SERIAN: The Sarawak government is in the process of assessing the extent of damages caused by recent floods across the state, with a full report expected by Sunday.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who also chairs the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), said all Resident Offices have been directed to compile and submit data on damages to both public and private facilities.
“We do not have an estimated figure yet. We will be collecting the data by tomorrow.
“All Resident Offices have been instructed to report damages, whether affecting public or private facilities, so we can determine the full extent of the impact,” he said.
He told the media this after visiting the Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS) at Ranchan Multipurpose Hall here today (Feb 1).
Uggah noted that the federal government has allocated funds for flood relief, while the Sarawak government has also increased its allocation by RM10 million in anticipation of the need for further assistance.
On the same note, Uggah said that 20 locations in Serian have suffered damages, with the Public Works Department (PWD) instructed to carry out immediate repairs to avoid disruptions in connectivity.
However, he noted that the situation in the hinterlands, such as Sebauh, remains challenging due to flooding and road damage.
“In the interior areas like Sebauh, there is flooding, and several roads have been cut off. PWD is working at full capacity to repair the damaged roads,” he said.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had announced an additional allocation of RM10 million to assist flood relief efforts in the state during a visit to a PPS in Miri on Friday.
Abang Johari said the newly allocated funds would enable the SDMC to distribute aid across all areas impacted by the recent floods, which have been exacerbated by heavy rainfall and high tide conditions.
He also expressed gratitude for the RM24 million in immediate aid provided by the federal government for flood-affected areas in Sabah and Sarawak.
