SEBUYAU: The drainage and irrigation system in Sebuyau needs to be reviewed to ensure it is more effective and sufficient to handle the water volume from surrounding areas.
Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said the surrounding areas were particularly from the vast oil palm plantations behind the villages and longhouses.
“In addition to government allocations, private oil palm plantations must also take responsibility for funding the construction of a more efficient drainage system, including the necessary number of ‘Tidal DID Gates’.
“A review of government policies on drainage and irrigation systems for large plantations is also needed, not just in Sebuyau district but across Sarawak, as water from these plantations flows through villages and longhouses. This review is crucial,” he said this in his Facebook post.
He said this following his visit to several temporary relief centres (PPS), particularly Sebuyau Development Hall, Lutong Sebangan Community Hall, Arus Melayu Community Hall and Bajong Ili Community Hall and deliver food aid to the flood victims.
The four PPS were designated to accommodate 538 flood victims from Kampung Stika, Pantu Plaie, Lubok Meranti, Lumut, Arus Iban, Terusan, Skitong, Bajong, Sagu, and Nap.
“These residents were forced to evacuate due to flooding in their villages, longhouses, and homes caused by heavy rainfall and overflowing water from inland areas,” the Sebuyau assemblyman said.
He said all evacuees at these centres receive meals four times a day in addition to food aid baskets.
“Among the victims are several young children, with the youngest being just one month old.
“Residents of Kampung Kakus Ensika did not evacuate despite the flooding of roads and surrounding areas. The longhouses and several individual homes remain habitable, though they are cut off from access by light vehicles, with only lorries, four-wheel-drive vehicles, and small boats able to reach the area.
“I hope the floodwaters caused by the heavy rain will recede quickly so that the victims can return to their homes,” he said.
