PM orders Nadma to strengthen Borneo flood response

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has directed the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) to enhance coordination of the entire federal and state response machinery following the floods in Sabah and Sarawak.

He said that the primary focus at this moment is the welfare of flood victims and ensuring the people’s safety in affected areas.

“I am deeply saddened by reports of the worsening flood situation in Sabah and Sarawak. My heartfelt sympathies go out to the thousands of people impacted by this disaster.

“May those affected find the strength and resilience to endure this hardship,” he said on Facebook today.

Anwar also instructed the state education departments to take necessary measures to ensure that Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia candidates affected by the floods could sit for the exam safely and in a conducive environment.

He added that the Skuad Ihsan Madani would be deployed to assist flood victims at relief centres and would be on standby for post-flood operations.

According to the National Disaster Command Centre (NDCC) portal, a total of 10,621 people, 6,692 in Sarawak and 3,929 in Sabah, have been evacuated to relief centres, as of 4pm today.

More personnel arriving

On a related matter, Bintulu MP Tiong King Sing said additional personnel from the Sibu and Miri Fire and Rescue Stations, along with those from Labuan and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, have been mobilised to assist in disaster relief efforts in Bintulu.

Without specifying the exact number, Tiong said the personnel are expected to arrive tomorrow.

“Two speedboats from the Progressive Democratic Party’s (PDP) Central Region Disaster Relief Task Force will also be deployed to support rescue operations,” said Tiong who is also tourism, arts and culture minister in a statement today.

The PDP president, who braved the floodwaters and heavy rain alongside relief personnel to assist affected residents on the first day of Chinese New Year yesterday, expressed his gratitude to the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee for promptly activating its 24-hour emergency response mechanism.

He said through close coordination with the Resident’s Office, the relevant authorities including the Fire and Rescue Department, Malaysia Civil Defence Force, the military and police have been swiftly mobilised to carry out rescue and relief efforts in affected areas.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to Sarawak Deputy Premier and Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, as well as all rescue personnel and relief teams,” he said.

Many still stranded

Tiong also acknowledged PDP members’ efforts and the Bintulu Service Centre team who swiftly deployed search and rescue boats to flood-affected areas to evacuate stranded residents and relocate them to the five designated flood relief centres.

According to him after three days and two nights of relentless heavy rain, Bintulu has been severely inundated with widespread flooding affecting numerous areas.

In the worst-hit locations, water levels have risen dangerously close to the second floor of residential buildings.

“Many flood victims, particularly the elderly, women and children, have been left stranded in their homes, awaiting rescue,” he said.

Tiong urged those in need of assistance to contact him directly at 019-956 5555, the Bintulu parliamentary constituency service centre at 086-312979 or special affairs officer to his ministry, Steven Kong, at 012-804 9663.

Alternatively, they may also reach out via 086-332222, 086-318233, 086-339781 or 014-8821243 (Welfare Department).

He also advised residents to minimise outdoor activities and prioritise safety to avoid accidents due to strong currents.

Currently, five relief centres are operational in Bintulu parliamentary constituency - Pusat Sukan Kidurong; Balai Raya Jepak; Stadium Muhibah; Dewan Suarah Bintulu; and Dewan SMK Assyakarin Sungai Plan.

- Bernama

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