BETONG: Hundreds of residents in three longhouses here received much-needed drinking water yesterday (Sept 2) as the army stepped up humanitarian aid for communities hit by ongoing water supply disruptions.
The First Infantry Division said 648 boxes of mineral water were delivered and distributed to affected residents in three longhouses as the hot weather continued to put pressure on local communities.
The relief mission, carried out jointly with the Sarawak Social Welfare Department from 10.30am to 5pm, covered Rumah Mading, Jambu Kerampak, Ulu Layar, which received 380 boxes; Rumah Rengga, Batu Pesok, Spak (138 boxes); and Rumah Madi, Mutok Tabau, Layar (130 boxes).
The division said the operation was part of the army’s continued commitment to safeguarding the welfare of communities affected by the water crisis in Betong.
One officer and 21 rank-and-file personnel were deployed for the mission, with a Toyota Hilux and a three-tonne lorry used to transport the water supplies to the affected areas.
It is understood that the assistance will continue with another 570 boxes of mineral water set to be delivered to two more longhouses in the interior.
Rumah Jarit, Temedak, Spak is scheduled to receive 362 boxes, while Rumah Garamong, Merunjau, Padeh will receive another 208 boxes.
The division said it remains ready to provide full logistical support in coordination with local authorities for the well-being of the people of Sarawak.
