KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Open has urged the people to be cautious throughout the rainy season, particularly during these three months.
He advised those living near flood prone areas to always heed the instructions of the authorities.
As the state most often experiences the monsoon season between December and February, we urge everyone to be cautious, particularly those who live near the river.
“If the authorities order you to relocate, I strongly advise that you do so for your own safety,” he told reporters during his visit to temporary evacuation centres (PPS) in Kampung Bedaun here today (Dec 23).
When asked about the situation in Baram, which has seen a lot of flooding this year, he said areas where affected dwellers would have to relocate had been identified.
As such, he added, some schools had been relocated to higher ground including one in Ulu Segan, Bintulu.
“However, there are those who do not wish to move. These factors will have an impact on the lives of those who live along the river. This is a social issue.
“Moving schools is simpler. Some people want to move out of the longhouses and the village, while others refuse,” he said.
On the same note, his deputy, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, who was present, said that the federal government would provide necessary assistance to flood victims, including RM1000 in aid for each affected household as well as other food aid.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri added that her ministry would help in terms of welfare besides assessing the damage suffered by flood victims.
“We will also provide assistance in terms of damage, which we will later evaluate. That depends on the situation,” she said.
As such to assist in providing counselling services to flood victims, she said, more than 100 counsellors had been deployed throughout Malaysia, including Sarawak.
“They will offer counselling services during these challenging times. Additionally, some people seek help for depression treatment,” she said.
