By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 6: Sarawak’s Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah has urged flood victims across the State who have yet to receive government assistance to remain patient, assuring them that payments are being processed as quickly as possible.
Speaking to reporters during his Hari Raya visit to supporters and party members in Kampung Spaoh yesterday (April 5), Uggah explained that the delay in disbursing aid was due to necessary verification procedures being carried out by the Resident and District Offices.
“Before we can pay, we have to verify the data to ensure the payment process is done properly.
“According to our records, around 5,600 families Statewide were affected by the recent floods. So far, 3,600 families have received the aid of RM1,000 per household,” he said in a press release.
Uggah, who also chairs the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), added that assisting flood victims has always been a priority, but verification of bank details and other documentation naturally takes time.
The payments, he said, are being made online by the respective District Offices.
He also gave assurance that families who did not relocate to temporary evacuation centres would still be eligible for the aid, provided their reasons for staying behind are deemed reasonable by the authorities.
“The District Office has data on those who moved to evacuation centres, but for those who didn’t, we still aim to help them. We just need confirmation from the District Office,” he said.
Uggah was accompanied during his visit by Betong MP Datuk Dr Richard Rapu and former Betong MP Datuk Robert Lawson Chuat.
On the issue of infrastructure, Uggah revealed that the State government has approved RM100 million for repair and remedial works on roads and longhouses affected by erosion and flood damage.
He noted that the Public Works Department (JKR) had already begun work, with most roads repaired and assessments ongoing for more severe cases.
He stressed that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led State government, under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, remains committed to easing the burden of flood victims.
“We will do our very best to minimise the anxiety and stress of the people. Our commitment to assist should never be questioned,” he said. – DayakDaily
