, Uggah pointed out that the Social Welfare Department has taken measures to ensure adequate relief supplies at storage depots, office depots, and forward bases.
“Moreover, a total of 627 temporary evacuation centres, capable of accommodating 162,091 disaster victims, have been prepared and can be activated as needed,” he added.
SDMC is also urging the public to remain vigilant during the monsoon transition period, emphasising the importance of staying informed about weather forecasts and alerts disseminated by METMalaysia. — DayakDaily
