By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 31: More than 200 Civil Defence Force (APM) personnel have been deployed across Kuching, Bau, Serian, and Lundu as Sarawak steps up its flood response following continuous heavy rainfall since last night (Dec 30).
Sarawak’s proactive evacuation strategy has already seen the opening of two Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) in the Kuching district, located at Sinar Budi and Stapok to house residents from high-risk areas.
“We received preliminary information yesterday when the meteorological department issued a (flood) warning for tomorrow. However, we realised that these situations can develop sooner or persist longer than anticipated,” said APM Sarawak Director Mohtar Samat when met with reporters today at the PPS Kampung Sinar Budi today.
Mohtar emphasised that the agency is prioritising early evacuation to ensure the safety of vulnerable groups and to prevent chaotic rescue operations once water levels peak.
He noted that while a Yellow Alert (Warning) was issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) this morning, the agency had already begun moving residents before the situation escalated.
“We moved an individual with disabilities (OKU) earlier, but for most others, they have made early relocation to ensure their move isn’t compromised by the rising waters,” added Mohtar.
In terms of logistics, Mohtar assured the public that APM is fully equipped, with lorries, boats, and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles currently being utilised.
Lifejackets have also been provided known flood hotspots such as Kampung Sinar Budi, Stapok, and Rantau Panjang.
Addressing concerns regarding food aid, Mohtar stated that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) is working closely with APM to ensure meals are ready at the PPS.
At this stage, there is no requirement for food delivery to individual homes as the situation remains under control.
He also praised the high level of cooperation from local residents and village heads.
“In these regular flood-prone areas, cooperation is not an issue. Everyone has been very helpful in moving early, which prevents the situation from becoming complicated,” added Mohtar. — DayakDaily
