By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Jan 31: The Sarawak government has pledged to resettle all residents of Kampung Lereng Bukit following the devastating landslide that claimed five lives earlier this week.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that efforts would focus on relocating the affected villagers to a safer area with well-planned infrastructure for a more comfortable living environment.
Speaking at a press conference in Miri today, Abang Johari emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the community.
“We will identify a suitable location and ensure that all residents are resettled after the recent landslide incident.
“We want to create proper infrastructure and move our community to a safer place.”
The landslide, which struck Kampung Lereng Bukit in the early hours of January 29, was triggered by continuous heavy rainfall. The disaster resulted in the tragic loss of five lives, ranging from 17 to 71 years old, while seven others survived.
Abang Johari assured that the resettlement programme would be carried out similarly to previous initiatives, such as the relocation of Kampung Darul Hana (in Kuching).
“There will be costs involved, but as with past cases, the State government will take responsibility for the infrastructure. Residents will not have to bear any financial burden for their relocation,” he explained.
The Premier also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rehabilitating green spaces, including Canada Hill, while prioritising the safety of residents.
“If an area is at risk, we must act. The disaster management committee has all the necessary data, and people must heed evacuation orders when issued,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, in addition to the resettlement plan, Abang Johari welcomed the federal government’s emergency assistance for flood-hit areas.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently announced an immediate allocation of RM25 million to repair infrastructure damaged by floods in Sabah and Sarawak on his Facebook.
Of this amount, RM12 million is designated for Sarawak. The State government has further committed an additional RM10 million to aid in repairing facilities affected by the disaster.
“Thank you to the prime minister for the federal assistance. With this additional RM10 million, Sarawak will have RM22 million in total to support recovery efforts,” Abang Johari stated.
Also present at the press conference were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, and Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew. — DayakDaily
