Uggah: SDMC directs all divisional, district committees to reassess preparedness for disaster management
by Matthew Umpang · Borneo Post OnlineKUCHING (Jan 2): The State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) has directed all divisional and district disaster management committees to reassess their level of preparedness, said Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
The Deputy Premier said this is in view of continuous rain and the impending king tide phenomenon.
Uggah, who is SDMC chairman, said the move is necessary as water levels could rise rapidly, posing serious safety risks to residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas.
“Past experiences, such as the flooding in Bintulu, have shown how dangerous the situation can become in a very short time which is why public cooperation is crucial to safeguard lives,” he said in a report by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
Uggah told reporters this after chairing an SDMC meeting at the Sarawak State Disaster Control Centre (SDCC) here on Thursday.
He urged residents to comply with evacuation orders issued by the authorities and called on local leaders to work closely with relevant agencies to prevent untoward incidents as well as to ensure the welfare of evacuees at Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS).
He shared that the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has forecast continuous rain coinciding with a predicted king tide between Jan 2 and Jan 4, which could further elevate water levels, especially in low-lying areas.
“In response, all divisional and district disaster management committees have been instructed to reassess their readiness, including the preparation of evacuation centres, with particular emphasis on hygiene and basic facilities,” he said.
He added that the Welfare Department is on standby with sufficient food supplies and essential equipment through its established supply hubs and appointed contractors.
The Sarawak State Health Department has also been tasked with conducting health screenings and ensuring strict compliance with standard operating procedures at all evacuation centres.