By DayakDaily Team
SPAOH, July 26: Close monitoring and immediate action must be carried out to prevent fires from spreading, particularly in high-risk areas prone to open burning such as the peatlands in Baram, Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has stressed.
In a TVS news report, Uggah, who is also Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, said all Divisional and District Disaster Management Committees across Sarawak have been instructed to remain on high alert amid the ongoing hot and dry weather conditions.
“Sarawak is currently experiencing intense heat and dry spells. When I flew from Kuching this morning, the haze was clearly visible from the air,” he said.
Speaking to reporters after attending the 2024 SPM and STPM Excellence thanksgiving ceremony at Dewan Sinaran, SMK Spaoh on Friday (July 25), Uggah said swift response is crucial to prevent small fires from escalating, especially in vulnerable peatland zones.
“Based on past experience in Baram, fires in peat areas are very difficult to control once they spread. That is why early prevention and quick response are absolutely essential,” he added.
In light of the situation, Uggah revealed that the Miri Divisional Resident has been directed to convene a special meeting to coordinate preparedness strategies, including asset deployment and logistical support.
He also reminded all Resident Offices statewide to be ready to assist communities potentially affected by water supply disruptions during the dry season. — DayakDaily
