By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 23: Sarawak residents have been advised to be on the alert for possible flooding following Malaysian Meteorological Department’s (MetMalaysia) continuous rainfall warning until Christmas Eve (Dec 24) for several districts across the State.
Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said about 6,000 officers and personnel from various agencies in Sarawak are on standby for the monsoon floods.
“Three temporary evacuation centres (PPS) have been opened to accommodate flood victims from Kampung Jugan and Kampung Opar in Bau and Kampung Sungai Bedaun near Santubong (as of this morning).
“The State Operation Room has been activated and due to the expected continuous heavy rainfall in Sarawak, I want the Resident and District offices to activate their operation room immediately in order to coordinate the ground operation together with all the relevant agencies,” he said.
Uggah informed this during a press conference at the State Operation Room in Wisma Bapa Malaysia here today after chairing a meeting with related agencies.
The Deputy Premier also wants the health condition of the flood victims, especially the elderly, at all PPS to be closely monitored to ensure they receive necessary medical treatment including sending them for hemodialysis treatment.
“In today’s meeting, I have also instructed relevant agencies like JKR (Public Works Department) to monitor and take action on road or bridge damages and landslides.
“The Health Department will be monitoring and taking necessary action on water borne disease and Sarawak Energy has been urged to monitor the danger of electrocution as there was such a case in Kelantan recently,” he said.
The Ministry of Local Government and Housing as well as local authorities are urged to clear the drains to prevent water clogs, while the Department of Agriculture (DOA) has been tasked to make damage assessments on crops and livestock.
“We are looking into providing some sort of compensation for them (farmers and breeders),” he said.
For non-governmental organisations (NGOs) intending to channel assistance to flood victims, Uggah said they must report and coordinate the initiatives with either the division or district disaster management committee.
“For the public, we must be on alert for the bad weather conditions that could cause flooding. When instructed to relocate, please comply with the directive from the authorities and move to the PSS.
“Parents should monitor their children closely and make sure they don’t play in the flood waters. Also, please avoid going for picnics or recreational activities at places like waterfalls that are prone to flooding due to sudden gush of water and landslides during the rainy season,” he advised.
Uggah also called on local elected representatives to monitor their areas and provide support when needed to ensure the safety of the people in their respective areas. — Dayakdaily
