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By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Jan 30: Torrential rains and sudden river overflows forced 720 families—totaling 2,823 victims—to flee their homes in Bintulu, seeking shelter at eight temporary relief centers (PPS).
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the disaster unfolded rapidly, with the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) reporting an extreme rainfall level of 400mm in Bintulu—an exceptionally high amount compared to Sarawak’s annual average of 5,000mm.
“This flood was not caused by clogged drainage systems but by the sudden overflow of rivers.
“The situation became even more challenging as it occurred during the Chinese New Year celebrations,” he said during a press conference after visiting the PPS at SJK(C) Chung Hua Batu Kawa today.
Despite the challenges, Uggah commended the swift response of rescue teams in ensuring the safety of residents. Logistics support from Miri, Sibu, and Bintulu itself played a crucial role in expediting evacuation efforts.
“We would like to extend our appreciation to the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) and all the teams involved for their efforts in managing the situation,” he added.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Sarawak Minister of Women, Children, and Community Wellbeing, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.
According to the Sarawak Civil Defence Force (APM), the Bintulu Civic Centre PPS is currently sheltering 174 families (658 victims), while Pusat Sukan BDA Kidurong PPS has taken in 70 families (260 victims).
Stadium Muhibah PPS is hosting the largest number of evacuees, with 216 families and 883 individuals seeking refuge there.
Additionally, Dewan SMK Assyakirin PPS is sheltering 119 families (584 victims), while Balai Raya Jepak PPS houses 43 families (125 victims).
In Tatau, Rh Steven Ak Jeli PPS has accommodated 13 families (34 victims), while SMK Tatau PPS currently shelters 60 families (207 victims). Meanwhile, Balai Raya Sebauh PPS has opened its doors to 25 families (87 victims). – DayakDaily