KUCHING: Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to strictly follow evacuation orders issued by the authorities to mitigate safety risks amidst the current unpredictable weather conditions.

Sarawak Deputy Premier and Chairman of the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, stated that water levels can rise rapidly. Therefore, public cooperation is vital to ensure the protection of lives.

"Past experiences, such as the flooding in Bintulu, demonstrate how dangerous the situation can become in a very short time," he said.

"As such, I appeal to the public and local leaders to provide their full cooperation to the relevant agencies to prevent any untoward incidents and to ensure the welfare of evacuees at Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) is maintained."

The Deputy Premier spoke following a SDMC meeting at the Sarawak State Disaster Control Centre (SDCC) in Wisma Bapa Malaysia on Thursday.

According to Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) has forecast continuous rain over the next two to three days. This coincides with a predicted 'king tide' phenomenon between 2nd and 4th January, which may further increase water levels, particularly in low-lying areas.

In response, the State Disaster Management machinery has directed all divisional and district committees to reassess their readiness. This includes the preparation of evacuation centres, with a specific focus on hygiene and basic facilities.

He added that the Social Welfare Department is prepared with food supplies and essential equipment through established supply hubs and appointed contractors. Additionally, the Sarawak State Health Department (JKNS) has been tasked with conducting health screenings and ensuring compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) at all centres.

To date, five Temporary Evacuation Centres have been opened in the Kuching area to house flood victims: Stapok Community Hall, Sinar Budi Baru Hall, Surau Ar-Rahman in Kampung Sungai Batu, Taman Malihah Hall, and Surau Nurul Najin in Kampung Darul Stapok.

Also present at the meeting was the Director of the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS), Abdul Wahab Rahim. - UKASnews

Reporter: Nur Nabilla
Translator: Ryan Lim
Photographer: Nur Nabilla