SERIAN: Sudden flooding forced Dewan Taman Duranda Emas to be used as a temporary evacuation centre (PPS) for the first time, with the facility set to be assessed for possible registration as a permanent PPS.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the floods occurred unexpectedly following continuous heavy rain since the previous night, prompting evacuations as early as 3.00 am.
He said the hall was utilised due to the lack of alternative evacuation locations, noting that the area had not previously experienced flooding of this scale.
“This place was not originally designated as a PPS, but there was no other option at the time, so we used it.
“Because of that, there were initial issues involving toilets and water supply, but these have since been resolved. The council will also provide additional toilet facilities.
“We will ask the divisional resident to carry out a full assessment, and if necessary, we will consider registering it as a permanent PPS and upgrading the facilities to provide better comfort for evacuees,” he said.
He told the media this when visiting the PPS here today.
As of noon, eight PPS were activated across Serian to accommodate evacuees from affected areas.
These were Balai Raya Kampung Betong Kanowit, SK Tanah Merah Kampung Sungai Turong, Dewan Kampung Lintang Baru, Dewan Taman Duranda Emas, SK St Peter Kampung Simpok, Dewan Serbaguna Kampung Kerumboi, Dewan Kampung Rimba Padi, and Dewan Sri Tok Nan at Kampung Seniawan Jepon.
Uggah, who is the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, said evacuee figures at the respective centres were still being consolidated.
He also disclosed that authorities had recorded 15 landslides and 13 roads cut off due to flooding and soil movement.
“I have discussed the situation with the Serian Public Works Department (JKR), and teams have already been deployed to clear debris and repair affected roads,” he assured.
On the same note, Uggah stressed the importance of health screening, particularly for flu symptoms, to prevent the spread of illness among evacuees.
“This is flu season. Anyone with fever must be isolated, and screening should be carried out before evacuees return home,” he said.
Meanwhile, he urged residents in flood-prone areas, including Kuching, Serian and Kota Samarahan, to remain alert amid persistent rainfall and to comply fully with evacuation instructions.
“When instructed to evacuate, please move immediately. Our priority is to save lives,” he said, adding that police had been asked to intensify monitoring in evacuated areas to safeguard residents’ properties.
