KUCHING: A long-term strategy is urgently needed to tackle the recurring flood issues that hit Sarawak each year.
Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar emphasised the need for proactive and sustainable measures, citing weaknesses in planning, redevelopment and the increasing impact of climate change.
“The most important factor for us is mitigation, which requires a long-term action plan, especially for the Divisional Resident’s Office, which I feel should bring this matter to the State Planning Unit,” he said.
Wan Junaidi shared these views during a briefing held in conjunction with his visit to the Sarawak State Disaster Control Centre (SDCC) at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, Petra Jaya, on Saturday.
He was accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, as they sought the latest updates from the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) on the flood situation across the state and expressed concern for affected communities.
He added that new longhouses, for example, should be recommended to be built on higher ground instead of near rivers, which are often the preferred locations but pose higher risks during floods.
“Now that the Sarawak Government has built many new roads, we must avoid these flood disaster issues as best as we can,” he said, adding that climate change remains a key contributor to worsening flood conditions and must be factored into future development plans.
During the visit, he also praised the ongoing efforts by SDMC, led by Deputy Premier and SDMC Chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, in ensuring the safety and comfort of flood victims, particularly through the relocation of evacuees to temporary evacuation centres (PPS).
“I would like to congratulate the team led by Uggah and express my gratitude for helping the people who are currently facing hardship due to the floods,” he said.
He further urged the public to evacuate immediately when instructed by authorities to prevent danger to themselves and others.
He added that the Sarawak Government is prepared to provide various forms of assistance, including food and comfortable shelter at the PPS.
Meanwhile, Uggah expressed pride in the historic visit by Wan Junaidi, noting that he is the first Head of State to visit the SDCC, demonstrating strong concern for the welfare of flood victims.
“We are very fortunate because, in all the years I have served as Chairman of SDMC, this is the first time the Head of State has come to visit and personally request a briefing in our operations room.
“On behalf of the people of Sarawak, we thank him for his concern regarding the problems we are facing during this flood season,” he said.
