By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Feb 2: Authorities are ramping up efforts to locate and evacuate 77 students from SMK Bekenu who are set to sit for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination on Monday, as severe flooding continues to impact Sibuti.
Sibuti Member of Parliament (MP) Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni yesterday (Feb 1) confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing to ensure all affected candidates reach their examination centres safely.
“Yesterday (Jan 31), we managed to transport two stranded candidates from their villages.
“Today (Feb 1), our priority is to locate and ensure the remaining 77 students from SMK Bekenu have a safe route to their exam centres by tomorrow (Feb 2),” he said.
The flood situation in Sibuti has worsened due to continuous heavy rain, leading to rising water levels, road closures, and landslides.
Many students, particularly those from SMK Suai, SMK Bekenu, and other rural schools in the region, remain stranded.
“For SMK Suai, the Parents-Teacher Association (PTA) has suggested accommodating students in hostels to facilitate their exams.
“However, SMK Bekenu does not have hostel facilities, making the situation more challenging,” Lukanisman explained.
He estimated that around 150 residents in the area are severely affected by the floods.
With the SPM examination set to begin at 8.15am tomorrow (Feb 3), authorities are racing against time to transport students to their designated centres.
Beyond logistical challenges, efforts are also being made to ensure food supplies remain adequate.
However, Lukanisman stressed an urgent need for additional aid, including bath rugs, sanitary pads, mattresses, blankets, and other essential supplies.
“I will also be directing the Ministry of Health (MOH) officers to provide psychosocial support, particularly for children who may be traumatised by the disaster,” he added.
Authorities are appealing for volunteers to assist in evacuation efforts, especially to help elderly residents affected by the floods.
As flood conditions continue to evolve, all available resources are being mobilised to ensure students do not miss their crucial examinations. – DayakDaily
